tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64134812309756775732024-03-13T13:38:00.227-04:00Amelia's GirlfriendsI am very blessed to have so many wonderful girlfriends who have shared so many beauty secrets, adventures, relationship advice and baby tips with me over the years.
Not everyone has great girlfriends like myself, but everyone has Amelia!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-25468080130866078762017-05-26T12:56:00.000-04:002017-05-26T12:56:35.564-04:00Good-bye Tight Waist Bands!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxXSaomt5Hvn67mpUMmhNnGP6hrMv0PnbLNzwiv2b_SCVRQLbtDST9UL0SzJQK9DtMq_qmcTRGM0qQA_Fir4Gn2JyrN3lxVKMrcR4YBcpS5csKL8ze2W_TpCVNwVa6GxYvSrusHtugymf/s1600/Amelia%25232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1458" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxXSaomt5Hvn67mpUMmhNnGP6hrMv0PnbLNzwiv2b_SCVRQLbtDST9UL0SzJQK9DtMq_qmcTRGM0qQA_Fir4Gn2JyrN3lxVKMrcR4YBcpS5csKL8ze2W_TpCVNwVa6GxYvSrusHtugymf/s200/Amelia%25232.JPG" width="181" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At 16 weeks pregnant my husband, some friends and I went on a trip to Mother Cuba. It was my 5th time going, and my first time where I couldn't drink. I wouldn't recommend it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On the way home, we were making a pit stop in Toronto for a dear friend's wedding and we were going straight from the airport to the rehearsal dinner. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I had packed an easy dress that I knew would still fit and a pair of dance tights that I had just bought from Amazon. Here's the thing. I was so tired at that point in my pregnancy that I could not make it to the store to buy my favourite </span><a href="http://www.ebay.ca/itm/MONDOR-310-MICROFIBRE-FOOTED-DANCE-TIGHTS-ADULT-AND-CHILDRENS-SIZING-/160872073444" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Mondor</a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> tights. I went against all of my best instincts and bought another brand of dance tights in XXL. That's right, two XX's. They were terrible! My belly was just starting to get a little bigger and the waist band was digging into my stomach so badly at dinner that it was hard to think about anything else! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The next day I knew I had to wear them again for the wedding and I didn't know what I was going to do! Fortunately, my friend Lindsay was also 16 weeks pregnant and had purchased a pair of black <a href="https://www.thymematernity.com/en/224569.html">Feel Free</a> Maternity Tights from Thyme Maternity. GAME CHANGER!! There was no waist band at all and they had an extra panel in front to fit a growing belly. They were soft, thick and oh so comfortable. I am still so grateful that she lent them to me that day! I got through the wedding fairing pretty well until about 11pm, when my belly decided to pop and my dress no longer zipped up all of the way. You win some and you lose some!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As soon as I got home, I went shopping and bought myself the maternity tights. Not only were the tights on sale, but it was buy one get one 50% off so I treated myself to two pairs. Now that the baby is out and my belly is back to normal, I am still wearing the tights. They stay up really well and I do not need to worry about anything pinching or rolling over.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Besides my daughter, they might be the best thing to come out of my pregnancy!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-70288060223595061172017-05-26T12:00:00.000-04:002017-05-26T13:40:11.131-04:00The Girlfriend Tips<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "tahoma";">Some of Amelia's girlfriends tips:</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="border-collapse: separate; color: #20124d;">1.<span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Buy your shampoos, lotions and soaps at <a href="http://www.winners.ca/en/index.asp">Winners</a>. You can buy salon products at half the price.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBrjvuL9gR64fpQ5_DbffThin1YDx1KdK9LjZSbSRznN0H4PjcIL1ztgG9Y_STG8cVP361O54wTIWA2c-KHlMG2SrX4FZDEl35976S2tZ0ir2BiRnNPdNV-64OchXp7yXnzgUw5ixrLLWo/s1600/beyonce-shower-cap-300x300.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBrjvuL9gR64fpQ5_DbffThin1YDx1KdK9LjZSbSRznN0H4PjcIL1ztgG9Y_STG8cVP361O54wTIWA2c-KHlMG2SrX4FZDEl35976S2tZ0ir2BiRnNPdNV-64OchXp7yXnzgUw5ixrLLWo/s200/beyonce-shower-cap-300x300.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. Wear a shower cap when you’re showering and you don’t want to wash your hair. You can really get in there and enjoy yourself!</span><br /><br /><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. Invest in a good <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6413481230975677573#editor/target=post;postID=8891696898914474175">dry shampoo</a> like <a href="http://www.oscarblandi.com/product_detail.php?pid=5">Oscar Blandi</a> that works for your hair so you can wash your hair as little as possible. Better yet, buy it at Winners!</span><br /><br /><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4. Every manicure should be a <a href="http://ameliasgirlfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-shellac-part-1.html">shellac</a> polish.</span><br /><br /><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5. Use a small makeup bag to keep your purse organized. Things like a Tide-To-Go stick, bandaids, purell, needle and thread, tampons etc. can go in this pouch. You will always be prepared for any situation. You only have to fill it once, and it’s easy to change purses.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #20124d; white-space: pre-wrap;">6. Only show one part of your body at a time. If you show cleavage cover your knees. If you're showing a lot of leg, cover your shoulders. Be classy!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #20124d; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7. Buy a short, nude coloured slip with a thick waist band. On a hot day, it will absorb the sweat and you won’t get any marks on your dress. Plus its pretty sexy. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGTYULRXjZsyy5JSGuplHgGQcY_78qUqzkP4V1H1u5wxNttaqT-ULFKbFKLBiyTuRlNl0KUJUyQWdhyphenhyphenJrGdoegDAzp2NRF-Kf4yEu1Zj4h0hXx24JsSp3kQDlncbf54hJru_SoH0jfzJv6/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGTYULRXjZsyy5JSGuplHgGQcY_78qUqzkP4V1H1u5wxNttaqT-ULFKbFKLBiyTuRlNl0KUJUyQWdhyphenhyphenJrGdoegDAzp2NRF-Kf4yEu1Zj4h0hXx24JsSp3kQDlncbf54hJru_SoH0jfzJv6/s200/images.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #20124d; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">8. A hair foundation (chignon mesh) under your bun will make it look much bigger. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #20124d; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">9. Use open ended bobby pins for buns, or corkscrew bins. You don’t need hair elastics that will leave a line in your hair!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #20124d; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">10. It's better to be single, than to be in a miserable relationship. </span></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-23133959862166260622017-05-26T11:24:00.000-04:002017-05-26T13:10:46.578-04:00You Need Amazon Prime<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxXSaomt5Hvn67mpUMmhNnGP6hrMv0PnbLNzwiv2b_SCVRQLbtDST9UL0SzJQK9DtMq_qmcTRGM0qQA_Fir4Gn2JyrN3lxVKMrcR4YBcpS5csKL8ze2W_TpCVNwVa6GxYvSrusHtugymf/s1600/Amelia%25232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1458" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxXSaomt5Hvn67mpUMmhNnGP6hrMv0PnbLNzwiv2b_SCVRQLbtDST9UL0SzJQK9DtMq_qmcTRGM0qQA_Fir4Gn2JyrN3lxVKMrcR4YBcpS5csKL8ze2W_TpCVNwVa6GxYvSrusHtugymf/s200/Amelia%25232.JPG" width="181" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love online shopping. Love it. Nothing satisfies me more than a good deal that I can purchase from the comfort of my couch. My husband once created a live broadcast of me sitting on the couch in my housecoat while I shopped after Christmas. He posted the link on his Facebook account and when anyone clicked on the link they were able to watch me "do nothing on [my] Christmas Vacation". A little bell would toll each time someone checked in but I had no idea what was going on. Several hours later, once strangers started logging in from China it was time to pull the plug!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It tuns out my husband loves to online shop even more than me. He avoids any store so we were in search of some online shopping that we could do together. Last summer while we were preparing for our new baby to arrive, we decided to purchase an <b>Amazon Prime</b> membership. We are in Canada so a basic membership costs $79 a year, so we really debating for a few weeks about whether or not it was a good investment. After almost a year of free two-day shipping and having everything from our diapers to toilet paper delivered directly to our front porch we have to admit IT WAS SO WORTH IT!!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We signed up for Amazon Prime on <i>Prime Day</i> which takes place in the second week of July each year. It is basically the Black Friday of Amazon and the deals were insane! In the first day alone, we were able to save over $350 on items that we had been eyeing online. The <i>Prime Day</i> savings paid for our membership immediately so it was really a no brainer in the end.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">When we started looking into the world of diapers, no one can beat Amazon's <i>Subscribe and Save</i>. We are able to purchase a 200+ box of diapers for around $30/box. The Amazon price for a pair of Pampers Baby Dry Size 3 is $37.28 and when we subscribe it comes to $31.31. Each month we have the option to change the diaper size, or to delay a month on the shipment. The best part is they arrive right to our front door so no need to lug them home from the grocery store. We also get our premium wipes, kleenex, toilet paper and paper towels this way. There is nothing more satisfying then coming home to find a box the size of a dishwasher waiting out for you on the porch!</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Amazon Prime is also great for:</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Purchasing last minute gifts, especially toys. No need to make a trip to a specialty store in the dead of winter. The gift will be at your house in two days and often one.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Any baby product known to man. We got our Britax car seat for $50 cheaper than any local store and we did not need to leave the house to get it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. They have a deal of the day for Prime members. Get special deals and early access to other sales.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Over-analyzing every purchase by reading hundreds of reviews</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Making impromptu purchases that you'll definitely regret</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Amazon Prime tips:</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Use a password generator when creating your password. You want to keep your credit card info safe and make it more difficult for yourself to make drunk purchases.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Use <i>Subscribe and Save</i> for anything you order monthly or bi-monthly. Most orders will be another 20% off. It will pick a date for you, so be sure to order in advance.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Stick to Prime purchases to guaranteed in two-day shipping. There are many free shipping options but they could take weeks to arrive.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Some of the items that we purchased this year:</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Amazon rechargeable batteries</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Camping stove</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Baby food containers</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Nursing bras in UK sizes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Two TV wall mounts</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6. Wild Rose Cleanse kit</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7. An embarrassing number of things actually - 73 orders in the past year alone!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So clearly we love it. We have been trying to convince everyone we know to get it, and have only successfully gotten two other families to sign up. I think its pretty obvious that we are terrible sales people. The worst.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Maybe this article will help convince the rest....if you have kids in diapers I don't think there is any other way to go!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Amelia</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">PS No one has paid me to say any of this...but Amazon I am here for you if you need me.</span></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-19103856204789089992017-05-26T11:22:00.001-04:002017-05-26T13:10:34.652-04:00I'm back!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxXSaomt5Hvn67mpUMmhNnGP6hrMv0PnbLNzwiv2b_SCVRQLbtDST9UL0SzJQK9DtMq_qmcTRGM0qQA_Fir4Gn2JyrN3lxVKMrcR4YBcpS5csKL8ze2W_TpCVNwVa6GxYvSrusHtugymf/s1600/Amelia%25232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1458" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxXSaomt5Hvn67mpUMmhNnGP6hrMv0PnbLNzwiv2b_SCVRQLbtDST9UL0SzJQK9DtMq_qmcTRGM0qQA_Fir4Gn2JyrN3lxVKMrcR4YBcpS5csKL8ze2W_TpCVNwVa6GxYvSrusHtugymf/s200/Amelia%25232.JPG" width="181" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Guess who's back? Back again!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You have read correctly. It has been a four year hiatus, but I am back! I have learned so many new things over these past few years and a lot has changed. I got married, had a baby girl, bought new couches and went north of the Wall. Going through the stages of planning a wedding, trying to get pregnant, being pregnant and finally being a mother have exposed me to a whole new world of products, clothing and gear. There are so many great things out there that I need to share!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A couple of months ago I started to write up a big email to a friend about all of the baby gear that I had bought. A few months later, I revised it and sent to another pregnant friend....then a few months later I sent it to another. This got me thinking. Maybe it was time to share my new knowledge with a bigger community. Amelia's Girlfriends has pivoted and will now be venturing into the world of baby gear, beauty products, fashion and anything else that has helped me on my journey.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Thanks for joining us and I hope you enjoy this new adventure,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Amelia (Caitlin) Villeneuve</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-84735122892953999392013-05-29T14:49:00.001-04:002017-05-26T12:40:15.228-04:00The Magic Eraser Really is Magic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi06Yf_eEKn4OZjISvKiDJnAToc0eSuEc_EBISliksOEZCPyxcQEIgB28votkcMWqmFetl0XK5NVmPdZFYRGkjVbbfKQTEq8Qr0RpPCcRppuVzX_ciyjQ8VjNSA2YV2XEfCROTHruKioDpU/s1600/AmeliaSmall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi06Yf_eEKn4OZjISvKiDJnAToc0eSuEc_EBISliksOEZCPyxcQEIgB28votkcMWqmFetl0XK5NVmPdZFYRGkjVbbfKQTEq8Qr0RpPCcRppuVzX_ciyjQ8VjNSA2YV2XEfCROTHruKioDpU/s1600/AmeliaSmall.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I was in my third year of university, I moved into a house with 5 other girls. I grew up living with three brothers, so I had high hopes about how a pack of girls would take care of a house. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d;">I have a very clear memory of what the bathtub looked like upon my arrival. It was black, stained and in general just plain disgusting! My Mom, the cleaner, immediately drove down to the A & P and bought a bottle of bleach. (I've also seen her do this at cottages we've rented). After a short soaking, the black spots went away, and now there was only some mildew to remove. But how to remove the mildew??</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d;">This answer wouldn't come for several years. One night a friend of my roommates was over and she was telling us how she cleans her tub with <u>Mr. Clean Magic Erasers.</u> The only experience I had had with these in the past was trying to get some scuff marks off of my friends wall in her apartment and taking off most of the paint instead. I thought they were a waster of time. Boy was I wrong!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ4nAz51yqbJyqr0oqKBaB4Vku28un7lH_autUziAb-1Jm9La257G2UbNT9QqtynMsCvm2MPF-QTGjgMThcoxAlWrYmn5fV4hpq1dSfoZbsMXxZ1aPIsXKbAIL5VCwPtaLplliBcayqVZf/s1600/images+(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ4nAz51yqbJyqr0oqKBaB4Vku28un7lH_autUziAb-1Jm9La257G2UbNT9QqtynMsCvm2MPF-QTGjgMThcoxAlWrYmn5fV4hpq1dSfoZbsMXxZ1aPIsXKbAIL5VCwPtaLplliBcayqVZf/s1600/images+(4).jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d;">I bought a 2-pack of Magic Erasers and went to town on my tub. I still believe in a light spraying of bleach to remove any life growing in the tub, but once I rinse it off, I get in there with the eraser. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d;">I find the best way to use the eraser is to get right into the tub or to throw your body over side and clean from your knees. For a treat, I like to clean it right before I need to jump in for a shower. There is nothing more rewarding than a super clean tub during a Saturday afternoon shower!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d;">Depending on the state of your tub, you should see very obvious results as the Magic Eraser rips off the mildew. I use it in rows starting at the back of the tub, then do a light scrubbing of the walls. If you're never used this before you will be shocked by how much will come off of your tub. Its actually a tad disturbing!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d;">The Magic Eraser will slowly disintegrate with use. I use the "pocket" magic erasers that break off to clean up the sink and any toothpaste stains that build up. It is also amazing in the fridge, on cupboards, coffee tables, and light switches. I've tried the specialty brands that Mr. Clean sells, but I don't find that they are any better than the original. Stick with the cheapest ones you can find, and then stock up when they are on sale!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d;">Treat yourself this weekend to a fresh, mildew free shower. Your body and your allergies will thank you!</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-52564807947981163772013-03-24T15:57:00.001-04:002017-05-26T12:29:38.045-04:00The Best Socks for People Who Hate Socks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoiAH70vJ9yZeOc1HBV2AODoF_jNWbBMSKNbrfrS0yc0BrirOwCn-4gulv4vYFOOuz4kUttLqW2HmBw2RNg45wzYbquXa-ZeLhhuPaUrLlKro0GEKePi2fWZPd409sUgQskWePVo5l-nGa/s1600/BABYAmelia.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoiAH70vJ9yZeOc1HBV2AODoF_jNWbBMSKNbrfrS0yc0BrirOwCn-4gulv4vYFOOuz4kUttLqW2HmBw2RNg45wzYbquXa-ZeLhhuPaUrLlKro0GEKePi2fWZPd409sUgQskWePVo5l-nGa/s1600/BABYAmelia.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have always been very particular about what materials I would allow on my feet in legs. For a refresher about my experience with ballet tights click <a href="http://www.ameliasgirlfriends.com/2012/11/the-perfect-black-tight.html">here</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Finding a great pair of comfortable socks has been a life long battle. My first memory of trying to make my socks scratch my legs the less began on the reading carpet in Grade 3. Our teacher Mrs. Bolton used to read us stories from her wooden rocking while we all sat on the carpet. I used to play with the suede on her pumps and somehow during this time myself and the other girls started rolling down our socks. Picture knee high socks being carefully rolled down to create a large roll at the tops of our ankles. This was my solution to create what I would now call ankle socks. We would spend a lot of time and effort rolling them down and afterwords the roll would be so large that it would prevent our <strike> jeans </strike>sweatpants from reaching our shoes. I might add that this was also the time in my life that I started wearing Hawaiian shirts to school on Wednesdays. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Anyways, the point that I am getting at is that I hated socks creeping up my shins, and even more so if they were so tight they created a line in my calf. I also hated scratchy polyester socks that made me feet sweat. Unfortunately at 10 years old I didn't know this is why I didn't like my socks, and I just assumed all socks were made equal. Boy was I wrong! (this is also why I didn't eat pizza until I was 19 since I thought all pizza tasted like the cheesy, greasy stuff my parents ordered every Friday night.)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I've struggled to buy comfortable socks that look good but also do not restrict my raging calf muscles. I currently have one pair of striped socks from Simons in Montreal that meet this requirement and I started handwashing them at night so that I could re-wear them the next day. I was avoiding every other sock I owned. I will also add that almost every pair of socks I own have been a gift from my Mother. It's not her fault though...I never took the time to tell her my sock issues.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Recently, I got to the point where I hated all of socks so much that I just stopped wearing them all together. I would declare in the mornings, "I HATE ALL OF MY SOCKS!!" then throw my bare foot into a leather boot. This new style generally worked for me. I am lucky that I am not someone with "foot odor"(or at least I don't think that I do).</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Unfortunately, if I went anywhere where I had to remove my shoes in public, such as the doctors or dentist office, I would be stuck walking barefoot on freezing cold floors or getting salt and gravel over my precious peeps. The 'no sock' solution wasn't ideal. I needed to find socks I wanted to wear!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">One night this past winter I hit up the mall trying to find the perfect pair of black pants (which I am still searching for) and found myself in the Gap looking at socks. I knew I needed to make this purchase count! These were my prerequistes for purchasing new socks:</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1. Did they look nice on the foot section? (who cares about the ankle part, no one sees it anyways)</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">2. Were they made from cotton? (polyester would not do...too scratchy)</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">3. Was there the left-over threads from the design pattern on the inside of the sock? (If so, then no...this gets caught on my toenails and again feels scratchy)</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">4. How tight was the top of the sock? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I've made the mistake of ignoring one of the four criteria on prior purchases, then I get home, try them on, hate them, and immediately need to give them away. It's a major waste of money but great for my Mom. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">On this particular day I spotted something I never knew existed. There was a black ankle sports sock! It was 1. plain black, 2. cotton, 3. had no threads inside and 4. only hit my ankle! I had been wearing my white sports socks as a treat on days that I knew no one would see my socks and I needed a little extra warmth. These new black socks would allow me to wear them in public and every day my feet would get treated with nice tight arch support. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I bought a couple of pairs and loved them so much that I soon found myself doing the same thing that I did with my striped socks. I was saving them for important days, and washing them in the sink to have them the next day again. While at the new Joe Fresh store, I discovered something amazing...three pairs of black sports ankle socks for $6!!!!</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I bought two packs and I haven't turned back since.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I currently have 9 pairs of socks which I love, and I can easily go back and buy more if I really want them. Everyday I enjoying selecting my socks and never feel like I am settling for something that I am going to want to rip off my feet by 2pm. Stop the sock at my ankle saves my calf from ever being restricted, and again that nice tight arch feels so good all day long. Why didn't I discover these sooner!?!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(P.S. I ate two pogos while writing this post)</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-81243260630519662112013-01-04T12:08:00.002-05:002013-01-05T10:18:54.409-05:00Got a Problem? Argan Oil Will Fix It!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I haven't always had dry skin and I do not remember when it started, but it did start, and it really sucks in the winter! My first memory of my face cracking in the winter was my first year of university in Kingston, Ontario. I had a class on the other side of campus and in order to get there we had to walk across the rugby field while blistering winds raged upon us from Lake Ontario. That ten minute walk in January seemed like the longest walk I'd ever taken in my life. My skin would burn, but toes and fingers would freeze, and the sweatpants I was wearing would turn to ice. I wasn't cut out for this type of lifestyle. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For Hair ONLY</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Fast forward 10 years (ahh I can't believe its been 10 years!), and our Canadian winter begins yet again. I cannot get over how dry my face immediately becomes at this time of year, and even after applying moisturizer twice a day. My skin still begs for something more. Something natural, something that will actually delve into my pores and moisturize the shit out of my skin. This product is <b>Argan Oil</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Oil you say? I can't put oil on my skin! Oh yes you can! When we were teenagers we developed this idea that oil caused pimples and therefore, we would need to strip our skin of all oils in order to avoid our white and red little friends. Well now that I am older, (and hopefully a little wiser) I've learned that this is not the case! Our skin <i>needs</i> oil to stay moisturized, and stripping all of the oils away from our skin will only make our bodies produce even more oils to counter-balance what was washed away with our Noxema. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I started by applying <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/argan-oil/ONEONL16,default,pd.html?cm_vc=SEARCH">One 'n Only Argan Oil Treatment</a> to my hair after I had seen several posts of its benefits from other blogs. It did a really good job at smoothing out my ends, and defining my layers. I knew that it had lots of other chemicals in it besides the oil, but it was only $10 so I thought it was worth a try. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_C1R5nJib66Z8oeYr-PSsntrfZ1bGj_c7wiMWr-DuRUQC-kEOJyS9RyP0pi8yOvsf01cmwbI1GVz-NkgF5LF74ltPpMtlXwzTtmnMqLg60O9qidPZJ00rY7KXWjePOl7dN602Zu9bmcw0/s1600/argon2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_C1R5nJib66Z8oeYr-PSsntrfZ1bGj_c7wiMWr-DuRUQC-kEOJyS9RyP0pi8yOvsf01cmwbI1GVz-NkgF5LF74ltPpMtlXwzTtmnMqLg60O9qidPZJ00rY7KXWjePOl7dN602Zu9bmcw0/s320/argon2.gif" width="81" /></a><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The following week I was at work, and some students had set up a booth and were selling fair trade African products. I spotted a little bottle of oil called <b>100% Pure Argan Oil</b>, and purchased it for $20. I figured that a product with no chemicals in it what so ever would be better for my hair in the long run that one with lots of chemicals. I was pleasantly surprised when the label said, "argan oil is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, which aid in softening dry skin and protecting it against dryness, cracking and </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">roughness</span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">". </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The company the students were selling was a brand called <a href="http://www.aghsane.net/?zone=prd&pid=11#prd">Aghsane</a> who export Argan and other oils directly from Africa. I had never even thought to apply an oil to my dry face, but desperate times, call for desperate measures! </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I wasn't quite sure what would happen if I slathered pure oil all over my skin, but after a few classes of wine with friends, we all figured we'd give it a go. It was the best risk I've ever taken. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My skin has never felt better. After a shower I apply a small squirt of oil onto my palm, and smooth it all over my face. It absorbs in very easily, and keeps my skin smooth and moist all day. I've even stopped using my regular moisturizer, but will have to combine the two once spring hits and I need some SPF coverage again. Or I can try this <a href="http://www.sephora.com/protect-daily-sun-protection-argan-oil-infused-spf-40-P261006?skuId=1242304">great product</a> which combines my love of Argan oil with SPF 40!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">These are a few of the AMAZING things Argan Oil can be used for:</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. Skin Moisturizer</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. Hair Conditioner</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. Anti-Ageing (reduces fine lines and wrinkles)</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4. Natural Healer and Protector (scars)</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5. Clears up Acne, </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="-webkit-transition: 0.8s ease-in-out; line-height: 22.5px;">eczema</span><span style="background-color: #f6f6f6; line-height: 22.5px;">, </span><span style="-webkit-transition: 0.8s ease-in-out; line-height: 22.5px;">rosacea</span><span style="background-color: #f6f6f6; line-height: 22.5px;">, </span><span style="-webkit-transition: 0.8s ease-in-out; line-height: 22.5px;">psoriasis</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="-webkit-transition: 0.8s ease-in-out; line-height: 22.5px;">6. Softens cuticles</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="-webkit-transition: 0.8s ease-in-out; line-height: 22.5px;">7. Safe for Babies and stretchmarks!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="-webkit-transition: 0.8s ease-in-out; line-height: 22.5px;"><b>Make sure you read the label:</b> Not all oils are made the same. In order to feel safe putting Argan Oil on your skin, especially your face, you must ensure that it is <u>100% pure Argan Oil</u>. There are many Moroccan oils sold in beauty supply stores which can be great for your hair, but are full of other chemicals and may only have argon oil as their last ingredient. Trust me, you do not want this on your skin. If the price seems to good to be true, then it probably is. Stick to the pure products!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDgVmiSaEjRdSw8h0slTn7FgYTP_KgtZ5w0IxtHinuxifx6uAkWm6JJg2B2f7J2VATxsJEppvuJqkw8oGFOZf7V49DPsk0ppO4viMKHFFFjuEGW6brTvKbyU00UNxhjRDDJ9SKkvotje4_/s1600/argon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDgVmiSaEjRdSw8h0slTn7FgYTP_KgtZ5w0IxtHinuxifx6uAkWm6JJg2B2f7J2VATxsJEppvuJqkw8oGFOZf7V49DPsk0ppO4viMKHFFFjuEGW6brTvKbyU00UNxhjRDDJ9SKkvotje4_/s1600/argon.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="-webkit-transition: 0.8s ease-in-out; line-height: 22.5px;">The best part about Argan oil is that you will be applying no chemicals, including parabens, sulfates or dyes to your skin or hair. </span></span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22.5px;">The bad part is that it can be tricky to find Pure Oil at a decent price. I found this <a href="http://well.ca/products/essence-of-argan-pure-argan-oil_50744.html">Essences of Argan Oi</a>l on well.ca</span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22.5px;"> for only $15, but this bottle of </span><a href="http://www.sephora.com/argan-oil-P218700" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22.5px;">Josie Maran</a><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22.5px;"> Oil from Sephora is $38. However, </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22.5px;">you only need to apply a small drop a day, so a 2oz bottle should last up to a year.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="-webkit-transition: 0.8s ease-in-out; line-height: 22.5px;">I've had so many friends telling me that I need to share the benefits of Argan oil so here it is! Spread the word, nourish your skin and don't be afraid of a little oil!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-42242677314259079512012-12-29T18:39:00.000-05:002013-01-04T12:09:01.940-05:00My Favorite Jeggings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I first commented of my love of the Bay in <a href="http://www.ameliasgirlfriends.com/2012/10/the-bay-how-i-love-thee.html">The Bay: How I Love Thee</a>. After a visit yesterday to my favourite department store, my love has been yet again re-affirmed. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I had made a "contract" with myself back in October that I would not buy any new clothes until Christmas time. While shopping for Christmas gifts I purposely avoided all of my favourite shops so that I could not be tempted, and I am pleased to report that I was successful! Yesterday I finally decided that I needed to visit the Bay. I took 2 hrs washing my hair, shaving my legs, applying my make-up and picking out an outfit that would be easy to change in and out of, while still be light-weight. There is nothing worse than shopping while having to carry about a heavy coat, or having a fussy shirt that takes 5 minutes to put back on. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpu8OE1aHQLEVjzH-3o2_H5fb4H1VBQirknnRK-iYxTi9DJB3J0tJDdRdbLzo0WHo7ki_SOcUM1I5SYAWXWU_e-GWDInsdGQryPWV1l2WqWV5G7Sk_S1xUVOPuQoZPd7kSmc9Ddjk97nNq/s1600/kissme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpu8OE1aHQLEVjzH-3o2_H5fb4H1VBQirknnRK-iYxTi9DJB3J0tJDdRdbLzo0WHo7ki_SOcUM1I5SYAWXWU_e-GWDInsdGQryPWV1l2WqWV5G7Sk_S1xUVOPuQoZPd7kSmc9Ddjk97nNq/s1600/kissme.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Jeggings</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I left for </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;">Les Promenades </span><em style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">de</em><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"> l'</span><em style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">Outaouais around 2pm, and was in the store 15 minutes later. I was really going for one item. New Jessica Simpson jeggings. I was introduced to these jeggings back in 2010, and after hundreds of wearings, mine had become a little thin and faded in the knee area. They were currently on sale for only <a href="http://www.thebay.com/eng/brands/search/womens-thebay/18699">$39.99</a> so I decided to get a second pair.</em></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><em style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">I went straight for the Jessica Simpson section upon my arrival. They had lots of dark rinse jeggings, some black ones, and tons of Forever Skinny jeans. They had my size in everything, and I thought for a change I would try the jeans as well. I grabbed about 6 different styles and sizes, and headed to the change room. I was pleasantly surprised that the Forever Skinny jeans fit even better than the jeggings, and I needed them one size smaller!! #score. The only real differences between the two are that the jeggings are tighter, have a slightly smaller ankle width, and have no fading on them. </em></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><em style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">I took the leap of faith, and traded in my favourite pants for something new. I wore them last night, and although they are a little shorter, they fit my hips better. They also have lot less spandex in them so I am hoping that they don't stretch out too much. </em></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><em style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">If you don't have a pair of either I highly recommend them because of their higher, curved waist. This is amazing for the following reasons:</em></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><em style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">1. When you bend over at work you're not showing off your crack to anyone</em></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><em style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">2. No muffin top</em></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><em style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">3. No gap between my back and the pants, therefore no need to wear a belt</em></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">4. You are never pulling up your pants. They are already in the right spot</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">5. They are sexy and make your legs look super long. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR-HaSJsKROBDvIqDsSadZWBMG0dx9A5Q8wjd_wi-eiFrdvIL012hXXeezb1Z4_Z1BPl2qHcm2lN6Evn9O-TZDr8rdSSYaJSImnQhYwsgS6g67_gJk4B_1_0a61s1TVcZm3OF9ZkiIisbO/s1600/foreverskinny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR-HaSJsKROBDvIqDsSadZWBMG0dx9A5Q8wjd_wi-eiFrdvIL012hXXeezb1Z4_Z1BPl2qHcm2lN6Evn9O-TZDr8rdSSYaJSImnQhYwsgS6g67_gJk4B_1_0a61s1TVcZm3OF9ZkiIisbO/s1600/foreverskinny.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Forever Skinny Jean in Abyss</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">I struggled in university trying to find a pair of jeans that fit both my hips and my waist. I would avoid jean shopping like the plaque and never found a pair that didn't feel like they were pulling the skin off of my hips. In my late twenties I have finally found jeans that fit comfortably. I love them so much, that my Twitter profile picture is a pair of Jessica Simpson Jeggings! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">If I've convinced you at all, run to your closest Bay store or the <a href="http://www.thebay.com/eng/womens-Forever_Skinny___Average_Length-thebay/187297">thebay.com</a> and get some Jessica Simpson jeggings or Forever Skinny jeans while they are hot and up to $30 cheaper. Your thighs will thank you. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><em style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;"><br /></em></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-33106190390133414842012-12-20T07:00:00.000-05:002012-12-21T17:20:14.204-05:00Online Dating: How to Select the Perfect Picture<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With the colder weather and the holiday season approaching, there comes an increase of online dating profiles. Everyone is looking for someone to cuddle up with on a cold winter night, and for someone to bring to those amazing chalet parties. </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />First impressions online are key, therefore your <b>profile picture</b> is a very important fixture of your profile; It is the #1 factor in having your profile selected. Every picture you post should be well thought out. </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You should have at least three pictures on your profile, but no more than five or six. Leave some things for your actually meeting. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Picture #1:</b> A close-up of your whole face. Try to find a good picture of yourself smiling and making eye contact with the viewer, then crop out everything else. For woman, a webcam shot photo is more successful than the average straight-on shot, but I only buy this for the under 25 scene. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaQB0dSJ4nyAMBIooUQpUXBDo69M6-xCCWmDRQkCrIM_CsQoZZ5BJTZl5PFKeoPlv20iwn8HCNVK56RENkc5nXrbmMHCaoAbcY0Hx9CS3Ur3ZM1aKmAtV0jClFGJuBOua-pZziFH6B4nh/s1600/dating7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaQB0dSJ4nyAMBIooUQpUXBDo69M6-xCCWmDRQkCrIM_CsQoZZ5BJTZl5PFKeoPlv20iwn8HCNVK56RENkc5nXrbmMHCaoAbcY0Hx9CS3Ur3ZM1aKmAtV0jClFGJuBOua-pZziFH6B4nh/s200/dating7.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b> </b><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Picture #2</b>: A full body shot. It's important for who ever you are dating to know what they are getting in to. If you have big hips or long spider legs then show them off. There is nothing worse than you date being disappointed by their first visual impression. Be honest and upfront.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHwxSoaNmA-cKtJFVsbeLJ-ZvdqE45yybxQ330EJGIA9SATlJN-ZEgmeCrhPRtkynUtRpzJPyWqfmzUWWzodRlY1j_VW7dWpf0oOfF6JvGjyHf2ZnWRvktpGu81_QYhOUCeZ2urwp7YnI/s1600/dating10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHwxSoaNmA-cKtJFVsbeLJ-ZvdqE45yybxQ330EJGIA9SATlJN-ZEgmeCrhPRtkynUtRpzJPyWqfmzUWWzodRlY1j_VW7dWpf0oOfF6JvGjyHf2ZnWRvktpGu81_QYhOUCeZ2urwp7YnI/s1600/dating10.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Picture #3 (-#5 if necessary)</b>: Wild card. Any other picture of you doing something you like, or with a different hair style. If you switch between straight and curly hair, have a picture of each on your profile. Again, honesty is what you're going for. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7noVS2wpQHOISW2OiK33abqhJDrC9-2X0iVOzL64kDdpA9bnvJdUspwaHCVfpwdCYS7I2awCnWhfcK111puJEP3eu7__il0WYkYMpa3ziWiC9Cbd3ujZNoEnvyg3_Q_RA36I_lA0yJl1q/s1600/dating11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7noVS2wpQHOISW2OiK33abqhJDrC9-2X0iVOzL64kDdpA9bnvJdUspwaHCVfpwdCYS7I2awCnWhfcK111puJEP3eu7__il0WYkYMpa3ziWiC9Cbd3ujZNoEnvyg3_Q_RA36I_lA0yJl1q/s1600/dating11.jpg" /></a><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkhdmDcBTucHA9V7ESjut71ys9KMKfwKRX1oXywW2xUWjnKqk3fbjEuQPsJGS_01bEMUtsWZHnw7SYUC2OnCR4EEkjaX6o1earBa2BQsMeT5lLH-3kuT_DZzh0BBgw4vtQgifDbMWbCTV0/s1600/dating8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkhdmDcBTucHA9V7ESjut71ys9KMKfwKRX1oXywW2xUWjnKqk3fbjEuQPsJGS_01bEMUtsWZHnw7SYUC2OnCR4EEkjaX6o1earBa2BQsMeT5lLH-3kuT_DZzh0BBgw4vtQgifDbMWbCTV0/s1600/dating8.jpg" /></a><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Remember: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Avoid having the arm or side of the face of your previous lover in your shots. This is a turn off for everyone involved.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Don't post pictures from 10, 5 years ago or even 3 years ago.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Movember stache pics are a questionable choice (unless you looked amazing!)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If you've only ever travelled once in your life, posting all your pictures from this trip paints an incorrect picture of your life. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Be diverse with your selections. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Blurry pictures are not going to help your cause</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/02/17/online-dating-profile-pic_n_465227.html?slidenumber=o%2FS7brCopBw%3D&slideshow#slide_image">Huffington Post</a>'s tip for successful profile pics is an interesting read as well. For both genders the top contexts are 1.<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"> Doing something interesting 2. Posing with an animal, and 3. A travel photo.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Whatever you <b>do not</b> post pictures where you are:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Posing in a sexual nature, or with little clothing. This sends out the wrong idea to other serious daters. Slight cleavage will give you an edge though. </span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7TyVc5aDKjetaqk8-z7kBSXrUybfZl2VEvJ7lEh-OJpjl3U2LZR9oD5yGUhxwS5Qp1LRJQ_9fzMTdy8g9tStegCrqYzVahQLT5NkdGWwWPbWSw7op9SiwNwnWO0jMrPU3cOAL4jI5ULXc/s1600/dating4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7TyVc5aDKjetaqk8-z7kBSXrUybfZl2VEvJ7lEh-OJpjl3U2LZR9oD5yGUhxwS5Qp1LRJQ_9fzMTdy8g9tStegCrqYzVahQLT5NkdGWwWPbWSw7op9SiwNwnWO0jMrPU3cOAL4jI5ULXc/s1600/dating4.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJwHL1uBDtm5wjbNr_4MenHyJ8EUrME6n3lgpyyrz1XnUVkgaFtUiELZr0jr9MorepfzNfe87gPX6yKufSqO2ssUKRVQPN6uLfaVluGJOzeYpJaEDyaQiCITMXtlr_MKC7Exy2aXX7v9o5/s1600/dating2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJwHL1uBDtm5wjbNr_4MenHyJ8EUrME6n3lgpyyrz1XnUVkgaFtUiELZr0jr9MorepfzNfe87gPX6yKufSqO2ssUKRVQPN6uLfaVluGJOzeYpJaEDyaQiCITMXtlr_MKC7Exy2aXX7v9o5/s1600/dating2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJwHL1uBDtm5wjbNr_4MenHyJ8EUrME6n3lgpyyrz1XnUVkgaFtUiELZr0jr9MorepfzNfe87gPX6yKufSqO2ssUKRVQPN6uLfaVluGJOzeYpJaEDyaQiCITMXtlr_MKC7Exy2aXX7v9o5/s1600/dating2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You are obviously under the influence, or where it's not clear who you are in the picture. Look a little bit responsible.</span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM21ysAAZUB4FstK7-QQg_zqUKJr_fFbrPn-ER77FyYir9JA4T4QFWZDO0DUX8x6CrmAm2CzGu9EXB9k9HpcRd8gncz-i70fsAkPS7oVYgxC3yh9HQRNCP_8747KTaRrP1LjNhHqiImdCj/s1600/dating9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM21ysAAZUB4FstK7-QQg_zqUKJr_fFbrPn-ER77FyYir9JA4T4QFWZDO0DUX8x6CrmAm2CzGu9EXB9k9HpcRd8gncz-i70fsAkPS7oVYgxC3yh9HQRNCP_8747KTaRrP1LjNhHqiImdCj/s1600/dating9.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUFyi1-MTSQGNLvKTw4eGncrMuMT1X6WY-2HFquyLe1Noh7NU-NohXOdC98dcj3hi07pLFDiDnZ6ZS-vc97C_URnRy_hddjPhdAWT-6syof_fSccmK15Brg2RiWdmt3-H29-wL2rVYU8WL/s1600/dating3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUFyi1-MTSQGNLvKTw4eGncrMuMT1X6WY-2HFquyLe1Noh7NU-NohXOdC98dcj3hi07pLFDiDnZ6ZS-vc97C_URnRy_hddjPhdAWT-6syof_fSccmK15Brg2RiWdmt3-H29-wL2rVYU8WL/s1600/dating3.jpg" /></a><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Taking the picture in your mirror. Show some effort and be less creepy. Yikes! </span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmHYNqafbXtmCiOQyRwSIhPMFEtqN50-9JorZqTYOmcsKuEWJbDYqJ3x675pDE-eiIGCjo4qReXFv6sDfz5fqvSs4zmrtdBjszwlF5QocDf6uGD0pJqdqigquoBYEIjzuKJx-O8zPX3Yax/s1600/dating6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmHYNqafbXtmCiOQyRwSIhPMFEtqN50-9JorZqTYOmcsKuEWJbDYqJ3x675pDE-eiIGCjo4qReXFv6sDfz5fqvSs4zmrtdBjszwlF5QocDf6uGD0pJqdqigquoBYEIjzuKJx-O8zPX3Yax/s1600/dating6.jpg" /></a></div>
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<li><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Okay maybe not this much effort!</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCIozIrQXHOiuWEex4mARJCtYIiIAFnqPn2YhxJQ1ZT5boimTpsI7tYSQ2Hv6oSlk8GXhgalDSpcuhGiebE5vqLgf5oTA37AGxKP_nx4YoiEL_f3XUzPYIxbhiGInySCOyIBgHgiHicyru/s1600/dating1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCIozIrQXHOiuWEex4mARJCtYIiIAFnqPn2YhxJQ1ZT5boimTpsI7tYSQ2Hv6oSlk8GXhgalDSpcuhGiebE5vqLgf5oTA37AGxKP_nx4YoiEL_f3XUzPYIxbhiGInySCOyIBgHgiHicyru/s1600/dating1.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate; font-family: Tahoma;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><br style="background-color: white;" /></span></span>
<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate; font-family: Tahoma;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">Take some time over the holidays and search for some great pictures on your hard drive. If there is nothing good in sight, take advantage of holiday parties and get togethers to have someone take a picture for you. </span></span><a href="http://www.lookbetteronline.com/" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Look Better Online</i> </a><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">has some great additional tips and resources to take a profile picture for you. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 14px;">Don't throw away a good first impression!</span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-90744399933181402592012-12-17T07:00:00.000-05:002012-12-21T17:24:41.274-05:00How To Have The Perfect Nap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvgZh2NOKbQ40p_Ho5Xj9i_z0JjU6NbVrYZx7mpyUBdRLSAr8mvwQPyNalBpdCQz8NzBSMWt3fhKYMDEo97e1Fa96Q5SfCzdlHfNquP71gfCwFLlMjl997Sa5YjyKU2Ms1REkmoTC1_jb/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvgZh2NOKbQ40p_Ho5Xj9i_z0JjU6NbVrYZx7mpyUBdRLSAr8mvwQPyNalBpdCQz8NzBSMWt3fhKYMDEo97e1Fa96Q5SfCzdlHfNquP71gfCwFLlMjl997Sa5YjyKU2Ms1REkmoTC1_jb/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I've never been a good sleeper on the move. Each year my parents and three brothers would pack into our station wagon and head off for a two day car ride to P.E.I. I was often crammed in the backseat of our Safari wagon between a car seat, the door and a seat belt that slowly constricted into my stomach. These are not my favourite memories of my childhood. Ideally, if I had been able to sleep in a moving car, I could have bypassed hours of our trip in a soft slumber. If only!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This problem has haunted me for life. Every plane ride, train ride and car ride I've ever taken has ended with me wishing I could just close my eyes and sleep off the duration of trip. I was never entirely sure why I wasn't capable of sleeping on the go, but since my Mother also didn't sleep in the car I've assumed it was genetics. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3C6eB9oqBW1j4n-154R8raJu5-tt3L5nrWYsC_59qA6iB9q37S9LgWS6uRFw2OVc7KB7h4h_RpfgyrRfHLo375Yb2ZAKH52NpincKWVbhwz_5YTkzmjKpjLknMKi-0kwbl_aMOPG_WkaI/s1600/eyemask.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3C6eB9oqBW1j4n-154R8raJu5-tt3L5nrWYsC_59qA6iB9q37S9LgWS6uRFw2OVc7KB7h4h_RpfgyrRfHLo375Yb2ZAKH52NpincKWVbhwz_5YTkzmjKpjLknMKi-0kwbl_aMOPG_WkaI/s1600/eyemask.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Last year, my friend Sarah told me that she never goes to bed without wearing an eye mask. The thought of totally blacking out the world seemed a little intense to me, and I didn't like the idea of having something touching my eye lashes as I slept. Never-the-less, I added an eye mask to my Christmas list and my Mom bought me one which read, "Sleep-In Beauty" on it. I thought the line was pretty perfect considering that my favourite Disney movie as a child was Sleeping Beauty. The mask was meant for me!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Within one use, I knew what she was talking about. I'll be totally frank: Everyone needs a sleeping mask. Night-to-night I don't always use it, but the second I want to have a good sleep-in on the weekend, I have my mask on. It's amazing how not having any direct light on your closed eyes can be so soothing and make sleeping during the day or late morning feel like it's the middle of the night. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When you go sleep at someone's house, you never know what the blind situation will be or whether you'll be sleeping in a sunroom or living room. With my eye mask it doesn't matter! I can throw it on, and even if the sun starts shining in at 6 a.m. I can blissfully sleep unaware in the dark cave under the mask. It's also perfect if your partner wants to read or watch t.v. after you've gone to bed. Lights out = sleepy time!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOptYdjE4qeGGqMSYt44Rk543gTLc67rSxLOOqqMDnDqmiPhbV67YcrL-nQfGBVpgfgthTA8jvJDp3q0ingnfj748V6vll3Sw2MsorxwcRW85NNIdRuP2_9L_sEMiA9mTCjKGZn1fTt1rq/s1600/eyemask3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOptYdjE4qeGGqMSYt44Rk543gTLc67rSxLOOqqMDnDqmiPhbV67YcrL-nQfGBVpgfgthTA8jvJDp3q0ingnfj748V6vll3Sw2MsorxwcRW85NNIdRuP2_9L_sEMiA9mTCjKGZn1fTt1rq/s1600/eyemask3.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I prefer a very light, silk eye mask lined with fleece which can apparently be purchased at the Dollar Store (who knew!) over an official vinyl travel mask from Walmart. There are many fancy kinds of masks that look like padded bras as well. These are for people who really hate the feeling of anything on their eyes, but seem a tad intense for me. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With my new mask I was able to sleep almost the entire flight from Montreal to Rome (with the help of some Gravol). This was a HUGE obstacle for me to overcome. I am now usually the driver on long car rides, but there is no doubt in my mind that blocking out the sunshine, and curling up in the backseat would do the trick for me. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The holidays are soon to be here, and with it comes lots of eating and drinking, visiting with relatives and sleeping too little. Do yourself a favour and treat yourself to an eye mask for the holidays. It doesn't matter where you are sleeping, or what time a day, you'll be able to have a restful sleep with your eye mask on!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbyTJp87WM-8dP3qt7XTcnlA93po5cG3Xyi-bMod0toj2cy0pqMtk3KNaZacSqWi9-T3nQsSfztBglz6KLe7uHgfQBXtvF_L2cG9S1x2Ly6ltdknSD0gHvTTKeIyvbwHPFyxSL-f43bsK/s1600/eyebarbie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbyTJp87WM-8dP3qt7XTcnlA93po5cG3Xyi-bMod0toj2cy0pqMtk3KNaZacSqWi9-T3nQsSfztBglz6KLe7uHgfQBXtvF_L2cG9S1x2Ly6ltdknSD0gHvTTKeIyvbwHPFyxSL-f43bsK/s400/eyebarbie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-76568880868737957762012-12-13T07:00:00.000-05:002012-12-13T10:44:41.319-05:00I'm Not Really A Waitress but Red Baroness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When I was in my final year of high school, all we girls seemed to talk about was our Grad Trip to Acapulco and Prom 2002. I had set my eyes on a red dress made by Jessica McClintock. I printed the picture off from their website, taped it to the fridge and prayed I would find something similar. I didn't know where they sold her dresses, so I figured it was a very long shot that I would find the dress in Canada. You can imagine my surprise, when my Mom and I spotted the dress in Melanie Lyne. The dress fit almost perfectly, and although it was borderline short on my 5'9" frame, we bought it anyways. I loved that dress so much that I actually slept in it that night, then wore the top of it to brunch the next day. It still hangs in my Mom's basement and I've been known to try it on from time to time. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-4R00OhJiUsTml9Q8hBOBySC3QgNVg0Y250Rn3XYkdic6Z1Ttt-ZwEUO3JJAO15LpbUHsmSYG6ycFjcMtGE_JiJl3CaGW8Twk2uncK0GKwa1xiwjo_x-lwsxCFTytSu7MXrZsU20ccQYl/s1600/2012-12-09+16.11.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-4R00OhJiUsTml9Q8hBOBySC3QgNVg0Y250Rn3XYkdic6Z1Ttt-ZwEUO3JJAO15LpbUHsmSYG6ycFjcMtGE_JiJl3CaGW8Twk2uncK0GKwa1xiwjo_x-lwsxCFTytSu7MXrZsU20ccQYl/s320/2012-12-09+16.11.22.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What I didn't know was that that dress would set the tone for my nail polish choices for the next 10 years!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjph7PZPNw-7nrHzSOiTy-8fOsIAPh8707FGjSCK9KxnjnUxeecInEe6MSmvpNxHSMPcHOfoEh-nV0P79ssaJCOmmCNo6XuAir0lBJC73hPhYE6tuRc2-rvEJKLWOxUugdqWoqyV1KcCkuD/s1600/opi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjph7PZPNw-7nrHzSOiTy-8fOsIAPh8707FGjSCK9KxnjnUxeecInEe6MSmvpNxHSMPcHOfoEh-nV0P79ssaJCOmmCNo6XuAir0lBJC73hPhYE6tuRc2-rvEJKLWOxUugdqWoqyV1KcCkuD/s1600/opi.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Once I had the dress, I went to Trade Secrets and did my best to pick out a nail polish that matched the dress. I settled with the OPI polish, <i>I'm Not Really a Waitress</i>. It was a rich red with a little bit of a shimmer in it. It was a classic colour. I painted my toes that morning sitting on the counter in my bathroom and never looked back. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For the next 5 years, I think it was the only colour I wore on my toes. Since then, I've mixed it up in the summer, but in the winter you'll only find my favourite red on my toes. I will confess that I've never lasted more than a day, since my Prom, where I haven't had polish on my toes. It's an addiction. I can't even remember what my toenails even looked like in their natural state and I find it looks odd when I see other people's bare toe nails. A problem, I know. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You can imagine my excitement when I discovered last month that CND shellac is making my favourite OPI colour in shellac form!!! They call their version <i>Red Baroness</i>, and it is fabulous! I can now paint my fingers nails with my favourite colour and have chip free nails for up to 2 weeks. The universe just sometimes has a way of being amazing. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3AhXVi_dBtwEZd6-5viPjvyB9AzgJQ3koaRMOWggg2kGpGUTIe75q5HnTAL839ERO4apgr4-q9rhK3EFLu0TOhHuAH4N0HPtXvi5FeNJ8VsHntqBZABsS2nXJP7PLpqQsyf_Xjy3HJeKs/s1600/cnd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3AhXVi_dBtwEZd6-5viPjvyB9AzgJQ3koaRMOWggg2kGpGUTIe75q5HnTAL839ERO4apgr4-q9rhK3EFLu0TOhHuAH4N0HPtXvi5FeNJ8VsHntqBZABsS2nXJP7PLpqQsyf_Xjy3HJeKs/s200/cnd.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With the Christmas season approaching do yourself a favour and get a bottle of either colour. Your Christmas Party self will thank you! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You know what, I am thinking maybe I can break out the top of my Prom dress for the Christmas season this year, thoughts?</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-34566080302835944872012-12-10T07:00:00.000-05:002012-12-10T09:08:14.993-05:00Want Cheap Shipping? Try Kinek!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As Christmas approaches, I am very busy online ordering all of the amazing gifts I am going to give my friends and family. Don't get me wrong, I love a good mall visit, but there is something about ordering a book from Amazon.ca at 10pm at night from my bed that is addicting!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06o712NavOadJlIbEjHRDGU33zbZjuhlLkRSA4QyvWrl8oLbvwr1tHMLz9D3R_v_nQlaFcIwgdYxqD0iBZ80Pr3xGFjAMYOuy7iRZCzvdLrc4Te8R_heetvh9BhNfAXGSOT921iht18AL/s1600/free2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06o712NavOadJlIbEjHRDGU33zbZjuhlLkRSA4QyvWrl8oLbvwr1tHMLz9D3R_v_nQlaFcIwgdYxqD0iBZ80Pr3xGFjAMYOuy7iRZCzvdLrc4Te8R_heetvh9BhNfAXGSOT921iht18AL/s1600/free2.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Some webpages are great to order from, and often have free shipping to Canada. My favourites sites are Banana Republic, Amazon.ca, Chapters and Indigo, Kiwi Sheepskins, and Locale Shoes. I have never paid for shipping from any of these sites, and they seen to arrive in a matter of days. I often have packages shipped to my work so that someone is there to sign for them (if necessary), and for some reason they just seem to arrive there faster than shipping them to my house. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Recently Pottery Barn decided to ship some of their items to Canada. This is a VERY exciting development, but it comes with one hitch: The shipping costs are <i>ridiculous</i>. A friend of mine recently tried to order a few items and the shipping was listed at over $400! This is absolutely insane in my opinion and is basically robbery. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Then I remembered that my girlfriend Rochelle had almost all of the goodies for her wedding (including tuxedos, and her wedding dress) shipped to </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Ogdensburg, New York</b> for a fraction of the cost of having them shipped to Canada. The great thing is that Ogdenburg (if you can remember how to spell it), is only 45 minutes from Ottawa and an easy drive on Hwy. 416 towards Prescott. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">How does this work? Just set up an account with Kinek, and you'll be given an American address in Ogdensburg, NY!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeM89HU7DWPBmqVxETJagsGI2f_49jN-N_6U4WY4iVAyS78F7zKBEWblyFkx9TtXEtu_xsZ6aO5V2DTaOQxkBPNdYBReTu5QMzokWzYfMTrp7ULx0Cfay_OAnmQ8AVzj3VE-PxKcG5JZLC/s1600/transparent_logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="49" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeM89HU7DWPBmqVxETJagsGI2f_49jN-N_6U4WY4iVAyS78F7zKBEWblyFkx9TtXEtu_xsZ6aO5V2DTaOQxkBPNdYBReTu5QMzokWzYfMTrp7ULx0Cfay_OAnmQ8AVzj3VE-PxKcG5JZLC/s320/transparent_logo.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. Register for a free Kinek account at <a href="http://www.kinek.com/">www.kinek.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2.Complete your profile</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. Select <b>NAC Logistics in Ogdensburg</b> (or any other border city) as your KinekPoint</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4. You will now be presented with your new KinekPoint shipping address. Use this address when ordering online. </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">That is all!!!</span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5. Go online and shop to your hearts content! When the package arrives you'll receive a call or text to come and pick it up. You then have 15 days to collect it. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pottery Barn only charges $40 to ship to the US. That's a $360 difference from shipping it to Canada!!! Always check to see what the shipping costs directly to your front door, and if it's insane then see how much it would cost to ship to Ogdensburg. If you're saving a lot of cash, then they 45 minute drive will be totally worth it. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUwMk-qzXLqAgmpVWQwYsaRJbO182aGd0U_kcrBscY7bxv6aRhX89odLASYaj_yVukajfo2zux2czke2AtYaEt8XsQn-6aZhtZvbEa9JZ889PZRL-YfgqqGcheb3Xz7wDYi41L42DlsqD/s1600/turkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUwMk-qzXLqAgmpVWQwYsaRJbO182aGd0U_kcrBscY7bxv6aRhX89odLASYaj_yVukajfo2zux2czke2AtYaEt8XsQn-6aZhtZvbEa9JZ889PZRL-YfgqqGcheb3Xz7wDYi41L42DlsqD/s1600/turkey.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While you're in the States you can pick up a turkey, a case of beer, and some sugary cereal to make the trip that all more memorable. Sometime it really pays off to do a little shopping around (even for shipping costs!). </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-59479850300938591122012-11-30T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-30T07:00:05.377-05:00How to remove Shellac (and not your nail)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumextBHGqg9de6ZvaZM8HTf5faBTPkc2OLhKyPFuNaeOcRrwtS3DZA7G0OwHF4fJHB-ZK2BQMrh1RElmnKctae2oB5-pGUq92xWm9tfUAUrUpKuk60H5Mqn7rF9YWDw7PIOjWsjRhG_M1/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Once I discovered <a href="http://www.cnd.com/pro-products/cnd-shellac">CND Shellac</a> polish, I knew there was no turning back. As someone who washes the clay and paint of her hands about 30 times a day, regular nail polish would rarely last me until lunch hour. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The first time I had shellac applied I was at a salon for my friend's wedding. My nails were very short at the time and I didn't think a french manicure was possible. This new salon didn't carry shellac in any colours, so I opted for a clear shellac and they painted regular nail polish on top. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJv43uZanhV-odcPKfKK8eYIhvxTrb7AazD0qoocIxNFgR2S4y28AdAbmeIFCm3Glt3Vz7sZkUDj_mhpvVNJufaNrA5pXPqhFAz2wOWxgBx3ddyp6kNHj1HSys7l52u_IvkNU6uOhDYW7H/s1600/foil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJv43uZanhV-odcPKfKK8eYIhvxTrb7AazD0qoocIxNFgR2S4y28AdAbmeIFCm3Glt3Vz7sZkUDj_mhpvVNJufaNrA5pXPqhFAz2wOWxgBx3ddyp6kNHj1HSys7l52u_IvkNU6uOhDYW7H/s1600/foil.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As the shellac grew out, the nail polish chipped off and I spent two more week applying various colours of polish on top. Since my nails were so strong the colour would last for at least a week and the only downfall was the awkward, thick grow-out line forming in front of my cuticle. Eventually, I knew the gig was up and I would have to remove the shellac. I tried to peel it off, but it wouldn't budge so I decided to splurge on a second shellac manicure and to have the esthetician remove it for me. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">At Lovely Nails, I washed carefully as the lady soaked a cotton ball in acetone, wrapped it around each of my fingers and covered them individually in tinfoil. It looks pretty silly and you will look slightly like an alien, but it seems to do the trick. After about 5 minutes she removed the tinfoil, and using a metal cuticle pusher she scraped the shellac off of my nails into tiny pieces, then sanded away any stubborn pieces. The entire process was at least 15 minutes and made my little stop in an hour long affair, but Shellac is was worth it. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZwAaYNRNhDkRNdIUfRfrR5o7_-26xzMojJX57-TkfKMm0fULHUu6JLrScO9T_kwLJTZRDAge2BW3KqEzQHYSsPoi5tgNGJLsfukqsorivQ5dlb3_4pvg96_1r0AafDSP7qZMYH2WGqIBR/s1600/nailgrit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZwAaYNRNhDkRNdIUfRfrR5o7_-26xzMojJX57-TkfKMm0fULHUu6JLrScO9T_kwLJTZRDAge2BW3KqEzQHYSsPoi5tgNGJLsfukqsorivQ5dlb3_4pvg96_1r0AafDSP7qZMYH2WGqIBR/s1600/nailgrit.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sanding Block</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">At home I tried the tinfoil trick, but once my left hand was done, I wasn't coordinated enough to use my left hand covered in foil to cover my right hand. I didn't have the time to wait up to 10 minutes a hand before removing the foil either. Fortunately, a friend was coming over and I had her cover my right hand for me, but this isn't always the case!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I much prefer the dipping method. This <a href="http://www.leadingthegoodlife.net/2012/01/05/the-un-manicure-aka-how-to-remove-shellac/">blog</a> gives a great step by step of how to remove the Shellac, except I prefer a metal pusher over a wooden. The trick is to use pure acetone and not using nail polish remover. I was able to find acetone at Walmart and Shoppers Drug Mart, or you can go industrial and get a large jug of it at Canadian Tire in the automotive section. I even file down the top of the shellac before I dip by fingers into the acetone, just to help with the removal down the center. Then I finish everything off with the sanding block to make sure that my nails are smooth again. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I went to my Mom's last week to help her remove her shellac. My Dad had brought up a bottle of what he thought was pure acetone. There was definitely some acetone in it as well as several other chemicals (including turpentine) that made my Mom's skin burn. Turns out it was paint thinner. I highly discourage you from using this!!! Pure acetone only! It will dry out your skin, but that's about it. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1bBXH7mHtKH4O3yD5JUhCbzAyu7TRGu_IZSTjO0mjuEmpBtkBMrz1VBPyUly_a57-3NxFNsapZ8G3cOQFVdKKMqh1HEB_f_KgG7CExhJXRPdN4I4M_gsBe4Xy4q3N8cfyWHDsPpwBe49u/s1600/nailfile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1bBXH7mHtKH4O3yD5JUhCbzAyu7TRGu_IZSTjO0mjuEmpBtkBMrz1VBPyUly_a57-3NxFNsapZ8G3cOQFVdKKMqh1HEB_f_KgG7CExhJXRPdN4I4M_gsBe4Xy4q3N8cfyWHDsPpwBe49u/s200/nailfile.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Whatever you do, don't be tempted to pick off the Shellac (or to use paint thinner). I have sadly removed many layers of my precious nails in the process and do not wish this upon anyone!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Don't bother spending an extra $10 every time you want to get your Shellac removed. Even if you're still going into the salon to have your shellac applied you can save yourself a lot of money by removing it by yourself before you go in. Then go to Starbucks and spend all the money you saved on an overpriced Latte! Delicious!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXJSxmgOg6QEahFzofZk5EfdhrGg5KTPJnixJmZ1sHj1COYKw5o9GHXiZJ97ddrn1g7ucUoXrBOTh0mgp4uP1RyHIySp-a2zSJk167Fc14rzUGxwDgOJ7wbuwgfmkUhJjxc7bY3-6gYTW/s1600/acetone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXJSxmgOg6QEahFzofZk5EfdhrGg5KTPJnixJmZ1sHj1COYKw5o9GHXiZJ97ddrn1g7ucUoXrBOTh0mgp4uP1RyHIySp-a2zSJk167Fc14rzUGxwDgOJ7wbuwgfmkUhJjxc7bY3-6gYTW/s200/acetone.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Things you need to remove Shellac:</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1. 100% Pure Acetone ($3)</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2. A good <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/Nail-Files/TROPIC4,default,pd.html?cm_vc=SEARCH">nail file </a>($1-2 at Sally's)</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3. A <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/Nail-Sani-Block/STARNL3,default,pd.html?cm_vc=SEARCH">sanding block</a> in medium/course ($1-2 at Sally's)</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4. A glass bowl, or teacup you're never going to put food in again</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">5. <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/Chrome-Cuticle-Pusher/SBS-265660,default,pd.html?cm_vc=SEARCH">Cuticle Pusher</a> ($5-25 at most pharmacys)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For how to apply your own Shellac click <a href="http://www.ameliasgirlfriends.com/2012/10/the-shellac-part-2.html">here</a></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-61762179950874630122012-11-28T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-28T07:00:09.557-05:00The Perfect Black Tight<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQPLtOrQnmckXOuof1hass2Yy7HyIU3bVsYEdAhaaWga98INTDIz6Uok0HrbnvksyLvazScPpOlD0fawgZAn4Vzgp6EqK7FD-QnjwDQEqUmGGfuhH3pAXejNTEvlwx6B8gWgDXhO2pxZ8/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQPLtOrQnmckXOuof1hass2Yy7HyIU3bVsYEdAhaaWga98INTDIz6Uok0HrbnvksyLvazScPpOlD0fawgZAn4Vzgp6EqK7FD-QnjwDQEqUmGGfuhH3pAXejNTEvlwx6B8gWgDXhO2pxZ8/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sadly when I saw the snow on the ground this week, I knew it was officially the end of bare leg season. Each year I try to stretch out the viewing period of my pale legs as long as possible, but there always comes a day when its just simply inappropriate to have my bare knees poking out. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I've always been extremely picky about socks and tights, and I still am. I can remember sitting with my Mother in our family room before Saturday ballet class crying as she put my pink ballet tights on. I really, really hated them but would wear them to class as long as I could get them off as soon as I got home. There was nothing worse than having to go to the hockey rink wearing a snow suit and ballet tights. I still get goose bumps when I think about it. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There was a very awkward stage of my childhood when I refused to wear tighst anywhere but ballet class which meant that my Mom couldn't put me into cute little dresses during the winter months. It came to me wearing a bright purple, crushed velvet pant suit with a "bubble leg". They were not quite an MC Hammer pant since they had much more volume down around the ankle. I also had a pair of the pants in black which I would wear with a white top with gold polka dots. These outfits were my only chance of attending Christmas dinner "tight free" and it was not a pretty sight. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When I was in Grade 7, I was invited to a ballet at the Canadian History Museum (formerly the Canadian Museum of Civilization) with a ballet friend of mine and her Mother. I threw on my crushed velvet suit and eagerly followed along. During the intermission my friend was complimented by our ballet teacher on her cute little outfit which consisted of brown ankle boots, with pink socks, brown tights, a tweed skirt and a little sweater. I'll admit even now that the outfit was flawless. I stood there so ashamed of my pantsuit and vowed to never wear it again!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwq0YaPtgTaGQpRiofc9r7HfjAwUA5ARqMcYK5UoNfUNaAsc7OUH2I23Mf5LWnUseoOJinz71rde_5BJz5FjOJAbWcQZGTSKFtyBiFuPot4XtiwHkE-fxb9K8qGTMcWVTejx0J9pmx6Kp9/s1600/MONDOR+310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwq0YaPtgTaGQpRiofc9r7HfjAwUA5ARqMcYK5UoNfUNaAsc7OUH2I23Mf5LWnUseoOJinz71rde_5BJz5FjOJAbWcQZGTSKFtyBiFuPot4XtiwHkE-fxb9K8qGTMcWVTejx0J9pmx6Kp9/s320/MONDOR+310.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Around the same time a new type of ballet tight had just come on the market, The <a href="http://www.ebay.ca/itm/MONDOR-310-MICROFIBRE-FOOTED-DANCE-TIGHTS-ADULT-AND-CHILDRENS-SIZING-/160872073444">Mondor 310</a>. These microfiber tights where soft, thin, comfortable and didn't itch my skin like the other ones I'd been wearing. The second I put them on it felt like I was wearing a second skin. Not only did I not hate wearing tights to ballet anymore, but I was willing to wear the tights elsewhere, even to a a holiday event. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Fortunately the tights came in ballet pink, "jazz class" beige, and "special event" black. I could buy them fully footed, or with a hole in the bottom to sneak my foot out of when my blisters required tending. I used to have a weird thing where I only liked tights once they'd be worn a couple of times, but with the 310's, the fresher they came out of the dryer the better!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Slowly, I built up a stock of about 8 pairs of the Mondor 310's. Unfortunately they were about 15 dollars a pair so my Mom wasn't too eager to give me money every time one got a hole in the toe. Practically every single pair I owed had a toe that was sewn up, but it didn't matter, they were perfect to me. I still own several pairs of ballet tights and I haven't danced since I was 18. My friend Lauren still has her black 310's from high school. These things last!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXIhF3a1vwq8tOp9BqzzxTfFmtnosuK0JScXkgIihknGiclTdHXvHMFeHxLJxo6tqhCCGvN2823eW8bd7thJBX0v2nVdxj49cjAYZKAIAll_m-Y-V5A2AEjVIvwM99jbUHMsE_0G7DOZ8/s1600/blacktights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXIhF3a1vwq8tOp9BqzzxTfFmtnosuK0JScXkgIihknGiclTdHXvHMFeHxLJxo6tqhCCGvN2823eW8bd7thJBX0v2nVdxj49cjAYZKAIAll_m-Y-V5A2AEjVIvwM99jbUHMsE_0G7DOZ8/s1600/blacktights.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Now as an adult I am still very picky about my tights. I refuse to wear any kind of nylon or pantyhose and always will. I can handle a fashion tight for short periods of time, but after a while that sagging crotch drives me bonkers. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Over the years the 310 tights have gotten even better with a </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">knitted waistband,</span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> 3D technology to support the leg (and crotch) and they never seem to get any runs. They've even come out they a fish net tight which is bound to be flawless. I always buy mine at <a href="http://store.malabar.net/product_info.php?cPath=63_64_65&products_id=3059">Malabar</a>'s in Ottawa but any dance or figure skating store will carry them. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Do your self a favour this holiday season and buy yourself some black Mondor tights. Not only will you be in fashion, but your legs will look long and lean. The days will be long, especially when a work day becomes a holiday party so buy a pair of good black tights where the crotch will stay in place, the waistband will reach your bra and your legs will never, ever feel the slightest itch. You deserve it!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-77441097859973356542012-11-23T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-28T19:26:09.639-05:00Rid Yourself of Blisters Forever!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQPLtOrQnmckXOuof1hass2Yy7HyIU3bVsYEdAhaaWga98INTDIz6Uok0HrbnvksyLvazScPpOlD0fawgZAn4Vzgp6EqK7FD-QnjwDQEqUmGGfuhH3pAXejNTEvlwx6B8gWgDXhO2pxZ8/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQPLtOrQnmckXOuof1hass2Yy7HyIU3bVsYEdAhaaWga98INTDIz6Uok0HrbnvksyLvazScPpOlD0fawgZAn4Vzgp6EqK7FD-QnjwDQEqUmGGfuhH3pAXejNTEvlwx6B8gWgDXhO2pxZ8/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Blisters and my toes go together like Spencer and Heidi. I can't remember one without the other and they are really a pain in the ass. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As a dancer growing up, my feet were often being squished into new tap shoes and pointe shoes. I am sure you've all seen what can happen to a ballerina's feet after a couple of hours in a pointe shoe from movies like Centre Stage and Black Swan. The foot gets sweaty, it cannot breathe, its rubbing back and forth, back and forth and then BAM! There is a nice big blister exactly where you need to put the shoe the next day. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtXRXg6LsIMPOR418Ug0dYKSJ8DMvkhoYY4Cb-gsu38CJP9Nxl_6PVrUwU6Sj3TvvfKhSHdFQZmvRfdGDih9cLJShxDF9wFf50vjge1gKQ8edR6jaDkGd2AqCEHz2t2ORqX07anvxhCYN/s1600/black+taps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtXRXg6LsIMPOR418Ug0dYKSJ8DMvkhoYY4Cb-gsu38CJP9Nxl_6PVrUwU6Sj3TvvfKhSHdFQZmvRfdGDih9cLJShxDF9wFf50vjge1gKQ8edR6jaDkGd2AqCEHz2t2ORqX07anvxhCYN/s200/black+taps.jpg" width="186" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I actually seemed to get the worst blisters from a new pair of tap shoes during summer school. My feet would be used to relaxing in a flip flop all summer long and were now being confined into a tight space without any hosiery (which I immaturely refused to wear), in 25 degree weather. It was a recipe for disaster. I do not need to go into detail of how I used to continue to dance each day on these dying feet, but the damage was done. I know had blister scars that would plague me for the rest of my adult life. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What's a blister scar? Well I have nice big bumps on my toes and on the back of my heel which are the first part of the foot that a new shoe attacks. I cannot even begin to count the numbers of blisters I have incurred when trying to break in a new shoe, and wearing an old shoe again after a long absence. I was starting to think I was the only one. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Recently on a trip to the Bay I spotted a great pair of faux suede black pumps. I love the way a suede shoe looks with a pair of black tights. Its seamless really. I tried on my size, and although they were a smidgen tight I figured that they would stretch out just a little. They were a great deal, so I paid up and wore them to school the next day. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What came next? A right toe blister. I used a trick that my Mom had taught me to try and solve the problem. I took a broom, and put the toe of my shoe into its handle. Next I pushed the shoe down as far as I could into the handle to try to stretch out the toe area as much as possible to give my piggies a little more room. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A few days later I tried the shoe again and the same problem and blister persisted. No matter what I did, this shoe was going to blister my right foot. I could have told this exact same story for the flats I bought later that summer. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTnFXiAQHAIpeWQzt8SPq2TjoS_TV-tHfDiwFJ_Z-aFLcRtOCRT_CkJX06KGzmGke1xL9qFDPxVVlTYn5XkER2eTDcuX_kpbyG_A7M_uQyOdLaTBov1_5kg_zzb9HSVzX7IDOZIoQFi4U7/s1600/black+pumps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTnFXiAQHAIpeWQzt8SPq2TjoS_TV-tHfDiwFJ_Z-aFLcRtOCRT_CkJX06KGzmGke1xL9qFDPxVVlTYn5XkER2eTDcuX_kpbyG_A7M_uQyOdLaTBov1_5kg_zzb9HSVzX7IDOZIoQFi4U7/s1600/black+pumps.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After complaining to my Mom about my problem, she told me something that I had never quite realized before. The broom trick only worked with LEATHER shoes, not synthetic fabrics. Only leathers (ie animal skins) can stretch out under warm conditions and create a perfect mold of your foot. Once the shoe has set, it will never give you a blister again because it won't rub on your toes bumps, it will gently surround them. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Was real leather the simple solution I had never considered?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Since that fateful day, I have gone out a re-purchased a pair of real suede black pumps (they still look awesome with tights). I have no had one blister from these shoes and I have worn with with and without hosiery. Of course, real leather is more expensive, but isn't it better to have a pair of comfortable shoes you'll wear over and over again instead of a pair you cringe at every time you see them in your closet? </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Leather also lasts a long time and can be repaired. I bought a pair of black leather high heel boots in London, England over 6 years ago. I've had the heel re-tipped and the sole replaced, but those buggers will not quit! They are just as comfortable now as they ever were and I couldn't picture a sweater dress without </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">them!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So what are you waiting for? Keep your toes and heels the break that they need. I know cheap shoes are tempting, but are they worth the blisters?</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-78938620482254775772012-11-19T07:00:00.000-05:002012-12-21T17:19:01.410-05:00What Kind of Bobby Pin Are You Using?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCU7c244fRa31VkUlo6dfNpcJML4qZHTDTpYdHwvI61xbX6HA9EePkZKcHcy9EcEdySPEUu-LGMYVYjltEpMdxsvSZZHeQiyqWBAW5HOQobGGTzR5xkL3U54Te88dGk9PBOHyr_yki3sx/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCU7c244fRa31VkUlo6dfNpcJML4qZHTDTpYdHwvI61xbX6HA9EePkZKcHcy9EcEdySPEUu-LGMYVYjltEpMdxsvSZZHeQiyqWBAW5HOQobGGTzR5xkL3U54Te88dGk9PBOHyr_yki3sx/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Did you even know there were different types of bobby pins? Or as the British say "kirby grips"? <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">The bobby pins got their name in the 1920's when they were used to keep the bobbed hair styles in place. Now we use them to pull back bangs, keep an up-d0 in place to secure those little baby fly-aways. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">I love this blog, <a href="http://hairdohow2.blogspot.ca/2012/07/i-have-read-some-comments-on-other-hair.html">Hairdo How-to</a> and how it really breaks down what makes a good bobby pin. Who knew it could be so complicated?</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">I was recently complimenting a co-worker of mine Erin, on her great big bun. She is always looking for a new way to wear her hair, which I really admire. She mentioned that she liked the bun, but that little pieces keep falling out. I asked her what kind of bobby pin she was using and she took out one of the typical flat bobby pins like this:</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeiwkGh9FgK8_WCH8nYvAhzsosUPRXUQ_Vv14SbPO3ePTjbFWq78nHHMMk0txSa1_PqgPzG269F5nyva9nnzc_-4w32JSQHgXNYRGxxls7zD_ewEunwH49yGWrfAB-38r0XZBf70h69BO1/s1600/Bobby_pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeiwkGh9FgK8_WCH8nYvAhzsosUPRXUQ_Vv14SbPO3ePTjbFWq78nHHMMk0txSa1_PqgPzG269F5nyva9nnzc_-4w32JSQHgXNYRGxxls7zD_ewEunwH49yGWrfAB-38r0XZBf70h69BO1/s1600/Bobby_pin.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">These pins are great for securing hair, but not for a big bun. What she really needed was a hairpin like this:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8bfhRjLoc2wbr4QZdjDDRuFcAJ3AOAKoMKPPm978gRjdABO3iduQpZLrSeNorhMC5da3gDShy-JMJ_JVYnUSvRDqalBn321eH7qQX-BRHzQMkac8jNmkWHoH8t9kTtqlIrKRKqIOBkw8/s1600/hairpins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8bfhRjLoc2wbr4QZdjDDRuFcAJ3AOAKoMKPPm978gRjdABO3iduQpZLrSeNorhMC5da3gDShy-JMJ_JVYnUSvRDqalBn321eH7qQX-BRHzQMkac8jNmkWHoH8t9kTtqlIrKRKqIOBkw8/s200/hairpins.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hairpins are not very common, but once you start using them, you'll wonder how you ever lived with out them! Instead of just pushing in a bobby pin (wavy side down of course), the hairpin collects a larger amount of hair and tucks them under the bun. Ask any former ballet dancer and I am sure they have a collection of these pins in all corners of their bathroom drawers. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Fortunately, I keep a little zipper pouch in my wallet with bobby pins, hairpins, elastics and clips for such emergencies. I gave Erin a hairpin, tucked it into the bottom of her bun and the escaping hairs were re-joined with their peers. I gave her an extra hairpin for good measure and sent her on her way. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This is an awesome tutorial of how to use a hairpin properly.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp7qzsaSc2Jz0_ONIa4Se4pnnoq8HdD94wnnsos08x4nzMn9N860B0iZhoj9oMuIRIThdE4BD_Wz1VGnpN9L-atBM-EY9EUir6vIF4Fd4U2QX9uirZXEESfjLvE2ZuP-slB3c8jRAjyyVL/s1600/hairpin-tutorial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp7qzsaSc2Jz0_ONIa4Se4pnnoq8HdD94wnnsos08x4nzMn9N860B0iZhoj9oMuIRIThdE4BD_Wz1VGnpN9L-atBM-EY9EUir6vIF4Fd4U2QX9uirZXEESfjLvE2ZuP-slB3c8jRAjyyVL/s640/hairpin-tutorial.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hairpins are available in any pharmacy and usually come in a little plastic box. Why not make a little hair emergency kit of your own? You never know what madness Mother Nature can throw at you during the day!</span></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-23474358989060142622012-11-16T07:20:00.000-05:002012-11-19T17:00:20.174-05:00Happy Birthday Lauren!<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A little shout today to one of Amelia's Girlfriends Lauren on her 28th Birthday!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We first started sharing tips, trick and life stories the summer of 2003 when we were both unemployed and took to tanning in my parent's backyard for hours on end each day. This is when life was simple, and we had the darkest tans of anyone in Barrhaven (sorry Lindz!).</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Since then our friendship has flourished and Lauren has always been there with a new trick of the trade, a hair problem, and lots of relationship advice. I'll never forget when she called me every single morning for a month after a break-up. What a friend. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Love you Lauren! Have an another amazing weekend!!!</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-15280299851784588412012-11-16T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-16T07:14:05.598-05:00The Bubba Adventure<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ksKmeJ3A-gOS_zFyi7DFVFJ-AUXz18Inpk-8lWb6kYlJm_Ptm6HypLmkht7KMDuYKBHCbcUHhf2dMODHzVCpn_uYpIhA6w_PkFfJKHM8TfJNjfE6MjEoayCCK5uEGXJcrFgsCsOXwa7h/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ksKmeJ3A-gOS_zFyi7DFVFJ-AUXz18Inpk-8lWb6kYlJm_Ptm6HypLmkht7KMDuYKBHCbcUHhf2dMODHzVCpn_uYpIhA6w_PkFfJKHM8TfJNjfE6MjEoayCCK5uEGXJcrFgsCsOXwa7h/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate; line-height: normal; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">All I wanted was a Bubba mug for my trip to Cuba last March.</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate; line-height: normal; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I was over at St. Pius high school for the day, and got out at 2:30pm. Loving the warm weather, I decided I would swing by the Walmart on Baseline Road to pick one up. I found the travel mug aisle, but there was nothing of the Bubba brand. I picked up a random 400mL travel mug and started to walk around hoping that I would find something bigger or more Bubba like. There were none. I did get some spray sunscreen and sewing needles though #score.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAv8PDySsz2cmfAS8vcuTuVRsn4IB_BvyqDjr02K9INy9dRbuIV1vVNm0_hGLlQMrRTrnzsLnzeus_zm_WS_YGvxU_Kw7jdc5XOnO7kFU_2x6LesvFl3FEjvpdA6iXOthueNrr7IbwDTAs/s1600/bubba2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d;"></span></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivSybws9n0ATQziXN_sgSqB78Y-CBc1BmS7nV0R_P0JgQ2ZHkEQiymzwyR3GecPZ2Ogu8l7rXrRR5L_dG7Wh9kyFDw7M59nBkQfDZLPZC_KOPYgQcfwHKPvAu9sDyP3HND576RRNff9fg3/s1600/bubba3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivSybws9n0ATQziXN_sgSqB78Y-CBc1BmS7nV0R_P0JgQ2ZHkEQiymzwyR3GecPZ2Ogu8l7rXrRR5L_dG7Wh9kyFDw7M59nBkQfDZLPZC_KOPYgQcfwHKPvAu9sDyP3HND576RRNff9fg3/s200/bubba3.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1.5 L Bubba</span></td></tr>
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate; line-height: normal; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I texted my girlfriends Meaghan and Rochelle about where they got their Bubbas the year before and Meaghan recommended Canadian Tire. I then went to Canadian Tire on Carling since I was picking up the seating chart for Rochelle's wedding nearby. After trying to go up the escalator the wrong way, I made my way upstairs and found the travel mug aisle. They had only the <strong>huge</strong> 1.5L (52oz) jugs, or the little 20 oz ones. I wanted the 34 oz one! (side note: Bubba makes about 10 different sizes of travel mugs)</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The big ones were only in black as well and I wanted something prettier to match my beach outfits. I thought about it for 10 minutes: Did I really need a mug this big? How much would it weigh when full? Would it fit in my new beach bag? I decided I would continue my search for the 34oz Bubba and to try the other Canadian Tire in Hull. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I braved the rush hour traffic, took a detour when Eddy street was block and arrived at Canadian Tire by 3:45pm. I had really wasted a lot of time at Walmart. I found the travel mug aisle, and again, only the 52oz and 20oz mugs. This time there were purple mugs, so I figured I go for the big one.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">At this point I shared my dilemma through text with Erik; was a 52oz Bubba just too big for Cuba? He went online to check what's going on and to see if 34oz Bubbas even existed anymore.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In the mean time, Rochelle responded that I should check at Walmart and that she needs one too. My phone rings, its Erik! The 34oz Bubbas are on sale at Canadian Tire #scoreagain! They are not available at the Carling, or Bells Corner locations, but there should be some in Hull. I search again, and only the big ones which were a ridiculous $20.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">34 oz Bubba = Just right</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I grab a sales man, he grabs a flyer, and he says that they are not on sale. I go to the flyer thing at the front of the store and show him that they are. He says that those ones are in the the <em>automotive</em> section in aisle 8. I say "Thank you", and go to aisle 8. There are 2, 34oz Bubba's left on sale for $6.72, and one is in purple!!! #winning.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I swoop them up, happily pay my $20 bill, and share my good news with Erik, Rochelle and Meaghan. Unfortunately, the other Bubba was black, but I promised not to charge her for it. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Two hours later, I finally arrive at home. As soon as I got in I put together the seating chart and start packing. At this point I remember how much I love ALL of my summer dresses. The bubba goes straight into my suitcase!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Erik was going to be working late, so I curled up and finish the Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's nest. I start writing this note of my journey then Erik says he is coming home, I suggest McDonalds and he says it coupon season! WooHoo!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cuba here we come! (Note to the reader: Read Is Your Passport Expired? For what happened next..)</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-4056984930719988082012-11-14T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-20T17:05:26.055-05:00Is Your Passport Expired? No? Then Book with Tripcentral.ca<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCU7c244fRa31VkUlo6dfNpcJML4qZHTDTpYdHwvI61xbX6HA9EePkZKcHcy9EcEdySPEUu-LGMYVYjltEpMdxsvSZZHeQiyqWBAW5HOQobGGTzR5xkL3U54Te88dGk9PBOHyr_yki3sx/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCU7c244fRa31VkUlo6dfNpcJML4qZHTDTpYdHwvI61xbX6HA9EePkZKcHcy9EcEdySPEUu-LGMYVYjltEpMdxsvSZZHeQiyqWBAW5HOQobGGTzR5xkL3U54Te88dGk9PBOHyr_yki3sx/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As the weather begins to chill, I am already dreaming about walking down a warm beach down south. </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Last year my trip down south started out a little rough. My boyfriend Erik and I booked a really cheap trip to Cayo Largo, Cuba from Sunday to Sunday during the March Break. We woke up Sunday morning, recovered one of our cars from the night before, and proceeded to pack in the one hour we had left before we had to drive to Montreal to catch our flight later than night. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Just as we were about to walk out the door, Erik opened up both of our passports to make sure that he had the correct ones, and not our old expired passports. He opened mine and asked, "Where is your new passport?", to which I replied, "That is my new passport". </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">He promptly let me know that my passport has expired two months before. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My immediate reaction was to cry and scream repeatedly "What do I do?!". After a few calls to the travel agent we discovered that there were only flights to our resort on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and if I didn't get on the flight that night, then I would have to wait until the following Friday (therefore spending only two nights in Cuba). I couldn't get on the flight that night. Eeek!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Erik and I made the quick decision for him to drive to Montreal and grab the flight, and I would do everything I could the next day to get a passport and try to join him in a night or two. We didn't know how much this oversight was going to cost me, and figured it was better to only have to buy one new ticket instead of two. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Erik's loving, caring and thoughtful parents took me in in his absence, drove me to Costco to get my passport picture, called friends to get more information about flights, gave me lots of wine, and finally a bed to sleep in that night at their house. The next morning (Monday), we got up and drove straight to the passport office. They issued me a passport in about 15 minutes (what what!), and from there I booked a flight to Havana, Cuba. We knew there was a flight to Cayo Largo Island, but not with any major airline and nothing we could book it over the phone with a credit card. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I arrived in Havana late Monday night and tried my best to find some kind of confirmation on a flight to Cayo Largo, but all I got was a tip that there MAY be spaces on a plane at another airport the next morning at 7am. Erik's Mom Cindy booked me into a hotel in Havana for the night, so I ventured into a cab, and with no more cell phone reception travelled in the pitch black into the streets of Havana. Well, I saw the streets from the cab at least while the Beatles played over the radio. It felt like I was filming a scene for a movie. A very lonely, scary scene. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The next morning I awoke at 4am, called a cab and headed for this mysterious airport. Upon arrival there was a huge line-up from a tour group, so I butted to the front and in frantic Spanish attempted to buy myself a ticket. They said they had space, and to my excitement40 hrs after I was supposed to leave, I was only a 45 minute flight away! There was just one catch. They only accepted cash (hence why we couldn't book over the phone), and I was 20 CUC (Cuban convertible pesos) short! I could have cried, well I actually did cry. Then this amazing Spanish woman stepped up and traded me $20 Canadian for 20 CUC. I cried some more, shook her hand, and thanked her over and over again. I am still soooo grateful to this wonderful stranger. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I boarded the plane, and finally relaxed for the first time in two days. When I arrived at the island, I had no cash, but a van was waiting for me, and when we pulled up to the resort Erik was sitting on the front steps of the hotel. It was the most beautiful sight I've ever seen. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In the end, the two extra flights and a night of accommodations in Havana cost more than the entire initial trip. The only redeeming factor in all of this, is that the initial trip was super cheap and that I still got a good tan. I also had a sweet, purple Bubba with me (stayed tuned for the Bubba Adventure on Friday). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What I learned:</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1. Always check the expiring date on your passport when you book your trip</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2. When booking an All Inclusive, book a hotel that has flights every day of the week. If something should happen, you can make it out there any day you choose.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3. Get an emergency passport where they actually print the passports. </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4. Book your vacations through <a href="http://tripcentral.ca/">Tripcentral.ca</a></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicb2ovemegwAhFCXKI7R89WEreLiFBRxgBXZHWA_pXhy5N9lYbb_G16HUo-YJGZC9jg6hsO4QX_3JGTJkRqYzFrY_XU8PnhVEQPJhxZyqs7ha075Iez0iO60kVRIgNj7PskvcTOOo7SzT8/s1600/trip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicb2ovemegwAhFCXKI7R89WEreLiFBRxgBXZHWA_pXhy5N9lYbb_G16HUo-YJGZC9jg6hsO4QX_3JGTJkRqYzFrY_XU8PnhVEQPJhxZyqs7ha075Iez0iO60kVRIgNj7PskvcTOOo7SzT8/s320/trip.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Tripcentral.ca is the only good site I have ever found for booking an All Inclusive. Once you pick your departure destination, all of the other information is laid out on a grid. You can search by month if you have a specific time in mind, or you can search by destination to see when you can get the lowest price. Every location can be divided into weeks, then by hotel. It is so easy to search and to compare prices. It also has a link to <a href="http://www.tripcentral.ca/package-details/packageDetailsPublic.php?packageID=28a0120478ca9ca52e3fa672341b72d6&segmentId=0&searchParams=0,1,18,357,0,0,0,201303,4814,8,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,6,0">tripadvisor </a>so that you can get the real story on the resorts. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I'm already in the process of booking for this year, and know my passport is good until 2017!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-60611581839776325522012-11-12T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-20T17:05:17.566-05:00It's a Bird? It's a Plane? It's Tweezerman!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCU7c244fRa31VkUlo6dfNpcJML4qZHTDTpYdHwvI61xbX6HA9EePkZKcHcy9EcEdySPEUu-LGMYVYjltEpMdxsvSZZHeQiyqWBAW5HOQobGGTzR5xkL3U54Te88dGk9PBOHyr_yki3sx/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCU7c244fRa31VkUlo6dfNpcJML4qZHTDTpYdHwvI61xbX6HA9EePkZKcHcy9EcEdySPEUu-LGMYVYjltEpMdxsvSZZHeQiyqWBAW5HOQobGGTzR5xkL3U54Te88dGk9PBOHyr_yki3sx/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My high school daily routine consisted of waking up, and before my shower I would sit on the counter and tweeze my eyebrows looking into the medicine cabinet mirror. I would also leave the little hairs I removed on the frame of the mirror which totally disgusted my three brothers. I am not proud of this now. After school, and definitely before bed, I would hop back on to the counter to see what was going on and if I could tweeze anything else. Tweezing became totally engraved in to my way of life. </span></span></div>
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<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">At the end of high school, I bought a dark brown powder to use to fill in my eyebrows a little more (or when a supporting hair had accidentally been removed). The powder came with a stiff brush and a pair of mini-tweezers. These little tweezers were awesome! I was able to tweeze out hairs I'd never dreamed of tweezing before. The only problem was that they were so small, that I was often misplacing them and had difficulty finding them even in my own make-up bag. They did the trick though, and I never left town without them. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga8u4uD9ciy-q40dFzLDli6vUPTnZLkgNwpNsx_QP5Db-JRjIiT7fglsFCq3llKbwcmAhuHobUDHnqW9omDzuHN_zhvD7yIdocMtXecj0LZmMdNJC5KC8gROvndKm6dV65BCy9Uuz8_GqU/s1600/tweezermn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga8u4uD9ciy-q40dFzLDli6vUPTnZLkgNwpNsx_QP5Db-JRjIiT7fglsFCq3llKbwcmAhuHobUDHnqW9omDzuHN_zhvD7yIdocMtXecj0LZmMdNJC5KC8gROvndKm6dV65BCy9Uuz8_GqU/s1600/tweezermn.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Years passed, and while reading a trashy magazine, I saw an ad for Tweezerman professional tweezers. I didn'teven know there was such a thing as professional. The next time I was in Shoppers Drug Mart, I took a look and sure enough they sold them. They run about $25/pair, but knowing how much time and energy I spent on tweezing I figured that it was a good investment. Tweezerman sells many different style of tweezers, but I settled on the standard slanted tip pair in bright pink. I got home and went to try them right away. </span></span><br />
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<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">These are the Cadillac of tweezers. There wasn't a hair, no matter how short, that I couldn't remove with these guys. They were sharp, and strong and had a tight grip that no one could escape from. I was in tweezing heaven. </span></span></div>
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<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My mother knows how much I love tweezing, and during one of her shopping adventures she found a tweezer carrying case, with the most powerful magnifying mirror I had ever seen. I had had magnified mirrors in the past, but this one trumped all of them, plus it keep my tweezers in a safe, easy to find case. I truely believe that I now have the best tweezer system in the world.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggf5E5PzyiHyl_bWajNCQJS1lFb53-2UdEVmvgJUu8Ks8uNgy9OUMFa8ggsAogOwDcaCe5s7KLTGvvR6WTWb3caTZeRihjonuZSnUfs6h_C8GY9w9ytQK-8RluLEdYYAkO8XlSfudTa3ar/s1600/eyebrow-design-to-suit-most-faces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggf5E5PzyiHyl_bWajNCQJS1lFb53-2UdEVmvgJUu8Ks8uNgy9OUMFa8ggsAogOwDcaCe5s7KLTGvvR6WTWb3caTZeRihjonuZSnUfs6h_C8GY9w9ytQK-8RluLEdYYAkO8XlSfudTa3ar/s200/eyebrow-design-to-suit-most-faces.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A couple of weeks ago, I noticed that my darling Tweezermans just weren't doing the trick. I'm not sure then it started, but I wasn't even able to pull out some of the longer, easy to reach hairs. They would just slip through the cracks! I bit the bullets, and went to buy a second pair of Tweezermans. I settled on a bright red pair, brought them home, and again was amazed by their ability to tackle even the shortest hairs. I was disappointed that I had to buy a new expensive pair after only a couple of years though.</span></span></div>
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<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">That's when I saw it. On the new packaging, it advertised that Tweezermans were good for life, and they offered free sharpening! All I had to do what go to their webpage, fill out a form, print it off and send them my used tweezers. I received an email when my tweezers arrived at their warehouse, and a second email when they were being shipped back to my loving arms. Who knew? Now I have not only one, but two pairs of these amazing tools. </span></span><br />
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<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I haven't decided exactly where to keep my extra pair, but f you ever get a sliver, I think you know who to see.</span></span><span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; font-family: Tahoma; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-92052744253078658942012-11-09T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-09T07:00:14.675-05:00My Tweezing Obsession<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCU7c244fRa31VkUlo6dfNpcJML4qZHTDTpYdHwvI61xbX6HA9EePkZKcHcy9EcEdySPEUu-LGMYVYjltEpMdxsvSZZHeQiyqWBAW5HOQobGGTzR5xkL3U54Te88dGk9PBOHyr_yki3sx/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCU7c244fRa31VkUlo6dfNpcJML4qZHTDTpYdHwvI61xbX6HA9EePkZKcHcy9EcEdySPEUu-LGMYVYjltEpMdxsvSZZHeQiyqWBAW5HOQobGGTzR5xkL3U54Te88dGk9PBOHyr_yki3sx/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">My obsession with my eyebrows began in 7th Grade. I was riding on the school bus back, and the girl in the seat in front of me was telling us how her mother tweezed her eyebrows for her. She rambled on for the duration of the ride telling us every single detail of her tweezing experience. She told us how her eyebrows now framed her eyes better and that she looked for feminine. I knew immediately that this was something that I needed to get in on.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfMGBkVkOIP8NDVLhTG88F2aU1Bf5uuDHWqEKCaSmE9shxrUpc6094QZT1m1-oXpznquXAvbWFZl8IfT5bIUViilsR5RxcLDKe1sbncLL_PiwPgWhaMBNcEdsNCTkCHlaoudsl1yYQzFUn/s1600/nail+scissors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfMGBkVkOIP8NDVLhTG88F2aU1Bf5uuDHWqEKCaSmE9shxrUpc6094QZT1m1-oXpznquXAvbWFZl8IfT5bIUViilsR5RxcLDKe1sbncLL_PiwPgWhaMBNcEdsNCTkCHlaoudsl1yYQzFUn/s200/nail+scissors.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I knew my own Mother had tweezers in her make-up bag, so after dinner I snuck into bathroom and took them. I also took a little mirror and headed into my bedroom to clean up my brows a little. The first problem was that I couldn't figure out how to use the tweezers. I knew what hairs that I wanted to grab, but the tweezers just couldn't seem to get them off of my face. I knew not to let this obstacle get in my way, so I casually went back to the bathroom and grabbed a pair of nail scissors. I am still not entirely sure how I managed to do this, but I twisted the scissors in a way that I was able to grab the hairs without cutting them off at the root. There were a few casualties along the way, but after a good hour, I managed to successfully "tweeze" off most of my natural eyebrows. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBFyGooUySWPKME8HGarnsE4bK4C8rBtZYVRR_4r-GU3c5atHZVGwnFKjd5LHKXFLTKO8qccnmVt-pMyj4rZoez_JeZknob5zy7YFmKgF2LktAbQoqB8izCmhyphenhyphendWsVe6tAiW-lBtgrT0t/s1600/df89a3ea21e575ca_pamela-anderson-wil-naar-londen-verhuizen_1_515x0.xlarge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBFyGooUySWPKME8HGarnsE4bK4C8rBtZYVRR_4r-GU3c5atHZVGwnFKjd5LHKXFLTKO8qccnmVt-pMyj4rZoez_JeZknob5zy7YFmKgF2LktAbQoqB8izCmhyphenhyphendWsVe6tAiW-lBtgrT0t/s200/df89a3ea21e575ca_pamela-anderson-wil-naar-londen-verhuizen_1_515x0.xlarge.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Satisfied with the job, I put everything away and joined my Mother in her bedroom while she watched t.v. It took her about 5 seconds to realize what I had done. I will never forget her gasping and asking me, "Ohh no, what have you done?!" I'll admit now that I zealously over-tweezed and gave myself what one would consider a Pamela Anderson brow. I can't even imagine what my friends at school thought, but maybe they were jealous as well and went home and over-tweezed their eyebrows too?</span></span><br />
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<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Really, I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. I didn't do any research, I didn't know where an eyebrow should start or end, or what shape would look best on my face. I just went for it and took one for the team. Bad idea! I could have really used a guide like <a href="http://www.eyebrowz.com/shaping.htm">this</a>. </span></span></div>
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<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I stuck with the scissor technique for sometime, until my Mom caught on and bought me some tweezers of my own. They were just the standard Revlon pharmacy brand, but they did the trick. The annoying thing about my eyebrows is that the hairs are dark brown and are very thick. An individual hair can support the <i>entire</i> width of the brow in places and its removal could leave a gaping hole, or shortened the overall length. </span></span><br />
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<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It also means that the hairs growing in are dark and obvious. I became obsessed with monitoring the re-growth of my hair and would often tweeze several times a day. There is nothing more frustrating than seeing a hair, and not being able to remove it. I would wait a few hours and hope that it grew enough so that I would be able to remove it later in the day. Seriously, obsessed.</span></span></div>
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<span style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For the next couple of years my eyebrows remained painfully thin. I remember being on vacation in P.E.I. and my Dad telling me that I should grow them out a little more. When did my Dad ever comment on my eyebrow width? I'll admit now that he was 100% right, but I just wasn't ready to make the change at the time. Think of it as someone telling you that you and your boyfriend are not meant to be together. Eventually you will figure it out for yourself, but in the mean time you just want everyone else to mind their own business. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My eyebrows and I had a very personal relationship. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Stay tuned Monday for Part 2: It's a Bird? It's a Plane? It's Tweezerman!!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-61461290428706296682012-11-07T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-07T07:00:08.423-05:00Those Easy, Breezy, Lauren's Every Day Waves!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ksKmeJ3A-gOS_zFyi7DFVFJ-AUXz18Inpk-8lWb6kYlJm_Ptm6HypLmkht7KMDuYKBHCbcUHhf2dMODHzVCpn_uYpIhA6w_PkFfJKHM8TfJNjfE6MjEoayCCK5uEGXJcrFgsCsOXwa7h/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ksKmeJ3A-gOS_zFyi7DFVFJ-AUXz18Inpk-8lWb6kYlJm_Ptm6HypLmkht7KMDuYKBHCbcUHhf2dMODHzVCpn_uYpIhA6w_PkFfJKHM8TfJNjfE6MjEoayCCK5uEGXJcrFgsCsOXwa7h/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One afternoon I was searching online for an avocado mask recipe to put on my hair to cure some dry ends. My girlfriend Alyssa told me that she used to make one with avocado and olive oil when she lived in Africa, and that it made her hair really soft. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">During my research I came across another blog called the <a href="http://thebeautydepartment.com/">Beauty Department</a>. I must have spent a good hour going through the different entries, looking at the brilliant pictures and I finally ended up on their youtube page. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRIamnyCY_9fZOvCfvF21y_FtkmCjcJckIRC7BFUA7KT93eoecfGjFfI1BpfguGntvzU4U8VV-OOFOTH9OEQYb6TAZIcN97NzYXajBPc91BR2vk9cbmHZ5dCc4ZC4b4S_Q6b_r52_gtgWP/s1600/lauren-congrad-hairstyle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRIamnyCY_9fZOvCfvF21y_FtkmCjcJckIRC7BFUA7KT93eoecfGjFfI1BpfguGntvzU4U8VV-OOFOTH9OEQYb6TAZIcN97NzYXajBPc91BR2vk9cbmHZ5dCc4ZC4b4S_Q6b_r52_gtgWP/s1600/lauren-congrad-hairstyle.jpg" width="127" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There was a video called <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMdh8nXwckU">Lauren's Every Day Waves.</a> If you don't know who Lauren is, she's LC from Laguna Beach, or Lauren from The Hills. I used to watch the Hills before Lauren left the show, and I will admit, I always wondered how she got those loose waves in her hair. I'll also add that the last season of the Hills was so fake I couldn't stand it, and there wasn't enough Spidi madness going on to make it worth my while. The show was in its prime when LC yelled over and over again at Heidi in the club, "You know what you did!!". I'm still even sure <i>I</i> even knew what she did, but moving on...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Back in 2008, I would always curl the ends of my hair with a big curling iron, but they never looked like Lauren's. I would look more like a 18-year-old prom-queen on a good day, or an 8 year-old beauty-queen on a bad day. The curls never quite framed by face right, and went in all of the wrong directions. Why was this so hard to do?!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Up until three weeks ago, I had given up on the waves, and was just curling out my ends with the round brush on blow-dry days. After watching this simple 1:37 video, I ran straight for the bedroom, turned on my curling iron and about 8 minutes later had the look I've been trying to achieve for years!!! I already had a big curling iron, so I didn't need any curling wand or extra tools. I just didn't know the right location to start the curls from, or that a good run of the brush through at the end was essential. It was that simple.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqSc8ED6w4uOfKs6YbrOb-R_iDAhlxZkGI3ALaS5LSoc2e76esSgaOrt4tpuxjq3-BhXqtv_RXU2Z29ewkOR3YzxxNhyphenhyphen0Dy2mgg_teQGuHK-fcpRaXo5l0B3Jj9Lqa4f5CQ9wdGGTIWW8/s1600/pcrl1032c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqSc8ED6w4uOfKs6YbrOb-R_iDAhlxZkGI3ALaS5LSoc2e76esSgaOrt4tpuxjq3-BhXqtv_RXU2Z29ewkOR3YzxxNhyphenhyphen0Dy2mgg_teQGuHK-fcpRaXo5l0B3Jj9Lqa4f5CQ9wdGGTIWW8/s1600/pcrl1032c.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The next day one of my fav student's said my hair looked pretty. At dinner that week Avocado Alyssa said she liked my waves. At dinner on Saturday another girlfriend asked how I got my look. It was really working. I had every day waves and people were noticing!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I was at a conference earlier this week, and a professional photographer was talking candid pictures throughout the day. When my picture went up on the big screen, I loved the way my hair looked. Let me tell you this is a huge revelation. I have always thought my hair looked decent when I walked out the door, but I was always let down when I saw it later in a picture. It just never had the look I was going for. Now that I know what I am doing I am addicted. I don't know if I can ever leave my ends natural again. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I never did end up doing that<a href="http://thebeautydepartment.com/2011/06/whip-it-real-good/"> avocado mask</a>, but I did buy some Aragan Oil to rub into the ends of my hair. But, that's a story for another day...</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-78615619409550643202012-11-05T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-06T12:29:58.391-05:00Is There a Perfect Lipstick?<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It's been a very busy weekend celebrating my darling boyfriend, Erik' birthday and I'm now in Toronto presenting a project for work, so I just thought I'd share this small story today. Happy Birthday Erik!!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I used to love music videos. I would sit in my family room and watch Much Music religiously. I would tape the music videos that I liked onto a VHS tape and watch them over and over again with my friends. I would learn the dances from Backstreet Boys videos, and swoon over how cute Nick looked. My girlfriends and I used to pretend to be the singers from 98 Degrees, and battle over who would play Nick Lachey. I can even remember the first time I saw Britney Spears' "Baby, One More Time" video on a Friday before ballet class. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I loved the Friday night countdown because I knew they would be playing all of the new videos, and I was guaranteed to be able to tape them. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Do you remember the music video by Brandy and Monica for the "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nx-ilJfn76o">Boy Is Mine</a>"? I was captivated by how amazing their lipstick was. Brandy's would shift from gold blends, to mauves. Monica from neutral to burgundy. The lipstick was seamless and really quite spellbinding. The song was pretty good too. Recently Erik and I added this song on a playlist on <a href="http://grooveshark.com/">Grooveshark</a> and I've been thinking about their lip ever since. Not only did they find two beautiful girls to sing together, but they both have the fullest lips in the world. Really, they are a make-up artist's dream!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_X0KzdVxsOz0VI_Co5K28KLB3hfXa1dK4oFPlrcCfc5tXYK_Ql_ZToxx2FG_sIJVo6rThk-I8IEW2gvhpO65USkZ1g8Fh7Cq5htCxYM0dhoHrWCclNe9Fu9WdQweF0VsH0DGTcZ66DjOG/s1600/clinique_long_last_glosswear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_X0KzdVxsOz0VI_Co5K28KLB3hfXa1dK4oFPlrcCfc5tXYK_Ql_ZToxx2FG_sIJVo6rThk-I8IEW2gvhpO65USkZ1g8Fh7Cq5htCxYM0dhoHrWCclNe9Fu9WdQweF0VsH0DGTcZ66DjOG/s200/clinique_long_last_glosswear.jpg" width="198" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I've been wearing Clinique's Long Last Glosswear SPF 15 in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/long-last-glosswear-spf-15-P211616">Bonfire</a> for the past two years. It goes on sticky, lasts a long time and really reflects light. The best part is that I can buy it at the Bay, Shoppers, or Sephora. It is far from the perfect blending of make-up artist, but it does the trick on a Monday morning in the office. I've tried stains before, lipsticks, pencils and plain glosses. Nothing every seems to last all day without feeling like dry clay on my lips. Is there is a perfect lipstick? Did Brandy and Monica have this figured out back in 1998? Will something ever beat my glosswear? Will Obama get re-elected this Tuesday?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Only time will tell...</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-58491028667163831032012-11-02T07:00:00.000-04:002012-11-06T12:30:13.964-05:00The Blow-dryer Diaries: Part 2<br />
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Where did I leave off? I was in my last year of university and had just started using a new red, Revlon blow-dryer. I also would supplement my blow-drys with some big curls in a 1 1/2 inch curling iron. When I went to <a href="http://www.spacecamp.com/educators/profdev/weeklong">Space Camp</a> in 2008 (a story for another post) my nickname was Barbie. I was finally getting the look that I wanted. </span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Enter January 2009. I was in Toronto visiting my friend Lindsay again in her new apartment. This is the very same Lindsay that originally told me that I needed to get a stronger blow-dryer four years earlier. Normally when I go away for a weekend, I arrange my hair washing during the week so that I do not need to do any blow-drying while I am out of town. I just pack my dry shampoo, and I know I can be ready in under 20 minutes. This particular weekend I wasn't properly organized and needed to complete a full Saturday hair washing (I also hadn't discovered dry shampoo yet). Lindsay graciously offered me the use of her blow-dryer and I proceeded to make her apartment into a sweat-box for the following 25 minutes. Remember how hot that apartment was, Linds? Wait, only 25 minutes? I had just shaved 10 minutes off of my previous best time with my Revlon!! How was this blow-dryer so good? Lindsay had done it again!</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7UoOOmVFmjX0lfSN643x6zIDkeXF32Uh7CQYjt4SL4m6vkibt8-2MFpKwPfHWA8rprNXtppSuAFd7aHESZKKH6vkc11eIiCDgebFpCkhRy3WOvd5tUT4UISVw1iZROiqVE5A5AaUIX4uJ/s1600/34502_730859046261_7614141_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7UoOOmVFmjX0lfSN643x6zIDkeXF32Uh7CQYjt4SL4m6vkibt8-2MFpKwPfHWA8rprNXtppSuAFd7aHESZKKH6vkc11eIiCDgebFpCkhRy3WOvd5tUT4UISVw1iZROiqVE5A5AaUIX4uJ/s200/34502_730859046261_7614141_n.jpg" width="118" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What was the difference you ask? Well, when using a round brush I dry my hair in sections. With a really hot blow-dryer each section of hair dries faster, and I was able to move on to the next piece with unsurpassed speed. I loved the blow-dry so much from that day, that I have used a picture from that party in all of my online profiles. I'm sure all of my friends are familiar with this picture. </span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate;">My friend Lauren also had a similar story when she would visit our friend Phyllis. Phyllis' blow-dryer just seemed to do a better job in less time then her own blow-dryer at home. Lauren told me that the wattage really made a big difference. </span>This time I didn't mess around. I went to Sally Beauty supplies and picked up an IQ blow-dryer for </span></span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">$80.</span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> The price seemed steep at the time, but I knew what 18750W could do! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I started sharing my story with anyone who would listen. I just couldn't get over how fast I was able to dry my hair. It's hard to believe that I once went to bed with soaking wet hair and would just hope for the best in the morning. Don't get me wrong, my blow-drys were still far from perfect, but I could get ready for work on the days I washed my hair in about an hour. This was life changing to someone who loves to sleep. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My IQ and I had three good years together until it blew out during a trip to Cuba. In its replacement I bought a light-weight <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/nano-silver-hairdryer/TCNCE02,default,pd.html?cgid=Hair09-03">Tool Science</a> dryer also from Sally's. I have to say that I didn't realize how heavy my dryer was until I used this new one. Wow! What a difference on my weak, weak arms in the morning. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I'll finish this story with a funny little tale. This past January I was back in Toronto visiting Lindsay for another birthday celebration (10 birthdays together now!). I didn't even think to pack my blow-dryer since I knew she would have the best of the best. Well I sadly mistaken. Linds, I am sorry to throw you under the bus here, but the blow-dryer was terrible! It took me over an hour to dry my hair and we were starving for brunch by the time I was done. When we got together in August she was still using this same weak blow-dryer, and has promised me that she will buy a better one. I'm still waiting for that email and am hoping this post will remind you how good you used to have it. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There is no time like the present. If there is only one tip that you ever take from Amelia, please let this be the one!!! Don't get stuck under that hot hair for any longer than half an hour. Life is for living, not for blow-drying. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6413481230975677573.post-49526006296512566732012-10-31T07:00:00.000-04:002017-05-26T12:34:46.652-04:00A Little Baking Tip To Help Cure Your OCD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhzrO24vtNZ46wdw6RSmQDZRi1b8btMn6YR5DPMJCdVzphO7wxfDpb-Wz3QTpPwQ_XZu_yNn6EIhp8PcLiOG9MkQXLKdhl0XOpqzgpI9faGaPUn6Q_T0Z03AlSomzROU6QhGEpjz2pOAc/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhzrO24vtNZ46wdw6RSmQDZRi1b8btMn6YR5DPMJCdVzphO7wxfDpb-Wz3QTpPwQ_XZu_yNn6EIhp8PcLiOG9MkQXLKdhl0XOpqzgpI9faGaPUn6Q_T0Z03AlSomzROU6QhGEpjz2pOAc/s1600/Amelalittle.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm not a super neat freak, but nothing bothers me more than a messy counter-top. Coffee grinds are my official pet peeve of counter top messiness, but coffee stains, red wine stains, and toast crumbles all really get my blood boiling. Did I mention that I don't even drink coffee? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I first discovered my adversion to a messy counter while in second year university. I moved into a house with 6 other lovely students, and although we had three bathrooms, we only had one kitchen. </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">No matter how much I pestered my roommates to clean up, the kitchen mess just didn't seem to bother anyone else as much as it bothered me. </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In the process I was granted the nickname of "Mom". </span><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I was soon making phone calls to my own Mother asking her how she managed to keep a kitchen clean with four kids, a husband, and a dog running around. Her advice: clean it yourself. She was right. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0h9qxyr8z4PvhZFlWU3ownXJKYX6GMC4WN_0r2kfFvq1P5Rbq50DnkCukeq_OTILtNFSXi9otXkj5Ud82_DVhBelJIbwIwHPVdNeyf5C4eHgDFjHnuDkegHPJhQ_MHNAVl9iapxmj3wod/s1600/barfoot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0h9qxyr8z4PvhZFlWU3ownXJKYX6GMC4WN_0r2kfFvq1P5Rbq50DnkCukeq_OTILtNFSXi9otXkj5Ud82_DVhBelJIbwIwHPVdNeyf5C4eHgDFjHnuDkegHPJhQ_MHNAVl9iapxmj3wod/s1600/barfoot.jpg" /></a><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Two years later, I was down to only 5 other roommates, and I feel like I had chilled out a <i>little</i> bit on the whole cleaning front. I just wiped the counter tops myself when crumbs were left behind, tried not to yell at anyone, and therefore had time for more important things. My new obsessions were the t.v. show Lost and watching hours of cooking shows with my roommate Janette. If Ina Garten(aka the Barefoot Contessa) only knew how much we wanted to be invited to have dinner with her and Stephen. It was our dream to</span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">devour a meal made from 4 butter sticks</span>.<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">During one of these Food Network marathons, I picked up a tip that has stayed with me for life, and allows me not only to keep a clean counter top, but a clean muffin pan as well! Doesn't everyone hate scraping off those little burnt bits on the pan after the muffins come out of the oven? You can soak them, but then they turn soggy and never seem to totally lift off from the pan. Really, they are a waste of delicious muffin batter and have plagued me for years. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The trick is simple. After you have made the batter, pour it from the bowl into a large measuring cup, or pitcher with a spout. The spout is key!! From there, pour the batter into the individual cups with ease (see picture above). There will be no batter leakage over the edge had you poured right from the bowl, or any splatter from a spoon. The amount of control you have will blow your mind. Your muffin pan will stay clean, your muffins will be fresh and moist, and your roommates will be happy! Just make sure you use LOTS of butter : )</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15025046158729518703noreply@blogger.com0