Guest Post: Living With Lupus

Did you all get a chance to check out Chelsea on my sidebar this month? She blogs over at Mommie and Wee and she has got me so inspired. She really wanted to do a guest post (who am I kidding, I begged her to share her story with you guys). Without further ado, here's this wonderful super warrior queen! 

Oh my gosh. Today is the day! I'm so happy to be here, sharing with you Be A Warrior Queen followers!   

First of all, thanks so much Raewyn for letting me guest post on your blog!! I absolutely adore your vision behind your blog, and commend you on a job well done!!   

Oh, I guess I should introduce myself too! My name is Chelsea, mother of twins and mommie blogger at Mommie and Wee! I also have Lupus, which is part of the reason why I'm here! (And, because I was so eager to write for BAWQ!)   

Sidenote: Lupus... yeah, a lot of people don't know what that it. It's okay if you had to do a google search. ;) Lupus is a incurable autoimmune disease that affects over 5 million worldwide. Yet, the majority of the world's population has no clue what it is, who it affects, and how it affects us. Crazy right!   Well, I was diagnosed with Lupus when I was 17, but I didn't have any major problems until I was 22... and pregnant with twins! I ended up being in the ICU for 3 weeks because of it... major bummer. But, I'll spare you the deats. You can read more about it if you want HERE. (It's a crazy story, and I'm not just saying that!!)   

Anywho, I know we just met, but can I be real with you guys for a sec?   Sometimes, I think about Lupus, and I’m just like.... ‘efffffff’! Click HERE and HERE to see why.   Like, living with Lupus is definitely not the most enjoyable thing in the world.   Don’t worry. This isn’t a ranting, complaining, woah-is-me post. This is Warrior Queen moment of fame, remember!   Even though I sometimes most times hate living with Lupus, I am also thankful for it.   Yes, you heard me right!   I’m thankful to have Lupus for this one specific reason... Lupus has helped me to be a better mother.

   

Refreshing Summer Trifle

Today you will find me guest posting over at Sprinkles and Sundresses! I wrote about my favorite summer dessert - trifle!

Surprise, surprise I made it at my cousin's baby shower on Saturday. I learned a new trick, too - combine pudding mix with heavy whipping cream instead of milk and you get the most delicious filling flavoring.

Read more...



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Being a Kid at Heart

Hi guys!

I don't have a normal Wedding Wednesday post today because I am still awaiting my wedding photography!! I'm so behind on writing thank you cards, but the move and the birthdays really set me back! This week I also started a restaurant job and my at home work for my current company so I'm feeling a little crazy.

I keep forgetting to do things I said I would! Isn't that the worst? I'm sorry if I forgot to do something for you...just shoot me an email and remind me!!

I'm also feeling a bit foggy today. I hope I'm not getting sick :(

I am definitely guest posting about what I'd rather be doing today on Sydney Luella! You should go check out my post about getting away with doing fun kid things as an adult!

Here's a picture of me as a high schooler snuggled up with Iman - in my sweatshirt - (and some other friends) Funny story, this is the same date that he asked me to be his girlfriend 8 years later, and then proposed a year after that. 

Happy Hump Day!



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WW: Invitation Advice

Today, I have a treat for you guys! (Yes, I am still waiting on my wedding pictures...you guys get to patiently wait with me. It will TOTALLY be worth it because my photographer is amazing. Here is her Facebook page.)

I thought you might enjoy some advice on wedding invitations from a professional!

Kristi Charter is an experienced freelance writer with a breadth of knowledge across an array of subjects. Captivated by the wedding industry, Kristi regularly blogs for Wedding Invitation Wording.

When it comes to planning your wedding invitations there are certain considerations you should make and things you ought to do before you can begin. Keeping in mind that your wedding  invites are the first glimpse your guests will have of your wedding and you can never re-do a first impression, you should take your time in planning out your invites. This will ensure that they are exactly how you want them to be and that everything runs smoothly during the ordering process. To help get you started we’ve put together our top tips for what you need to know.

First things first, you need to determine your wedding budget before you begin spending. As part of this you will need to decide what proportion of your budget will be allocated towards your wedding invitations and stationery. Without defining a budget before you begin looking for wedding invites you could end up finding yourself spending quite a bit more than you had originally intended so this is very step important not to skip.

The next stage is to figure out exactly when you want to be sending out your wedding invitations and when you want guests to RSVP by. These key dates will have a bearing on which stationer you select if you find that your chosen stationer simply cannot produce your invitations within the time frame that you need them by. This is because any delays have the ability to throw things completely out of whack. However if you have your dates figured out well in advance you can head to your stationer with plenty of notice allowing them the time to perfect your invites. As with planning anything, you always want time on your side.

Before you can begin your search for your dream wedding cards, you should also know what your wedding theme will be and if you will have a colour scheme. Knowing this will help narrow your scope in searching for invites. By defining your wedding style and also doing some research into invite designs and techniques you will be able to expedite the whole process.

Whether you are opting to purchase your invitations through a traditional brick and mortar store or via an online invitations business it is essential that you first view the quality of the invites they produce before committing to an order. Most online invitation retailers will provide you with an opportunity to order samples of their invitations, by doing this you will be able to closely inspect and feel the quality of the invites. This will also give you the clearest idea of what your final product will look like. Similarly brick and mortar stores will provide you with a consultation to peruse their collection and work out exactly what you want.

In placing an order for your invitations you will need to provide your stationer with your wording. Knowing how you want to word your invitations before you submit the order is vital otherwise you risk stalling the whole process. Your invitation provider should be able to provide you with some wording suggestions and templates if you find you are struggling. Another important aspect to wording your invitations is deciding whether you will be having additional accessory cards such as Reception, RSVP, Wishing Well or Directions Cards. If you won’t be purchasing separate stationery cards you will need to figure out a way to neatly lay out all your information within your invitation. This can affect your wording in terms of length and positioning.
While you might find this quite stressful, your stationer should be able to provide you with a proof of your order so that you can decide if you are completely happy with everything before printing begins. This will give you an opportunity to decide whether or not you do in fact need additional cards as might you find the wording is too cramped on the one card.

In relation to your wording you should also consider what etiquette dictates are the best ways to convey certain pieces of information. Doing some wedding invitation etiquette research is definitely something you should find the time to do before finalizing an order for invites. This is because etiquette guidelines can provide you with information relating to the language you use, appropriate timelines and how to address your invites among others handy tips.

Selecting your dream wedding invitations need not be hard and with the above tips you might even actually find yourself enjoying the whole creative process.

Thanks for sharing your professional knowledge on wedding invitations Kristi!




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Inspiring Through the Pages [Guest Post]

While I'm honeymooning in Europe, a few wonderful bloggers will be taking over my blog! I am so excited to be sharing these ladies with you!  I need to get reading when I return from this honeymoon. Can't wait to check more off of this list! 

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Hi Everyone! Nice to meet you. My name’s Katie, the quirky college student running Inkspot  and my twitter, LiteraryOdyssey. Raewyn is generous enough – and daring enough – to allow little ol’ me to guest post while she’s off reaping the rewards of all of her hard pre-wedding work. (Congratulations and happy honeymooning!) Don’t worry, she’ll be back to spreading her awesome with ya’ll very soon!

Today’s post is on books. Beautiful, fantastic books. 

It’s going to start off with a confession: I am a book nerd. I live, eat, and breathe books. By now, I think books might be part of my cellular structure. Maybe I am a book. Books have always been a source for adventure, learning, and excitement in my life. I have been blessed to share that addiction with other book-a-vores everywhere I go.

There are some books that are special not because of their epic plots or sarcastic characters, but because they grab some part of me. Their words seep into my flesh, settle into my heart. They reveal a part of human nature. They help me grapple with, wrestle through and come to terms with how I understand the world. Sometimes, when I need them most, they light a spark, illuminating a darkened tunnel. They inspire.

The most important thing we can ever be is inspired. Inspiration looks different to everyone, but is intrinsically the same throughout. If you have ten minutes, time-lapse photographer Louie Schwartzberg's TED talk is a life changing experience. A sense of wonder…that’s what inspiration is. It is the “oh my god” moment that Schwatzberg mentions in his TED talk. Something has caught your attention and made you mindful, it has connected with something deep inside your soul and it sends you on a journey. Wonder, inspiration, they deepen our experiences. They are gifts.

Books that inspire are special gifts. Special gifts like that deserve to be shared! So, in no particular order, this is list of a few special reads that have inspired me (there are many more, but to save your sanity, I’ve limited it):

1). Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
A high school teacher placed this book in my hand one afternoon. It did not last past nightfall. For anyone who has not read it, it is the true story of a man (Albom) reunited with his favorite college professor, as the professor battles ALS. Every page is filled with quotes, insights and thought-provoking questions that made me think about how I want to live, and love, in this world. Why are we so afraid of silence? Believing what you feel, trusting what you feel, is vitally important to connection. Being vulnerable is one of the most beautiful, loving actions we can do – for ourselves and for others. We are part of an ocean of humanity. And love, love always wins.

2). Have a Little Faith by Mitch Albom
Post-Morrie is Mitch Albom’s relationship with two different men of the cloth: a rabbi and a protestant minister. Two very different men, from very different faiths and walks of life, who never met, Albom shows, are, in fact, very similar. Their stories call to the strength of the human spirit, to resilience. Gratitude is the greatest door to happiness we have. The story is a lesson in not judging a book by its cover. You are not your past. As with Tuesdays with Morrie, the pages are full of quotes that lift the spirit, touch the soul, and challenge how the world, and our relationship to it and each other, is perceived. (I’m a quote-loving girl. Quotable moments sell me.) Don’t worry, though, it’s not just heavy-stuff! Humor is intricately spun throughout the entire story.

3). The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
There’s a movie coming out of this. GO WATCH IT. But you have been forewarned: bring a box of tissues. (Perhaps I should have labeled this post “To Which Tissues Are Necessity” because if you’re a crier, like me, these last three books will have you blubbering at some point.) I stayed up until 3am reading this novel when it came out. When I finished I lay there, clutching the book to my chest, whispering: “It’s beautiful.” I cannot claim that every page is full of inspiration, but I can admit that is has been a long time since a book struck me so deeply. It leaves you determined to live life fully, love deeply, throw caution to the wind whenever you can and remember that love is keeping the promise anyway.

4). Living Downstream by Sandra Steingraber, Ph.D
This book does not inspire traditionally. There are no quotable words of wisdom that lift the spirit and elicit choruses of “Ah-has!” Living Downstream is an investigation into the environment and its relationship to cancer. That sounds depressing. So why do I love this book? Why, on earth, do I find that inspiring? Because this book inspired me to pay a closer attention to what is in my immediate environment. It inspired me to realize how interconnected everything is, from humans to the environment. It also inspired me to take a stand. Signing petitions; writing letters to senators and other government members; pressuring companies and manufacturers to change their processes; being an informed consumer; choosing as much “clean” products as I can; and educating my friends, family and acquaintances. These are all the results of inspiration. 

5). The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown, Ph.D., L.M.S.W. (and its sequel Daring Greatly)
Brene Brown has TED talks on Youtube, so if you are not a fan of reading, never fear! In fact, I found I had even more Ah-ha! moments out of her talks. These books inspired me to realize that vulnerability is courage. Vulnerability is the path to joy, the door way to creativity. Most importantly: vulnerability, joy, courage and creativity are all vital components to living a happy, whole hearted life.

These books took me on a journey into myself that led to a greater understanding of who I am. When I started reading them, I really thought I knew myself pretty well. Surprise! I had myself fooled. For instance: as much as I desire to be seen and heard, to get my work out to the world, I orchestrate myself to stay very small. Why’s that? You’ll have to read her to find out. ;)

6). Minding the Body, Mending the Mind by Joan Borysenko, Ph.D.
You can heal your body. That’s all. A weighted, full-gun, hit you with a brick statement: you can heal yourself. Through various meditations, physical exercises, and check-list styled steps Borysenko shows readers how, giving us the gift of empowerment. As someone who has struggled with debilitating health issues her whole life, I found these tools and her writing and experiences incredibly inspiring. Healing does not have to mean curing, but it does not make it any less important or potent.

7). You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay.
Take the first statement for the last book, multiple by 2 and add in “your life” as well and you’ve got it. Her work is powerful, powerful stuff. Our state of mind impacts our life. How we think and feel has an inextricable connection to our health and the way we live. Hay tells readers that we are not the pawns to the world around us. We are not powerless. We are the players. We have control. We can heal ourselves.

8). From Baghdad, With Love by Lieutenant Colonel Jay Kopelman with Melinda Roth
Perhaps being the sister of three military men got to me here, but I cannot help myself. There is something so touching about this story of puppy love in the middle of the horrors of war and the lengths Lieutenant Colonel Jay Kopelman went through to save Lava. Friendship can form from any one, in any experience. One small, mangy little creature can become the most beloved, desperate of needs. And, as much as Kopelman saved Lava, Lava, with all her puppy-sweetness, also saved him and the other Lava Dogs.

9). Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling
As someone who went to countless movie premieres and book releases, I cannot properly summarize the effect this book had on me. But I will try! What it taught me and how it inspired me:

The bond of friendship is strong enough to get you through anything. Your heart will call you home. Love will always prevail. Family is who you make it, not necessarily who you were born into. People are deeper and more complex than our mind can ever fathom. Love is a powerful motivator. All good things come with hard work. Embrace your quirkiness. We all deserve love. What makes you different and unique is what makes you special. Standing out in a crowd is better than blending in. A small group of individuals can change the world. Do not underestimate the underdog – we are all capable of greatness.

(Friendly neighborhood check-in on a long post…Still with me? You are? What a good sport! Brownie points to you. We’re almost through!)

After compiling my list of books that inspire, I put the question out to my friends: “What books inspire you and how?” A few of them were awesome enough to respond. This is their list:

1). The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich
It “taught me to feel my emotions.” - Hillary

2). All of C.S. Lewis’ books, including the Chronicles of Narnia.
“His blunt but still graceful honesty about Christianity, and the way he writes about his love for deep, rich things of life [is inspiring]. He writes simply and clearly about complex subjects without diluting the beauty, pain, or truth of it.” - Laura

3). Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin
It “taught me about love.” - Hillary 

4). The Wrinkle in Time trilogy by Madeleine L’Engle
It “inspired me to think bigger, and embrace my weirdness.” – Raven

5). The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
It “taught me that childhood demons both matter and can be defeated.” – Hillary

What books inspire you?
Keep being inspired. ♥

Thank you so much for taking over my blog as I'm gallivanting [and hopefully not freezing] in Europe!

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Morocco [Guest Post]

While I'm honeymooning in Europe, a few wonderful bloggers will be taking over my blog! I am so excited to be sharing these ladies with you!  Amber does a ton of traveling and today she is sharing a trip to Morocco and the warrior queen women there! 

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Before arriving in Morocco as a Peace Corps volunteer, I was afraid. Of course of the normal things- where was I going to live, how was I going to learn the language, what would I have to live without, would I be able to do it... but I was also very worried about making friends. I wasn't sure I was going to be able to since it is highly discouraged by the nuances of society for women to 'hang out' in the public sphere. I was overwhelmed, how was I supposed to meet women-folk to become friends with?

After arriving in our final site of Larache in May of 2012, I quickly realized that women create community wherever they go. In my English classes, which were made up of mostly women, I could see camaraderie develop instantly between them. Similarly as I met more women and became more involved with them, the feeling of community, when walking into a room full of women, was so thick it was tangible. I joined a women's workout class and was instantly welcomed, this was the same when I offered to teach yoga at a women's only gym, when I taught a women-only English class and when I started to attend an illiteracy class for only women. The formerly quiet, subdued women I saw on the street were lively, giddy and sometimes inappropriate around their fellow females. The instant I entered one of those situations, it gave me an 'at-home' welcome feeling, I was one of them and nothing would change that.

A women's only event

About a year into my Peace Corps service, these spaces were my sanctuary and these women, my lifelines. It was tough because I didn't always understand what was going on, but they created spaces where I felt safe and wanted. I began to attend meetings of a local women's association where they work to do plan programs specifically for women. These activists were quiet and respectful,but also got things done. I helped them plan two International Women's Days, a carnival day for Children and a Wedding Festival event. Likewise, they helped me to plan a Girl's Empowerment Camp.  The poise and strength that I saw these women portray in the face of adversity is astonishing. They always have to tiptoe a fine line between their traditional way of life and being involved and fulfilling their civic duty. This line is a treacherous boundary and these women border it with grace. It is their societal duty to take care of their families, oftentimes multi-generational. Which translates to making meals that often take 2-3 hours to make or walking their children to and from school, disciplining, cleaning, doing laundry by hand... all while attempting to make their mark on the world.

 Some friends and I at an events

International Women's Day 2013

There is a lot of bad press in Western media which infers that women have no power or control of their lives in the Middle East / North Africa. While in some perspectives this may be considered true. However, it is cruel to judge another culture. In my experience, being a Western women, it can be difficult to find a group of women that are truly wonderful and will be welcoming just because I am a women. I am not saying there aren't cliques in Morocco because there are, but the type of community that is instantaneously developed is unlike any other experience I have ever had. These women are not in direct competition with each other like some Western women are... whether it be to 'win' men or their attention, whether it be in a workplace setting etc. etc. These previously mentioned actions can be considered oppressive because of the competition to receive reactions, usually from men.  Obviously, my experience lies only with Morocco. There are different ways to be 'free' and 'strong' and to 'empower' other women. There are also different ways to be beautiful, stylish and fashionable. There are different ways to be women. I realize now that my smallest worry should have been about friends and a female community, my experience has been beyond wonderful and is something I will carry with me wherever I go.

Thank you so much for taking over my blog as I'm gallivanting [and hopefully not freezing] in Europe!

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Living Away From Home [Guest Post]

While I'm honeymooning in Europe, a few wonderful bloggers will be taking over my blog! I am so excited to be sharing these ladies with you! Like Rubi, I spent my first year of college away from home. These tips would have been super helpful.

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Hello everyone! My name is Rubi and I write over at When Life Gives You Rubi. Since I am the definition of a confused twenty something my blog reflects my life, featuring posts on how to spend a Friday night alone, dating advice, an occasional rant and general content that will make any twenty something feel better about not knowing what they plan to do with the rest of their life.

With my recent move from California to Washington DC my blog has sadly been put on the backburner, but thankfully Raewyn was kind enough to let me guest post on her blog on a topic I can definitely relate to, feeling homesick while attending university.

I went to college four hundred miles away from home, a minimum eight hour drive, meaning I never went home on weekends and only on the occasional major holiday. As time went by I got more and more used to the idea that I just wasn’t going to spend Christmas or Thanksgiving with my mom, but dealing with being far from everything you’ve ever known isn’t as easy for everyone.

As a soon to be college grad, I’ve compiled some advice that helped me deal with spending holidays away from home, never having the pleasure of eating a home cooked meal on a bad day and having to create entire new friendships.

Join an Org ASAP

I wouldn’t have made all the amazing friends I’m graduating with today had I not gotten out of my comfort zone (aka my freshman dorm hall) and attended countless club meetings until I found the right one. Going to a university as large as mine meant it was difficult to make friends in class. Meeting people at org meetings meant there was already one interest we shared and the org usually set up socials to have members get to know one another better.

To the left are two of my closest friends, both of whom I would have never met had I not joined my org.

Bring Photos

Nothing is worse than coming home after a long day of classes to white concrete walls. Skip buying the traditional poster and instead print out some photos to remind you of home. They don’t have to be photos of friends or family either. Take a quick picture of the beach, you at your favorite park, anywhere that will remind you of home.

Teach Your Mom/Dad to Skype

I didn’t start Skyping with my mom until I left for Europe, but it’s definitely what kept her sane while I backpacked all by myself. Skype is a free way to stay in touch with those back home, whether they be siblings, parents or friends who go to a different school.

Constantly checking in with my mom was the only way to keep her sane while I backpacked. Here I am in Rome about to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain...

Utilize Social Media

With social media being such a big part of our lives nowadays, it’s basically impossible to lose touch with anyone. Create a Facebook group with your close friends from back home, create a hashtag to share only with your friends so you can all keep up with one another’s lives and schedule Google Hangouts to fill one another in. Your first few months away from home will also show you who you will actually stay in touch with, and once you figure that out, go from there.

Plan Something

If you aren’t going home for a major holiday like Thanksgiving or Christmas, skip staying home alone and plan something with other people who are staying in the area for the holiday too! Last Thanksgiving I cooked dinner for 20 strangers who didn’t have the money or a home to visit for the holiday, and it was definitely one of the best Thanksgivings I have ever had.

The Color Run and other races like it are a great way to bond with old and new friends. Plus the photos always come out amazing!

Disconnect at Home

When you do visit, unplug yourself from everything so you can fully enjoy your time there. A few days without Facebook or Twitter won't kill you, plus you’ll have way more time to focus on making plans with friends and catching up with you mom. It can be tempting to watch Netflix nonstop during winter break, but take advantage of your time home and do something you couldn’t do while at your university.

If you have any more suggestions I’d love to hear them! While I’m not as far as I was when I was travelling Europe, I still am on the complete opposite side of the country for the time being. The main way I dealt with homesickness was creating a new family of friends while in college and taking full advantage of the time when I was home. It gets easier with time until the point where your new city begins to feel more like home.


Thank you so much for taking over my blog as I'm gallivanting [and hopefully not freezing] in Europe!



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Single Lady Perks [Guest Post]

While I'm honeymooning in Europe, a few wonderful bloggers will be taking over my blog! I am so excited to be sharing these ladies with you! Meet one of my real life blogging friends! I just love Erica to death and can't wait to see her again when I get back in May! 

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Hello everyone!  I am Erica from Erica Jacquline my place to share all the silly things that happen in my life that make me laugh and hope that they make you laugh too.

I was so excited that Raewyn asked me to guest post today.  She is not only a wonderful blogger but someone from blogging that I can actually call my real life friend too. I couldn't be more excited for Rae to get hitched and now will permanently have a man do really important things to make her life better.

I recently was at a gala for my job, I teach juniors and seniors English and Psychology, I know I am a saint.

 

 

After the gala I had to walk to my car in high heels, at 10 o'clock at night, in the dark, freezing my long legs off,  by myself. I usually do not complain or care that I am a single lady just livin' life carrying on and what have you, but there are times it would be nice for the world to make some allowances for us single ladies, if you know what I mean.  Below is my list of single lady perks I would like to see adopted in the world as soon as possible.

1. Single Lady Parking Spaces 
I think it is high time the close to the door spaces stop being hogged by the elderly and the handicapped.  Looking as good as I did Friday night and walking alone to my car in a dark neighborhood should not be happening the world. Am I right ladies? 

2. You Are Fabulous Gift Registry 
I love all my friends that have gotten married or are getting married soon. Love them.  I also love being in their weddings or going to their weddings to show my support of their nuptials.  I even love buying them things for the home they are going to be making together. I like to think they think of me every time they use the coffee mugs I bought or sleep on the sheets I bought them (Gross.  I actually never buy anything for the bedroom that happens to be on a registry). But what about me?  I mean just because I am not getting married anytime soon does not mean I couldn't use a Kitchen Aid or  Ninja Blender?  Can we petition Pinterest, they are in charge of all weddings now right, and come up with a single girls gift registry? Perhaps for her 30th birthday which is coming up in November? hmmm?

3. Moving Day Boyfriend 
I hate moving!  I was all OK with it when I was fresh out of college.  I would move a bed up three flights of stairs and not bat an eyelash.  Now, I can think of nothing worse.   The idea of having to lift heavy boxes, hire movers that are creepy men in tank tops, and then get everything in its place is daunting.  I once had a boyfriend when I had to move and let me tell you it was nice, he even had a truck.  I have considered finding boys on Match.com a month or so before I move again just so I could have some extra muscle.

4. Furniture Assembler  
Yes I know I can hire a handyman to do this or heck I could even do it myself.  I actually have built my own furniture,  and that desk only wobbles when you put something on it.  I am telling you I am just not interested in furniture assembly. 

5. Single Girl Security System 
When I come home late at night and the house is empty I would love it if I had someone who would walk from room to room and make sure the person I am convinced is going to murder me is not hiding in a closet or a shower.  Yes, I check for myself and I am always uber dramatic; throwing doors open, flicking on the lights, hitting the ground in case I startled the gun man and they shoot.  Not that I want a boyfriend to be shot.  I actually only think about these things when I am home alone. 

6. Dog Taker Outsider 
I love my little Penny girl.  I just do not love it when she wakes me up at 4 in the morning and I have to take her outside to potty.  It would be great if when you bought a puppy they provided a person to help shoulder the load if you are single.  I am telling you I could live without seeing as much puppy poop as I have in my short life. 

7. Junk Food Eater 
Occasionally I will eat some junk food, OK I really would eat it every day if I could.  The only problem is that It is just me and a bag of Cooler Ranch Doritos   If will power was actually a thing this situation would not be a problem.  I have been known to eat a lot of junk food, I actually made myself sick this weekend because I ate too many cookies.  It would be great if there was another person around to eat some of the junk when I break down and run to Target in the middle of the night. 

8. Fashion Photographer 
Not trying to brag but I think I look really pretty most days.  I usually do not capture a photo of my beauty because there are only so many times you can ask a student or stranger on the street to capture that moment in your life. 

I hope you come on over to my neck of the woods and say hello and maybe stay awhile or follow me on bloglovin, twitter, or instagram! 

Everyone make sure you congratulate Raewyn for getting married to a man who will fill in all eight of these things for her!  

Thank you so much for taking over my blog as I'm gallivanting [and hopefully not freezing] in Europe!

Check out one of our featured Warrior Queens:

Decorating Your First Apartment [Guest Post]

While I'm honeymooning in Europe, a few wonderful bloggers will be taking over my blog! I am so excited to be sharing these ladies with you!  Breckenridge Clare shares decorating tips for your first apartment. I remember our apartment was filled with mismatched hand me down stuff [I got our coffee table set for $10 on Craigslist!]

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Getting my first apartment was one of the most exciting times. All I could imagine was how I was going to decorate it and what colors everything would be. But realistically after finishing my freshman year of college, I didn’t have the funding to wholly decorate my apartment and neither did my roommate. We simply had enough to get by from week to week with groceries and the basic necessities. This was a time that I had the taste of the real world and it wasn’t very comforting to say the least.

So how do YOU decorate your first apartment on a budget?

First know the places where you will find the best deals: Goodwill or a thrift store (just wait to see why,) Target, and Dollar Tree (or another Dollar Store near you.)

So many people say that Pinterest is the best place to find ideas on how to decorate on a budget, which is absolutely the truth!

For furniture, go to Goodwill. No matter if it’s an old coffee table with scratches or an old lamp stand; you can update the pieces with new paint, stains, and maybe even some fun Gold Leaf detailing.

Your apartment is supposed to be yours, so make it you.

As for your walls, you can find frames at the Dollar Tree (or other dollar store,) and either paint them or leave them depending on the look you want. If you want fun little pictures you can print them from online OR update the images in the frame using fun clippings from your magazines.

Your silverware, plates, etc… can come from the Dollar Tree. Update them using the “baking” method when you bake sharpie onto plates. Just make sure they are oven safe first. You can even update your silverware by dipping the ends into paint for a fun modern look.

Happy Decorating!

Xo

BCC

Thank you so much for taking over my blog as I'm gallivanting [and hopefully not freezing] in Europe!

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Trend Forecast: Shoes [Guest Post]

While I'm honeymooning in Europe, a few wonderful bloggers will be taking over my blog! I am so excited to be sharing these ladies with you!  Taylor has all of the latest trends on her blog, and I love getting ideas from her! 

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Hi everyone! Taylor here from Lights Camera Catwalk talking the latest trends with you! 

All girls are some type of shoe queen; weather it be heels, sneakers, boots, etc. 

The latest shoe trend that's been popping up EVERYWHERE is the return of the mule. I know right, how 20th century? I'm loving this trend paired with slim cut pants or joggers. Below you will find some of the hottest mules out there, and to fit your budget! 

Special thanks to Raewyn for having me, hope you are having the time of your life on your honeymoon!

 

[All photos via Pinterest]

You can follow Lights Camera Catwalk on Bloglovin, Twitter, and Instagram!

Thank you so much for taking over my blog as I'm gallivanting [and hopefully not freezing] in Europe!

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Wake Up Prepped [Guest Post]

While I'm getting ready to get married TOMORROW and then honeymooning in Europe, a few wonderful bloggers will be taking over my blog! I am so excited to be sharing these ladies with you!  Lauren has such good ideas down here. I need to start doing this when I get back! 5am always comes too quick.

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Hey everyone! I’m Lauren, blogger  from lauren elyse Can. Raewyn asked me to help out today because she’s busy getting prepped for a WEDDING! (ps I want pictures!) I write a lifestyle blog from the perspective of a student-athlete, and I was more than happy to oblige as I’m a whole hearted believer the warrior queen philosophy! I figured I’d share some of the things that help get my morning off on the right foot. And when you start with a great morning, you can’t help but have a great day!

Four Ways to Wake Up Prepped and Ready

1. Clear your space- okay, anyone who knows me at all knows that I have a messy side. My room is never spotless, despite my best efforts. However I know that when my productivity or motivation is at an all-time low, the clutter in my space does nothing but drag me down even further. Before I can even attempt at being productive, I HAVE to tidy up my living space! It’s not being able to do homework until your desk is clear. Sometimes I’ll do it right before I go to bed at night, so when I wake up in the morning I know I can hop right out of bed (and to the coffee machine) without tripping over nonsense from the day before

2. The planning notecard- I always keep a stack of note cards by my bed, and if I feel flustered or busy (who doesn’t, we’re collegiates!) I take a second and write down my plan for the whole next day. I don’t need to write down buildings or times even, just a plan of action- one event to the next. Sometimes this will looks like: Weights, class, class, practice, class, practice, group project, laundry and other days it would look like: advising meeting, coffee date, practice, class, practice, class, run.

3. The food notecard- This is the second of two notecards I write out nearly every night. I know you read on the internet constantly about how keeping a food journal is a great way to keep your health on track- there’s even apps where you can scan the barcodes or look up what you ordered for lunch! As someone who tries to menu plan as often as possible and rarely eats out however, I found this method more effective. Who has time to keep a food journal anyways? By writing down the night BEFORE what I’m planning on eating that day, I can make breakfast faster, pack lunches easier, and know the steps to make dinner before I even wake in the door. This looks a lot like the planning notecard! Breakfast: oatmeal, banana, coffee. Lunch: yogurt and granola, apple and peanut butter, veggies and hummus. Dinner: leftover pasta with mushroom sauce and broccoli slaw.

4. Prep the prepping- Another tip you read for the morning often is “pack everything the night before.” But has anyone here tried to pack a salad the night before and still find it edible the next day? Ew, um, no. While I do what I can the night before (like packing my backpack!) I know I’ve got a few things left to do in the morning. Make sure that evening that you’re washing tupper-wares, setting up your coffee machine, charging your laptop, etc.!

Hope a few of these can help you out! You can follow more of lauren elyse CAN on Twitter and Instagram: @laurenekelba. I’d LOVE to hear what helps you get going in the am!

Thank you so much for taking over my blog as I'm trying not to freak out!!

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Top Random Acts of Kindness [Guest Post]

While I'm finishing up wedding prep, celebrating and honeymooning in Europe, a few wonderful bloggers will be taking over my blog! I am so excited to be sharing these ladies with you!  This guest post is so special to me, because I cannot get enough of RAK! :)

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 Hey there, I'm Brooke! I blog over at this is me {the blog} about college life, concerts (I go to a ton!), and other random things any 18 year old would post about! Feel free to stop by & say hi!

Personally, I love doing the smallest, simplest things for people to make their day. My mom loves to do them as well, which is where I've gotten most of my ideas. I just thought that I would share these with all of you so that maybe you could make someones day by doing just one simple thing. Some may cost money, but there are many that don't!

1. Leave a sticky note on a personal belonging just saying simple things such as "You're an awesome person," or "Have a great day! :)" It also makes people smile, especially when they're left wondering who left it. Or, similarly...

2. ...leave one on a bathroom mirror or a mirror in a common place! Even the back of a door (provided you cannot get into trouble by doing so). Simply leaving a note on a girls' bathroom mirror saying "You're beautiful, you don't need this mirror!" is all it takes to make a person's day.

3. This is my mom's specialty so I just thought I would share this with you. This one can get a little more pricey if you do it often, but it's so worth watching the reaction. If you go through a drive-thru, preferably before work/school, not around dinner time, ask the person working the register how much the person behind you's meal will cost. If it's in your price range, hand over the money. Then while you're at the next window, you can watch their reaction from a safe distance, and without it being weird if you're concerned about that!

4. Do a favor/small job for someone, and don't accept a payment, in any form. It only takes a little bit of time and it can mean so much to someone else who is maybe having a bad day or their check was smaller than they'd like, etc. It can help someone out monumentally.

5. Write a note or letter to a person that has helped you out. Thank someone. Just think how happy you would be if someone did this for you, a thank-you out of the blue!

6. A little bit similar to the last one, call or write a letter to a parent or both parents. They've done a lot for you, I'm sure. Tell them you love them. You appreciate them. They're your biggest supporters so why not give them a little love too?

7. This one is special to college students/people residing in some apartments, etc. If you live somewhere that there are coin-operated laundry facilities and you happen to have some extra quarters lying around, get the amount needed for one and put them in the machine so someone gets a nice surprise when they go to do their laundry!

Random Acts of Kindness are one of the most simple things you can do to make a big difference in someone else's life. Make someone smile!

Thank you so much for taking over my blog as I'm doing last minute prep for my wedding!

P.s. Today is my mom's birthday! Happy Birthday!! You have done so much for me in my life - and so much for Iman and I in the past two years. We could never express how truly grateful we are!! I hope today is wonderful!

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WW: Healthy Breakfast Ideas

While I'm screaming because there are a few days left until my wedding, a few wonderful bloggers will be taking over my blog! I am so excited to be sharing these ladies with you! Jess has become my very first in real life - see on a regular basis blog friend! It makes me so happy that she is getting married, too. Of course, I had to have her for Wedding Wednesday! 

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Hey there Warrior Queens! Jess here from Jess Loves This Life!

 As a gal in the beginning stages of her own wedding planning, I'm so excited to hang out with you all on Wedding Wednesday, aka my favorite day of the week here in blogland!

 I've been engaged since January, but only recently started seriously thinking about our wedding day. I'm giddy with excitement to start wedding crafts, attend all the fun festivities leading up to our big day, and most importantly, go DRESS SHOPPING!!

Now, to say that I've been on a serious health kick to get in shape for my dress would be a total lie. It only just donned on me a few weeks ago that I actually need to buy a dress, nonetheless probably try on a few dresses before I find "the one". I'm eager to star in my own episode of Say Yes to the Dress (in my head of course) but before that happens, I need to get myself looking healthy! Healthy being the key point here. Today I'm sharing 3 easy and quick breakfast smoothies, and one overnight oats recipe for you brides on the go who are also seeking a healthy body for your big day. The idea that breakfast is the most important meal of the day has been engraved in our heads since we were young, but really who has the time, right?!? The answer is, you do!

Breakfast idea: Overnight Oats & Chia Seeds
This is by far my favorite breakfast, and it takes less than 5 minutes to prepare! Make this a night before and wake up to a healthy and filling meal you can eat on your way out the door.

In a mason jar, add:
-1/2 cup of rolled oats
-1 tbsp. chia seeds
-1 cup pf almond milk
-1 tsp. honey or agave syrup
-a dash of cinnamon

Seal the jar and let it sit in the fridge overnight. The oats and chia seeds will expand and all the flavors will mix to create a sweet and delicious breakfast!

Smoothies are a go to when you're trying to get healthy! Here are 3 of my favorites...

Breakfast Smoothie Suggestion #1: Green Smoothie

Ingredients:
-handful of spinach
-handful of kale
-1 cup of coconut milk
-1 banana 
-1/2 cup of pineapple
-1/2 of an avocado

I love how creamy and smooth this one is! I know the avocado sounds intimating, but trust me, it's AMAZING! Try it!!

Breakfast Smoothie Suggestion #2: Berry Medley Smoothie:

Ingredients:
-1/2 cup frozen strawberries
-1/2 cup frozen blueberries
-1/2 cup Greek yogurt
-1 cup of almond milk
-1 tsp. honey or agave syrup
-your choice of protein powder (I use a vanilla flavored one)

Blend until smooth and enjoy!

Breakfast Smoothie Suggestion  #3: Hazelnut Coffee & Banana Smoothie

A personal favorite because you don't have to forgo a cup of coffee!

Ingredients:
-1/2 cup cold brewed coffee (I used Stumptown Coffee Roasters Cold Brew, but anything works)
-Protein powder (I used Green Superfood Chocolate protein powder. It's organic, has all the benefits of green superfoods, supports healthy energy levels, yada yada. It tastes really good!) 
-1/2 cup of hazelnut milk
-1 whole banana, frozen

Blend, blend, blend! 

Time saving tips:
*Prep your smoothie ahead of time by putting all your chopped up ingredients in a zip-lock bag and sticking it in the freezer
*Make your smoothie ahead of time, spread it into an ice cube tray and freeze. The night before, put the ice cubes into a cup and let them thaw overnight. You'll wake up to an already made, refreshing smoothie!

No matter how close or far away your wedding day is, never crash diet. It'll make you feel miserable, and you don't want to get pinned as a Bridezilla just because you're hungry! Take the time to invest in your health, and commit to not skipping meals in order to fit into your dress! You'll look beautiful regardless, because it's your day! What's your favorite breakfast go-to?

Thanks so much to the wonderful newlywed Raewyn for having me! And thanks so much to all of you for letting me share my breakfast ideas with you today! Don't forget to come say hello over on my little piece of the internet!

Blog // Bloglovin' // Instagram

Thank you so much for taking over my blog because I've got some last minute stuff to do! [And thanks for the craft help last Friday!]

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