Snuggle Sundays!

Hello, hello!
I want to start a series called Snuggle Sundays, where I can just catch up with you guys and share my week and things that inspired me, etc. I would love to see posts about your weeks as well!

This week was such a good one! I had such a positive attitude all week, and things ran smoothly.

I know some of you may not believe, but I started listening to podcasts by Joel Osteen, and I was reinspired by religion. Growing up, My mom was Catholic and my father wasn't religious. Despite being Catholic, my mother never attended church, and I had no real idea of God. When my parents divorced, my siblings, mother and I all moved closer to her family, her very Catholic family. All of the sudden, I was made to go to church every Sunday, and pray before meals when we were at grandma's. I was young, and church bored me, as did the fact my mother FORCED church upon me. I ended up resenting the church a little bit, and questioned if there was a God. Catholic church has always  seemed so judgemental to me. Anyways, I ran across Joel Osteen, and he has made religion something enjoyable for me. He really speaks in a way that I understand, and that inspires me. Never did I think I would see the day where I would be praying and listening to religious podcasts! I think I like it because I found it and enjoy it on my terms. Even if you don't believe in God, you should still give it a listen! Joel covers basic morals and good ways to live everyday life1

I have also been inspired to "clean" out my life. I enjoy doing spring cleaning, but I also do a "fall cleaning" yearly. For the next 4 weeks, I am really going to concentrate on eating healthy, taking car of my body, my mind, and my apartment. My goals are to drink plenty of water, drink green tea to detox( as inspire by Elle Fowler), exercise regularly, deep clean and organize my apartment, develop an overall positive attitude/environment for myself, and taking care of myself in the beauty department. Four weeks is perfect, because My Birthday is in exactly a month! I know New Year's may be far away, but I think of birthdays sort of like new years, it's a chance to live another year of your life right!

This week, expect updates, and fall shopping 101, enjoying your job, and an introduction to my new blog! I hope everyone has an awesome week!!!!

X's and O's,
Amanda

Diary: Fashion Investments,and New Series/blog!

Hello Lovlies:)

Today I wanted to do a little catching up. First, I had a really fun time doing Tag Week! I saw some of my tags get re-done, and had a blast reading them all! It was a good time, and I like doing posts that let you get to know me a little better, as well as getting to know you all better!


So, Fashion Investments. Just like practically every girl on the planet, I am always adding to my wardrobe, and always trying to get the most for my money. Unless you have recently won the lottery, I am sure cost plays a role in your fashion/ beauty purchases. But how many really good quality classic items do you actually own? With the fall season coming up, I am of course thinking about all of the new fashion purchases I will soon be making. But, I have also been inspired to start building a better quality wardrobe. I am going to start researching high-end, classic items that I want and start saving for them. Sure, for one pair of Louboutin's you could get a ton of clothes at let's say, Forever21, but those shoes will last you forever, and depending on the style, never go out of style. So basically my new goal is to invest more often than just thinking about quantity. I am not saying I  am going to stop shopping at H&M, Forever21, etc, and I am not saying those store don't offer high quality items. I am just going to invest more in closet staples. But, I am going to of course make this a series!!!

I am going to start sharing my research  with you and you can all help me shop for these items. I will also give reviews, and share shopping/investing tips. :)

Another new series or blog( haven't decided) is going to be a blog with both my husband and myself on newlywed life, and relationships in general. We are going to answer questions, share our stories, give advice, and hopefully make some new friends. We are both really excited! if anyone has any questions about relationships, marriage, couple issues, etc, please feel free to ask us! We will answer everyone!

I want to end with a quick apology, and ask for your patience. I am trying to keep up blogging as best as I can. I am adjusting to a new job, and schedule. I have been inconsistent the past few weeks because I am trying to juggle alot of new tasks! Please be patient while I figure out a posting schedule that allows me to post daily! Thank you:)

I'm Not Dead!

Hello Lovlies!

I know it's been a long time, a week to be exact. I have really missed blogging! I want to take some time to update you all about the past week.

For those of you who are unaware, I just got married last Friday! I will be doing a "Wedding Re-Cap" post when I gather more pictures together, but I can tell you all that it was a fairytale dream come true, and my husband and I are overwhelmed with happiness and joy. We were showered with so much love and kindness on our special day. As you can imagine, it was hectic! I did alot of baking for our guests that would be at our house throughout the day, as well as baking for the boquet toss! Huh? Okay, I didn't want to throw my bouquet, so I baked cupcakes, and inserted a ring into one. The single ladies dug in, and whoever found the ring is the next to get married! Our friends and family had a blast, and it was a storybook wedding to remember!

A less than flttering photo from the wedding where I am getting flowers out of my dress.
So if getting married wasn't a big enough change, I  also started a job this week! I am just doing some part-time work at our local grocery store as a cashier. I was nervous to start- not because of the job, but because of the language! So far, I understand my co-workers and customers pretty well. It is suprisingly nice to have a place to be during the week. I missed working! Going to work is a double bonus for me because not only am I meeting new people and earning money, but I am learning more and more German everyday!

Recently, I have been so excited about my current life siutation, so I wanted to share.

I haven't been unhappy by any means, but moving to a new country, well, that brings on so many emotions. There have been so many changes in my life in just 7 months. I have had to adjust to being thousands of miles away from any family or friends, had to adjust to living with my husband, adjusting to a brand-new financial situation, being a housewife, getting engaged, learning a new language, getting married, starting a new job, the list goes on. I have defintely experienced ups and downs living here. When I first moved here, it was euphoria- I was finally with Andre physically again, and not for a limited amout of time. But then fear set in. I realized I wasn't on vacation this time- I actually had to learn a new language and become a fully functioning adult in a foreign land. I doubted myself so much; I spent SO much time doubting my abilities to learn to live here. I kept telling myself how bad my German was, or that I couldn't understand. Or that when I started working, I would get fired for sure, because I wouldn't know anything or be fluent enough. Funny thing is, My boss and customers DO understand me for the most part, and I was able to complete my training and understand my job. I have also spent so much time stressing out about the future. Would Andre and I earn enough to move back to the states in 3 years? When could we afford this, that , or the other? What was I going to make of myself? But recently, something clicked; I spent so much time planning on how we could leave here, that I haven't really let myself enjoy living here. Will we move back to the USA? If so, how soon? I can't  say what the future holds. I just know that I am going to continue to live life to the fullest and not dwell on the past or future!

As far as what to make of myself, I feel alot of pressure. I am soon going to be 21, and I have not yet attended college, or decided a "career path", etc. Most of my friends will graduate college soon. But I have been thinking alot, and maybe what "i'm supposed to do" isn't a real career. I truly believe that my purpose in life is to just be happy, maybe I will never have a "career". And that's fine with me, as long as I remain happy.

I will be resuming with my normal posts this week! If you have any requests, leave a comment! :)
X's and O's,
Amanda

Wedding Things: Is This All Necessary?

Hello beauties!

We are all too familiar with the events of a wedding. First, the engagement party, then the bridal shower, bachelor/ bachelorette parties, the rehearsal dinner, the ceremony, reception, and sometimes, brunch the next morning! For people on a budget, people who are extremely busy, or people who are low-key, this is a huge amount, and many people question the necessity of these events. Here's a little guide to explain the purpose of these events, and the pros/cons of each.

The Engagement Party:

An engagement party is a great way to celebrate your engagement, and is a great way for guests to get to know each other a little before the wedding. However, engagement parties can be costly, and are not crucial. If someone is willing to throw one for you, great. If you are set on having one, but are on a budget, you could try a barbeque, or another fun, less expensive alternative to the traditional thing. Engagement parties are great, but not necessary.

The Bridal Shower:

This is at the discretion of your wedding party/mother/mother in-law. Brides don't throw themselves a shower, so it's up to your bridal party!

Bachelor/ Bachelorette Parties:

Again, this is up to the wedding party and close friends. Typically, the wedding party each pays their own way, then all chip in for the expense of the bride/groom. This is not necessary, but it is tradition. The cons of this event? These parties can get out of control, so state your limits upfront.

The Reharsal Dinner:

Weather or not this particular event is necessary depends on your wedding style. If it is a formal ceremony, or you have a wedding party, it is a good idea . Typically, everyone will want a little guidance. However, if you are not having a formal ceremony, or not having a wedding party, it is appropriate to skip this event.

The Ceremony:

Duh, this is the most important part!

The reception:

You should have a reception, even if it is as small as cake and punch afterwards. There are many ways to cut costs, but a reception is defintely a necessary event!

Good-bye brunch/party:
If you can afford it, and have any patience or energy left the next day, this is a do. If not, don't weat, I'd say this is totally not a necessity.

Diary Entry July 26, 2012:
Tomorrow is the big day! As you can imagine, I am over the moon! Today has consisted of last minute cleaning and preperations. I am going in an hour to have my hair washed by the stylist for tomorrow's style. Tonight we are having a little barbeque, and practicing our dance a little bit ;) A long time friend of mine is coming in time for the reception, and is staying for the weekend. I am looking forward to seeing her! I do wish my family could be here, but we are having a second US wedding, so I get to start the planning process all over again. I will not have a post for you tomorrow, but I will resume posting on Saturday. I can't believe I will be a married woman tomorrow! I will try to post Sunday and re-cap the whole wedding experience for you! Tonight I am going to take a long, relaxing bath and pamper myself with bath bombs and a facial. Ahhhh. :) I hope you enjoyed my las tpost as a single woman!

X's and O's,
Amanda

Wedding Things: Week-of Tips !

Hey Beauties,

For today's post, I want to share some tips for you for the week of your wedding! I even have tips for the grooms, since they are kind of important, too ;) These tips will help you de-stress, keep things running smoothly, and of course, keep you looking your best! Enjoy:)

Brides:
~Several days prior to the wedding, confirm all beauty appointments.

~ Make a schedule for the week-of. Write down a to-do list for each day. Delegating yourself a small list of things to do each day will provide for a more stress-free week. Leave yourself next to nothing to do the day before! You need to get lots of rest that day:)

~Pamper yourself everyday. Take bubble baths, use lots of lotion, face masks, etc. This will help you relax and look fab!

~ RELAX. Here's the thing: something (small or large) is bound to not turn out just how you wanted it to. Have backup plans for anything possible, but try not to freak out when things are out of your control. Weddings should be a fun, exciting time. Remember the purpose of this day : you're marrying the man of your dreams! Take a moment to reflect on the most important thing when things get crazy.

~Confirm details with all of your vendors!

~Create a day-of schedule. This can take alot of stress off of your plate!

~Chill with your fiancee! Go for a walk, watch a movie, try to spend some quality together before the big day!

~ Create a day-of bridal emergency kit!

 ~Take care of yourself. Drink tons of water, eat nutritious foods, take vitamins, and  get plenty of rest!


Grooms:

~ Take care of yourselves. Get lots of sleep, eat well, drink lots of water, and take vitamins! You don't want to fall ill for your wedding day!

~Good grooming(hehe). Put more effort into your appearence. Make sure your nails are in good condition( yes it DOES matter,you will likely have photosof your hands) make sure you are clean-shaven, use lotion

~Be as helpful as possible. Help your bride with last-minute tasks!

~ Spend some quality time with your bride:)

~Work on your speeche(s)! DO NOT TRY TO IMPROVISE! :p



Diary July 25, 2012:
Today involved alot! I did alot of cleaning, baking, and last minute projects! Tomorrow is the day before, and there is so much to do! We are having Andre's aunts and uncles over tomorrow for a barbeque, I am having a step in my hair process done, I am pulling my emergency kit together, doing a final cleaning of our place, a little first dance rehearsal,  and of course, we need a good night's rest! I will update tomorrow!

Are yoou enjoying the Wedding Things series?

X's and O's,
Amanda

Diary:Food for Thought

Hey Everyone!

This week was a big week for me, and the next coming days will be even bigger because I am getting married in 3 days! I was inspired by so much last week, so I wanted to make a post sort of rambling:)

The first thing that inspired me this week was two different quotes. The first quote is "You can have whatever you're willing to struggle for" and "You can have it all, just not all at once." These quotes really hit home with me. You see, I have had all of these really high expectations of myself and my fiance. I expected to get married, we'll both start making great money, afford this fabulous trip to the US next summer, have our other wedding in the states, re-do our apartment, and afford whatever we want. With some recent large purchases (and the wedding), I realized that all of that was, well,  a little unrealistic. At first when I realized we were going to have to work really hard to save for everything, and it would take awhile, I immediately became discouraged. I felt like everything was falling apart, nothing was going as planned. But then I came across those two quotes and thought "we may have to make small sacrifices here and there, but we will eventually get there."

No matter what your goals are, nothing in life is free. You won't acheive your goals without at least a little sacrifice. If you're not willing to sacrifice, you don't want it bad enough!

In the spirit of my wedding, I will be making alot of wedding things posts this week. I will also do a diary entry for each remaining day to the wedding (what we have to do, etc) I hope you are all enjoying my Wedding Things series, I plan to continue it through the summer! All other normal blog features will resume next week!

X's and O's,
Amanda

Fairytales Come True

Hello Sunshines!

I hope everyone is having a fabulous weekend! Today I thought I would do a diary entry. Warning: this could be random! :p

Lately, I have had so much positivity surrounding me. I have been feeling so grateful for the wonderful life I have been given, and people have been extra nice to me lately. With my wedding coming up in just 33 short days,  I have come to the conclusion that fairytales DO come true. It is up to you to make your fairytale happen for yourself. For example, I have found my prince charming, and never feel less than a fairytale princess every day. Alot of my dreams are coming true, but they didn't all happen by themselves. It takes hard work, determination, passion, and you have to believe! Maybe your dream is to become an olympic athlete. Will it just magically happen to you, or overnight? No. But with enough hard work, you can get there. Maybe not tomorrow, but hard work does eventually pay off. I believe if you want something bad enough, you will get it. I believe that good things happen to good people, too. Sure, bad things also happen to good people, but I believe if you are truly a good person, luck will work out in your favor at some point. Lately, I have had the attitude of "ANYTHING is possible", and you know what? Impossible things are happening. I am hoping that each and every person who reads my blog reaches for their dreams and never stops believing!

Also on the fairytale topic, who says you can't look like a princess? When we grow up, I think we give up dressing up like fairys and ballerinas and princesses.  Not me! Do I walk around in a tutu? No. But who says you can't incorporate "princess"like elements to your wardrobe and makeup? Here's a makeup tutorial on "Fairytale Princess Makeup" that I found this week. Give it a try, and unleash your inner princess! :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_ys5CN3DbM&feature=my_liked_videos&list=LLSPOJtYUh0NPJik3DB-ASpg

So tell me, what inspires YOU?

X's and O's,
Amanda