Conversations with...

... Strangers in the checkout line.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I know we did. One of the things I like about myself is my ability to start up a conversation with just about anyone. Hubs wanted this huge TV that was on sale (and I wanted some leggings), so we braved the Black Friday hoards to get it. We got the TV no problem, but the leggings did not come in my size and we ended up getting Bear another bed, a toy, a ginormous rawhide bone, and some bungee cords for Emmy (our truck).

It all started when I asked the older couple behind us in line about the bucket of bungee cords they found, because it was bigger than the one we had. Then we proceeded to chat and the closer we got the register the better it got. After some small talk about the lines and crowds, we moved on to pets, which turned into this:

Lady: Oh we just celebrated 50 years together on the 15th.

Man: *Beaming* Yep.

Me: Oh wow!! Congratulations!

Hubs: Don't see that much anymore. Congratulations.

Me: What's your secret?

Lady: You just gotta work through it all. You're not going to agree on everything.

Man: *turns to Philip* All you gotta do is say "yes."

Hubs: *chuckles and nods*

Me and the Lady: *giggles*


Such great advice from her. They were so sweet. She even wished us a Happy Thanksgiving and Christmas and said she was sure they would see us around sometime. And I truly hope we do.

Did you have any great conversations over Thanksgiving?

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Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Squares Recipe

When I was little, my mom would take my brothers and me to Harry's Farmers Market (which is Whole Foods Market now), and when we had been particularly good she would get us a treat. There were these muffins, pumpkin muffins with chocolate chips in them. They were our favorite. Mom would halve them and heat them up in the microwave for our dessert and again at breakfast.

A few years ago, I'm not sure how many exactly, Mom played around with some ingredients to recreate those muffins (we just don't make muffins out of them, but you totally could!). It was a success and now we have a greatly requested family recipe. Shhhh, don't tell my mom, but I'm going to share it with you.

Ingredients:


1 box of Spice Cake Mix
1 Can of Pumpkin
1 Bag of Chocolate Chips
1/2 - 1 cup Pecan pieces (optional)

Serves about 20 - 30 depends on how you cut them and has roughly 150 calories per square.


What you need to do:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2: Cover your cookie sheet completely with aluminum foil. I have to use 2 pieces to make sure the sides are covered and lightly spray it with a non-stick cooking spray. Preferably butter flavored.

Step 3: In a large bowl, mix together the Pumpkin and the cake mix until even. Sometimes I find I need to add a little bit of water if it seems too dry.

Step 4: Stir in the chocolate chips (and Pecans if you are adding them). They can be milk, dark, semi-sweet, whatever you prefer.

Step 5: Pour mix onto cookie sheet and spread evenly.

Step 6: Bake for about 20 mins or until firm. They will be more of a brownie-like consistency than a cake-like one.

Step 7: Cut into squares (I usually do 5 across and 6 wide) and eat 2 pieces before your husband gets home. Then shamefully confess this to him when he asks what you did today.

This dessert is perfect for the Holiday Season, or when you're just craving something Pumpkin.

Wishes Do Come True: Meet Bear

I have been working on Philip for a few months now to get a dog. I love dogs, he's not a huge dog fan, but he said that IF we got a dog it would be a big dog. So I would periodically look at craigslist, petfinder, and the local shelters websites to see what was out there and occasionally I would send a picture of one to Hubs. It wasn't working on him. He doesn't get the same warm and fuzzies from looking at doggie pictures like most people. Until yesterday.

I was Snapchatting with my friend Kaity and we ended up talking about pets. She just recently had to put her dog down because she got cancer and has been kind down about it, but her sister has promised to get her a new pup once she finishes Med-School (yeah, I have really smart friends). And I told her that I keep asking for a doggie, but Philip keeps saying "no" or "not right now."

Inspired, I checked craigslist. Where I found an ad for a "Free Great Pyrenees." I was Shocked. FREE? Curious, I clicked the ad and there he was.

I fell in love instantly. He was so big and a child was laying on him, and just look at that happy face!! I took a screenshot and sent it right over to Hubs saying "Pleeeeeaaaassssseeeeeeeeeeeeee," then I proceeded to email with the owner of this beautiful dog. They call him Brutus, he is completely house trained, he's calm, shy around cats, and good with other dogs and kids. The more she told me about Brutus, the more I just knew he was the perfect dog for our family.  When Hubs finally responded to the plethora of text I was sending him about this gorgeous dog, all he could say was "wow." Once Hubs got home and I talked to him about it more, he agreed that we could go meet Brutus since he was located in the same town we live in.

We got to their house and I was a goner. Brutus was so gentle and sweet. We talked to the family and discovered they were having to re-home Brutus because they were going to be given a service dog for their 3 year old son who has Type 1 Diabetes and due to the rules with service dogs, you cannot have another dog in the house. Such a blessing for them, but it was bittersweet. I was so touched by their story, I knew we were doing the right thing in adopting Brutus from them because we live so close and their son could come visit Brutus whenever he wants. The emotion from them when we were walking out the door with Brutus and all his things was evident. They loved him and would miss him dearly, but they were also happy that Brutus was going to such a good home.

We got Brutus home and I was looking at him and thinking about his name. It didn't suit him. I said something to Philip about it, and we decided we could change it, but it needed to be something similar to Brutus. That's when I remembered that his previous family called him a big snuggled polar bear. Bear. That was it, the perfect name for this ginormous, sweet, fluffy dog.

Our cats were not very happy with us at first, but towards the end of the night Pumpkin was getting braver, but they both were keeping a very watchful eye on Bear. This morning, Pumpkin seems like her normal self, but Misty is still weary and cautious. I don't think it will take long for them to get acclimated to each other since Bear doesn't bother them at all. Like, he has absolutely ZERO interest in them, and I think it's helped so much.

I simply adore Bear and I just know that Philip will fall in love with him soon, just like I did. And since today is Wednesday, and since I got my wish, I have a wish for you. I wish that if you haven't already found the perfect furbabies for your family, that you do soon. They add so much love and cuddles and happiness into the home, how could you not want one?!

What's the adoption story behind your pet?

linking up with

Blogger Men Tell All: The Thanksgiving Edition

I LOVE this link-up with Becca. I think Hubs does too, even though I always wait until the last min when he's half asleep to do the interview with him. Most of the time I have an idea of what he's gonna say, but sometimes he surprises me. Like with that last question.

1. What food do you look forward to most at Thanksgiving dinner?
Hubs: Green bean casserole.
Me: Do I make a good green bean casserole?
Hubs: Yeah.
Me: Best one you every had?
Hubs: Sure
(mm hmm)


2. Do you ever go shopping on Black Friday?
Hubs: We are kinda this year, but I've never been before.
Me: Why not?
Hubs: Haven't really wanted to buy anything worth getting out in the mess for.


3. What’s your favorite Thanksgiving tradition?
Hubs: idk don't really have any traditions. Eat food?
Me: Why don't we start some?
Hubs: Okay.
Me: What do you think we should start?
Hubs: Thanksgiving sex??
Me: *giggles* I guess so.... Does putting up our Christmas lights outside the weekend before count?
Hubs: Yeah, I guess it does cause we did it last year too.


4. Do you travel for the Thanksgiving holiday or do you stay close to home?
Hubs: Usually stay close to home because of my work schedule and all.
Me: Yeah, I'd rather travel for Christmas instead. Even though we're not going to be able to this year.
Hubs: Yeah. It sucks.


5. What are you most thankful for this year?
Hubs: You.
Me What about me??
Hubs: what do you mean?
Me: what about me are you thankful for??
Hubs: I'm thankful that you are an amazing cook and I'm eating better now that I have in a long time. Is that good?
Me: Yes. *blush*

Me: Is there anything else you wanna add?
Hubs: Goodnight blog people! I'm goin' to bed! (we did this last night)

And there you have it. Philip's thoughts on Thanksgiving. He fell right back asleep after I told him he was done too. Poor Hubs tries to stay up until I come home from class on Mondays and Wednesdays, but most of the time he can't. I guess the cats aren't enough entertainment for him.

What are your traditions? your favorite dish?
Most importantly, what are you thankful for most this year?

linking up with

Grateful Hea - Oh, LOOK! A shiny!

As I sat here looking at the blank page and willing the blinking cursor to inspire my fingers to type out some words, A flash of light on my hand caught my eye. You see, normally I don't wear my wedding rings around the house because it can get caught on things and loosen the settings. I'm terrified of loosing a stone, and limit my ring wearing to when I leave my house, or have company over. Hubs does the same thing. But lately, I've been missing them on my finger, so this morning I slid them on right when I woke up.

I love my rings. Philip picked them out all by himself, even though I had pinned A LOT of "inspiration" for him on Pinterest. I have never seen a set of rings like mine before, and they are so perfect for me and my style. Every time I look down at them I smile because they remind me of how much my husband loves me and that he really does know me.

I love being married to Philip. It's the most natural thing for us to be and I couldn't imagine life any other way. So, today I am grateful for the traditional symbol of love and marriage that I get to wear proudly on my left hand.

What are you grateful for?

Linking up with

Link Your Ink

I was so excited when Cassie announced this link-up. I love seeing people's tattoos and hearing the stories behind them. The meaning behind my tattoo is a favorite of mine to tell, but let's start with the story about how it got on my wrist to begin with.

I had been wanting a tattoo since I was about 16. My mom had just gotten hers, and I desperately wanted a butterfly on my shoulder. But alas, I was too young. So I waited. A few years pass, and my tattoo dreams where still strong. I had the chance once, but I totally chickened out. Good thing too because I would be stuck with a generic pink butterfly on my shoulder.

Fast forward to my early twenties. I no longer want a butterfly, I want the word "faith" on my wrist. I would doodle it there in pen while I was at work, I tried out different fonts, I researched tattoo shops, but you have to have money to get one and I was fresh out. Rent, food, and bills kinda take priority. Adult responsibilities suck sometimes.

In my mid twenties I was introduced to wonderful time suck world of Pinterest. There I found so many beautiful tattoos and pinned them all! One day I came across the perfect tattoo design that took my little idea up a notch. I saved it to my phone and daydreamed about the day I had the spare cash to get it. Then my tattoo godmother (aka by BFF Melissa M - not my Llama Melissa) decided we were getting best friend tattoos for my 26th birthday. I showed her what I'd been wanting, and she loved it! Mel consulted Siri for local tattoo shops and we chose one.

About an hour later I was watching Mel get my sweet little design inked on her hip. She lay there like it was no big deal; like she could take a nap or something. Granted, she already had a few tattoos before this, so she knew what to expect. Then it was my turn. I was terrified. The sound of the tattoo machine was making me nervous and the artist playfully kicked it on at me a few times to desensitize me to the sound. He patiently waited for me to offer him my arm and calm down. I tried to watch at first, but I couldn't. I ended up turning around and watching some cartoon show on the TV in the room. It didn't hurt as much as I was expecting it to, but I won't say it was painless.

I am very proud of myself for overcoming my fear and getting the tattoo I'd been dreaming of for years. It means a lot to me, and when Mel wanted it too, that meaning grew even more. You see, my Gramma used to say this to me: "Amanda, you just gotta have faith. Faith in the Lord, faith in your family, but most of all, you gotta have faith in yourself." Now, every time I look down at my wrist I hear those words and I remember that Melissa is apart of the family I chose for myself and she will always be there for me, like I am for her.

Do you have a tattoo? What's the meaning behind it?

Linking up with

Monthly Musings: November

There are so many things I could talk about with this prompt. I could go on and on about all the gadgets, clothes, food, and beauty things in my life, because I really am thankful for them. But as I started to write about those things last night, something felt off. I felt shallow. So I deleted every word and put my computer away.

When I woke up this morning, it hit me. The things I am most thankful for are not really things, it's people. Two people in particular.

Yep. Those two faces are my favorite faces in the whole wide world. If it weren't for them I would not be where I am or who I am today.

Philip, my wonderful Hubs. He does so much for our little family and he puts up with all my crazy antics, like my over-the-top excitement about Christmas decorations (read about that here) and my need to purchase every color of nail polish available. He reigns in my crazy and I bring him out of his shell. We're a perfect match. His unyielding support for my school dreams and goals is amazing. I don't think I'd be doing as well as I am (I made the Dean's List!!) if it wasn't for him. And he's always showing me with little things how much he loves me; a kiss every morning, a touch as he's passing, letting me buy those fleece lined leggings, and being my model for my crochet projects. I honestly do not know what I would do without him now, and I am so much happier here with him than I have been in years.

BUT, if it wasn't for my mom, I would not be here (literally!), I might have given up a long time ago. She's been my rock, my shoulder to cry on, an amazing source of support and encouragement. Quite honestly I might still be back in Georgia working at that miserable job and living a miserable lonely life. She's the one who encouraged me to follow my heart and move to Missouri to be with Philip. She's the one who helped me pack all my furniture in storage and stuff my little car full of clothes and other random items to take with me. She's the one who calls my phone and leaves a voicemail of herself reading my favorite childhood book. She's the one who inspires a lot of my creativity and nudges me to explore things. She's been the one true constant thing in my life since I was born and for that I will be forever thankful.

What are you thankful for?

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Georgia Vs. Missouri

Moving to Middle-of-Nowhere, Missouri from Atlanta, Georgia has been a huge culture shock for me. And slightly frustrating. There are so many great things about living in and around a big city, and I miss it. Let's make a list (cause we all know how much I like lists) of things I miss from Georgia.

1. Chick-fil-A
They are everywhere in Georgia. It's my absolute fave fast food place, and they always have amazing service and clean bathrooms. I know there are some here in Missouri, but we have to travel at least 30 mins away to get to one, huge bummer.

2. Moe's 
This place is like heaven in a red plastic food basket. Its a less healthy version of Chipolte (aka they have amazing white cheese sauce). They've got burritos, nachos, and salads. Ah-may-zing.

3. The Mall of Georgia
The largest mall in the state (duh) that has almost every store you could think of in one place. AND a movie theater.

4. The Georgia Aquarium
Let me just tell you how much I love watching the Beluga whales. They are so graceful in the water, it's like ballet. Plus the dolphin show, the whale sharks, and of course the cutest penguins ever!

5. Quick Trip
Only the best gas station in the world. I have yet to see one here in our area. The Hy-vee fuel center is a pretty close comparison though.

6. My Family
Seriously, guys, this is the thing I miss most. Especially my mom.


While I still refer to Georgia as my "home," I am beginning to love some little things about this tiny town in Missouri where I currently reside.

1. No Traffic!
Like, ever. It's amazing!

2. Snow!
We hardly ever got snow in Georgia, and I think it is so beautiful.

3. Cheaper Gas
I brag to my mom all the time cause our gas prices are lower than theirs.

4. The slower pace of life.
It's nice that everyone isn't always in such a hurry here. It helps me to relax and actually enjoy my experiences more.

5. Our House
It's nice to live in a real house, with a yard, and no roommates. I can decorate how I want. I can walk around naked if I want (Hubs would love this!)

6. My Hubs
He's the whole reason I moved here to begin with. He's done his best to make this place feel like home for me, but in all reality, home is not a physical place. It's where your heart is, and my heart is with him.

What do you like best about your town?

Linking up with

A Grateful Snow

Linking up with Ember Grey. for #GratefulHeart Monday

If you follow me on Instagram (or you live in Missouri) you know that it snowed yesterday. Our first snow of the season! I'm excited about it, but I'm probably the only one. And, if you've been around these parts of the interwebs for a while, you know I am in school again, and since today is Monday, I have class this afternoon/evening. Snow + Ice + Cold + Driving = NO BUENO! Especially for me having almost ZERO experience driving on it (I was born/raised/lived in Georgia for 27 years! And it really snowed maybe 3 or 4 times. I drove in it once a few years ago, and nearly totaled my shitty car).

Anywho! Those of you that follow in Instagram also know that Hubs and I just traded in my little Nissan Versa (her name was Sophie) for an F150 4x4. Hubs drives the truck (now named Emmy) and I get to drive the Mustang (named Ruby)! VROOM VROOM! Well, one of the reasons we decided to purchase our truck was my inexperience with winter weather and Hubs' worry that I might get into an accident driving in it to school. Hence the 4 wheel drive. That means I get to drive Emmy when it snows, and that makes me feel so much safer than if I was driving Ruby or even my little Sophie.

Meet Emmy! (Definitely not wearing a tank and flip flops today!!)

So today I am very grateful for our truck, Emmy. But I am also grateful for the beauty that is snow. Even in the coldest of weather, mother nature gives us an amazing view.

What are you grateful for today?

Conversations With...

... My Hubs

Ok. So I decided that I'm putting up my Christmas decorations a little early this year (aka: today! #dontjudgeme) and I dug the boxes and totes out last night. Hubs decided he wanted nothing to do with the putting away of fall decor and the searching through of Christmas decor to see what I've got to work with, so he went to soak in the bath. I crank up my Holiday tunes and put away the pumpkins and leaf garland. Once that was done, I opened up the totes and boxes that I haven't been able to sort through in about two years. I had forgotten about some of the neat things I have! And as I discovered more little treasures, I grew more and more excited.

This is what my kitchen looked like last night...

Me: *scampers into the bathroom and thrusts an item at Hubs* LOOK!! It's my kitchen Santa!! He's gonna look sooooo good in there!

Hubs: *trying to relax in his bath* That's awesome, babe.

Me: *bobs the Santa at him* Ho Ho Ho! *giggles and scurries back to the kitchen*

a few mins later...

Me: *scampers back into the bathroom* I even have cute little things for the bathroom too!!

Hubs: Really? Where are you even gonna put them? *looks around*

Me: *looks around* I don't know, but I WILL find a place! *scurries back out*

another few mins later...

Me: *scampers into the bathroom* OH YEAH!

Hubs: What are those??

Me: Snowflake lights for outside!! Our porch is gonna look so good this year. I've got so many lights and more garland and, and, and, it's just gonna be awesome. *scurries back out*


I love how he humors me. I get so excited about little things like this and he just smiles and nods and encourages me because it makes me happy. I can't freaking wait to have it all done. I'll definitely post pics once I'm finished.

Have you started putting up Holiday decor? If not, when do you plan to?

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The Cup Song + Some Blogger Love

After several requests, I have made a video of my version of the cup song that I performed for my speech class on Monday. I got all smiles, applause, and so so many compliments afterwards. I am very proud of myself for actually doing it. I am conquering my fear of public speaking (and singing!) in so many ways by going back to school. If you choose to learn this too, please please make a video!

So without further adieux, my cover of The Cup Song.

As promised - The links to learn it yourself!

How to do the cup rhythm (you can either tap the top of the cup or the table) ---> HERE

Lyrics ---> HERE


Because this post can not be all about me (blush) and my song, I'm also going to share with you some of my favorite posts I've read recently.

The Importance of Being Naked - Awash with Wonder
I loved this post so much. Shannon has such a way with words and somehow manages to address topics like this with such realness and honesty that you can't possibly not like her.

Link Your Ink - Sage the Blog
I cannot tell you how excited I am about this link up! I love seeing people's tattoos and hearing the stories behind them! Do you plan to link up?

50 Facts About Me - Six One Six
Kelly is so freaking adorable (and so is DiNero!). I love her videos and I loved learning more about her.

A Grateful Llama List - The Rambling Llama
Not only did Melissa use a list topic from my #ListYourself Challenge, but she included me in her list!! How sweet is that?

Outgrowing Favorite Bloggers - The "Florkens"
Sometimes you just have to accept that as you grow as a blogger, some bloggers aren't growing with you and your tastes begin to change. While you still like bloggers as a person, their blogs just don't have the same pull they used to. Kate expresses this situation so well.

What blogs did you love this week?
Are you going to learn The Cup Song yourself?

Linking up with

List Yourself - List #2

Happy Thursday! It's still cold in these parts and will continue to get colder with possible SNOW on Saturday!! Our first snow of the year, much to the disdain of everyone else in the state. I may be the only one excited about it. Anywho. I bring you the second list from my List Yourself Challenge today.

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List all those restrictions, from stop signs to gravity, that you can't stand living with.

>>> Calories. Like seriously? Why are those a thing?

>>> The 140 character count on Twitter. Sometimes I just need a few more. Just a few!

>>> The fact that you must have a child with you to get into LegoLand in Kansas City. I like legos too! And besides, we all know I'm still a 12 year old a heart.

>>> Can someone invent never ending cell phone, tablet, and laptop batteries please!!

>>> Dear Cancer. Legit, I need for you stop trying to steal my best friend. She doesn't like you; actually, no one does. So if you could like disappear that would be great. Sincerely, Amanda.

>>> I'm still waiting on someone to invent a teleportation machine so I can go see my mommy whenever I want to.

>>> Why won't Hubs let me have a doggie? WHY?? Who can resist these adorable faces??

What are somethings that are holding you back from what you really want to do?

Leibster Award + Grateful Heart + A Giveaway!

I was nominated last week by my sweet friend Melissa for the Liebster Award. It's an award for small and new bloggers who have really touched and inspired you. But what does "liebster" even mean?? Well, I looked it up. It's a German term of endearment meaning "beloved", "dearest", or "sweetheart." How fitting right? I am so honored and grateful to be nominated and I am excited to be able to nominate some of my favorite bloggers too!

But there are rules that go along with this award, so let's get to it!

The Rules:

>>> Post 11 random facts about yourself
>>> Answer 11 questions asked by the person that nominated you
>>> Nominate a few bloggers (with less than 200 followers) to do the same
>>> Let the bloggers that you nominate know that they've been nominated!

Random Fact #1 - I can sing and perform "Cups" by Anna Kendrick (original song by Lulu and The Lampshades that was adapted from a song by A.P. Carter called "Will You Miss Me When I'm Gone") My favorite cover has to be this one though, by 

Random Fact #2 - I'm going to perform that song with the cup rhythm as part of an assignment for my speech class today (Monday). #Nervous

Random Fact #3 - I'm seriously contemplating putting up my Christmas decorations this week. Cue all the eye rolls. I know I know, but I'm really really missing my family, and knowing the chances of Philip and me being able to visit them for Christmas is really really, really, really slim makes me even more sad. So putting up the decor will make me feel better.

Random Fact #4 - I have a growing love for Snapchat. And even though I only really send snaps to a few of my girlfriends, I still think it's super fun.

Random Fact #5 - I need an app to help me remember things. It's actually pretty awesome though. It's called Wunderlist and I use it for more than just the notifications.

Random Fact #6 - The only reason I can tolerate keeping my nails painted on a regular basis now is because of this amazing little bottle of miracle liquid. I got it from Ulta and it's Essence Nail Art Express Dry Drops. AH-MAY-ZING I tell you. Cuts my nail pairing and drying process by like 75%. Seriously. Get some.

Random Fact #7 - I am getting over my stage fright thanks to school. Being a Psychology major means lots of papers and the presentations that go a long with those papers. Not to mention my speech class this session. Turns out I'm much braver than I thought.

Random Fact #8 - My friend Melissa has only has car trouble when I'm with her. A flat tire? Yep I was there. Dead battery? I was there too. Transmission issues? Well I wasn't actually in the car for that one but I was behind her in my own (Thank God!). Those things are never good, but having a friend there at least makes it a little better, right?

Random Fact #9 - I like elephants. I have an elephant table/statue thing in my living room. His name is Homer. I had a stuffed elephant growing up and his name was Ollie. My phone back ground is a purple elephant. I don't know why, but I just like them.

Random Fact #10 - I have a tattoo on my wrist. It's the only one I have, and probably the only one I'll ever get (not that I don't want more though). There's a story behind it too, but I'll go into more detail about that later this month though, so be sure to watch for that!

Random Face #11 - I play drinking games with my mom and her husband. And it's totally fun! I don't recommend it for everyone though.

Ok now for the questions from Melissa.

What made you start blogging?
Honestly I was bored. I had just moved to Missouri from Georgia, with no friends or family. Being at home alone all day while Philip was working really began to take a toll on me, so I turned to writing. Luck for me I fell into this lovely place and met so many great people I can now call friends.

Do you have any nicknames?
I do! I totally just listed them ALL out on a post last week! Check that out here.

What's one thing you'd have to have with you if you were deserted on an island?
Sunscreen. Like... I don't wanna get sunburnt.

What is your guilty pleasure?
I love that show Girl Code on MTV. or is it VH1? I can't remember, but it's freaking hilarious.

What is your favorite movie quote?
I have two!
"It is our choices that show us what we truly are far more than our abilities." -Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter

"The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to Love, and be Loved in return." -Toulouse, Moulin Rouge

What is your go-to accessory staple?
A scarf. I can rock an infinity scarf with almost any outfit!

What is the best thing you've ever cooked?
Chicken Bacon Wraps for sure. Hubs loves them! Recipe here.

If you were one of the four seasons- which would you be and why?
Winter. I love the snow and prefer colder weather. Plus winter can be so beautiful and all the best Holidays are in Winter!

Were you born in the state (or country) you're currently living in? If not - what brought you there?
I was born in Georgia, but I moved to Missouri last September for a man. And now that man is my husband. Sometimes the risks you take pay off in amazing ways.

What do you do for a living?
I am a full time student and blogger right now. Once I'm done with school, I plan on becoming a licensed Marriage Tharapist.

What do you think MSDS stands for?
uuhh I have no idea... so I googled it! It stands for Material Safety Data Sheet.  #iCheated #Don'tJudgeMe

My Nominations:

Jackie from Our Nashville Life
Chelsea from The New Wifestyle
Kathy from Him & Me
Cherie from Pink Nightmare

My Questions for my Nominees!

1. Why did you start blogging?
2. What's your most favorite post you've ever written?
3. What's the story behind the name of your blog?

4. Name three places you think everyone should visit if they get the chance.
5. What is your go-to recipe/meal for dinner?
6. Do you like where you live? If no, where do you want to live?
7. How many children do you have/want? Why?
8. What movie could you watch every day without getting tired of it?
9. Cats or Dogs? Why?
10. What are the top 5 songs on your playlist right now?
11. How many selfies have you taken in the past 5 days? Be honest now.

OK!! Now for even MORE fun! How's that possible you ask? We'll It's Becca Dorr's birthday! And in celebration she, and a bunch of us other lovely ladies, are having a giveaway!! There will be TWO winners! One winner will get a $250 gift card to either Sephora, Target, or PayPal cash (your choice!) and the second winner will get an Urban Decay Vice 3 Palette! I mean who doesn't want one of those?? Check out the Rafflecopter below to find out how to get an many entries as possible!




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What a big Monday?? Goodness me! I hope your's is a good as mine :)

Linking up with

List Yourself #1

Names. It's how we identify ourselves to others. How we know someone is referring to us and how we refer to them. Most parents put a lot of thought into choosing a name for their child, but you can't always predict nicknames; the good ones or the bad ones. Sometimes a nickname may just be a title or a variation of your given name, a term of endearment. But sometimes a nickname is given to hurt someone and make them feel less than. Today I am sharing all the names (that I can remember) that I have ever been called with some short explanations for each.

Amanda - I mean... it is my name.

Amanda Nicole - It's what I go by here in Blogland. There are so many Amandas out there too!

Manda - Most of the people in my life nip off that first "A", because two syllables are easier than three.

Family Nicknames

Mandy - Only my Grandmommy is allowed to call me this and that's because I don't have the heart to tell her I hate it.

Manda Pete - My mom used to call me this when I was really little. Every now and then she'll write it on a birthday card or something though.

Manna/Mannadoos - Mom calls me this now a lot, usually in her cutesy cat voice too.

Dee-duh - When my youngest brother was a toddler, he could say "Amanda" properly and this is what came out instead. He's pretty much forgotten about it now, but we sometimes bring it up when we tell old stories.

Sissy - My sisters both still call me this sometimes. I've always loved it. Makes me feel close to them even when I can't be.

Relationship Nicknames

Babe/Baby - A few exes called me this. It's pretty generic and it was never my favorite.

Love - My hubs calls me this all the time.

Wifey - This too!

Mrs. Wood - This one is my favorite now. I love when strangers refer to me this way.

Nicknames from friends and coworkers

Manda Panda - One of my middle school friends would call me this a lot. I guess because it rhymed? 

Amander - An old boss somehow started this one, but it fizzled out after a while.

Nicole - In my french classes I went by my middle name (because it's french). After two years of this, I still look around if I hear it.

Amy - Another old boss would always call me this instead of Amanda because he said I looked like and Amy. What do you think? 

Bestie - because I am!! (looking at you Melissa and Kathy!)

Amanda-Hug-n-Kiss - Some of the people I used to work with would tease me with this one. It's the name of a doll from the 90s I think.

Snicklefritz - This is a recent one. Kay (from The Best of Intentions) discovered this term (here) and I took it and ran with it. Now it's what we call each other.

Seraffine/Sera - Confused? I bet. This is name I gave to my character in the game I played when I met Philip, so that's what my gamer friends know me as.

The bad ones

Pudge - A guy in high school started calling me this when I began to gain a little weight. It really hurt my feelings, but I pretended it didn't bother me. Thankfully it never caught on too much and after freshman year I never heard it again.

Bitch - I can't tell you how many times I've been called this because I stand up for myself and won't back down when I know I am right. Also by men on the street because I wouldn't stop and talk to them. However it's also a name I call myself when I feel like I am going to far. 

Fat - I call myself this a lot and I should probably stop. But I can't, because it's true. I know I need to lose some weight

Crazy - I have been called "crazy girlfriend" and "crazy ex-girlfriend." Why? Because I have emotions and I show them. Because I care and worry a lot. Because I have a psychological disorder called Chronic Depression. 

What names were/are you called?

If you use any of the prompts from the List Yourself Challenge (you can find the prompts here), don't forget to add your post link to the linky list either here or on the List Yourself Page --> here! I will be checking it all the time!

Some Reminders and Giveaway!

Hello Blogland! I just wanted to stop in a remind you of a few things.

First, The Conversations Link-up from Oct 30th is still live! So join in and share your conversations with us.

Second, The NEXT Conversations link-up is on November 15th! So you have time to get ready for that one too! For more information on how that works go >> here <<

Third, If you need a blog topic (or 30), check out my List Yourself challenge! Don't forget to add your post links each time you use one so we can all come and read your lists.

And Last, but certainly not least, I'm participating with some pretty amazing ladies in an awesome giveaway! Who wants to win some money and free advertising? You know you do!

The prize is a $105 dollar Visa Gift card and $10 advertising credit on Fitness Blondies blog as well as an ad giveaway and featured post onKeeping Up With Ashley & Codys blog

Lisa @ Showered With Design // Katelynn @ XO, Katelynn // Liz @ The Fitness Blondie //Emily @ Martinis & Bikinis  //  Brianne @ Being Bracco // Karissa @ Karissa and Company // Rebecca @Renovating Rebecca // Amanda @ As The Wine Cork Turns//Anne @ Love The Here & Now  //Justine @ Life As A Baltimore Girl// Just Jessie //Janessa @ Running on Empty  //Amber @ InDuffinitely Me // Emelia @ Dream Big and Buy The Shoes // JC @ Sweet Love and Ginger // Kate @ Green Fashionista //  Brianna @ Sincerely Brianna Leigh//Kelsey @ Random Randts // All The Joys // Molly @ Awfully Big Adventure   //Kelsey @ Blonder Side of Life// Just Georgia Peachy//Meghan @ Champagne and Suburbs // Amanda @ Knock on Wood //Mary @ Eat Drink and Be Mary//Misty @ Handbags and Handguns //Ericka @ This Crazy Thing Called Life // Nancy @ Sincerely and Sarcastically// Classy & Sassy Mrs. // Keeping Up With Ashley & Cody

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