Happy Halloween..

I'm literally laughing out loud at the fact that the entire view from my office window is covered in snow.

Yes snow! 

I saw that the weather man was claiming snow would be coming our way this evening, but I didn't expect a 1/2 inch by 2pm on Halloween!!

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I was teaching an anti-bullying lesson at one of the local elementary schools today and when the falling powder of horror caught my eye, I stopped dead in my tracks. 

Then with much enthusiasm I point toward the window of doom and yell, "Oh my gosh, look out the stinkin window people!!"

The children, of course LOST THEIR MINDS. 

As did the teacher when she couldn't control the noise level in the room.

I just giggled to myself then continued to teach as if nothing happened (kids still freaking).

Thank the Lord that the snow fall I witnessed at the school only lasted for a quick couple of minutes.

Upon my return to work, stopped at a stop sign..I glance out at the beautiful blowing leaves on the road.

I think to myself that it is such a beautiful fall day and how I blessed I am to be able to see it.

Then 1 hour later I'm witnessing a freaking Winter Wonderland. 

I quickly intensify the volume on my Halloween Party playlist via Pandora and refuse to let go of my Halloween spirit.

I love fresh fallen snow yes, but dang it..I didn't even get to watch Hocus Pocus but one time this month. 

I mean for heaven's sake, at least let me get in a Halloween marathon before the night ends.

Michael Myers hasn't even haunted my dreams yet..and that's a must.

It's the season of weirdos.

I haven't even had the chance to be weird.

..well that's a lie, but you get my drift. 

Basically, It's too early for snow.

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How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes...

"You do what with your makeup brushes?"

Is a question I have heard many times from different women in my life. 

I of course repeat myself and say, "I CLEAN my makeup brushes".

I'm laughing inside because once, I too, had no idea that my makeup brushes needed cleaned sometime or another. 

I have learned the hard way that dirty makeup brushes do indeed hold a lot of bacteria..

Just think of the dust, dirt, makeup, oil, skin particles, etc.. that get built up in your brushes over time.

I learned that all of the bacteria and product that is built up in makeup brushes, can cause acne.

I do suffer from acne and a lot of my severe times have had a lot to do with having dirty makeup brushes!

After learning my lesson and faithfully participating in cleaning my brushes, my acne has definitely improved.

Now it's not totally gone, it's a work in progress, but my skin has definitely changed.

I have heard through the grapevine...that your brushes should be cleaned at least once a week. 

Face brushes should the ones that are more faithfully cleaned, but eye shadow brushes are just as important.

So as I was cleaning my brushes this evening, I decided to document some pictures to share with you guys! 

I hope this gives you an idea of how you too can clean your makeup brushes.. Enjoy!

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-The only product I use on my brushes is Antibacterial- Dawn Dish Soap-

I only use Dawn because I know it is safe and not too harsh on the brushes. If it can be used to clean animals, it can clean my nasty brushes.

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I squirt some soap on a kitchen plate and swirl each brush head into the soap.

Make sure to cover the entire head of the brush and massage the soap into the brush hairs.

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As I move from one brush to the other, I lay them down on a clean paper towel until each brush is coated in soap.

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Once I am finished soaking the brushes, It's now time to clean!

One by one take a face brush and swirl it in the palm of your hand to get the soap really worked into the brush head.

After it's all sudsy and messy, it's time to rinse.

Make sure your sink water is at a lukewarm temperature. 

Too hot can harm the brushes and too cold won't clean the makeup out.

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When getting the brushes wet, make sure to not let water enter the brush past this point.

If the water happens to get inside of this break, it can eat away the glue and your brush hairs will start to fall out.

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When time to dry, I place my brushes head down on a clean towel. 

Leaning them face down onto the towel will help any excess water to drip out of the brushes and prevent any water from entering the bottom of the handle. 

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Repeat the same steps for any eye shadow brushes.

These dry a lot faster than face brushes do, so I usually just lay them down on the same towel to save room.

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Because I did just do this tonight, I don't have the after picture. 

But I will add it onto here tomorrow once the brushes are dry!

I hope you all enjoy this post and have fun cleaning :)

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My brushes are products from

Sigma Beauty:

http://www.sigmabeauty.com/default.asp

Real Techniques: (also at ULTA)

http://realtechniques.com/

Bh Cosmetics:

www.bhcosmetics.com

Sally's Beauty Supply:

www.sallybeauty.com

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If you want further detail on my brushes or which ones I specifically have, just message me and I'll let you know!

Family time..

So basically on the daily, my coworker and I tend to have heart to heart conversations about life, love, and all the things that drive us crazy. 

We talk about a variety of things, ranging from our shoes, nails, ignorance, broken hearts, death, love, and most of all our families.

We work in a place where the word family, does not always mean much.

We have a lot of people come to us with brokenness- we just try to pick up the pieces and put them back together. 

These circumstances often bring my coworker and I to a place of realization. 

We realize time and time again of the many blessings that we have, and just as many others do, we often take those blessings for granted.
There are so many little things in life that often get overlooked.

One topic we always touch base on; the simple act of eating together at the kitchen table for dinner.

Often we all forget how important it is to spend intimate time with our family. 

Whether you are newly married, have no children, have one, have ten, or you’re elderly, family time is necessary.

In particular, "Dinner time" is extremely important for children- of all ages.

 I see so often, many children going unnoticed. 

Parents get too busy, they lose their focus, and forget that their child/children have needs. 

Eating, bathing, having clothes on their backs, having roofs over their heads, etc..those are simple needs to a child. 

They may not always be simple to the parents out there, but to a child there is so much more that they need. 

Every child strives for attention. Whether they get it in a negative or a positive way, they NEED and WANT your attention.

I found a statistic that actually kind of made me really sad…

“The average parent spends 38.5 minutes per week in meaningful conversation with their children” (Jessica Barna).

38.5 minutes?!

               I can easily spend 38.5 minutes on Twitter (in one setting), no problem. 

There are parents out there who are not even spending that much time with their children per WEEK? It’s an overwhelming feeling to think that there are many parents out there who probably do not even really know who their children are. 

Spending time around the dinner table is the perfect opportunity to talk with your children. 

Get to know them for who they truly are. 

You might even be surprised, they probably would like to know who you are too.

I can honestly say, some of my best memories with my family is time spent
 around the dinner table. We never ate without giving thanks to God, sharing our day with each other, and loving on each other.

 I cherish those days with my family because those days, I will never get back.

Each day that you spend not knowing your child/children, is a day that you will never get back.

Having “Dinner” with your family is not about what you eat, how much food there is, where you sit, or how many times you get seconds. 

Having “Dinner” with your family is about how much love you share with one another. 

It’s about getting to know your children, helping them through their hard times, guiding them through life because we all know life is not always easy, and laughing with them.

Time is sacred, use it wisely- Children are not children forever. 

Fall Favorites..

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The wait is finally over! 

Fall is back and very large and in charge..

The town's talk has been consumed by weather and how fast Fall has arrived this year.

Quite frankly, I'm okay with it.

Every year I get super excited for Fall and this year I would like to share my Fall favorites and what I am looking forward to this year!

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First and foremost.....PUMPKIN CANDLES-Pumpkin everything is more like it!

Need I say more.

Oh my gosh, the first sight of them I about lost my mind.

I got this candle at CVS for $9.99 and let me tell you what it smells amazing!

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-Fashion-

One word...obsessed.

I am obsessed with fall fashion!

Let's get real people, who isn't?! I mean it's probably the most looked forward to thing of the year (well, besides Christmas of course)

Anyway..I think my favorite fashion piece (aside from thick sweaters, moccs, and boots) this fall is probably going to be the plaid scarves I've been seeing. Gorge people..just gorgeous. 

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-Nails-

I'm such a freak when it comes to my nails being painted. I literally feel like I'm losing my mind if they are not done. Having my nails painted makes me feel so put together and just..you know, complete. :)

I wear dark nail polish basically every day of the year, but when it's in season..i just go crazy.

The following are probably my basic favorites that I use every year!

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OPI-  Just a little Rosti at this

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OPI- From A to Z-Urich

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China glaze- Loft-y Ambitious

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China glaze- Call of the wild

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Last, but not least we can't forget some of the most important parts of Fall...

Halloween, bon-fires, hay rides, haunted houses, scary movies, crunching leaves, and Thanksgiving.

-Happy Fall Y'all-

"Life starts all over when it get's crisp in the Fall"

F. S. F.                                        

<3 Shay

DIY American Flag Tshirt..

Being that the 4th of July is probably my second favorite holiday of the year, I had to make and post this DIY project..
I have been wanting to make this shirt for such a long time and never got to it...until now!
It actually turned out really well and done in perfect time for the 4th!
Here is how I did it..Enjoy!

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Materials Needed:
-White v-neck

-Masking tape
(I think mine was the 1 inch wide one)
-Stars
(I got a pack of sticky ones from Walmart for $1.97)
-Blue spray paint
-Red spray paint
-Cardboard to avoid staining and to keep the shirt flat
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How To:
1. Flatten the shirt onto the cardboard and start taping where the stripes belong.
I just eyeballed it, but a ruler would probably work too.
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2. Next I just added my stars.
(I used sticky stars because I did it outside and it was windy)

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3. Cover what will be the blue section with an extra piece of cardboard and paint on the stripes.
I did a little at a time until I got the color that I wanted.

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4. Wait a few minutes for the red to dry then section the blue part off.
Once again I did just a little color at a time until I got the color I wanted.

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5. I would suggest waiting about an hour.
The paint needs to dry really well before you take the tape off

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6. Lastly remove the tape and the sticky stars

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Because spray paint has such a distinct smell, I am going to gently wash the shirt in my sink before I decide to wear it.

Let me know if you like it and how yours turns out if you try it :)

<3 Shay

Day 8..

Day 8: Fears: No spiders or horror films. What truly scares you that brings out human emotion? Why does it make you fearful? How would you confront your worst fear?

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Truthfully, I'm not even really scared of spiders, horror films, or anything like that..

I'm more scared of the real parts of life.

Overall, my biggest fear is to not truly live.

There are so many things I want to do in my life, see, and become.

Just like a lot of other people, I fear that I will never get to do those things.

I want to live my life as fully as possible..

I don't like living the same day twice, and I don't plan to.

I have made many many changes in this last year to better myself and the life I plan to live.

I eliminated a lot of negative and brought in a lot of positive.

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Ever since I was little, I knew God had a plan for me and my life.

As I am growing older, I still know that he has a plan...but understanding and figuring out what that plan is...

Well that's not easy.

Negative things are all around us..which makes it hard to escape.

These negative things have brought me so much anxiety..

I let it overcome my life and make me into a bitter person.

I let it carry me through my days with fear, desperation, and hopelessness.

...But i'm not letting it anymore.

I have made permanent changes in my life that I will never break.

I am moving forward with God by my side..

I will succeed.

I will do great things.

I will be the woman that I and God wants to be.

I will truly live the way God wants me to live.

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To be honest, if it wasn't for God..I don't think I could face my fears..

I have made the choice to stand firm in what I believe and let God help me tackle my fears.

It's easy to get distracted, it's easy to stray away, and it's not always easy to make your way back.

When I am fearful, I try to turn to God as much as I can..

These are just a few verses that help me get through my day and night..they calm my fears and bring me peace...

"Fear not, for I am with you. I am your God, I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my righteous hand" -Isaiah 41:10

"When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer" -Psalms 94:19

"So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today" -Matthew 6:34

"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done" -Philippians 4:6

Never forget to Thank God for all he has done..

<3 Shay

Day 7..

Day 7: Enchantment: What is your favorite fairy tale, story, fable, or myth? Who is your favorite character, and why? What elements of the story enchant your mind?

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I love anything that can enchant my mind, especially a fairy tale.
I've always loved to read stories and watch movies about fairy tales.
They bring me to a place that I have never been before..
They allow you to find a part of yourself that you may have once lost, or you have yet to find.
I love the magic I feel when I really get into a good fairy tale..
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Let's get real..I cannot pick just one..
Actually, anything enchanting strikes my interest
We should always be searching for some sort of magic and enchantment in our lives..
Most of the time it's nothing outside of us, but within our beings.
Fairy tales remind me that it is okay to be different..
It's okay to stand out and stand up for what you believe in.
It is okay to follow your heart..
It's okay to be curious and go searching for what you thought you would never find..
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You have to believe in yourself and in the magic that life holds.
I'm talking about finding the essence in all of the little things in life..
If you don't believe that there is good in people, then you will never find it.

<3 Shay

Day 6..

Day 6: Music: Pick three of your favorite songs. Write a paragraph about the feelings they bring to you. Do you feel contentment, peace, encouragement, or determination?

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1. Push: Matchbox 20
The lyrics in this song bring back a lot of emotions when I hear it. It reminds me of different ways I have felt before. Not just with a guy, but with people in general.
Never feeling good enough, but being pushed around to be so..
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2. Broken: Lifehouse
This is such a powerful song in itself, without me putting a meaning behind it.
I have had a time in my life where I felt completely broken and totally un-fixable.
I felt hopeless and almost to the point where I wanted to give up.
I relate the part of the song where desperation speaks through, to my relationship with God.
As low as I was, I still knew in my heart that I needed to reach out to God for help.
Even though I was experiencing pain, it seemed to be a part of the healing process.
Even though I may doubt many things in my life and myself a lot, it's part of the process.
I'm damaged and just trying to mend the broken pieces.
This song reminds me of the darkest times of my life, but reminds me that no matter how dark my life was, God was still there for me.
Even though I still feel a little broken, I just have to remember that sometimes it takes awhile to find all the little pieces.
In all the times that I feel alone and lost my way..I know that I will never forget my way back.
I just have bigger mountains to climb..
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3. The Road and the Radio: Kenny Chesney
I'm constantly searching for something that i'm missing..
I'm constantly trying to figure out who I am..
"Clarity and inspiration, happiness is a destination that's hard to find,..it may take some time..but in my mind there is something more"
The chorus of the song speaks my life more than any other song I have ever heard..
I believe one hundred percent that happiness is a destination..It doesn't just come easy.
Life is hard and it throws a lot of curve balls, it's not always easy to stay happy.
Personally I have been looking for true happiness for a long time..
I'm still not quite there, but i'm working on it.
I know in my mind that out there, one day..I will achieve my goals, follow my dreams, and reach true happiness..
"I'll get there leaning on some friends I know..the road and the radio"
In my life I have experienced a lot of loneliness.
I have had to rely on myself for many things in my life..
A lot of my problems, feelings, emotions, etc, have had to be pushed aside because I felt like I was left alone..
I have relied on the "road and the radio" to get me through a lot of things.
When people ask me why music is so important to me...it's because it became my friend when no one else was there.
 It spoke for me when I had no words.
 It guided me and helped me make some of the biggest decisions I have ever made.
When I need a friend, someone to talk with, or just someone to listen..I want to get into a car and drive.
Some of the best times I have spent with friends have been just driving. talking, and listening to music..
"Happiness is a destination"
That's the destination I am on, but sometimes it's just hard to find.

<3 Shay

Day 5..

Day 5: Memories: What are some of your most cherished memories? Did these events create a significant impact on your life today?

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Of course there are so many memories that I could mention about friends, family, or just experiences I have had..

But some of my most cherished memories are the memories I have from some of my college years with my friends..

I would have to say my sophomore year was the best year I had while in school..

I lived with two of my best friends and let me tell you what...we had a dang good time.

We spent every single day being so ridiculously stupid and laughing CONSTANTLY.

We became so close this year and learned so much about each other..

Aside from just being silly all the time, we spent a lot of our time really getting to know each other.

We spent so much time talking about our lives, our hopes, dreams, plans for the future, sharing experiences we've all been through, and lots of crying..

We learned so much about ourselves and each other..and we learned a lot about life and how important it is to have God in it with us.

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I remember doing so many stupid/funny things with these two girls..it would take me hours to explain them all :)

We had this one week where it was like a major prank war..

We did so many things to each other and just laughed the whole way through.

We did some things we probably shouldn't have done...but learned along the way.

I have never been as happy as I was when I was with them.

Lately, I have forgotten what it's like to laugh like that..

The time I spent with those girls has really changed my life.

It was during those fun, amazing times...how I learned what it truly means to feel alive.

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I wouldn't trade that year or the time spent with those girls for anything..

They mean so much to me, along with many other people...

but most definitely hold a special place in my heart..

Those girls are now my family..

<3 Shay

Day 4..

Day 4: Possessions: What is your most prized possession? Why do you value it? How did you come across it?

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I don't really have just one thing that I prize the most..

I have a couple of things that mean a lot to me and I hope never to lose: my dad's handkerchief and a ring given to me by my parents.

My dad, as some may already know..passed away in 2006.

It was a very hard time for my family and I.

I'm not one to keep a lot of possessions for keepsake, but this I have had since the day he passed.

I don't ever plan to get rid of it..

Every time I see it, it reminds me of the great man that I lost..

It makes me miss him, but yet reminds me of my love for him and his for me.

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The ring I got from my parents one year for Christmas..

It is called a daughter's ring. 

I think I got it in 2004 maybe? I'm pretty sure I was 12 or 13 years old.

It has my birthstone in the middle with my parents birthstones on each side.

It's a beautiful ring..

I love it and always keep it put away.

I value my ring because I know the meaning behind it.

My parents always have done so much for me and tried to provide for me in the best way possible.

I couldn't ask for better parents..

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Other items that I value very much, are photos of my family and friends..

I love to flip through picture books and remind myself of all the amazing memories we've had.

Word of advice: Always take lots of pictures!

Pictures give you the ability to captivate a memory in the stillness of a moment..

You can only regret the ones that you didn't take..

<3 Shay

Day 3..

Day 3: History: What stories do you know about your ancestors? What traits do you admire in them? What do you want future generations to remember about you? What do you want to be known for?

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To be honest, I really don't know much about my ancestors.

I would absolutely love to know more, I just haven't had that opportunity..

I do know that I am mostly Irish and Native American.

My personality probably shows more Native American than Irish, but who knows.

I haven't done a lot of research so I can't really say where all my traits are from..

I'm a very go with the flow kinda gal..

I can be stubborn..just depends on the situation..

I'm kind of OCD when it comes to my stuff, where it goes, and how I clean

I like having a routine and I don't like things to be out of place..it gives me stability

I love socializing; spending time among family, friends, and meeting new people..

I love anything and everything in nature..

I love all animals..

Beer: love the smell, hate the taste. (I guess I'm not good at being Irish haha)

I am very in touch with the spiritual side of life..

I totally believe in Meditation and I think it is essential in everyday life..

I'm not saying every day you have to kumbaya next to a fire, but just to meditate in your own different ways.

Sometimes being silent and just listening to the earth, the water, or just looking at the stars can bring so much more peace to your soul..It can calm your mind and help you choose the right path..

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Biggest advice for future generations to remember..

Be yourself..don't let anyone ever take that away from you.

I spent a lot of time in my life being who others wanted or expected me to be.

I spent so much time comparing myself to others and not being who I am...that's a big waste of time.

It's so important to voice your opinion and be true to who you are.

Everyone deserves to live a life of harmony and inner peace..

Do what makes YOU happy, not others.

Always put God first..

No matter who comes in or out of your life, no matter how hard life gets, and no matter how far you may feel from God...seek him.

He's never too far away..he's just waiting for you to seek him.

Always try to love others.

Everyone is fighting a battle that we may not know about.

Consider that when you want to hurt another person; physically, emotionally, or verbally.

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Life is hard, but don't let that stop you from living it and following your heart.

Sometimes the right path to choose isn't always the easiest..

"Listen with your heart..you will understand"

                                                    -Grandmother Willow

<3 Shay

Day 2..

Day 2: Happiness:What is your own secret for happiness? How did you get there? If you had to sum everything up, what would be your one word to describe how to be truly happy?

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I am not completely sure if I have my own secret for happiness.

Over the years I have developed ways to bring happiness to myself.

I have observed so many others, read many words, and sought out a lot of advice for the sake of my own happiness.

I have definitely learned that happiness doesn't always come so easy.

I'm not saying it's always hard, because there are many little things that contribute to obtaining pure happiness, but sometimes being stuck in an unhappy rut can be hard to get out of.

Not many people may know, but like many others I too have suffered from harsh unhappiness in a very dark part of my life..

Happiness is a habit, and at that time the only habit I had was to think negatively.

I let anxiety, sadness, and pain steal my happiness..

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I generally have always been seen as a happy person, but that was not always the case. 

I have definitely came a long way from the darkest part of my life, but if I was to say that I was 100% happy and satisfied in my life...well I would most certainly not be telling the truth.

I am happy, but there is still a lot of work to do.

And I'm okay with that..It's part of life and part of being human.

True happiness only occurs in moments..It's not just something you find and then get to keep in little safe box forever.

You have to strive for it and seek it daily.

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Don't let negative things or people enter your mind or your life and take over..it's not worth it (trust me)

I think the simple things in life bring the most happiness..

I would say the most simple thing you can do...alone or with thousands of other people...is Laugh.

Laughter brings joy to your spirit and can lift you up out of your toughest times.

I love laughing..it makes me feel so alive and in the moment.

Laugh when no one is around.

Laugh when you are sad.

Laugh when you are happy.

Laugh at YOURSELF! (this is my fav, haha)

Laugh at other people..well with them would be nicer :)

Laughter is the best medicine..and guess what??? It's free..and so are you.

So laugh whenever YOU feel like it..

<3 Shay

Day 1..

Day 1: Branding: What single word describes your personality? How does it affect you as a writer? Are you whimsical, gregarious, or fierce?

Various..

In my life I like a lot of variety.

Most people consider me a well-rounded person because I am very easy to please.

It's not difficult for me to click with others, because I feel that no matter what I share at least one interest with everyone..

There are so many things in life that I love...I can't even pick a favorite anything.

For example: I absolutely love music and on a day to day basis I probably listen to about every genre.

They may change based on my mood, but just about everything satisfies me.

One minute I'm listening to the Beatles, peace signing everyone in the office like I'm a dang hippie, to headbanging to Pantera or old school Whitesnake. 

Gosh the other day at work my co-worker and I went from basically crying to Everytime by Britney Spears to rapping Tupac lyrics.

Let's get real..my love for music will never change.

On a daily basis I change my career choice.

I can't even count the number of times I've said, "oh my gosh I should've been a..."

For real..I have went from wanting to be a child star on the TV show Zoom to every other possible career choice there is out there.

In my life, I feel as if I am always changing.

No matter what it is; fashion, decor, ideas, career choices, my mind...underwear. ha ha 

But seriously..we are all constantly changing.

It's part of life..and let's just say, I keep my mind occupied.

I like change..it helps relight the fire in my life and shakes things up a bit.

Now I'm not saying that I'm irresponsible, or can't make major decisions..because trust me I have to make plenty of those. 

I just like to keep life exciting..

When it comes to my writing, I also like to give it variety.
I like so many different things in life and I want to talk about all of those things..

I want to keep my writing alive and free to go wherever I want it to go.

I want it to always have a little flare that gives people the incentive to read more..

Words are such an amazing way to express yourself. 

There are never enough of them, but yet you will never run out.

Words are timeless..

<3 Shay

10 Day Blog Challenge..

Okay people...so, I have always always struggled with challenging myself.

Until this year, I have never stuck with any challenges I've made for myself, or have reached any major goals.

This past New Year's Eve (so predictable right?)...I made a pact with myself to actually make some major changes in my life..

I promised myself many things that I would accomplish and I am so far, holding myself to them.

One of the biggest goals that I set for myself...was to launch my blog. Check!!

Like I said in previous posts, I have wanted to do this for many years now..

I decided to set a goal within a goal..

Not only do I want to succeed in many other things in my life, I want to succeed here on my page.

I am challenging myself to a 10 day blog challenge..

I picked a challenge that really makes me think about the words I share, the reasons, and meanings behind them.

Maybe I'll learn some new things about myself along the way..

<3 Shay

Starting tomorrow:

Day 1: Branding: What single word describes your personality? How does it affect you as a writer? Are you whimsical, gregarious, or fierce?

Day 2: Happiness:What is your own secret for happiness? How did you get there? If you had to sum everything up, what would be your one word to describe how to be truly happy?

Day 3: History: What stories do you know about your ancestors? What traits do you admire in them? What do you want future generations to remember about you? What do you want to be known for?

Day 4: Possessions: What is your most prized possession? Why do you value it? How did you come across it?

Day 5: Memories: What are some of your most cherished memories? Did these events create a significant impact on your life today?

Day 6: Music: Pick three of your favorite songs. Write a paragraph about the feelings they bring to you. Do you feel contentment, peace, encouragement, or determination?

Day 7: Enchantment: What is your favorite fairy tale, story, fable, or myth? Who is your favorite character, and why? What elements of the story enchant your mind?

Day 8: Fears: No spiders or horror films. What truly scares you that brings out human emotion? Why does it make you fearful? How would you confront your worst fear?

Day 9: Heroes: Outside of your family, who is your hero? Why do you idolize them? How do you perceive them differently from others?

Day 10: You: What makes you think you're so special? A little harsh, I know. But what do you see in yourself? Tell the truth. Don't describe what others say about you. Become completely vulnerable. What characteristics do you hide from the ones you love?

Bucket List..

"She is just some wild thing. Let her laugh, live, love, and roam free on her own terms, and she is sure to come back to you"
We are free to live our lives how we desire...why not do the things that our hearts desire..

Aside from just writing this for my blog, I have also wanted to write a bucket list since like...FOREVER!
I don't how many times friends and I have gone back and forth talking about bucket lists; crazy things we want to do, people we want to meet, and places we want to see.
I have talked so many times about making one, but never took the time to actually do it...until now :) (obviously)..
Anyway...here is just a few of the big things I would like to add to my bucket list..trust me if I shared everything...we'd be here for days..

One of the first things I have said for THE longest time that I have wanted to do...is to
-Go Skydiving-
I remember flipping through my history book in Elementary school, just looking at the pictures of course...haha who really reads those things?! Anyway..I saw a picture of a bunch of people, holding hands, in a circle, just floating in the air. I was so intrigued..I just knew right then that some day I would also have to do the same thing.
*
-Go on a spontaneous road trip-
Countless..upon countless times I have talked with my best friend about taking a road trip
At first it was just somewhere relatively close, or even just to the normal vaca spots that people pick.
Now..that I am above and beyond sick of never being able to go somewhere--I would be happy with anywhere. Quite frankly, I just want to get in the car and drive. I don't really care where we end up, but I just want to get out of town and Drive..
*
-Swim with dolphins-
Well duh, who doesn't want to do this.
They are some of the most amazing creatures on Earth.
*
-Meet John Mayer-
Okay, I'm going to try to be brief with sharing my love for this man.
HA..but really, it's the music that gets me.
It's a feeling I can't explain..when I hear his music, it's like my soul just soaks it in like a sponge.
It my soul music.
I think if I ever got to meet him, I would probably just want to thank him for sharing his talent and for allowing his music to change my life <3
*
-Scuba dive/swim with sharks-
Let's get real..I spent most of my life pretending I was part mermaid..
Now if I truly decide to swim with sharks..let's just hope they make adult size "little swimmers" because I would probably be (excuse me)..pooing myself.
I mean it would be one heck of an experience..

*
-Learn how to surf-
I am obsessssssed with surfing
I think it is one of the most amazing things created in this world...and I am completely jealous of all the gnarly "dudes" out there with awesome cutbacks.
I bet there is no greater feeling than being able to ride a big wave and to just be one with the water..
(I blame Blue Crush..all their fault)
*
-Write a book-
I just want to share my life with the world..
There is a whole lot more to me than what most people know.
I don't share too many intimate parts of my life with many people, because sometimes it's just hard to trust others
..but one day I hope I can build up enough courage to write it all down and share it with the world
*
-Cliff jump in Greece-
Okay, so I came up with this one when Sisterhood of the traveling pants 2 came out, but it still counts!
I was so amazed at the beautiful water in Greece and how exhilarating it must feel to just let loose and live in the moment.
I want to take a big jump like that and live in the moment..

*
-Attach a lock to the "Love locks Bridge" in Paris-
Corny I know...but it's going to happen!!
*
And last, but definitely not least..overall  I just want to
-Travel-
 Anywhere and everywhere...I want to see the world and everything in it..

P.S.- Feel free to share any of your favorite bucket list ideas or things that you have crossed off of your own list!

<3 Shay

Inspired..

Ever since I was a young girl I have constantly felt like I was a free spirit...a gypsy soul trapped in an ordinary life..

Even as a little girl I felt misunderstood.

Life always seemed so predictable and dull to the people around me..

No one in my life made me feel inspired or excited to dream.

As a young girl, gosh even as a young adult...dreaming meant the world to me.

It gave me a sense of hope..

Hope that "One day" I will actually be able to wake up, live, and actually follow my heart into the life that I was made to live.

I've always been a big dreamer..there's nothing wrong with that right?

Well...according to a lot of the people in my life, dreams as big as mine...don't come true.

Especially for people who are from here..life in this town just stays the same.

Things aren't exciting here, and not a lot of people like change.

Me...I love change.
Even though I am a worrier...I still do truly love not knowing what tomorrow may bring.

It's so exciting to think that anything can happen, for the good. 

If every person went to bed at night thinking..."What difference can I make in one person's life tomorrow?"...and actually did it- the world would be a different place.

I just don't believe that we are here to just exist..we are here to change the world and to really LIVE life.

We aren't here to just build fancy houses, buy lots of things to put in them, get married, have kids, and eventually pass on...

we are here to wake up and live..

I feel as if so many people forget about the little things in life that matter..

Those little things are what makes life so amazing!

I have spent almost every day of my life feeling as if I am trapped in an ordinary life..

I was not born to be ordinary, and ordinary is not who I am

I was born to be extraordinary and that is who I want to be..

Every person in this life was born to be extraordinary.

God made each and every one of us with a purpose and a plan--

I have always had issues with deciding my career choice.

5 college years later..I still am doubting the route that I have taken.

I finally came to the conclusion that maybe I wasn't meant to do just one thing.

Maybe God gave me the desires to do so much more with my life, because that is what I am going to do.

I have never seen myself settling down with just one career and doing that for the rest of my life.

That's a lot of time spent on one thing, when the world has so much more to offer.

I don't like doing the same things over and over again..

Why live the same day twice?

We aren't guaranteed forever, and I don't plan to live my life just thinking of all the things I want to do..

I am going to do them!

It wasn't until recently when God woke me up and told me to stop being so lazy..

He showed me that just dreaming, or thinking of all the things that I want to do isn't enough.

I have to get up..off my BUTT..and do them!!

I can't just keep sitting back and thinking of the person I want to be...I need to get up every day and BE the person who I want to be..

Tomorrow doesn't even exist yet, all we have is today..

Time passes so fast and I don't want to live another day regretting what I didn't do..

I want to live a life of inspiration and bring hope to those who need it.

"We were created to make someone else's life better" 

<3 Shay

My Memorial Day Weekend..

"In every walk with nature...one receives far more than he seeks"

-John Muir

This weekend was one of the most fulfilling times in my life.

Normally I don't do much over memorial day weekend because my family makes plans at last minute.

This memorial day, I had a lot going on..as amazing as the weekend was--it was extremely tiring.

I'm still trying to catch up on sleep.

With spontaneity in my blood, my friend and I decided to go hiking at the last minute.

We woke up bright and early to get busy bonding with nature.

We spent out whole day away from technology, away from stress, away from our jobs, and just spent our time enjoying life.

We went hiking, horseback riding, and canoeing.

Let me just say...even though we both are nature freaks to start with...for some reason, this time that we spent was just different.

It brought us so much joy just to be in the presence of God and see such pure beauty around us.

I love being outside in the sun and by the water.

It reminds me of what it truly means to be human and how lucky I am to be a part of such a beautiful place.

-My friend and I decided to head home, clean up, and head to our favorite place to dance :)

We go line dancing all of the time and we enjoy every minute of it.

 We both were raised on country music and that's what we live for; it's a part of our lives.

-The next day I had church and the memorial day festival in my home town.

My family and I got our favorite lemonade shake-ups and watched the town talent show.

We had a family cookout and played some very competitive games of volleyball.

We ended the night at the baseball park together to watch the town fireworks.

I must say...they were the best they have ever been.

-I spent my Monday relaxing with my family, doing laundry, and watching One Tree Hill.

I am still trying to regain my strength from all the activities we did this weekend..haha 

It was such an amazing time!

It has definitely reminded me of the love that I have for my family, friends, community, and the environment around me.

It's the simple things in life that mean the most to me..and that's what this weekend was; simple & perfect.

"I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees" 

<3 Shay

Friendship..

#Truth

Friendship can not be defined in one word

True friendship also doesn't exist in just a few moments or memories, it lasts forever. 

Through all the turmoil, all the tears, all the brokenness, and all the pain...true friends are always there.

Having an honest, true, and loyal best friend is extremely hard to come across, but when you do...don't let them go.

I have found out in more than one way what it means to be a good friend..

First and foremost, listen.

If it wasn't for the nights of me crying hysterically to my best friend without her having anything to say, driving for hours with just sappy love songs on, or even talking for an hour on the phone to my long distance friends...listening helps.

They are your FREE therapist.

Use them!! :)

Also, don't be the friend that only wants a friend when you are sad. 

If you want to be a good friend...you gotta be there for the good and the bad.

I have friends who don't want anything to do with me unless they want or need something, or my advice.

Where were you when I was sad? And why don't you ever give me advice?

Sometimes it's hard to still be friends with people like that..

Many things go along with being the best friend you can be, but some things are unspoken.
Just like being in love...it's different every time.
Not every friendship is the same, so don't expect it to be.
And...every person can have more than one best friend.
Each friendship means something great to them, but doesn't necessarily mean that one has to be more important than the other.
Jealously is not cool.
I have a couple people in my life who I call "Best friends"
Even though I love them all, each friendship means something different to me.
I have the friends who have been in my life since kindergarten, friends from high school, and friends from college.
Each one plays a special role in my life.
Friendship is not always the easiest thing, but it can definitely be fun.
I have done some of the dumbest things with my friends, but loved every second of it.
You realize how much you know about the law when you are with your best friends.
Having inside jokes and stories only you understand are the best.
Simplicity is key to my heart.
The more simple the friend is...the better.
I have had some of the best nights of my life not doing much of anything.
Being able to laugh with and at each other is one of the best parts of friendship.
Sometimes just being able to be silent together is one of the best feelings when it comes to having a best friend; when you don't need to talk about it because...they "already know".

Friendship comes and friendship goes, but hold on to the ones who mean the most..
They will keep you alive and show you love in so many great ways.

"God made us bestfriends, because no mother could handle us as sisters" <3

<3 Shay

10 Songs of my life..

Below are 10 songs (not in any special order) that I will listen to for the rest of my life

I love music with everything in me..it truly is one of the biggest parts of my life
These aren't exactly my only favorite songs, because trust me...there are plenty more than these :)
These songs have played a big role in my crazy, wonderful, life..

1. 3am- Matchbox Twenty

2. Could you be loved- Bob Marley

3. Black Balloon- Goo Goo Dolls

4. Summertime- Kenny Chesney

5. Your body is a wonderland- John Mayer

6. Won't Go Home Without You- Maroon 5

7. Back2Good- Matchbox Twenty

8. You and Me- Lifehouse

9. Cryin- Aerosmith

10. Blue Jeans and a Rosary- Kid Rock

<3 Shay

P.S.- What are the songs of your life?

10 Things I Believe..

"Always believe that something wonderful is about to happen"

10 Things I believe..

1. God

-Having faith in God and trusting that he is with me at all times is very important to me. I have always had Faith that God is real. I try to always put him first in my life. It's not always easy, but in the long run having a relationship with him is ultimately the most important. 

2. Myself

-I have always been a very independent person. I've relied on myself for so many things in my life. It has not always been easy and sometimes I have gotten stuck in a rut or felt like a failure. Ultimately, aside from God, the only person I can truly count on...is myself. I have a hard time trusting others to always be there for me, tell me the truth, and to be a faithful friend/lover. Even through the hard times, I always try to keep my head up and believe in myself. I believe that I can do anything I put my mind to. 

3. True Love

-Even though I have yet to find true love, I believe that it exists. I've seen love come and go, I've watched people fall in love, and I've watched people fall out love. Both are easy to do. It may not always be easy to see that True love is out there, but it takes faith. I believe in love even though i'm alone.

"Love doesn't have to be perfect, it just has to be true"

4. Laughter is the best therapy..

-No matter how crappy my day is, laughing at something ridiculously stupid makes me feel so much better. I love having family and friends who I can laugh with..or at :) Ha! But seriously when I am in a rut, laughing makes me feel so much better. I can't stand to have negative feelings in my life, so eliminate them with laughter. It truly is the best medicine.
5. Good in the world..
-We live in a world with all sorts of negative things; death, depression, suicide, war, racism, etc. It is sad to see, but yet aside from all the bad, there is also good.
"Give me hope in the darkness that I will see the light"
I always try to see the best in everyone..it's just better that way.
6. Following you dreams..
-I have and always will believe in following your dreams. It is very important to always pursue the things that you love. It is never too late to do what you have always wanted to do. Even the biggest, most bazaar dreams CAN come true. Great people do great things every day. Even people from the smallest towns, people who come from nothing, and people who have failed multiple times, can achieve their greatest dreams. Drive, dedication, and perseverance is what it takes to get there...don't ever give up on your dreams.
7. Miracles..
-I believe that miracles happen every day. A child born every day is the most common miracle. So many people take for granted their children and truly how much of a miracle they are. I think that faith and lots and lots of prayer can bring miracles to life. If you just believe and have faith that God will strengthen you, heal you, save you from the mess you're in...he will.
8. Everything happens for a reason..
-I think that God has a plan for each and every one of us. I think that God's plan is to prosperous us and make our lives great. Every person goes through struggles and every one faces challenges. Those are hard and can bring us down, but they can also make us stronger and into a better person. Even though I have faced struggles in my life that at the time I felt like it was the end of the world, I wouldn't take them back. Those struggles have molded me and shaped me into the woman that I am today. God doesn't give me anything I can't handle..
9. Mother's are the strongest people in the world..
-I cannot imagine what it feels like to be a mother..what an amazing, wonderful, fearful, scary, unimaginable thing in this world. A mother not only sacrifices her body to bear her child, but also she gives up her entire life to tend to that child. Literally, a mother changes her whole life to love her child. She gives up her independence, her peace of mind, sleep, and sometimes her sanity to become a mother. No matter old her child may get, that woman never stops being a mother. No person worries, cares, or loves more than a mother..
10. In the person I want to become..
-Everyone has a vision of the person they want to be..I feel like everyone is trying to become their ideal self. I am for the most part happy with who I am, but yet I am still trying to be someone better. I think every one has room for improvement, including myself. There are places I want to see, people I want to meet, things I want to do, and things I want to say to people that I have never told before. I have the same vision of myself that I have had since I was a little girl. I will become that person that I've always wanted to be..

"She believed she could...so she did"

<3 Shay