tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17236830261581560982023-11-16T06:15:45.765-05:00Real Simple GirlFood, beauty, fashion, entertainment, fun! It's all about the simple things.Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-48336521271970582972013-10-08T23:39:00.000-04:002013-10-08T23:39:46.609-04:00The Search for Great Drugstore Mascara<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">So I'm starting to notice that my trusty <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/mac-in-extreme-dimension-lash-mascara/3427338" target="_blank">MAC In Extreme Dimension Lash Mascara</a> is starting to run low. While I really love this stuff, I just don't want to pay $21 for another one. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">There's got to be a great drugstore mascara out there, right?! </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">In the past, I've tried L'Oreal Voluminous, which has always gotten rave reviews, and I've also tried the pink and green tube of Maybelline mascara, which is supposedly a great product as well. However, I thought they were just ok. I ended up with raccoon eyes with both of them by the end of the day, and they were miserable to try to wash off at night.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">My MAC mascara has served me well, that's for sure. It has never run or flaked off, and it's easy to remove. But I wonder... do I really have to pay $21 to get a good product? I'd be curious to hear what some of your favorite mascaras are. </span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-57728836197192728372013-10-01T06:00:00.000-04:002013-10-01T06:00:14.181-04:00Get Pin-spired: October Edition<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yay! It's October!! I just love October. It's definitely one of my favorite months. For me, it's the signal of cooler weather and all things fall. It hasn't quite cooled down yet here in Florida, but I just know we're getting really close!! At least that's what I keep telling myself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Today I'm linking up with <a href="http://shullfamily.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Shay</a>, <a href="http://pinteresttoldmeto.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sheaffer</a> and <a href="http://thelarsonlingo.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mel</a> again</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">for this month's Get Pin-spired</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">. This is where we find outfits on Pinterest and try to re-create them using items from our own closets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />I'm all about leopard print right now. I've actually owned lots of leopard items for quite a while, but I just keep adding more and more! I have a leopard purse, belt, flats, scarf, dress, skirt, top... I think that's everything (for now)! In case you couldn't tell, I LOVE leopard print! I've worn my leopard dress a lot over the past year or so. It's actually an Old Navy find from last season. But after I saw this picture on Pinterest, I was inspired to wear my leopard dress with a pop of red. So, I busted out my red scarf and boots, and luckily I stayed in the A/C while I wore it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">That's it folks! Just my leopard dress, a red scarf and my boots! Simple, right? The month got away from me, so I didn't have time to take photos of any other outfits, but you can bet that I'll be pairing lots of cute things with my brand spankin' new pair of Dolce Vita Jaxen booties!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />I just ordered these babies over the weekend, so keep your fingers crossed that they fit and are just are fabulous as I've dreamed they'll be! </span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-6562510461069112582013-09-25T06:00:00.000-04:002017-03-02T21:07:19.905-05:00Cranberry, Orange and Pumpkin... Oh, my!<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">I won't even begin to go into detail about how much I love pumpkin stuff. Anything pumpkin, you name it, and I've probably tried it and loved it! Food, candles, lotion, soap, decorations... my name is Jenna, and yes, I'm a pumpkin addict. With that being said, one of my very favorite items is pumpkin cream cheese. I've been known to clear a shelf of this stuff and buy it in quantities of 10. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">This year, instead of buying regular bagels to have with my cream cheese, I found a new love in the bread aisle. I'm pleased to introduce you to Nature's Own Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Toasters. You can find these bad boys on the bread aisle, and they'd pair deliciously with butter, jam, cream cheese... or anything, really! I'm partial to the pumpkin cream cheese, though!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />These little toasters are new and they come in cinnamon raisin flavor, too. They're perfect for breakfast or a snack, and they're also very healthy. I just love finding new yummy products!</span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-19720152714015019132013-09-18T06:00:00.000-04:002013-09-18T06:00:02.937-04:00Satin Pillowcases<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I know this might seem completely random, but I discovered a great new beauty product: satin pillowcases! How is that a beauty product, you ask? Well, I'll tell you. Satin pillowcases are not only smooth and comfy, but they can also prevent wrinkles and help your hair! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Traditional cotton pillowcases absorb moisture, so that means that a lot of the cream or other products you put on your face before bed could get wiped off onto your pillowcase and absorbed into the cotton fibers while you sleep. Satin won't absorb. It also helps keep elasticity in your face because it won't pull on your skin. This means no more waking up with funky creases on your face, either! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Another benefit of satin pillowcases is that they're better for your hair. Again, they're not absorbing the oils/moisture from your hair, they won't crush your curls if you have curly hair, you won't have to worry about so much breakage, and overall you'll wake up with your hair looking more like the way it did when you went to bed.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002LMEGBO/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002LMEGBO&linkCode=as2&tag=reasimgir-20"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B002LMEGBO&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=reasimgir-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reasimgir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B002LMEGBO" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I tried a satin pillowcase for the first time last night, and I have to say that I was impressed! It felt cool on my face, too, which is always a plus is this steamy weather. I sleep with two pillows side by side, and I generally turn over from one to another during the night. This morning while I was just dozing for a few minutes after my alarm went off, I kind of turned too quickly and my pillow slid right off my bed! So the silkiness can be a little too slick at times! But I saw no other negatives. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I slipped my satin pillowcases right over my regular cotton ones, but you don't even have to do that. I just wasn't sure if I was going to like them. My friend's grandma gave mine to me because she swears they satin pillowcases have so many benefits. And you know what, listen to your elders! They're usually right!</span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-8564016016565221632013-09-13T06:00:00.000-04:002013-09-13T06:00:04.477-04:00Panini Press<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">I was lucky enough to get a great gift from my parents for my birthday a couple weeks ago... a panini press! They had heard me mention before that I was considering buying one. Especially during the summer when it's just too hot to turn on the stove every night, I like to make sandwiches for dinner. I made several paninis, but didn't have a press. I'd just put a skillet on top of my sandwich and press it down, but my skillet wasn't very heavy and didn't do the best job of pressing it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">I hadn't made any paninis in a little while, and I had convinced myself that I didn't need to buy a panini press because I really don't have room to store it, and I didn't think I'd use it enough to justify the purchase. But, lo and behold, my parents bought me one! However, it's not your typical panini press. It doesn't plug in at all. It's basically just a grill pan with a heavy "lid" on top. The thing I really like about this is that it stores easily with my other pots and pans, it's so simple to clean, and it can be used as a grill pan, as well as a panini press. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small"><a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/calphalon-contemporary-nonstick-panini-with-stainless-steel-press/1014428933?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&device=c&network=g&matchtype=&mcid=PS_googlepla_nonbrand_none_&gclid=CLC4y7qxx7kCFVFp7AodBwUA9A" target="_blank">Here</a> is the one I have, and I love it! I broke it in by making my <a href="http://realsimplegirl.blogspot.com/2013/03/in-kitchen-panini.html" target="_blank">Greek paninis</a>, and I'm sure I'll be making my <a href="http://realsimplegirl.blogspot.com/2013/04/grilled-brie-apple-and-caramelized.html" target="_blank">brie, apple, and caramelized onion sandwich</a>, too! Now I just need to come up with some more sandwich options, and maybe grill some veggies, too!</span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-9203404540040076492013-09-09T06:00:00.000-04:002017-03-02T21:30:44.308-05:00Country Caviar<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Those of you who aren't familiar with Southern traditions might find this post totally boring. I'm sorry. But I'm even more sorry that you've been missing out of one of life's greatest pleasures... boiled peanuts, a.k.a. country caviar!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">When I was young, I remember taking road trips to the mountains (usually north Georgia or North Carolina) with my family, and it was always a treat to stop at one of the roadside stands that sold hot boiled peanuts! They are just the most delicious snack ever! They're salty and soft, with just the perfect flavor! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Most grocery stores actually sell boiled peanuts in a can. They can usually be sound on the snack aisle. While these will do in a pinch, they're still not quite the same as homemade. To my excitement, I discovered that the produce section of my grocery store carries refrigerated bags of boiled peanuts that are the next best thing to buying them at a roadside stand. All I have to do in pop them in the microwave for a minute or so, and they're warm and ready to enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">I think each grocery store tends to carry a different brand, but if you can find the refrigerated kind in your produce section, I highly encourage you to try them. My store carries Hardy Farms brand, which can also be purchased online <a href="http://www.hardyfarmspeanuts.com/Shop-Now.html#!/~/category/id=2717181&offset=0&sort=normal" target="_blank">here</a>. If you can't find them in the product section, at least pick up a can of them from the snack aisle!</span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-74247864812208262482013-09-05T06:00:00.000-04:002013-09-05T06:00:05.905-04:00Back in Action <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sorry I've been a little MIA lately. The past week was a tough one. We had to have our family dog, Molly, put down on my birthday. That was not fun. She was 16, and truly a part of our family. I grew up with her and enjoyed spending time with her, so I'm really missing her. In fact, she and I were roommates for about a year and a half, up until I moved last summer. She kept me company and made me feel protected.<br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">In order to distract myself, I've been spending a lot of time at the gym. It's definitely been much needed anyway. I had gotten out of the habit of exercising regularly, and I just feel so much better when I'm working out! Part of the motivation of going to the gym is in the clothes and shoes you wear, or at least it is for me! I scored <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/nike-free-tr-fit-3-training-shoe-women/3352613?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=GREY%2F+ATOMIC+PINK%2F+NAVY&resultback=1961&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-1_6_A" target="_blank">these kicks</a> during Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale, and I'm loving them for the gym! I don't think they have enough support for running, especially for people like me who seem to overpronote, but for just wearing on the elliptical and for using the weight machines, they're perfect and lightweight. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Another thing I recently discovered, which can also give you energy and motivation for the gym is a great snack/breakfast bar: Whenever Bars by Pamela's. These things are so addicting! My grocery store keeps them in the organic section because they're all natural. They are $4.99 for 5 bars, but they're so worth it. I promise. They're soft, yummy, and nutritious! I actually just found them on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pamelas-Products-Whenever-Coconut-7-05-Ounce/dp/B00503DP0O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1378349849&sr=8-1&keywords=pamela%27s+whenever+bars" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, so I'll definitely have to order them in bulk to save some money. I've only tried the oat chocolate chip coconut, but all the flavors sounds great!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Buy them here:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00503DP0O/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00503DP0O&linkCode=as2&tag=reasimgir-20">Pamela's Products Wheat Free & Gluten Free Whenever Bars Oat Choc Chip Coconut, 5 Count Box, 7.05-Ounce (Pack of 6)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reasimgir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00503DP0O" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">One more thing that's making me feel great right now is the fact that the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte is back! It just doesn't get any better than that. To my disappointment, I tried my very first pumpkin spice frappuccino the other day, but it just didn't live up to its latte cousin. Or perhaps I'm just more partial to the hot drinks. I have yet to find an iced drink there that I truly love as much as the PSL.<br /></span><br />
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-80907723694083484562013-08-29T06:00:00.000-04:002013-08-30T18:19:31.357-04:0029 on the 29th<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Today, I'm 29! I'm not sure if I'm supposed to be excited about that or not. When I was younger, I thought I'd be married with kids by now, but that hasn't been the case. Apparently that's just not God's plan for me quite yet. It's a little weird approaching my 30s, but I do think it'll be a great decade!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">As I look forward to what the next year will bring, I thought it would be fun to reflect on some of the things I remember most about the past year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>August 29</b>: Last year on my 28th birthday, I was off work because I was supposed to be on vacation in Austin, TX. But due to a tropical storm that was churning in the Gulf, I wasn't able to go, so I had a staycation instead. I spent the morning of my birthday at the pool, and since it was a Wednesday, I had the entire pool area to myself! It was so nice and relaxing! My mom and I had lunch at my favorite Chinese restaurant, and then she cooked some of my favorite foods for dinner. It was a great day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>December 3: </b>I left for my very first trip to NYC! I was there for 4 days and had a blast! I'd go back in a heart beat! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>The weeks of Christmas and New Year's: </b>My former job was working for a college, and I would get the week of Christmas and the week of New Year's off because we were closed. I absolutely loved having this time off! Christmas is my favorite time of year, and being able to fully enjoy the holiday season was amazing! I could go do last-minute shopping and the stores wouldn't be packed, I'd bake or cook, wrap presents... it was pure bliss! I will really miss that this year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>May 29: </b>I flew to Dallas to meet my brother and head out for our <a href="http://realsimplegirl.blogspot.com/2013/06/vacation-in-hawaii-day-1.html" target="_blank">trip to Hawaii</a>! I was gone for a full week (even though I just spent 4 days in Hawaii) and enjoyed every minute of it! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>July 2: </b>This was my last day at my former job. I had been there 3 and a half years, so it became very comfortable to me, and it was bittersweet leaving some of the friends I had made. And then I started my new job on <b>July 8. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I know there have been many more highlights, both ups and down, that have happened over the past year. Those are just the things that stand out in my mind the most right now. I am very thankful for my loving family, friends, and health. It's hard to complain when you have all of that! :)</span><br />
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-60219373144175707432013-08-28T06:00:00.000-04:002013-10-08T21:35:41.499-04:00Goodbye, Unwanted Hair<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Well, I finally did it. I decided to try laser hair removal. Last Thursday I went for a free consultation, and after it was confirmed that I'd be a good candidate, I took the plunge. I'll have treatments every few weeks for about the next year and a half. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I'm really excited about it and hoping for good results! I did my research for quite a while before I even decided to make an appointment. I checked into the type of machines used and the feedback received.<br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you wait until the hair turns gray, it can't be treated. Also, if your hair is blond or red it won't work. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I can't wait for the day that I'll no longer have to use cream bleaches, tweezers, wax, etc! </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I also have to stay out of sun during treatments. If I do go to the pool or anything like that, it's fine as long as I really lather on the sunscreen and keep myself covered. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Well, here's hoping for the best, and hoping to be free on the unwanted hair in about a year and a half!</span><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyxgmlhH7BB9kKaxXyLAppPxfoKpair6pajtBdA7RPFJbOmK2lSKdEorC5wuwTpLchHU_aEsj-4NNzhJ64CC2wNQQhOtYYBHlN8O7zZs9uK734Vs4LHwd1-8K9G-NbSk9CB-F1leUoVo/s200/Signature2.jpg" width="200" />Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-88866480786773442612013-08-27T06:00:00.000-04:002013-08-27T06:00:10.023-04:00Packing in the Protein<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lately I've been wondering if, as a vegetarian, I'm getting enough protein. I always assumed I did, but now I'm just not so sure. I haven't had a great deal of energy lately, and that could be attributed to a lot of things... the heat, learning a new job, or worst of all... my metabolism could be slowing down as I approach my 30s! So, I've been trying to be more cautious of how much protein I'm consuming each day. I've been adding protein powder to my smoothies, and it bumps me up to more than 50 grams along with the Greek yogurt and milk I add. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Along with the protein powder, I've been drinking the <a href="http://realsimplegirl.blogspot.com/2013/08/kelloggs-breakfast-to-go.html" target="_blank">Kellogg's protein breakfast shakes</a>, eating lots of hummus and Greek yogurt (which I've always done), eating protein bars, like the Kind brand bars, and I recently discovered how great quinoa can be. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I'm up for trying any other tasty and nutritious protein-packed products! Please feel free to offer suggestions if you've had great experiences with anything.</span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-10088328976035255482013-08-22T06:00:00.000-04:002013-08-22T06:00:07.528-04:00Hello, Delaware!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Well, it's finally official. My brother is moving again. Two and a half years ago, he moved from our hometown in Florida to Dallas, Texas. I thought it was going to be awful not having our family all living in the same town anymore, but luckily with his job, he was able to come home quite often. It didn't take me long to get used to the new arrangement, and I actually enjoyed the two trips I made out to Dallas to visit. In fact, I'm pretty sad that he's leaving the area. It was always a fun place to check out, and there was still so much more I wanted to do there!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">But alas, he's moving on, and this time he won't be able to come home very often. When I found out a couple weeks ago that his new job was in Delaware, I thought that sounded so depressing! Isn't that like the least popular state in the country?! I mean, who goes to Delaware, much less moves there? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">But I think maybe I could've made a quick judgment. Every state has something cool to offer, right? I'm definitely planning to make a trip up to visit in the next few months once he gets settled in. And let's face it, if there's not much to do in Delaware, New York City is only a short train ride away! </span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-44433359405900755792013-08-16T06:00:00.000-04:002013-08-16T06:00:06.423-04:00America's #1 Kettlecorn<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">I wouldn't consider myself a big popcorn eater, much less a kettlecorn eater. I like both, but it's just not something I typically buy... until now. The other night I was browsing the snack aisle at the grocery store and noticed this new product I hadn't seen before. It had a sale sign on it, and since there were only 2 bags left (I had to reach all the way to the back of the shelf), I figured it must not be that bad! (And yes, I am one of those people who judges how good something must be based on how few are left on the shelf. Hey, it always seems accurate!)</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.popcornindiana.com/" target="_blank">Via</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">I present to you... America's #1 Kettlecorn from Popcorn, Indiana. Apparently, Popcorn, Indiana is the brand and an actual place. Who knew?! The best part about this stuff, besides the amazing taste, is that it's all natural and gluten free. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">At my grocery store, they also carried a white cheddar variety, but they were all out of it. That flavor must <i>really </i>be good!! But when I checked out the <a href="http://www.popcornindiana.com/" target="_blank">Popcorn Indiana website</a>, I noticed that they have tons of other flavors!! There's a store locator on their website, so you can pop in (pun intended) your zip code and find out where the products are sold. I highly recommend this stuff. It's a great snack by itself, and I'm sure it would make the perfect side for a sandwich at lunch time. Buy it now, thank me later!</span><br />
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<br />Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-50342614292798237782013-08-15T06:00:00.000-04:002013-08-15T06:00:04.414-04:00Real Simple Pad Thai<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I'm usually not a big Pad Thai eater. I do like it, but I feel like no two restaurants are consistent with it. Some of the sauces taste too sweet for my liking. And I always order it without eggs since I'm not such an egg fan, but then sometimes you're left with nothing but noodles! I found this recipe in </span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Redbook</i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> magazine and just had to try it! Best of all, it didn't even call for eggs, but feel free to add them if you'd like. I did tweak the recipe a bit, and even though it doesn't taste that much like a Pad Thai to me, I still thought it was delicious and will definitely be making it again!<br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 lb dried linguine</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1/2 C peanut butter (I used the chunky kind, but use whatever you have)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">2 Tbs soy sauce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 Tbs lime juice</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 Tbs fresh ginger, chopped</span></div>
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1 garlic clove, chopped</div>
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a pinch of sugar</div>
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1/2 C water</div>
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1-2 Tbs extra virgin olive oil</div>
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2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced into long strips (I just used my peeler to make the long, thin strips)</div>
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1/4 C thinly sliced red onion</div>
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1 C sugar snap peas</div>
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1/4 C fresh cilantro, chopped</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cook pasta in large pot of boiling water according to package directions. While the pasta is cooking, you'll make the sauce. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Using a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, ginger, garlic, sugar and water until smooth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Next, heat your olive oil in a large pan, and then sautee your veggies... the carrots, onion and snap peas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Drain the pasta, then toss with the veggies and sauce. Top with fresh cilantro.</span></div>
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I think this sauce and veggie mixture would be just as tasty served over rice instead of noodles! You'll love it!</div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-58220597041810494562013-08-14T06:00:00.000-04:002013-08-14T06:00:11.613-04:00Kellogg's Breakfast To Go<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I don't know how time has gotten away from me lately, but it's been tough keeping up with things! I haven't been posting as much lately, but I'm trying to get back on track.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Anyway, in my haste in getting ready for work in the mornings, I often don't allow time to eat breakfast at home. Yes, I could, and I often plan to get up earlier and cook a nice breakfast, but then when that alarm clock goes off, I decide that I'd rather have a little more sleep over food. Enter Kellogg's Breakfast To Go.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Kellogg-s-Breakfast-To-Go-Milk-Chocolate-Shake-10-fl-oz-4-count/22038171" target="_blank">Via</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I'd read about these in a magazine or something. I can't remember where exactly I had seen them, but it was somewhere. And then while I was in the grocery store the other day, I spotted them, and it triggered my memory of wanting to try them! They come in chocolate or vanilla flavor. I bought the chocolate. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I was really excited that these shakes have 10g of protein and 5g of fiber per bottle! They also have lots of other vitamins and minerals. But on top of being nutritious and convenient, they also taste great!! I honestly thought that the chocolate tasted just like chocolate milk. No weird artificial flavors or after tastes. It's really yummy!! I paid around $4.99 for a pack of 4, and I will say that they are also pretty filling. The first day, that's all I had for breakfast, and I was satisfied. The second day I decided I should try to get a little more protein first thing in the morning, so I also ate a Kind bar with added protein (almond, walnut, macadamia... also delish!!). </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ccglutenfreed.com/2013/06/26/5-great-things-to-do-with-kind-bars/" target="_blank">Via</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ok, as I was writing this post, I just discovered that they also make a strawberry flavor! I didn't see those at my grocery store, but I'll check Wal-Mart or someplace like that. I bet it would be equally tasty!</span><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyxgmlhH7BB9kKaxXyLAppPxfoKpair6pajtBdA7RPFJbOmK2lSKdEorC5wuwTpLchHU_aEsj-4NNzhJ64CC2wNQQhOtYYBHlN8O7zZs9uK734Vs4LHwd1-8K9G-NbSk9CB-F1leUoVo/s200/Signature2.jpg" width="200" />Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-11257471130265470622013-08-07T06:00:00.000-04:002013-08-07T06:00:12.932-04:00Real Simple Lunch: Cottage Cheese Mix-Up<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">I'll admit that this recipe isn't really a "recipe." You basically just cut up some tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, and mix it with some cottage cheese, and then sprinkle with salt and pepper. How simple is that?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">Now, don't tune me out yet. I know, I know... cottage cheese isn't considered the most glamorous of foods. I'm not sure why a lot of people don't like it, but I think it's so versatile. You can use it in place of ricotta cheese when making lasagna, it's great as a side dish, or you can add fruits and/or veggies to it and eat it like a salad.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">I was a little hesitant about adding tomatoes, cukes, and avocado to it, but let me tell you... it was delicious!! I ate this one day before I went to the pool because I just wanted a light lunch, and let's face it... no one wants to feel bloated when you're about to put on your swim suit! It really kept me full without feeling like a had a brick in my stomach. It was super flavorful, too! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">Add as little or as much of the veggies as you like. I added a handful of grape tomatoes, half an avocado, and about a 3" piece of cucumber, chopped. It's the perfect fix for this hot weather!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small"><br /></span>Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-4069191363910850892013-08-01T06:00:00.000-04:002013-08-01T06:00:03.915-04:00Get Pin-spired: August Edition<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Happy August! I'm so excited that the summer is winding down! August, to me, is the end. It means it's time to get ready for fall! But, unfortunately, the weather doesn't agree. So here in Florida we're still wearing shorts. I'm linking up with <a href="http://shullfamily.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Shay</a>, <a href="http://pinteresttoldmeto.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sheaffer</a> and <a href="http://thelarsonlingo.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mel</a> again</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">for this month's Get Pin-spired</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">. This is where we find outfits on Pinterest and try to re-create them using items from our own closets.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VCVaQfCHP-DI3Uj_VNdkIc_N3m8SP2jPBcyHtM5xu1HJdCxD8UfmDGrYc9PYRl3TvYRGiMTrl6cWoTtrvKrU1vMBQitAHGqr1zuCSQCsJ3oouxj58L42iLjXgZ9g_iIlfipf4FDBGhY/s320/pinspired2+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VCVaQfCHP-DI3Uj_VNdkIc_N3m8SP2jPBcyHtM5xu1HJdCxD8UfmDGrYc9PYRl3TvYRGiMTrl6cWoTtrvKrU1vMBQitAHGqr1zuCSQCsJ3oouxj58L42iLjXgZ9g_iIlfipf4FDBGhY/s320/pinspired2+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />I'm all about bright colors this summer, so here's my take on a couple Pin-spired outfits. I think the first outfit looks a little "grandma-ish" in the picture, but I tried to make it my own. I took some peach colored shorts and a navy striped top, and voila!</span></div>
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Top: Gap, similar <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=17083&vid=1&pid=453760012" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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Shorts: <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/shorts/chinocotton/PRDOVR~82043/82043.jsp" target="_blank">J. Crew</a></div>
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Watch: <a href="http://www.fossil.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=12052&catalogId=25005&productId=22436455&cm_mmc=goo2-_-feed-_-pdp-_-dly&mr:trackingCode=60B77542-E28B-E211-8AE9-001517B1882A&mr:referralID=NA&mr:adType=pla&mr:ad=27831159128&mr:keyword=&mr:match=&mr:filter=49756051928&gclid=CIme54yB27gCFRFp7Aody38AKw" target="_blank">Fossil</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">My next outfit is the same basic concept... bright colored shorts, but this time with stripes AND polka dots! Since it's a little too warm for layering a blazer right now, I combined my striped and polka dots in one top!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">You probably can't tell from the first picture, but see how my top has stripes AND polka dots?</span></div>
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Top: LOFT (old)</div>
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Shorts: <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/shorts/chinocotton/PRDOVR~82043/82043.jsp" target="_blank">J. Crew</a></div>
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Watch: <a href="http://www.fossil.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=12052&catalogId=25005&productId=22436455&cm_mmc=goo2-_-feed-_-pdp-_-dly&mr:trackingCode=60B77542-E28B-E211-8AE9-001517B1882A&mr:referralID=NA&mr:adType=pla&mr:ad=27831159128&mr:keyword=&mr:match=&mr:filter=49756051928&gclid=CIme54yB27gCFRFp7Aody38AKw" target="_blank">Fossil</a></div>
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Bracelets: LOFT and <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/shop/en_us/p/jewelry/bracelets/bracelets-all/julep-bangle" target="_blank">Stella & Dot</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">That's it for this month! I'm can't wait for the boots, scarves, sweaters and layers that the next few months will bring!</span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-81536257311397979332013-07-31T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-31T06:00:02.868-04:00Which Flavor Are You?<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">I recently saw that a study was done by Baskin-Robbins that relates the ice cream flavor you like the best to what type of personality you have. I thought this sounded like the most absurd thing ever until I looked at the options myself and saw other people try it on TV! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">I was watching 20/20 or one of those shows, and an ice cream truck in NYC was giving out free ice cream. People were asked to choose which description fit their personality best, and then they would be given the corresponding ice cream flavor. Then, they were asked if that was the flavor they would most likely choose. Most people said yes! Only a couple people said they didn't like that particular flavor and would not have picked it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">Here's what each ice cream flavor says about your personality:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">If your favorite flavor is vanilla, you're more likely to be impulsive, easily suggestible and an idealist.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">If your favorite flavor is chocolate, you're more likely to be dramatic, lively, charming, flirtatious, seductive and gullible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">If your favorite flavor is very berry strawberry, you're more likely to be tolerant, devoted and an introvert.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">If your favorite flavor is mint chocolate chip, you're more likely to be argumentative, frugal and cautious.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">If your favorite flavor is chocolate chip cookie dough, you're more likely to be ambitious, competitive and a visionary.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">If your favorite flavor is pralines 'n' cream, you're more likely to be loving, supportive and prefer to avoid the spotlight.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">If your favorite flavor is coffee, you're more likely to be scrupulous, conscientious and a moral perfectionist.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">If your favorite flavor is chocolate chip, you're more likely to be generous, competent and a go-getter.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">If your favorite flavor is rainbow sherbet, you're more likely to be analytic, decisive and a pessimist.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">If your favorite flavor is rocky road, you're more likely to be aggressive, engaging and a good listener.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6uAs-b2kcIKHFn7v1jIUixVJTwsRv1Aw1uOxENMB3UU4XOK-MR7Bnk6nqhpkQKS3_2sN9Xg6okXevtofV5uZLLtrR4GNlOKDiSWO8sxALhhOfPKCODrSXhOvIXWUIJdWPsXieu4UEFx8/s1600/Green-Mint-Chocolate-Chip-Ice-Cream-colors-34739509-506-337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6uAs-b2kcIKHFn7v1jIUixVJTwsRv1Aw1uOxENMB3UU4XOK-MR7Bnk6nqhpkQKS3_2sN9Xg6okXevtofV5uZLLtrR4GNlOKDiSWO8sxALhhOfPKCODrSXhOvIXWUIJdWPsXieu4UEFx8/s400/Green-Mint-Chocolate-Chip-Ice-Cream-colors-34739509-506-337.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">So, now that I've outlined everything, I'll tell you what my pick is. I would typically want mint chocolate chip, or maybe the very berry strawberry, depending on my mood. I usually like fruity desserts, but I do love me some mint chocolate chip! In fact, when I was on a cruise with my family as a teenager, my dad and I had an ice-cream eating competition and I must've had about 4 cones of mint chocolate chip!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small">Which flavor are you? Do you think it's accurate in describing your personality?</span></div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyxgmlhH7BB9kKaxXyLAppPxfoKpair6pajtBdA7RPFJbOmK2lSKdEorC5wuwTpLchHU_aEsj-4NNzhJ64CC2wNQQhOtYYBHlN8O7zZs9uK734Vs4LHwd1-8K9G-NbSk9CB-F1leUoVo/s200/Signature2.jpg" width="200" />
</div>Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-73701054493372492302013-07-25T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-25T06:00:12.912-04:00Frozen Bananas<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I've never been much on rides. Even though I've lived in Florida my entire life, I've only been to Disney World a couple times (and not since I was a small child), and if you try to get me to go on a roller coaster, you might as well just count on that being a big fat NO! I don't know why, but I've just never enjoyed being thrown upside down at high speeds and feeling like I'm going to die.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Anyway, the reason I mention all of that will make sense, because my favorite part of going to the fair was never the rides or games. It was always the chocolate covered frozen bananas. There is nothing better on a hot day! </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/frozen-bananas-yum" target="_blank">Via</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Imagine my excitement when I discovered that you can now buy these at the grocery store!!! I started out by getting the Banana Babies from Diana's Banana's brand, which I must say are quite delicious. You can buy them in dark chocolate or milk chocolate. My favorite is the dark chocolate. They even have some with nuts, but unfortunately, those only come in the milk chocolate variety.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.self.com/blogs/flash/2013/03/nutrition-snack-time-dole-banana-dippers.html" target="_blank">Via</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Now Dole has chocolate covered banana slices!! These Banana Dippers are perfect for when you might not want a whole banana, but just a small snack to satisfy that sweet tooth. I've only tried the plain chocolate ones so far, but they also make some with almonds that sound amazing! I highly recommend running, not walking, to the grocery store and buying yourself a package of frozen bananas this summer. They really are the perfect healthy dessert. You can thank me later.</span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-37506307940144801172013-07-22T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-22T06:00:06.734-04:00Christmas in July<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Since I've been searching for churches, I've also watched a few services online just to get a feel for what the church might be like. Yesterday morning I watched a service I really enjoyed, and the name of the sermon was "Christmas in July." The pastor was talking about how we're given gifts every day that we should be using. Maybe we have a passion for something that others don't, and that could very well be what our "gift" is. It was really encouraging and made me think that I should try to be more thankful for what I have, and not focus on the things that go wrong in my life.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.family-reunion-success.com/family-reunion-quotes.html" target="_blank">Via</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">One thing I'm especially thankful for is my family. Over the weekend, I was especially blessed to be able to see my family, including a cousin and aunt who live in Georgia. I can honestly say that this was one of the best visits we've ever had together. We all had such a great time talking, laughing, eating, and "touristing" around. By the way, it's kind of fun to tour the town where you live. I saw things I didn't even know about, and maybe some things I never needed to know about! I truly love my family and know that we'll always be there for each other. To me, that is the ultimate gift!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">While I'm on the subject of gifts, why not grab a gift or two for yourself?! Through Tuesday night, everything is 30% off at <a href="http://www.gap.com/" target="_blank">Gap</a>, <a href="http://www.oldnavy.com/" target="_blank">Old Navy</a> and <a href="http://www.bananarepublic.com/" target="_blank">Banana Republic</a>. I already have a shopping cart full of stuff that I want to order! And don't forget to check out the <a href="http://www.nordstrom.com/" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a> anniversary sale! There are lots of great deals to be had. If you don't want to deal with the work of sifting through everything, Sheaffer at <a href="http://pinteresttoldmeto.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest Told Me To</a> has already done it for you! Be sure to check out all of her fabulous picks! Happy Monday!</span></div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyxgmlhH7BB9kKaxXyLAppPxfoKpair6pajtBdA7RPFJbOmK2lSKdEorC5wuwTpLchHU_aEsj-4NNzhJ64CC2wNQQhOtYYBHlN8O7zZs9uK734Vs4LHwd1-8K9G-NbSk9CB-F1leUoVo/s200/Signature2.jpg" width="200" /></div>
Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-7770269802894220782013-07-17T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-17T06:00:11.929-04:00Church Searching<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I keep saying that I want to find a new church, but I have yet to go visit a new one. I think I'm a little nervous about not knowing what to expect. I've gone to the same church pretty much all my life. But lately, I just haven't felt like I'm growing there. Any time I feel like something is holding me back in life, I like to make a change. It also got to the point where I didn't really enjoy it because there was no one my age to be around at church. My church has a lot of elderly people.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Finding a new church is easier said than done, especially when you're a single person. I feel a little uncomfortable going by myself and not knowing anyone. I know I could sit in the back and slip out if I didn't like it, but how am I going to meet anyone if I stay hidden?! At the same time, I don't want people pouncing on me like fresh meat. If I attend a service and it isn't my cup of tea, I don't want phone calls, visits, etc. asking me when I'm coming back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I've heard of a couple popular churches where more younger people tend to go, but I just haven't been sure if they would be right for me because they're non-denominational. I've always gone to a Baptist church, and unfortunately most of the other Baptist churches around here aren't much different than the one I've been going to... lots of elderly people and the same type of format. But I feel like some non-denominational churches could feel more like going to a rock concert than a worship service. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.openbible.info/blog/2010/06/church-names-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank">Via</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I really want to find that middle ground, and I want to be part of a church that I really enjoy, where I can meet people and make friends. Several churches now have "small groups," which I haven't been familiar with before. They seem to be divided by age groups or interests. I'm not sure I fit in the "young adult" category anymore, but I'm sure there's got to me a nice group that I'd enjoy. I often wonder if I'd be better trying to find a small group first, and then attend the regular church services, or vice versa.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thevinecarver.com/small%20groups" target="_blank">Via</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I'd love to hear thoughts or advice on this subject. Finding a new church seems just as difficult as finding a new job or a new place to live! Stressful!! But I know it needs to be done. I've felt so guilty for not attending lately.</span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-78974784874583162032013-07-15T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-15T06:00:02.813-04:00Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Today I'm touching on a somewhat sensitive topic. It seems to be more and more common, but so many of us women have unwanted hair on our bodies. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I've been seriously considering trying laser hair removal. I've dealt with tweezing, waxing, bleaching, you name it for several years now when it comes to unwanted hair on my face. It's hereditary, as most of the women in my family have the same issue. One of my cousins actually shaves her face! That's a no-no, so please never try that! And luckily, mine isn't THAT bad, but it's bad enough that I'm using the tweezers every other day. The worst area is under my chin. My mom brought it to my attention the other day that I really need to go get something done with it, because all the pulling I do on the skin there (it helps you see the hairs better so you can pull them out) is going to cause wrinkles and flabby skin as I get older! So now I feel like I really should go try laser hair removal. And if it worked, I'd love to get it done on other areas of my body, too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">So I'm wondering if anyone has tried it. If so, did it work? How many treatments did you have? What was the cost? I really want to hear some positive testimonials before I take the plunge.</span></div>
<span anyone="" before="" cost="" did="" has="" have="" hear="" how="" i="" if="" it.="" it="" m="" many="" plunge="" positive="" really="" so="" some="" span="" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;" take="" testimonials="" the="" to="" treatments="" tried="" want="" was="" what="" wondering="" work="" you=""></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I'd also be willing to try any great products that seem to help. I recently read about this R.E.M. Spring Facial Hair Remover. I'm not quite sure what to think of it, but the reviews seem decent. For less than $15, it could be worth a try!</span><br />
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-5932671935348412612013-07-12T07:00:00.000-04:002013-07-12T07:00:09.695-04:00Jeans Day<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">This probably seems really silly and insignificant, but I'm so excited that it's "Jeans Friday!" For the past 3.5 years I wasn't able to wear jeans to work on Fridays, or ever. My previous job allowed it, and I really got used to having that casual and comfortable day. So when I found out that my new job has a casual Friday, too, I was pretty excited!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small"><br />The only issue is that I really don't own any work-appropriate jeans anymore. Most of my jeans are skinny and colored. I do have a pair of not-as-skinny jeans that are nice and dark, so those are making their debut today. But I'm going to have to wear flats each time I wear them, so I'd like to get a pair of boot cut jeans so I can wear my Sperrys, too.<br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Why has it gotten so difficult to find nice boot cut (or any work-appropriate) jeans?! I know I'm a little more challenging because I need a longer inseam (usually 34"), but it should be simpler than this! I'm off to scour the internet. The jeans search is on! Happy Friday!</span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-88265078900929595642013-07-09T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-09T06:00:04.675-04:00The Ninja Blender<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I've had my Ninja blender for several years now, and it has never failed me. I use this blender to make smoothies, soups, sauces, salsa... you name it. It really serves as both a blender and a food processor for me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">So when I found out that my brother was in the market for a blender, I knew just what to get him for his birthday! Now before you start wondering what's so great about this blender, let me first say that my previous blender finally got pitched (ok, actually thrown in disgust) in the garbage can when I was trying to make a sauce one night, and the thing started smoking and almost caught on fire! The blades just weren't sharp enough. It couldn't even cut through ice to make a decent smoothie.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">This <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003XU3C7M/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003XU3C7M&linkCode=as2&tag=reasimgir-20">Ninja QB900B Master Prep Revolutionary Food and Drink Maker, Gray</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reasimgir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B003XU3C7M" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
is quite the little workhorse. It will blend <i>anything. </i>It's easy to clean, and I love the fact that it comes with two sizes of the base in case you just want to make a small portion of something. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ninja makes a complete system that comes with all sorts of gadgets, but honestly, for around $40, this is all you'd need! It's a must-have kitchen item in my book!</span></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reasimgir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B003XU3C7M" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-48974383224682552402013-07-05T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-05T18:59:35.638-04:00Crunchy Black Bean Tacos<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Just in case you didn't get your fill of food from 4th of July, or maybe something besides dinner on the grill sounds tasty, I have a great recipe for some delicious tacos! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />I used to always buy taco shells from the grocery store... the kind that you just bake for a few minutes and are typically broken into a million pieces when you open them. Yes, those. I'm not sure why it took me so long to try making my own tacos, but I was definitely missing out! These tacos are simple and yummy, plus you could use any filling you like. Here's my black bean version. It makes 4 tacos, but you'll likely want to double the recipe!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 C black beans, rinsed and drained</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1/4 C red onion, diced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1/2 tsp. cumin</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1/2 tsp. smoked paprika (you could also use regular paprika or skip it altogether)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">salt and pepper to taste</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 Tbs cilantro, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1/4 C pepper jack cheese, grated</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 Tbs extra virgin olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">4 small corn tortillas</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">avocado, sour cream, hot sauce (optional, for garnish)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">In a bowl, combine beans, onion, spices and cilantro. This will be your filling for the tacos.</span></div>
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In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium and when the oil is hot, add a tortilla to the pan. As it begins to cook, spoon 1/4 of the beach mixture onto half of the tortilla. Top with 1/4 of your cheese. Then, using a spatula, carefully fold the other half of the tortilla over to the bean mixture half to form a tortilla. Press down.</div>
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Once the taco begins to get crispy and brown (after a couple of minutes), flip it over to cook the other side. </div>
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After you've folded your first taco, you can add another tortilla to the pan and begin making additional tacos. Make as many as you're able to fit in the pan at once. </div>
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Serve with avocado, sour cream, hot sauce or more cilantro. You'll be surprised how fancy these seem and how great they taste! No more boxed taco shells!</div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1723683026158156098.post-30674650082047542512013-07-03T11:38:00.004-04:002013-07-03T11:38:56.009-04:00Is it time for an upgrade?<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I have a confession. As much as I love technology and all things social media, I have not joined the smartphone bandwagon. I am still using a flip phone. Yes, you read that correctly. In fact, I don't even have texting capabilities, and I've never taken a picture with my phone! It's crazy. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I think the main reason for my lack of advancement in the world of cell phones is that I just don't want to pay the extra money each month. I always say it's not something I <i>need</i>, but just something that would be nice to have. And my excuse was always that I'd get a new phone whenever I got a new and better job. Well, friends... that has happened!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yesterday was my last day at my old job. I worked for a college for 3.5 years doing communications and event planning. My new position will be a lot closer to home, so my commute will be cut in half. I'll be working as a corporate writer for an insurance company. I'm really excited about this new opportunity! But, I still haven't gone out to buy a new phone! I keep thinking maybe I should wait until the new model comes out in the fall, but that's probably just an excuse to postpone it even longer! Eventually, one of these days you'll know I got a new phone when I start sharing more pictures, and who knows... I might even have an Instagram account!!</span></div>
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Jenna {Real Simple Girl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/06083813162848246339noreply@blogger.com1