Yearly Archives

2016

The Art of the Invite: Introduction to Etiquette

Diving into the world of formal invites can be trickier than it seems, especially in today’s digital age. In this kickoff post for my new series, I’m exploring the basics of invitation etiquette—from selecting the perfect design to addressing them correctly, and even considering the role of online invites. I’m also throwing a few questions your way to get you thinking: When should save-the-dates go out? How do you choose an invitation? Does online etiquette differ from traditional mail? Let’s get ready to unravel the mysteries of modern invitation manners.

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Nails That Stick: Discovering Essie’s Magic

After years of battling chipped polish and smudges, I finally took the plunge and tried Essie. From buffing my nails to chilling the polish in the fridge for fifteen minutes, I’ve perfected my application routine. The result? Two colors lasting almost a week each—a huge win for someone who’s struggled with nail polish sticking. Between the base, top coat, and the “grow faster” serum, I’ve officially converted to Essie and am already dreaming of expanding my collection.

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Summer Sips: How I Made My Lemonade Extra Tangy

This Fourth of July weekend, between celebrating Steve Rogers’ birthday and a quick trip to the local curb market, I decided to perfect my lemonade. While I usually rely on Country Time mix for convenience, I wanted a bolder, tarter flavor—so I added fresh-squeezed lemon juice to the mix. The result? A half-gallon of perfectly tangy lemonade, just the way I like it. My first official recipe post, and hopefully the start of many more!

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My Helen Keller Festival 2016 Experience: Music, Memories, Magic

Helen Keller Festival 2016 was unforgettable. Night one brought the smooth sounds of Paul Thorn and his band, complete with a surprise performance of “Memphis Women & Fried Chicken.” Night two was the highlight: up-and-coming Eric Paslay had the crowd mesmerized, and I got the ultimate fangirl moment when he handed me his guitar pick. Between discovering new artists, snapping photos, and soaking in live music, it was a weekend full of excitement, country charm, and memories I’ll never forget.

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Breaking the Taboo: Birth Control Stories

Talking about birth control can feel like a social taboo, but sharing experiences helps women make informed choices. For me, it started in high school when cramps made school nearly impossible. After trying the pill and taking a break, I finally found success with the patch. The adjustment period wasn’t easy—tenderness and temporary water retention—but the convenience of a once-a-week routine and reliable protection made it worth it. My journey shows that while birth control isn’t one-size-fits-all, finding the right method can truly change your life.

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Katherine Elizabeth Taylor: From Shelter to Heartstrings

Katherine Elizabeth Taylor isn’t just a cat—she’s my little fur baby, a sassy, playful calico who stole my heart the moment we adopted her. From chasing her beloved purple mouse to basking in snuggles on cold winter days, she fills every corner of my life with love and laughter. Her long tail, her quirky calico colors, and her mischievous energy make her endlessly entertaining. Beyond the cuddles and play, Katherine’s story reminds me of the importance of adoption—so many sweet animals are waiting for homes, ready to bring joy to someone’s life.

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