4 Tips That Will Make Life a Little Brighter

October 4, 2013October 4, 2013Leave a comment

It’s Friday. First of all, let’s give this day a round of applause. You have reached the end of the work week. What a reason to celebrate! Hopefully, you can sleep in a little tomorrow, sit around in your pajamas and wake up to a roasted cup of coffee.

Just wanted to share with y’all today – 4 things that just make my life a little better! It’s nice to be frugal (it’s what I strive toward) but sometimes you just have to splurge on the little things in life that make things easier, happier and calmer. These are some things that I have found make me smile and just relax a little more. Maybe they will make you feel that way too!

Buy Cute, Unique Coffee Mugs

I love coffee. This is not a secret. One thing that makes my morning is drinking out of a fancy, little coffee mug. Sometimes I feel like grabbing my chunky sunflower mug – whereas other days I feel like sipping out of a dainty blue and white teacup. I like picking out coffee mugs based on my moods. So, stock up on mugs that make you happy. Seriously, do not scrip on these – instead of a $1 mug, buy one for $7. It will make a difference.

Wear One-of-a-Kind Jewelry Pieces

I feel weird if I forget earrings for the day. Maybe because I’ve had my ears pierced since 1^st grade – no clue. However, I think its fun to wear unique pieces of jewelry to work. Hit up places like outdoor markets, antique malls or even estate sales. You can find little hidden gems at these types of places. It makes life better standing out from the crowd – this is one way you can do it!

I got this coffee mug from Annapolis. It makes me think of the beach!

Wear Bright Standout Shoes

Everyone can wear those stiletto black pumps. But, doesn’t it feel fun to wear colors on your feet? I like wearing black to work. Wearing all black in kind of a staple of mine. However, I like to pair red, turquoise, tan or classy designed shoes in with every black outfit. Not only are you not monochromatic this way – you add in a bit of interesting flair.

Follow a Mindless TV Show

I have been watching Grey’s Anatomy since college. Find a mindless TV show and watch it. Find out the day that it’s on weekly and just veg out after work with a cup of tea or a glass of wine. You should have a guilty pleasure and this is a good one. Don’t be embarrassed. A working girl needs to alleviate stress in her life someway. Sometimes taking your mind off things just for 30 minutes or an hour can help!

3 Classic Books Ideal for Fall Reading

October 3, 2013October 3, 2013Leave a comment

Well, it’s October. My apologies for skimping on the postings recently, I am a government worker (in communications) and we are experiencing something we’d like to call a ‘government shutdown.’ So, needless to say, it has been a little busy in the workplace.

There are many reasons that I love October. Pumpkin spice lattes, crisp fall leaves, changing temperatures, the smell of fireplaces, the beautiful flora orange and yellow colors, sweet candy, caramel apples, riding boots – the list continues.

October is a good month to pick up a classic book and just read with a cup of hot tea by your side. Classics warm the heart and the soul. Here are a few of my favorite classic books that would be great reads at home in a comfy chair with wooly socks!

Anne of Green Gables

What is not to like about a 1908 novel by Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery? It’s about a little girl on an ancestral farm, Green Gables! Anne is a talkative and happy girl despite living an impoverished life as an orphan. She has a great imagination and is often pictured on book covers with red hair. This is an ideal book to warm your soul – especially for the women out there!

Wuthering Heights

This is one of my favorite books of all time. This is a love story. I literally soaked the pages of my paperback with tears as I read this story. It takes place in 1801 in a manor house called Thrushcross Grange in the isolated moor country of England. It’s about two children who fall in love. However, as they grow older, their social classes keep them apart. If you are looking for a true love story – check out this book. The ending is beautiful.

One of the WW2 Veterans at the Memorial.

Little Women

This book, written by Louisa May Alcott, is a true classic. Growing up with just a sister as a sibling, this story about a family of girls touches my heart. It is about the bond of a family – namely 4 sisters. Set in the Civil War time period, it centers on poverty and endurance. This books outlines the strength of women and, don’t worry, there is a love story interwoven in the pages.

Bonus: I just want to give a shout out to our veterans. I had the opportunity this week to help numeroud Honor Flight participants experience the World War Two Memorial, despite the government shutdown. That is why I have been MIA for a few days. God bless our troops and thank you from the bottom of my heart for your fervent service. You are the greatest generation!

5 Purse Essentials for Every Working Woman

September 30, 2013September 30, 2013Leave a comment

One thing, among many, I like about being a woman is – you get to carry your purse around and pack it with goodies.

You can have a clunky key-chain. It doesn’t weigh you down; you just throw it in your purse. Fling that sweet designer bag over your shoulder and you are ready to save the world with the contents (well, kind of).

Below are 5 things I think are a must for every working woman’s purse. You may debate me; however, all of these things have come in handy for me from time-to-time.

Travel or Compact Makeup

Does your face get oily – or maybe you just work long hours? If so, having that little touch up you need it necessary! Invest in a makeup compact like this one. It is a lifesaver and will come in handy on long days or days that you need a little more cover-up.

Breath mints or Peppermints

Let’s face it; we don’t all have minty fresh breath especially after eating that tuna salad in the cafeteria for lunch. Yep, not everyone wants a whiff of your fish breath. It is nice to have these available to pop in your mouth after lunch or a cup of coffee.

Shout wipes or Tide ‘to-go’ pens

You will spill something on yourself at one time or another. So, you may think – gosh, I never use this shout wipe, then before a meeting that coffee cup leaks and you are left with a brown spot on your white shirt. You will be thankful you have this as a purse backup.

Granola Bar or Light Snack

Sometimes there is no food to be found. And, your stomach grumbles. You think you are going to die if you don’t ingest something soon. If you have a small granola bar or pack of nuts in your purse, then you can actually subdue those hunger pangs until dinner or you scavenge some food at work.

Tissues

It’s like a napkin in a travel case and extremely helpful when sneezing and blowing your nose. Without fail, you will have a runny nose and will be stoked to remember you have some tissues in your purse.

3 Non-Disney Movies That Every Girl Should Watch

September 27, 2013September 27, 2013Leave a comment

Hello and welcome to my childhood! Imagine walking down a candy cane road with cotton candy flowers dotting the sidewalk and little gumdrop clouds! And, I am not joking. Just picture yourself there for the sake of this post!

I was listening to a mixed CD in my car (yes, I still listen to CD’s) this morning – and the song ‘Do I Love You Because You’re Beautiful’ came on. All the men might gag here, but this warmed my heart and reminded me of my childhood. I would sit on the floor with my sister, The Veggie Girl, entranced by the dancing, glass slippers and Prince Charming in the Roger and Hammerstein’s version of Cinderella!

That is why I have to devote a post today to all the girls out there. And, don’t get me wrong, I love Disney (I might know most of the lyrics of the songs by heart) – but there are a lot of gem movies out there that are not Disney. So that is why I am sharing 3 movies that every girl should watch. I mean EVERY girl. Enjoy – and you’re welcome.

Roger and Hammerstein’s Cinderella

Do I love you because you’re beautiful? Or are you beautiful, because I love you? C’mon girls – what’s not to like about this movie? This is not your typical Disney cartoon Cinderella. This is like a fairytale – with real people. The music is fantastic as well. Maybe, I am an 80’s child – but, I think most girls will take some guilty pleasure in sitting down for an evening – to watch this sweet musical.

The Swan Princess

No matter how many times I see this movie, I love it. It is one of my favorites of all time. Who does not like an awkward little girl that turns into a beauty, and then is turned into a swan – and her prince has to save her. This is the picture of true love to a little girl. Not to mention, the music is awesome. Far longer than forever, I’ll hold you in my heart. It’s almost like you’re here with me although we’re far apart! Melt my heart!

Anastasia

Maybe this brings back a little nostalgia for me, but this movie is truly heartwarming. She is in orphan that discovers she is a princess. Rags to riches story! She is beautiful – falls in love with an outcast. And frequently remembers lovely memories of her childhood in the palace. This is a must see. Far away, long ago, glowing dim as an ember. Things my heart used to know, Things it yearns to remember. And a song someone sings once upon a December. Gorgeous.

5 Surprisingly Practical Uses for Tea Bags

September 25, 2013September 25, 2013Leave a comment

I love hot tea. Not only does it soothe your soul, it warms your body – and just makes you feel good.

On a cold winter’s day piping hot tea will be sure to make you smile. There are many medicinal uses for tea; however, there are also some practical uses.

I have a tried a few of these practical uses before. But, there are many on here that I am going to try – because never knew tea could be used this way.

So, tea is not just a good drink – it can actually be used in many ways! How cool.

Cool a Sunburn

You can cool a sunburn with wet tea bags! Just apply the wet bag to the infected/burned skin and it eases the sting. This can also work with minor burns as well. If you have a sunburn all over your body, put some tea bags in your bath water and soak in the bath tub!

Reduce Puffy Eyes

Take the redness and puffiness out of tired eyes with tea bags! Soak two tea bags in lukewarm water and set them on your closed eyes for about 20 minutes. This will revitalize sleepy, swollen eyes.

Make a Soothing Mouthwash

Ever have ulcers in your mouth? Make a soothing mouthwash with peppermint tea! Peppermint is an antiseptic and alleviates pain on contact with skin surfaces. Just add two peppermint tea bags in a hot cup of water along with a couple shakes of salt – and rinse your mouth with this soothing drink.

Eliminate Foot Odors

Yes, this is possible! Just soak your feet in a bath of strong tea daily for about 20 minutes. Your feet will smell nice and clean. The tea bath will get rid of stinky feet smell once and for all!

Enhance Hair Shine

Make a DIY hair conditioner with tea bags. After shampooing and conditioning hair, dump a glass of warm tea water on your lovely locks. This will enhance the shine and serve as a natural hair conditioner.

4 Solutions for High Heel Pain

September 20, 2013October 21, 20132 Comments

Face it girls – high heels are not good for our feet. But, they look super cute. And, it’s really key in the high profile working world to sport some nice, sleek pumps.

After a long day, walking on concrete floors, my feet really take a beating. I cannot wait to throw off those shoes at home and frolic barefoot on my hardwoods.

The American Podiatric Medical Association showed some 42% of women admitted they’d wear a shoe they liked even if it gave them discomfort and a whopping 73% admitted already having a shoe-related foot issue. Yikes. This is gonna create some foot pain.

Let’s take precaution ladies and be proactive about our tootsies. I am going to let you in on a little secret before going into – what to do for foot pain relief.

SECRET: Choose a Thicker Heel — I know those stiletto heels call out to you when they are sitting up high on a shoe pedestal, but – honestly, they kill your feet. I am not saying steer clear, simply – vary your shoe choices. Throw in some thick heels – like these.

Now, what to do for some high heel foot pain relief:

Wear Heels More Often

Sometimes a lot of pain is from not wearing heels regularly. Your feet are not conditioned to those itty bitty high heels – so they hurt big time at the end of the day. If you decide you want to be a high heel diva, wear heels 5 days a week to work. Then give your feet a rest on the weekends. This will get them conditioned.

Soak Your Feet in Bubbles

Taking a bath will become your friend. Fill up the tub with warm water after work and soak your body from head to toe. It can be just for 20 minutes. It will relieve stress, as well as, foot pain. Invest in some pretty, aromatherapy bath salts. This is a pain relief you will welcome.

Pamper Your Tootsies

Get pedicures. Just do it. I mean its $22 dollars that is well worth it. Let someone paint your nails and massage your weary feet. You work all day – and this should be something you do as a treat for yourself. Sit in that vibrating chair and forget the world for 30 minutes.

Buy a TheraPro Foot Roller

These are those little wooden rolls you see at Bed, Bath and Beyond! These have become my friends. They are about $5 and all you have to do is set your foot on top of it – and roll away. Roll on the sole of the foot to increase your circulation, relieve tension, relax foot muscles & revitalize the body.

Cravings: What Your Body Is Really Telling You

September 16, 2013September 16, 2013Leave a comment

We’ve all had those days where we crave salty potato chips – or how about a nice slice of sugary cake? It is hard to combat those overarching cravings. However, this might be your body’s way of telling you what foods your diet is lacking. If you crave any of the common junk food below – maybe try to change up your diet or add in some of the foods noted in this simple ist.

1. If you are craving sweets.

Your body actually might needs chromium, phosphorus, sulfur and tryptophan. This can be found in: broccoli, grapes, cheese, dried beans, chicken, sweet potatoes, kale, cranberries, cabbage…etc. According to Lauren Conrad’s blog, this craving may also indicate a lack of sleep. Make sure you get plenty of rest at night. Try to a lot out a proper amount of time for sleep (8 hours) – so you can rein in your body’s cravings.

2. If you are craving carbs.

Bananas are loaded with tryptophan. They will improve your mood and keep sweet cravings at bay.

Your body needs nitrogen. This is found in high protein foods such as fish, meat, nuts and beans. Try eating a handful of almonds or how about fresh almond butter? You can also munch on some seasoned rice or treat yourself to some hummus and carrots. Also many types of fruits and vegetables also contain high amounts of complex carbohydrates like: spinach, lettuce, asparagus, celery, cucumbers, carrots, broccoli, onions, tomatoes, oranges, apples, plums, strawberries and pears.

3. If you are craving junk food [pizza, French fries, soda].

Chances are your body needs calcium. You can get an extra dose of calcium by adding mustard, turnip greens, broccoli, kale, legumes, cheese and sesame to your diet. This is your body’s way of telling you it is craving fats. And not all fats are good. Mind Body Green notes, Eating avocados, raw nuts like almonds and cashews, and consuming a serving or two of coconut oil can help give your body the fat it needs without exposing yourself to harmful partially hydrogenated oils and trans fats.

4. If you are craving coffee.

Every working woman is going to crave coffee – especially during that long, never-ending work day. This is your body’s way of telling us it desperately needs salt and iron. You can get this in meat, fish and poultry, seaweed, greens, black cherries and also sea salt or apple cider vinegar (on a salad). This might also be a way of telling you that you are dehydrated and just need a glass of water. Gulp up, ladies. Drink a glass of water before getting that second cup of joe.

5. If you are craving salty food.

You need chloride. This can be found in raw goat milk, fish and unrefined sea salt. Try making a salmon salad or a tuna salad for a work lunch. This will replenish that need for salt. Avoid potato chips and junk food that is super salty – this will have you wanting more.

10 Starbucks Drinks That Won’t Blow Your Diet

September 13, 2013Leave a comment

I, like most women in America, love Starbucks drinks. I trick myself into just liking black coffee. But, c’mon who I am a fooling?

The pumpkin spice latte with whipped cream is not bad. It’s delightful. That rich gingerbread latte at Christmas fills my senses with such a childlike aroma. It’s incredible. And that peppermint mocha – heaven!

However, as good as they taste, I know they are not good for my body. They add heaping extra calories and really too much sugar. They leave me feeling sluggish and bloated. Not really the ideal feeling for a health conscious person.

I found this chart on Sisterhood of The Shrinking Jeans – it’s wonderful. Now, you can enjoy your favorite Starbucks drinks, but really choose the ones that are best for your diet. Don’t blow your diet on a sugary drink – especially when there are healthy options out there.

This is just 10 choices. I bet you could also create more. Be creative. Skip the sugar and fatty cream. You will end up feeling better about yourself and your body.

3 Steps To Sleep Easy At Night

September 8, 2013September 8, 2013Leave a comment

Sometimes it is hard for me to completely shut off my brain when it’s bedtime. I look at the clock and its 11pm. My gut tells me it’s time for a little shut eye – especially for the busy work day tomorrow. But, my brain keeps on thinking and processing the day and week ahead.

Studies find that 40 percent of Americans are severely deprived of sleep! Yikes – that is a lot of sleepy people. Sleeping more not only is healthy for you, it also aids in your mood throughout the day! Here a few things that help me ‘hit the hay’ at night.

1. Steer Clear of Electronics Before Bedtime

It is important to disconnect the day – and ignore electronics at least an hour before bedtime. Not only is this a healthy move for you (glaring screens directly influence the body’s circadian rhythm – the intrinsic 24 hour clock you naturally function on) – it’s also a very symbolic move. Shut off the day. You can play that mindless game or check your late night e-mails in the morning. Journal instead – write down some thoughts. Or pick up a book – read a chapter a night.

2. Spray Your Pillow With Lavender

A Wall Street Journal Report notes, “Lavender is a flowering plant in the mint family. Its aroma has been shown in human studies ‘to slow down heart rate, slow blood pressure and put you in a parasympathetic state, which is a relaxed state.’” So invest in some lavender products. I like the sprays from Bath and Body Works – just lightly splash your pillow with this rich fragrance. It will help your stress levels and help you sleep well.

3. Wear an Eye Mask

You may think it looks stupid, but an eye mask is a must for me at night. The city lights outside the windows always seem to peep in – and hinder my sleep. When your brain senses pure darkness, it causes the production of melatonin, the chemical of sleep. Just try it. I promise you will sleep sounder. You can even glam up your night’s sleep with some cute eye mask patterns!

Bunny Yoga and Breathing

August 19, 2013August 19, 2013Leave a comment

Well, not really bunnies, but bunny drawings. Ran across this cute little illustrated morning yoga routine sequence and had to try the sequence. Loved it.

This is a great way to start any morning. I would recommend trying this cute sequence below – repeat it about 6 times. You will be sure to feel this in your legs and arms.

Also this is a perfect thing to do before shuffling off to work. I know how hard it is to fit in that morning workout. Sometimes it’s impossible.

However, this yoga sequence will take you about 10 -15 minutes in the morning (depending on how long you hold each pose.) And it will open your lungs and start your breathing pattern for the day off on a good note.

So often – we hold our breath in stressful situations (my problem!). Doing yoga as a daily workout, even if it is just 10 minutes, helps that stress in your chest and reminds you to fill up your lungs with good, clean, deep air.

Breathing can aid in numerous things – it detoxifies, releases tension, relaxes the mind and brings clarity, relieves emotional problems, massages your organs, strengthens the immune systems and much more.