tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41829828511500531162024-03-14T02:56:06.425-05:00life, but betterashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-19348169547333946462013-04-22T13:36:00.002-05:002013-04-22T13:36:30.050-05:00vanity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuxm0-hgJz_orw0KDcpoKHXYbQpR2Wh8rhBp_PyAwMpyESIBCFz63d-GcPqOTSdeHGWUzyci67M_fk9mMWcds3T4J6NZo3vJsd4hRqudZlvIH5qot4LFOIJiurDIXxkSf3NWFgTjCKh0/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+6+41+19+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuxm0-hgJz_orw0KDcpoKHXYbQpR2Wh8rhBp_PyAwMpyESIBCFz63d-GcPqOTSdeHGWUzyci67M_fk9mMWcds3T4J6NZo3vJsd4hRqudZlvIH5qot4LFOIJiurDIXxkSf3NWFgTjCKh0/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+6+41+19+PM.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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I made myself a makeshift vanity this weekend! I know I was all psyched about the velcro makeup board a while back. And don't get me wrong, it was awesome. But I got really tired of not having counter space to put my elbows on and keep my working in progress stuff on. And I had an old shitty makeup mirror with stripped screws that wouldn't stay in place and I could never use it anyway because I couldn't get a good angle on it BLAHBLAHBLAH. So I woke up Sunday morning and thought "I'm going to make myself a new workstation." This study of ours has been repurposed 3 times now. It was originally an 'office' with a working desk (pictured) on the wall to the right of this photo (not pictured) and my keyboard was in the place of this workstation now. Then Zach got a new recliner and we were left with an extra homeless recliner, so we moved the keyboard into the dining room, put the chair in the corner (partially pictured?) and kept the desk where it was but effectively turned it into a listening station by setting the turntable and speakers on it. Yeah that was used like twice.</div>
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So this is the current incarnation. The chair is no longer in the corner but rather against the wall to the right, and this is my battle station, complete with natural light.Which will be more readily available here in a few weeks (hooray spring)!</div>
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Since my aforementioned makeup mirror was busted, I decided it was time for a trip to Target to procure a new one. Actually I went to Bed Bath and Beyond first, then realized that they're exorbitantly expensive, and redirected to Target. I got the lighted makeup mirror, the pull out plastic drawers (on the left), the two small green boxes (on the right) and the deep teal box (on the right) for about $60. I already had the pink brush cup and the green bin (in the bottom right corner) to complete the setup. </div>
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Picture time!<br />
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgREY_aengj2QkGxfG1ZJj-52-zTTBQbsW71gW_nCr9TLaF8kaqZJBkITK9xlokXSlep6ULQCFdisIJ5Zo6UGr0qibMnJXOFb0JjEAylzETQWzwclj-Q7pDwuX7sveXLrgz92LdUUqSGCA/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+51+51+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgREY_aengj2QkGxfG1ZJj-52-zTTBQbsW71gW_nCr9TLaF8kaqZJBkITK9xlokXSlep6ULQCFdisIJ5Zo6UGr0qibMnJXOFb0JjEAylzETQWzwclj-Q7pDwuX7sveXLrgz92LdUUqSGCA/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+51+51+PM.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></i></div>
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<i> Top drawer: Face stuff. Foundation, BB cream, primers, blushes, powders, etc.</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5UWSsnyuFd8MuFP058oQs3dV-Pq7-oSxEngVBMf-cPc5HvGcFKhzT4MJs60kzdFqc-NmAF9YJcx_l64quKLeS0AW11fANoytbPTPscOQiybMYxcuCV_mAF9S6yTjZZzT5XJQVzuyy3k/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+51+54+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5UWSsnyuFd8MuFP058oQs3dV-Pq7-oSxEngVBMf-cPc5HvGcFKhzT4MJs60kzdFqc-NmAF9YJcx_l64quKLeS0AW11fANoytbPTPscOQiybMYxcuCV_mAF9S6yTjZZzT5XJQVzuyy3k/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+51+54+PM.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></i></div>
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<i> Middle drawer: Individual eyeshadows</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii7aEYWc73Ls-90lHhleLrcxHNtIqtnvpBbwasUyXZjxI5BI7Tn-vlNdqUSlwdl8CWZu4meWTBDdDsGQBKc2fkQzhEpPq44squAmeo7mxpE4vbkUmP6UN6zH5pQo_rcDytLwGnMcywFXY/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+51+59+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii7aEYWc73Ls-90lHhleLrcxHNtIqtnvpBbwasUyXZjxI5BI7Tn-vlNdqUSlwdl8CWZu4meWTBDdDsGQBKc2fkQzhEpPq44squAmeo7mxpE4vbkUmP6UN6zH5pQo_rcDytLwGnMcywFXY/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+51+59+PM.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></i></div>
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<i> Bottom drawer: Eyeshadow palettes, mascara, and that one lonely lipgloss. I keep the rest of my lip stuff in a bag in my purse because let's be real, reapplication is necessary. It might as well live there.</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3RsVWfMhAKXZ-aoNFwo5xhhnPtdyrLTfG_aWrx5Q7mDu7ElRVaVNFNqdOdcWRK6Ex8O3GG2_9SUvKU_up-g0_qO33zy0HjZFatPhA_JT9NSZCKYBc42PBRC4Icd2CNG7pFypsqBmUZo/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+52+08+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3RsVWfMhAKXZ-aoNFwo5xhhnPtdyrLTfG_aWrx5Q7mDu7ElRVaVNFNqdOdcWRK6Ex8O3GG2_9SUvKU_up-g0_qO33zy0HjZFatPhA_JT9NSZCKYBc42PBRC4Icd2CNG7pFypsqBmUZo/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+52+08+PM.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></i></div>
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<i> Re-purposed Smashbox tin holds all the eyeliners and the sharpener. </i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88WhqXEBiaRtTvj20-tH4PTaxjHORU5ddksybNEoPjJnHFvuXM5u9j6K22d-F1bVK_i-Lv6Xk6UqxyE7IEVoiAVWNavMqKDvXMx_dVqwFQhrAKqyYSm5U5vEtd9WYs8o891-N9PmUddM/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+52+33+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88WhqXEBiaRtTvj20-tH4PTaxjHORU5ddksybNEoPjJnHFvuXM5u9j6K22d-F1bVK_i-Lv6Xk6UqxyE7IEVoiAVWNavMqKDvXMx_dVqwFQhrAKqyYSm5U5vEtd9WYs8o891-N9PmUddM/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+52+33+PM.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></i></div>
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<i> Deep teal bin: Hair stuff. All the product, bobby pins, a few clips, and two of my brushes. And deodorant which was moved back into the bathroom after this picture was taken.</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4N4VIbwgutNFkFKfycWUGBTatI81_qEy6fr4JEfGIxsySAPaDLySw1P87_ylLvaR-kETq9pIiEcg8BeUM7iEoNw85dE9VNDxoJLbF3NFEnQqomoSgOtlxEYPs0tvjY62HmRhKO1RZU5k/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+52+38+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4N4VIbwgutNFkFKfycWUGBTatI81_qEy6fr4JEfGIxsySAPaDLySw1P87_ylLvaR-kETq9pIiEcg8BeUM7iEoNw85dE9VNDxoJLbF3NFEnQqomoSgOtlxEYPs0tvjY62HmRhKO1RZU5k/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+52+38+PM.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></i></div>
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<i> Top green bin: Nail polishes! I tried to organize them by color and realized that I have one bright-ass teal polish that doesn't fit anywhere and then I got sad.</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-izvC6eSU8EjvPN-E5k3rdg2rEjca2NKGzBWV8y0xIL3UXEk-ABNwHT4fvycE7fFM_yIP60zI8x-aSxNtLErT_Gr-MvWjaa32OT6oQu4zrzjunFL6t49150hFm-ufEnEVwMJKCH6TtZM/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+52+47+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-izvC6eSU8EjvPN-E5k3rdg2rEjca2NKGzBWV8y0xIL3UXEk-ABNwHT4fvycE7fFM_yIP60zI8x-aSxNtLErT_Gr-MvWjaa32OT6oQu4zrzjunFL6t49150hFm-ufEnEVwMJKCH6TtZM/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+52+47+PM.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></i></div>
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<i> Bottom green bin: Nail care stuff. Remover, toe separators, cuticle oil, files, buffer, and cotton pads.</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvPrQCPAbNi1-pycYIo3DKdyrMm3oPkrKjMMGR0CsrC4oiBRBeDuFHtiaMoRaHpVv9cq9yvLZYLCjusr8k5Y1GUhJBIa5ktljFx8wB1K62rjQbtUoaMyos97j6Aocbnw7bf9-mUJnztU/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+53+03+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvPrQCPAbNi1-pycYIo3DKdyrMm3oPkrKjMMGR0CsrC4oiBRBeDuFHtiaMoRaHpVv9cq9yvLZYLCjusr8k5Y1GUhJBIa5ktljFx8wB1K62rjQbtUoaMyos97j6Aocbnw7bf9-mUJnztU/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+53+03+PM.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></i></div>
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<i> To the side of the drawers we've got the lotions, toner, and q-tip/cotton ball container.</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ixOdDqAx5OzXzcdJm3cizNwwChL-UKtkU52uXDST2yG5sdhyphenhyphen0zEwBkkTYhA_JYyEDGckEKUuo9_ylbaf7Zr28CRpGC3FCkNcgTLcQfQj1XtoG3iU1SU86dioADjmPa4ywWyUrgGZM54/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+53+10+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ixOdDqAx5OzXzcdJm3cizNwwChL-UKtkU52uXDST2yG5sdhyphenhyphen0zEwBkkTYhA_JYyEDGckEKUuo9_ylbaf7Zr28CRpGC3FCkNcgTLcQfQj1XtoG3iU1SU86dioADjmPa4ywWyUrgGZM54/s1600/Photo+Apr+21%252C+4+53+10+PM.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></i></div>
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<i>And in the green bin on the floor are the hot hair tools.</i></div>
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I didn't take a separate picture of the makeup brushes because they seemed pretty obvious. They're brushes. In a cup.</div>
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The only thing I think I need now is to somehow procure and set up a larger mirror in there. The small one is fine for makeup but is difficult for hair. I wouldn't mind attaching it to the desk permanently but I'm not sure where to find something. I might need to go thrifting. The window is behind the table so I don't think I can lean a mirror up, and there's nowhere to put a mirror on the walls around the table because the room is tiny. If you have any thoughts, please share! </div>
ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-36432906800416708922013-04-19T15:01:00.002-05:002013-04-19T15:01:52.104-05:00workplace lunch pro-tips<div style="text-align: justify;">
I think I've nailed down the secrets to making the most out of your work lunch time. It's been a painstaking process, but I believe I've narrowed it down to five important tips:</div>
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<b>1. Take your lunch no earlier than 4 hours before your shift ends.</b><br />
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<blockquote>
If you can take your lunch whenever you want during your shift, this is
the way to do it. I work your standard 8-5 with a one hour lunch. I do
my best to take my lunch at or after 1:00. Why you ask? Because when you
get done with lunch you have, at most, three more hours of work to do.
It makes the afternoon FLY by and it's amazing. I didn't take my lunch
yesterday until 2:30, and 5:00 came like the speed of light. It was
awesome.</blockquote>
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<b>2. Bring your lunch from home.</b><br />
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<blockquote>
Bringing your lunch from home may sound boring and awful, but doing so can save you a <i>ton</i> of money. If you go out for lunch every day, you're spending on average, what, $5-$8 per meal? You can make yourself a huge salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, mushrooms, and grilled chicken for like $1.50/day. On top of the monetary savings, you're likely to be eating a lot healthier as well. If you're already in the habit of cooking every night, you can also go ahead and make extra for leftovers to take with you the next day (given that you're not making macaroni and cheese every night). If you don't want to take the time to prepare and pack your lunch every morning or night before, you can make five of something on Sunday and refrigerate or freeze portions to take with you the rest of the week. Maybe make a big batch of spaghetti and meat sauce and freeze it in some tupperware. It'll take a little longer to heat up in the microwave, but it'll taste better than a lean cuisine.</blockquote>
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<b>3. Bring your own dishes to keep at work. </b><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
If
you have desk drawers to yourself, this is an awesome idea. I, for one,
don't like heating things up in tupperware if I can avoid it. And
there's never enough room in anything to successfully eat a salad out of
it. And what happens when you bring soup in a can and the office
kitchen is out of paper bowls?! Because of this, I keep a plate, a bowl,
a fork, a spoon, and a knife at work at all times. You're saving paper and plastic <i>and </i>you're
guaranteed never to be lacking dishes. Just remember to wash them after
you use them. Nothing like day-old ranch dressing stuck to your plate
making your office smell awful.</blockquote>
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<b>4. Avoid "that 2:30 feeling".</b></div>
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<blockquote>
The post-lunch food coma usually results from overeating, especially when you're gorging on simple carbs and sugars, when your blood sugar crashes an hour after your meal. You can avoid this, again, by bringing your own lunch. Salads are healthy and filling - just make sure that you have a protein source in there to keep yourself going throughout the day. I like to grill up some chicken on the weekends and slice it up for weekday salads. You can also use garbanzo beans or hard boiled eggs for great protein sources as well. Again, if you're not big on salads, make sure the meals you're bringing use whole grain pastas and breads, lean meats, beans, and nuts, and as many fruits and vegetables as your heart desires. Avoid overly processed and refined foods that will bring on the crash. If you find yourself needing a snack before or after lunch, turn to those fresh fruits and vegetables or nuts. Pistachios and grapes make awesome desk food.</blockquote>
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<b>5. Portion control, or how to make sure your lunch actually fits in a lunch box. </b><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I've grown to know and love my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Laptop-Lunches-Bento-ware-Leak-proof-L600-blkpnk/dp/B0088N2YYG/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1366400860&sr=1-2&keywords=laptop+lunch" target="_blank">bento box</a> (and their companion <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Laptop-Lunches-Bento-ware-Containers-B650w-berry/dp/B002K25WUO/ref=pd_bxgy_k_img_y" target="_blank">bento buddies</a>) for effective portioning and storing of my lunch goodies. They help you keep portions small and realistic and also provide effective containment of fragile berries and salty nuts. The boxes can be purchased with matching bags, but I generally just throw mine in one of the four lunchboxes I already own along with a couple of diet cokes, because that's how I roll. Doing this has given me variety in my lunching. I can pack some leftovers in a medium sized lidded container, a ton of grapes in another, some pistachios in a small lidded container, and still have space in the box for a couple of clementines. And the itty bitty mini lidded containers are perfect for salad dressing! </blockquote>
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<br />Alright kids. Go out into the world and make yourselves some good lunches for next week! <br /><div style="text-align: justify;">
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ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-73723570444650589292013-04-15T13:48:00.001-05:002013-04-15T13:48:17.966-05:00wordsI believe that one of my goals I set back in the beginning was to try and be more creative. Specifically, to try and compose more and to do some DIY projects that would assist in my organization and feng shui, if you will. I've been having a hard time with both of these, but the one that particularly concerns me is the lack of creativity. I just haven't felt anything flow through me in a while and I haven't been really sure of what to do about it.<br />
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Yesterday a friend of mine posted a link to <a href="http://www.750words.com/" target="_blank">750 words</a> on Facebook, exalting its awesomeness. I decided to try it out and it is pretty wonderful. The goal is to write 750 words every day about whatever. It doesn't matter. The point is to write whatever is on your mind. When you finish, you can see your stats on how long it took you, words per minute, any distractions/lulls you had, and it can even analyze your moods and thoughts based on the context of your writing sample. It's analysis isn't perfect (for example, today it said that I focused on religion as a topic when in fact I said absolutely nothing about it), but some of it is right on. It's interesting to examine at least. Perhaps doing these exercises will get me into the mindset to be more creative.<br />
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750 words is a fairly new site and they're attempting to remain ad-free. As of May 1, they will be charging $5 monthly to use the site to any users who sign up on or after that date. If you sign up before then, you will get a lifetime free account. I would recommend just doing it. Worst case scenario, you don't use it, but at least it will be free in the event that you do want to jump on board. All of your writing is private and you can choose whether or not to share the analysis data with others. You can't follow other users unless you become a 'patron' and pay that $5/mo, but you can always see others data if they give you the direct link to it.<br />
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<a href="http://750words.com/entries/share/2660712" target="_blank">Here's mine for today. </a><br />
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I think when I remained logged in/revisited the site to retrieve that link it counted me as 'still typing', hence that long blank area in the graph. I guess I should log out :)ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-12929020419007819292013-04-10T14:44:00.001-05:002013-04-10T14:44:21.824-05:00quick fitness updateI just wanted to share with y'all the template for the fitness budget that I'm using. I developed this yesterday and just updated it with some basic instructions in case you want to use it yourself. You can download it <a href="http://www.fileswap.com/dl/6hBUKHxZew/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
And my pole class yesterday was AMAZING. I'm actually better than I thought I was. And my upper body is pretty much dead, in the best way possible!ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-48898208292165654172013-04-09T16:16:00.001-05:002013-04-09T16:17:45.406-05:00head firstIn the past, I've foiled my workout attempts by going too hard too soon. I'm overly eager, overly ambitious, and I burn myself out. Granted, all these previous attempts have been with running and we've discussed how that's just not my jam. Maybe one day. But today is not that day.<br />
<br />
As I mentioned <a href="http://life-but-better.blogspot.com/2013/04/on-ball.html" target="_blank">last week</a>, I activated my pole dancing Groupon and took a Level 1 class last night, to brush up. When I left last time to deal with CPA stuff, I had just moved up to Level 2 and I wanted to make sure I could handle it/had the muscle strength to handle Level 1 still before moving back up to Level 2.<br />
<br />
Yeah, I'm fine.<br />
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They've instituted a new framework for their classes which I both love and hate simultaneously. Before, you would sign up for your appropriate level class (which could be taught by any number of instructors), go in, and you learn different things every time. Some classes would be stupid easy and some classes would be pretty challenging. There wasn't much consistency to it. Since I left, they've implemented 'routines'. These six routines build upon each other to gradually prepare you for the subsequent level, and it appears as though each routine is taught for about 2 weeks at a time. So, Routine 1 is always the easiest, and Routine 6 is always the hardest. Luckily for me, this is a Routine 1 period so I'm able to jump back into Level 2 on the easiest notch. I reviewed the Level 1 - Routine 6 list and am confident in those, and of the Level 2 - Routine 1 list, I've done all but one of the 13 elements before. I'm in a good place there. <br />
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I <b><i>really</i></b> enjoyed my Zumba class last week. Definitely sweaty and exhausted afterwards, but in the best way possible. And my ass hurt for days. A++, will Zumba again. In fact, I plan to go both Wednesday and Thursday of this week (even though my legs are going to murder me). I'm bringing a friend on Thursday who happens to be a Zumba connoisseur... I think she'll like it!<br />
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I've also signed up for a Pilates class at <a href="http://www.brass-ovaries.com/" target="_blank">Brass Ovaries</a> for this weekend. I don't think I'll be able to use my 10 classes within 2 months without doing non-pole things there, and I've always been curious about Pilates. Might as well give it a go, I suppose.<br />
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On top of utilizing MyFitnessPal (check out my new little badge in the sidebar!) and Fitocracy (which isn't as helpful as I thought it would be?), I've built myself a Fitness Budget. In it, I keep track of my calories consumed, calories burned from exercise, calories burned from normal daily activities (which is based on an average of 5 different calculators), and the net daily and weekly deficit/surplus. I also have a tab for my goals and progress, tracking weight and various body measurements. I took my first measurements on a Tuesday (inconvenient, whoops) so I'm just going to wait until Saturday to check-in again and continue doing so weekly thereafter. I don't own a scale, so I have to go to the apartment gym to weigh myself. Their scale is a medical style one, too, so it's probably more accurate than anything I would buy.<br />
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I've also started putting my exercise classes into my google calendar. I even imported the Zumba class schedule calendar into mine so I can see all of my options! Now that I'm putting this all on paper it seems a little obsessive. But, like I said in my very first post, reasonable goals and accountability are quite important. And, you know, I'm an accountant. I like spreadsheets. I like seeing the numbers and comparing the trends. I think it will help me get into a groove. It also helps that for the first time in my life I find myself <b>looking forward</b> to working out. Seriously. That's a completely foreign concept for me. <br />
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Now to watch the clock until I get to go to my pole class!ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-46501138090808407572013-04-05T12:13:00.000-05:002013-04-12T19:49:24.212-05:00your bra doesn't fit<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>NEW EDIT: Scroll to the Sister Sizes section for a new helpful picture!</b></div>
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<b>ANOTHER EDIT!: </b>I found another awesome sizing resource with lots of good pictures. Open <a href="http://www.breakoutbras.com/sizing" target="_blank">this</a> in a new tab and continue on!</div>
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Not to be harsh, but if you're reading this, it's more likely than not that your bra doesn't fit. It's not your fault. It really isn't. Most of you are probably wearing a bra that is too small for you in the cup and too large for you in the band. Let me tell you, once you're in a correctly sized bra, your life will be changed.</div>
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The way you were likely measured (whether it was yesterday or eons ago) was with a method that was developed over 60 years ago, back before lycra, when bras had exactly 0 stretch to them. This method takes your underbust measurement and adds 4" to come up with your bra band size. In fact, most clothing and bra websites, <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/womens-bras-fit?origin=leftnav" target="_blank"><i>including Nordstrom who is the largest easily-accessible in-store seller of a wide variety of bra sizes in the U.S.</i></a>, post the completely wrong instructions on their website. And if your bra band isn't measured correctly, then your cup isn't either. A lot of companies offering a smaller range of sizes (*cough* <i>Victoria's Secret</i> *cough*) will have a 17 year old "fit" you and will offer you a size that they carry. They're not gonna be like "Oh you're a 28DD! We don't have that, sorry." They'll be like "You're TOTALLY a 32C, here!" I mean, why would they intentionally miss out on a sale?</div>
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<u><b>The Basics</b></u></div>
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To begin your bra sizing adventure, get naked. Your measurements won't mean shit if you do them over any clothes. Are you going to wear your bra over your shirt? Your bra over another bra? No. Take your clothes off.</div>
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You need an accurate measurement of your underbust. This should be right underneath the root of your boobs (where they start on the bottom), taken straight back, parallel to the floor. Within the bra sizing community, we prefer to have you take two measurements at this place: the first will be your "snug" measurement, where you will pull the tape, well, snug, but by no means uncomfortable; the second will be your "break the tape" measurement. This time, pull the tape like you are literally trying to snap it around your body or cut yourself in half. The reason we want two measurements is to help better gauge what bra size you should be in. If you are very thin or athletic, you won't have much squishy-ness around your ribcage. If you are NOT thin or athletic, you will probably have more squishy-ness. It's common that thin/athletic types prefer a larger band for comfort. If you measure at a 28, you may want a 30 because there's not a lot of give there to cushion your ribs from the firm band. If you're squishy and measure at a 28, you're probably still going to want a 28 because the squishy-ness will give you added comfort. I know it's counter-intuitive, and this is not a set in stone situation - you won't fully know what works until you try it.</div>
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My "snug" measurement is 31" and my "break the tape" measurement is 29". I prefer 30 bands.</div>
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Onto the cup size!</div>
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Bra sizing is often a difficult concept to understand because cup sizes are not set in stone, definitive measurements. If you lay a 32C on top of a 36C you'll see that the cup in the 36C is a lot larger than the 32. This is because cup sizes are relative to band sizes. You determine your cup size by subtracting your bra band size from your overbust measurement. We take two different measures to figure out your overbust as well. The first measurement is standing: wrap the tape around the fullest part of your breasts, parallel to the floor, just barely snug enough for the tape to stay on. Then, bend over so that your chest is parallel to the floor and take the same measurement. My measurement standing is 38" and bending over is 39". For most people, averaging the two numbers gives them a best idea of where to start.</div>
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So, if you have a 32" underbust measurement (and therefore a 32 band) and a 36" average overbust measurement, you would probably need a 32D. You add a cup size for each inch your overbust is greater than your band size. So, 36-32 = 4. Let's look at this handy chart. </div>
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<table class="wikitable" data-overflow="true"><tbody>
<tr><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;"></th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">0"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">1"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">2"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">3"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">4"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">5"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">6"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">7"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">8"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">9"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">10"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">11"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">12"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">13"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">14"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;">15"
</th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;"><br /></th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;"><br /></th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;"><br /></th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;"><br /></th><th scope="col" style="text-align: center;"><br /></th><th scope="col"><br /></th><th scope="col"><br /></th><th scope="col"><br /></th><th scope="col"><br /></th><th scope="col"><br /></th><th scope="col"><br /></th></tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>UK</b>
</td><td style="text-align: center;">AA
</td><td style="text-align: center;">A
</td><td style="text-align: center;">B
</td><td style="text-align: center;">C
</td><td style="text-align: center;">D
</td><td style="text-align: center;">DD
</td><td style="text-align: center;">E
</td><td style="text-align: center;">F
</td><td style="text-align: center;">FF
</td><td style="text-align: center;">G
</td><td style="text-align: center;">GG
</td><td style="text-align: center;">H
</td><td style="text-align: center;">HH
</td><td style="text-align: center;">J
</td><td style="text-align: center;">JJ
</td><td style="text-align: center;">K
</td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td></tr>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><b>US</b>
</td><td style="text-align: center;">AA
</td><td style="text-align: center;">A
</td><td style="text-align: center;">B
</td><td style="text-align: center;">C
</td><td style="text-align: center;">D
</td><td style="text-align: center;">DD/E
</td><td style="text-align: center;">DDD/F
</td><td style="text-align: center;">DDDD/G
</td><td style="text-align: center;">H
</td><td style="text-align: center;">I
</td><td style="text-align: center;">J
</td><td style="text-align: center;">K
</td><td style="text-align: center;">L
</td><td style="text-align: center;">M
</td><td style="text-align: center;">N
</td><td style="text-align: center;">O
</td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(courtesy of <a href="http://bustyresources.wikia.com/wiki/How-to_determine_bra_size#Calculating_bra_size" target="_blank">Busty Resources</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">As you can see, <span style="font-size: small;">a 4" difference corresponds to a D in both U<span style="font-size: small;">S an<span style="font-size: small;">d UK sizes. <i>(<span style="font-size: small;"><b>N<span style="font-size: small;">OTE: </span></b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is far more common to find b<span style="font-size: small;">ras <span style="font-size: small;">in a wider a<span style="font-size: small;">r<span style="font-size: small;">ray of consistent sizes if you use UK measurements, therefore I will continu<span style="font-size: small;">e <span style="font-size: small;">to make reference to UK si<span style="font-size: small;">zes only in the rest of <span style="font-size: small;">this post.) </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></i></span></span></span></span></span> </div>
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Ok, at this point if you've taken your measurements, you're probably freaking out. Something along the lines of "there is no way in HELL I'm an [x] cup! I've been a 36A my whole life! D+ cup boobs are only on porn stars! There's no way!" Believe it. Embrace it. The DD-is-freakishly-huge concept is a myth. Once upon a time I was wearing a 34C/D (depending on the bra). Today I'm in a 30FF/G (again, depending on the bra). And you guys have seen me. I don't have freakishly huge boobs. They look pretty darn normal. When you start wearing the correct band size (which is generally 4", or two sizes, smaller than the one you <i>were</i> wearing), you tend to go up at least two cup sizes. Combine that with the fact that most people aren't actually getting all of their breast tissue into the bra cups puts you usually gaining another cup or two on top of that. But that's another discussion we'll get to in a bit.</div>
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<u><b>Sister Sizing</b></u></div>
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When you start trying on bras, you may find that your measurements don't exactly equal what works for you. This is where sister sizing comes in. Here's a handy chart:</div>
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<a href="http://i.imgur.com/6KJjw.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://i.imgur.com/6KJjw.png" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i> </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Courtesy of <a href="http://www.reddit.com/r/abrathatfits" target="_blank">A Bra That Fits</a></i></span></div>
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So, say you measure at a 30E, but you try that 30 band on and it feels WAY too tight for you and you want to move up to a 32 band. A 32E is going to be too big in the cup for you if the cup on the 30E fit, so you'll have to size down a cup to a 32DD. Likewise, if that 30 band felt too loose, you'll have to go up a cup in the 28, resulting in a 28F. This is how places try to size you into what they offer. If the smallest band size they offer is a 34 and you're really a 30, they're going to put you in a 34D. Bad news bears. However, it's pretty common to go back and forth, up or down one size depending on the manufacturer. For example, Curvy Kate bras tend to run loose in the band, whereas <span class="st">Ewa Michalak bras tend to be very snug in the band. It will be trial and error. Your cup size will also not be the same in every brand. Panache bras tend to run small in the cup (I generally need a G/GG for them) while Freya bras tend to run large (I usually take a FF). Again, trial and error.</span></div>
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<span class="st">Here's an example of how band size affects cup size:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlkaabAsOydEBZsPNNCj-aJ3MPU0_4WfuvCgnBV7LM1LnG5scdiOlGLYdmHKI8SOGhcKG3TsqcTdioPBIzKwIzqb4DRQoIq54LAYzws0irrkDx4n2w1_J7egtKceFee9tiCNyCFokOkE/s1600/tlbc2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlkaabAsOydEBZsPNNCj-aJ3MPU0_4WfuvCgnBV7LM1LnG5scdiOlGLYdmHKI8SOGhcKG3TsqcTdioPBIzKwIzqb4DRQoIq54LAYzws0irrkDx4n2w1_J7egtKceFee9tiCNyCFokOkE/s640/tlbc2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="st"> <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">You can see here that the 28A cups are DEFINITELY smaller than the 32A cups.</span></i></span><br />
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Here are some bras that are all sister sizes, from <a href="http://blog.butterflycollection.ca/2013/04/what-sister-size-bras-look-like.html" target="_blank">The Butterfly Connection</a>:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCgfiNaXB4UHxSILwpfFiEBtFwnROsQG8FduaT-xuWrE46kEqI5nCea4KOXD3FVjBI1OBbgbGysRgXGfrqjzoBJx_l13u2lgVSZIflO3xNLtrAj3Qdy0OBnNlY02DlpEWqH1SRS2H6QNdE/s1600/Sister+Sizes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCgfiNaXB4UHxSILwpfFiEBtFwnROsQG8FduaT-xuWrE46kEqI5nCea4KOXD3FVjBI1OBbgbGysRgXGfrqjzoBJx_l13u2lgVSZIflO3xNLtrAj3Qdy0OBnNlY02DlpEWqH1SRS2H6QNdE/s640/Sister+Sizes.jpg" width="499" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>From top to bottom, these bras are 38E, 36F, 34FF, 32G, 30GG, and 28H. As you can see, the cup width and depth is the same in all of them (because, as sister sizes, the cup volume is the same) but the band length gets shorter as you go down. This illustrates how if you're wearing a 34FF and it fits in the cup but not the band, you would go down to a 32G, not a 32FF.</i></span></div>
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<u><b>Let's See How Poorly Your Bra Fits</b></u></div>
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Take your shirt off. Grab the back of your bra and pull it away from your body. If it pulls away more than 2", your bra doesn't fit. If your boobs spill or bulge out of the cups, your bra doesn't fit. If that middle part of your bra (the gore) isn't laying flat against your sternum, your bra doesn't fit. If your bra band rides up in the back or you pull it down super low, your bra doesn't fit. If your straps either dig into your shoulders or slip constantly, your bra doesn't fit.</div>
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No matter how small or large you think your breasts are, they need support. This support comes (or SHOULD come) from the band, not the straps. When your band is too loose, your straps have to pick up the slack. Think of it this way: if your straps are supporting your breasts, it's like holding a beanbag by the top with just two fingers and lifting it off the floor; if your band is supporting your breasts, it's like holding the beanbag in your palm. Which way supports the beanbag better? I think you know.</div>
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<a href="http://www.snugasabugbaby.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/b51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.snugasabugbaby.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/b51.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Th<span style="font-size: x-small;">at</span> baby is not supporting that beanbag at all</span>.</span></i></div>
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A lot of times your cups don't fit because you have way more breast tissue than you think you have. All of that backfat you get over your bra band? That armpit pooch by your brastrap? That's breast tissue. That should be in the cup. It squeezes out in the back and sides when the cup you are wearing is too small, and stays there after time. This is what we call <a href="http://bustyresources.wikia.com/wiki/Migrated_breast_tissue" target="_blank">breast tissue migration</a>. It can be corrected over time by wearing the right size bra and doing the "swoop and scoop". </div>
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<u><b>Putting Your Bra On Correctly</b> </u></div>
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When you put on a bra, you should put the cups against your chest and clip the band behind you. In a new bra, the loosest hook should be the tightest you can comfortably wear. Once you have it clipped (don't pull up the straps yet!), make sure that the underwire is lined up right at the root of your breast. Bend over and let your breasts fall into the cups. Then, hold the left cup in place with your left hand, take your right hand across your body and reach all the way back to your back (like you're trying to hug yourself or something) and pull all of that 'stuff' into the bra cup. Repeat on the right side. If this sounds confusing, check out this <a href="http://youtu.be/BAk6IcliTrA?t=1m20s" target="_blank">video</a><b> </b>for assistance.</div>
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<b>Congratulations! You just did the swoop and scoop.</b> Pull up straps and adjust them accordingly. </div>
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WOW! Your boobs just got bigger! And perkier! And better!</div>
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Once you've done all that, you can evaluate how your bra fits.</div>
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<u><b>How to Tell if it Fits</b></u></div>
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First, make sure you have put the bra on as we stated above. Now move around for a bit like you would throughout the day to let the breasts settle into the cups. You're always going to be fuller immediately after you swoop and scoop, and settling into the bra is normal.</div>
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There a few main things that you're looking for here. I like to start with the evaluation of the band, assuming you're trying on a brand new bra. First, if you find you have to adjust your brastraps in such a way that they're cutting into your shoulders for support your band is likely too loose. This indicates that the straps are doing all the work the You should be able to fit 2-3 fingers under the band while it's fastened on the loosest hook. The band should not move when you raise your arms, shrug, jump up and down, bend over, or dance at a rave. If it moves, go down a size. If you're not used to wearing a proper band, this is going to feel super crazy tight. I promise you'll get used to it. When you take off your bra at the end of the day <i>you should have red marks from the band</i>. Just like when you wear socks and you get the indents from them, or when your jeans are super tight and then you end up seeing the seams and the button indents when you take them off. <i>This is completely normal for the bra</i>. If your bra is digging, stabbing, or bruising you, however, then it's TOO tight. </div>
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If you try on two different band sizes and find yourself falling in between them, buy the smaller size and a bra extender.</div>
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<img border="0" src="http://images.herroom.com/items/the-natural-cgro01-4085m-gs.jpg" /> </div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">For purchase at <a href="http://www.herroom.com/the-natural-4085m-3-pack-of-bra-extenders.shtml?utm_source=adv&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=pla&utm_content=cgro01-4085M&kwid=productads-sku^776040456199-adtype^PLA-adid^13863625869" target="_blank">herr<span style="font-size: x-small;">oom.com</span></a> and like a billion other places. Your local Target might even have them.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">This will<span style="font-size: small;"> lengthen <span style="font-size: small;">the life of the bra. Because bras today are <span style="font-size: small;">made of materials with el<span style="font-size: small;">asti<span style="font-size: small;">c in them, th<span style="font-size: small;">e elastic wears out <span style="font-size: small;">over time, therefore stretching out the bra. If you buy a bra and you're already on the tigh<span style="font-size: small;">test hook, you have no<span style="font-size: small;">where to go when it st<span style="font-size: small;">retches<span style="font-size: small;">, then you're left with a worthless br<span style="font-size: small;">a, or one you h<span style="font-size: small;">ave to alter. So if you're between sizes, you're better off going s<span style="font-size: small;">maller with the extender until it stretches out and you can go back to the regular hooks. My first (s<span style="font-size: small;">ort-of) well fitting bras went from oh-my-<span style="font-size: small;">god-<span style="font-size: small;">I'm-dying tight on the <span style="font-size: small;">loosest <span style="font-size: small;">ho<span style="font-size: small;">ok to com<span style="font-size: small;">fortable on the tigh<span style="font-size: small;">test hook within 6 mont<span style="font-size: small;">hs. This may even happen faster if you have fewer bras in your wardrobe to rotate between. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now to eval<span style="font-size: small;">u<span style="font-size: small;">ate the cup fit.<span style="font-size: small;"> Lets start with s<span style="font-size: small;">ymptoms of a too-small cup:</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Too small</b></i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">T</span>he middle part <span style="font-size: small;">(gore) <span style="font-size: small;">of your bra does not lay flush </span></span></span><i><b> </b></i>against yo<span style="font-size: small;">ur sternum </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">You experience quad-boobing, spillage, or "the shelf" <span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The top of <span style="font-size: small;">the bra cuts into the breast tissue </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">You<span style="font-size: small;">r bre<span style="font-size: small;">ast tissue isn't all contained in the cup<span style="font-size: small;">, ca<span style="font-size: small;">using bulging out the <span style="font-size: small;">sizes or back </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The underw<span style="font-size: small;">ire <span style="font-size: small;">lays on your breast tissue/pulls away from <span style="font-size: small;">your body <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, go up a cup size.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <i><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Too large</b></span></i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">There is gapi<span style="font-size: small;">ng at the top of the cup</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">There is wrin<span style="font-size: small;">klin<span style="font-size: small;">g in the cup </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">You <span style="font-size: small;">g<span style="font-size: small;">enerally don't fill out the cup </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: small;">If you are experienc<span style="font-size: small;">ing any of these symptoms<span style="font-size: small;">, go down a cup size.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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This <a href="http://www.boosaurus.com/2012/02/bra-fitting-five-signs-of-poor-fit.html" target="_blank">site</a> has a few good picture examples showing lingerie models whose bras clearly don't fit. That might help you get an idea of what you're looking for.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Wrong Shape</i></span></b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sometimes you may find yourself suffering from<span style="font-size: small;"> sy<span style="font-size: small;">mptoms in both<span style="font-size: small;"> categories and<span style="font-size: small;">/or <span style="font-size: small;">feel like the bra is gi<span style="font-size: small;">ving your boobs a weird s<span style="font-size: small;">hape. This happen<span style="font-size: small;">s, don't worry. Different bras are ma<span style="font-size: small;">de for different <span style="font-size: small;">sha<span style="font-size: small;">ped breasts - not e<span style="font-size: small;">veryone is the same. Here is where I suggest <a href="http://www.bratabase.com/tag/" target="_blank">Bratabase<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></a>for assistance on how to determine your breast shape. If you cli<span style="font-size: small;">ck on any of those shapes/links, you<span style="font-size: small;"> will find <span style="font-size: small;">bra suggestions for t<span style="font-size: small;">hose shapes. You may also fall into <span style="font-size: small;">m<span style="font-size: small;">ultiple categories, and <span style="font-size: small;">may therefore <span style="font-size: small;">want to try <span style="font-size: small;">an arr<span style="font-size: small;">ay <span style="font-size: small;">of tho<span style="font-size: small;">se shapes to figure out what works for you. Trying things on is key.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<i><b>Asymmetrical Breasts</b></i></div>
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Rule of thumb: fit your larger breast. You can usually tighten the strap on the smaller breast to pick up any slack in the cup, or if the difference in size is drastic, you can get a "chicken cutlet", if you will (you know, those gel bra inserts) to fill out that side. <i><b> </b></i> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=l&tid=13584144" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=l&tid=13584144" /></a></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">T<span style="font-size: x-small;">hese things.</span></span></i></div>
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<u><b>General Bra Types</b></u></div>
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There are three main types of bras out there: moulded cup, seamed cup, and sports bras. Yes, they make sports bras with underwires that actually fit and support you and don't smoosh you in like normal sports bras. </div>
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<a href="http://www.brasmania.pl/170-423-large/panache-sport-pink-biustonosz-sportowy-5021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.brasmania.pl/170-423-large/panache-sport-pink-biustonosz-sportowy-5021.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>And they're pretty! This is the <span style="font-size: x-small;">Panache <span style="font-size: x-small;">Sp<span style="font-size: x-small;">ort. </span></span></span>You can get it <a href="http://www.herroom.com/panache-5021-full-busted-underwire-sports-bra.shtml?utm_source=adv&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=pla&utm_content=pana01-5021&kwid=productads-sku^5051928231385-adtype^PLA-adid^14481647949" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-size: x-small;">, a<span style="font-size: x-small;">s well as</span> many other places. Personal testimony, I love it.</span></i></span> </div>
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Moulded cup bras are your typical t-shirt bras. They don't have seams up the cup, they're generally really smooth, and they have a slight padding.</div>
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<a href="http://www.elegantsecrets.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/d/e/deco-black-4234_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.elegantsecrets.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/d/e/deco-black-4234_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is the Freya Deco Plun<span style="font-size: x-small;">g<span style="font-size: x-small;">e. It s<span style="font-size: x-small;">eems to be a very popular t-<span style="font-size: x-small;">shirt bra<span style="font-size: x-small;"> and it comes in a <span style="font-size: x-small;">ton of colors. The sha<span style="font-size: x-small;">pe <span style="font-size: x-small;">doesn't really work for me, but it seems to for a lot of people. It's definitely worth a try. And you can find it pretty much anywhere good bras are sold.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Seamed <span style="font-size: small;">c<span style="font-size: small;">up bras usually don't have any lining or padding (al<span style="font-size: small;">so known as soft cup bras), and they have anywhere from 2 to 4 seams across the cups. Generally, s<span style="font-size: small;">eamed</span> cup bras offer more support, and since the<span style="font-size: small;"> cups<span style="font-size: small;">, when soft, </span>don't stand up on their own (in that, t<span style="font-size: small;">hey're just floppy fabric) the shapes are often more natural. You will find seamed cup bras that are lined<span style="font-size: small;">, but they usually don't have as much <span style="font-size: small;">of a moul<span style="font-size: small;">ded look as t-shirt bras.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This is the Fre<span style="font-size: x-small;">ya Lacey. I <span style="font-size: x-small;">o<span style="font-size: x-small;">wn this bra and love it to death. I'm actually wear<span style="font-size: x-small;">ing it right now. This is <span style="font-size: x-small;">the only color it comes in, but it kind o<span style="font-size: x-small;">f acts as a nude. It can also be <span style="font-size: x-small;">found just about anywhere good bras are sold.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></i></span></div>
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<u><b>Where to Buy Bras</b></u></div>
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It's hard to find places in the states where you can try on things in-store unless you're in a major city. If you're lucky enough to be in or near a major city, you may want to try <a href="http://myintimacy.com/" target="_blank">Intimacy</a> or <a href="http://www.nordstrom.com/" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a>. (Sidenote: if you happen to have a Nordstrom Rack, check it out. I got a bra there for $15 that retailed for $60 once!) You should also google around for local lingerie boutiques where you can try things on. Those boutiques can get mighty expensive, so I generally recommend going and writing down the models and sizes of the bras you want, buy one from them (since a lot of people work on commission and they're probably going to spend a lot of time with you, and not buying something [unless nothing fits, of course] is kind of a dick move), and then look for the rest online. Here's an incomplete list of retailers of bras in a wide range of sizes.</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.brastop.com/" target="_blank">Brastop</a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.figleaves.com/" target="_blank">Figleaves</a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.barenecessities.com/" target="_blank">Bare Necessities </a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.herroom.com/" target="_blank">Her Room</a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.biggerbras.com/" target="_blank">Bigger Bras</a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.freshpair.com/" target="_blank">Fresh Pair</a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.asos.com/" target="_blank">Asos</a></li>
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As you'll notice, a lot of these places are based in the UK. As I discussed above, Europe generally has it's shit together compared to the US and most of the brands which carry wide sizes are from the UK or France. So it kind of makes sense that they'd carry things. I know Bare Necessities is US and Figleaves has US returns so it's cheaper to send things back if you need to. You will quickly notice that bras can get expensive, quick, depending on the brand. Just because a brand is super expensive or relatively cheap doesn't necessarily reflect the quality of the bra. You can get pretty solid bras in the Figleaves house brands (which are usually knock-offs of popular name brand bras) for much cheaper than their name brand counterparts. Also, all of these sites have deals and sales all the time, so sign up for mailing lists to get offers! <b>ALSO ALSO: </b>Pay attention to the currency on these sites! Some are in USD and some will be in GBP. If you are purchasing from a UK company, you may have to pay duties on purchases over $200, so it's good to try and keep them under that limit. Also, your credit card company may charge you a fee for the overseas transaction. I try to use PayPal when available and direct draft from my checking account to avoid these fees.</div>
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You can also check <a href="http://www.amazon.com/" target="_blank">Amazon</a> and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/" target="_blank">Ebay</a> for some good finds. Buyer beware - only purchase bras on Ebay that are new with tags to ensure that you're getting something that's new. You can chance it if you want, but you're not going to REALLY know how the bra fits if it's been worn and stretched.</div>
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<u><b>Taking Care of Your Bras</b></u></div>
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Hand wash your bras in a delicate lingerie detergent, like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Forever-New-Fabric-Care-Wash/dp/B002USD5FC/ref=pd_sbs_a_1" target="_blank">this one</a>,
but there are many others out there. When I hand wash, I use a 1-gallon bucket. I put a wee bit of the soap in there and fill it with lukewarm water, then submerge the bras in the bucket and leave them to soak for a couple of minutes. Then I take them out and scrub around the extra dirty parts, like under the armpits and along the bottom of the band. I then rinse them under cold water and GENTLY squeeze the water out of the cups (for moulded cups - soft cups don't really need it). Never wring them, just kind of press into the cup to get as much of the water out as you can, and hang them to dry. I also have a friend that uses a salad spinner to accelerate dry time without smooshing up and wringing out the bra.</div>
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If you have a really nice washing
machine (like one that's front loading and has a super extra delicate
silks cycle), you can throw your bras in a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Whirlpool-W10180464RP-2-Inch-Delicates-Laundry/dp/B002R0DXOQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1365176002&sr=8-1&keywords=lingerie+bag" target="_blank">lingerie bag</a>
(make sure they can move, though - they have them all kinds of cramped
on that pic) and wash them on that setting with the special soap. Make sure you clip all the bras before washing them to avoid the hooks putting pulls in the fabrics. Your bras should <i><u><b>never ever under any circumstances</b></u> </i>be dried in a machine. Hang dry them or lay them flat to dry <i><u><b>always</b></u></i>. </div>
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<u><b>Resources</b></u></div>
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I didn't come up with all this knowledge myself, but I wanted to compile it into this blog post primarily for my friends so that you all can know the joy of better bras. Here is a short list of the resources that I have used in my journey that will likely be helpful as well.</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.reddit.com/r/abrathatfits" target="_blank">A Bra That Fits</a> - a Reddit community (see the sidebar in particular for a TON of great resources). The ladies here are INCREDIBLY helpful and will assist you with any questions, including fit checks.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://bustyresources.wikia.com/wiki/Main_Page" target="_blank">Busty Resources Wiki</a> - This is good for a lot of basics and additional resources.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.bratabase.com/" target="_blank">Bratabase</a> - This site allows you to input your measurements, assess your shape, and input the bras you currently own, allowing you to review them and tell them how they fit. As you continue to complete your profile, they will be able to suggest bras that will fit you based on your current bras, and each bra listing will include links to other bras with similar cuts and fits.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.reddit.com/r/braswap" target="_blank">Bra Swap</a> - another Reddit community that offers bra trades and sales between other Redditors. A good resource for if you want to try bras cheaply, and you can sometimes snag deals on your favorites. It's also a good place to re-sell things that don't fit in the event that you can't return them.</li>
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I think that's it for now. If you have any questions, comments, suggestions for topics I should cover in more detail. PLEASE let me know in the comments. And share this with everyone!! I want to be helpful!! I can also help you directly if you want to be pointed in the right direction on some of these things. Finding the right bra will be frustrating at first, but through trial and error you will get there!</div>
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Loves!</div>
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ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-14471536647503910722013-04-04T12:22:00.000-05:002013-04-04T12:22:19.119-05:00on the ball<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sorry I haven't updated in a whiiiiile. I keep getting drawn into social obligations and I'm not going to turn them down! </div>
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So I got my CPA license card in the mail yesterday! That was pretty sweet.</div>
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And I planned a vaction to Cheyenne for my birthday.</div>
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And... wait for it... I HAVE COMMITTED FULLY NOW TO LOSING WEIGHT.</div>
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I took all of my measurements last night to make sure I had a good starting point. And I did so without fudging, without faking, and most of all, without hating myself for them. That's important for me.</div>
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I have also accepted that I am not the kind of person that will exercise in the morning. I'm just not. Sleep is too good. Might as well give up on it and go with evening workouts. Last night I "ran" a mile on the elliptical. I definitely got my heart rate up, but it was more controlled and harder to overexert myself. I also like being able to adjust my speed at will, especially since I'm not great at maintaining speed. It definitely got my heart rate up and made me break a sweat. It wasn't long or far, but it's a start. Not to mention that it's easy on the knees. I also did some basic strength stuff at home to tone up some of the problem areas. Which are all the areas.</div>
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I'm also going to a <a href="http://www.corazonz.com/" target="_blank">Zumba</a> class tonight, which I'm very excited about. I'm definitely better at cardio when it's <i>not</i> running, and when someone is showing me what to do. If I like the studio atmosphere, I'll buy myself a pass. If I don't, I'll find some youtube clips to follow and do it at home. But these people have fantastic reviews on <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/corazon-latino-dance-studio-austin" target="_blank">Yelp</a> so I'm fairly confident in them.</div>
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I also also activated my 10-class Groupon for <a href="http://brass-ovaries.com/" target="_blank">Brass Ovaries</a>. I haven't been since December and I really miss it. They're doing a <a href="http://www.groupon.com/deals/brass-ovaries-pole-dancing-5?pt=aUV2E-jAAAABqANS4oFfSr_KXU5fZ1ONy" target="_blank">Groupon</a> right now if you're interested as well! It's not much for cardio but GREAT for strength training, particularly upper body.</div>
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And, lastly, I've begun counting the calories again on <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">My Fitness Pal</a>. I'm actually surprised at how full I can be on so few calories. I mean, I've had less than 500 today and I'm completely satisfied. I even have two clementines on my desk waiting to be eaten, but I just don't want them yet. Now, as long as I can resist the Easter candy and alcohol, I'll be in good shape. </div>
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I'm heading back up to Southwestern on Saturday for the annual <a href="http://www.southwestern.edu/sarofim/suartsfestival/" target="_blank">Arts Festival</a>, and I'm SUPER excited about it! It looks like it's holding up to tradition and I'm quite proud. I'll let you know how it goes!</div>
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And I'm still going to do that bra post sometime...</div>
ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-47121502694290340722013-03-11T13:10:00.003-05:002013-03-11T13:12:07.980-05:00life again<div style="text-align: justify;">
Man, I've been busy ever since I passed that exam. I completely rejuvenated my social life and it has been incredible, if exhausting. </div>
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Last weekend I went shopping for the first time in a LOOONG time. Bought
myself a new suit at the Banana Republic outlet for $115!! And it fit without alterations! Hooray!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPRhrMz4IttbIb1iM3TZk3o5tkm0bq8TV5EtpIruKaDSEL0ZBaMu29ZOd7WUxSWwM_rtUk6eZlCpqtiJGcI9tF16KV_mh2r7TzmHOirSEBKk30ITeK8OQRRXY6FgZSFUMMmgdas3vcxc/s1600/Photo+Mar+02%252C+3+18+33+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPRhrMz4IttbIb1iM3TZk3o5tkm0bq8TV5EtpIruKaDSEL0ZBaMu29ZOd7WUxSWwM_rtUk6eZlCpqtiJGcI9tF16KV_mh2r7TzmHOirSEBKk30ITeK8OQRRXY6FgZSFUMMmgdas3vcxc/s1600/Photo+Mar+02%252C+3+18+33+PM.jpg" height="640" width="480" /> </a></div>
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I also got all of my CPA paperwork turned in, saw the Joffrey Ballet perform The Rite of Spring, and had a lovely lunch with Zach's brother this past week. I finally set up my recording equipment as well! I'm trying to upload pictures but, as usual, blogger is being not-friendly.</div>
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A dear friend is in town for spring break and we decided to throw a dinner party last night for the core Amarillo group. Here's a picture of the most of it:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvjwRpWuYt3PV-A6JKgZAg7tgb6Iay0rxejiwPlDztodU_QxjJUUOR2AdGH-7frsppWufkx8OihS9OzeaAIY-BVO1dw36dnu6aOtStpLXf6gqnZo1InCCY-497eXKWhKgV7p_B_aZRs4/s1600/Photo+Mar+10%252C+7+37+40+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvjwRpWuYt3PV-A6JKgZAg7tgb6Iay0rxejiwPlDztodU_QxjJUUOR2AdGH-7frsppWufkx8OihS9OzeaAIY-BVO1dw36dnu6aOtStpLXf6gqnZo1InCCY-497eXKWhKgV7p_B_aZRs4/s1600/Photo+Mar+10%252C+7+37+40+PM.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Not pictured: The salad and the cupcakes. RECIPE LINK TIME!</div>
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<b>Appetizer:</b> Martha Stewart's <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/318340/asparagus-gruyere-tart?czone=food%2Fproduce-guide-cnt%2Fspring-produce-recipes" target="_blank">asparagus and gruyere tart</a><span style="color: black;"> on homemade puff pastry.</span></div>
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<b>Salad:</b> An adaptation of the <a href="http://www.themonumentcafe.com/monumentMenu.pdf" target="_blank">Monument Cafe</a> House Salad - spring greens, strawberries, candied pecans, and a strawberry balsamic vinaigrette. We also added goat cheese.</div>
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<b>Bread: </b>My guest's homemade croissants </div>
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<b>Main: </b>A simple bone-in pork loin rib chop drizzled with oil, seasoned with onion powder, Grill Mates Garlic and Herb seasoning, Grill Mates Montreal Chicken seasoning, and a little black pepper. Baked at 350 F for 40 mins.</div>
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<b>Side: </b><a href="http://iowagirleats.com/recipes/?recipe_id=6024068" target="_blank">Spring vegetable risotto</a></div>
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<b>Dessert: </b><a href="http://sprinklecharms.blogspot.com/2011/07/lemon-basil-blueberry-cupcakes.html" target="_blank">Lemon basil blueberry cupcakes</a> (mine were NOWHERE NEAR that pretty though)</div>
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All in all I would say it was a HUGE SUCCESS. It was a TON of work but totally worth it. And I bought all of my fruits and vegetables at Costco so I have a toooon of leftovers that I need to figure out how to use...</div>
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I want to do a non-food related post at some point, specifically addressing bras and my new obsession and commitment to finding the perfect bra(s) and passing on advice for appropriate bra fitting. My ladyfriends need their girls supported properly too!!</div>
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And about that exercising.... yeeeeahh... let's not talk about that.</div>
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Until next time!</div>
ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-71870380979440225172013-02-27T13:07:00.001-06:002013-04-10T11:29:56.594-05:00I PASSEDI FINALLY PASSED ALL OF MY CPA EXAMS. HOLY SHIT.<br />
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So, that knocks #1 off my list of resolutions! YAY!<br />
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It took me three tries on that last one, but my final score was an 87! Not even close to the failing mark! <br />
I've been cooking and eating lots of yummy foodstuffs and I'm super thrilled to finally share them!<br />
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So this concoction is a mushroom artichoke lasagna. I found this recipe in the BHG Taste of Home 2012 recipe book my grandmother got me two Christmases ago. I had some leftover lasagna noodles and Zach can't have ricotta, so this seemed like a good ricotta-less lasagna alternative. But it has A LOT of cheese. If there is such a thing as too much cheese, this was too much cheese. Zach and his brother liked it, but I didn't so much.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8nYIj6lhATTuMjssR_erJm3cIRK3NOWvUUpbYSfEEArEcRzZT8obl3qLALr1zlD-IxtKJSEQtod3dRXaFIQMD7u4o35TYQoeoope6Fs_a6Iluw9Pzy_2YdbYzzPHe_4n1mRGEmaC7Ao/s1600/Photo+Feb+05,+7+46+26+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8nYIj6lhATTuMjssR_erJm3cIRK3NOWvUUpbYSfEEArEcRzZT8obl3qLALr1zlD-IxtKJSEQtod3dRXaFIQMD7u4o35TYQoeoope6Fs_a6Iluw9Pzy_2YdbYzzPHe_4n1mRGEmaC7Ao/s1600/Photo+Feb+05,+7+46+26+PM.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Next, not so impressive, chicken caesar salad. A good enough meal, got the job done.<br />
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Now, I've talked about this one before, but I just had to show you. The infamous <a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2013/01/02/simple-shrimp-and-asparagus-risotto/" target="_blank">shrimp and asparagus risotto</a>! It. Is. So. Good. We're making it about every other week now and doubling the recipe to have leftovers. Do it. It's worth the stirring, I promise.<br />
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I also took the plunge and made french onion soup, from scratch! I can't find the exact recipe right now, but I remember it called for about 3lbs of onions thinly sliced, a bunch of beef broth, and some wine. I'm not usually a fan of french onion soup, but this one was pretty good. Could have gotten the onions cooked down more - next time. </div>
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So this isn't really COOKING, but I really loved the way my fruit and garlic station looked after we went grocery shopping a couple of weeks ago. So much yummy! </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAjDtX_RJkKfvYV3Rm0XpjYa3HWC0pmftoRgutem22hVc0uZFLJZxA3zld_qZRENEv1YpS2kYPFyAlktAtobZkMV0ycxUu3eNopach8ocRRB4rtIA_tuwQzi9p4nNM17ytXEAGpKdzbI8/s1600/Photo+Feb+06,+9+06+59+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaB6u2oWGeRpEONhyphenhyphend0jgvyqOjd7JlfszeJXMypcW_lPWuPXuFkkOyIoCaQE3dorA0T5dfvVLf0SyyfbOr-MADTNlbSgx4IyiSBbPOKvQ2gMi6mgoliW2P3FLFKN7VsTIkyQg_HTlgS0Y/s1600/Photo+Feb+17,+2+13+29+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj7JaP_n5E__8Jb6wxR99R6T0B2nV_DERA15jUuyLkFkhCYQbk-lZJSGY6ApXce-2cls4ykJ7HSgjwor5uP0NfQ9v8a2n7QuWPfcmt3J2Yjx1ob8KVK-7YZ5aZ12NDGS4m4V4KtFILpWI/s1600/Photo+Feb+17,+11+31+10+AM.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Alas, that beautiful pineapple immediately met its doom when I chopped it up to make PINEAPPLE SALSA! </div>
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Which then went on FISH TACOS! The sauce I made was so spicy. But so delicious.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuISZ5gfRtOy1TjjHlCrOdOCdLrxtNuo_N5_n0ieKVU1tDJzQfrfDLv3PGP3AEY21uquzHOEUj9DhxM6ea6CF6kDK96EFa5JUW4XBiN6Ir9sG0XaDJBigRlIP0K71c2KL2Yy0mwoJ8UnI/s1600/Photo+Feb+18,+6+39+40+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuISZ5gfRtOy1TjjHlCrOdOCdLrxtNuo_N5_n0ieKVU1tDJzQfrfDLv3PGP3AEY21uquzHOEUj9DhxM6ea6CF6kDK96EFa5JUW4XBiN6Ir9sG0XaDJBigRlIP0K71c2KL2Yy0mwoJ8UnI/s1600/Photo+Feb+18,+6+39+40+PM.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Lastly, I want to share my homemade <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/341905/chana-masala" target="_blank">chana masala</a> (I tweaked that recipe). We ventured over to the Indian market down the street and got some good spices (and frozen naan) and had ourselves a chickpea feast! It was delicious, to say the least. I'm proud that this (my second) Indian food attempt turned out!</span></div>
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Now, for my bento boxes! I've been using these most days to bring my lunch and they're AWESOME for portion sizing and all that. I love them. They were my anniversary gift (we'll get to THAT celebration) from Zach!</div>
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First up, chicken caesar salad, with dressing, pistachios, and chocolate coins for dessert</div>
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Next, leftover turkey burger (bun not pictured) and fresh broccoli for steaming for lunch, and mini quinoa cups for breakfast. </div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEfhg4zF1EUQpbxLhrIDPTpyItFbqaB0jp5wNZbTEjBmA-_ry6zg2Y1eBsXo7hslQba8d4q_zTtjk13c5wKe5yWavfmM_wUQs9r5OHQ5AdQeCCJzNwzxrqOZgetzc9k2UcSVjgsxmqYdU/s1600/Photo+Feb+14,+9+17+39+PM.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></div>
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As I just mentioned, Zach and I celebrated our 4th anniversary about two weeks ago. We went to a local restaurant, <a href="http://www.justines1937.com/" target="_blank">Justine's</a>, and had a DELICIOUS meal. I ordered the best pork chop I've ever hand in my life. Also served with potatoes au gratin.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBkx_uyVmx1bgPEXPPM-O6l0W4b8bSwKlvCNIEBpq_ABUhEfYH7qX6VXWKtMcNGJPUUF7mljxeaYJY-Tk26u4rtchuWIo9_H0l-SMyBb1UGWckrdkPpuS2quqUN3SfMSOaQqYFBcnywqk/s1600/Photo+Feb+13,+7+01+10+PM.jpg" height="640" width="480" /> </div>
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Then I provided cupcakes from <a href="http://www.polkadotscupcakefactory.com/" target="_blank">Polkadots</a> for dessert!</div>
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I also went to dinner with my parents at <a href="http://oliveandjune-austin.com/" target="_blank">Olive and June </a>where I had some phenomenal duck. Always up for duck.<br />
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And I attended my first crawfish boil at a birthday party. Now, let me tell you, I don't like crawfish. As you will see, there are some shrimp in there that were purchased especially for me and two other attendees that don't eat crawfish. However, I got a little drunk and Zach persuaded me to try it. By itself, crawfish tastes like sea testicles. It was not good. But when you drown it in Sriracha, it tastes better. Everything does. And then I felt sick. Not wine sick. Fish sick. It wasn't good.<br />
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Exercising... hasn't been great. I.e., non-existent. But I'm getting there. I promise. I'm gonna do it... <br />
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ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-72085875670573091582013-02-12T08:39:00.000-06:002013-02-12T08:39:15.382-06:00runningGuys, running fucking sucks.<br />
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At least running at 5:30am on an empty stomach on your apartment complex gym's treadmill sucks. It took almost a week for me to manage to get my ass out of bed early enough to run in the morning, and I was <i>so proud</i>of myself today. Then I looked outside and saw that it was drizzly and dark. Like DARK dark. Like get raped and murdered and no one ever finds the body dark.<br />
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So I went to the complex gym. Yay treadmill. It started out well, I kept a positive outlook, and I got through 6/7 of the intervals I was planning on. But around interval 4 I started feeling sick. Like, dizzy, lightheaded, gonna vomit but there's nothing to vomit sick. I pushed through it because I didn't want to pussy out, but by finishing the 6th interval I was pretty sure I would seriously damage my health if I continued further.<br />
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Let's recap how out of shape I am - the intervals I'm running are run 1min (6mph), walk 2min (3.8mph), and I nearly died. After six of those. Six. Holy tub of lard, Batman.<br />
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So, I don't know if it's the time of day? The empty stomach? The treadmill? Maybe a combination of all three? If you have any thoughts, please share, because I'd like to figure this out. I might try an afternoon run not on a treadmill later this week, weather permitting.<br />
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Any advice is super appreciated.ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-86111570309961365782013-02-06T20:19:00.000-06:002013-02-06T20:20:32.910-06:00it's done<div style="text-align: justify;">
Took my test this Monday and actually felt pretty good about it. It was definitely a different experience than the last two times, so that's promising. Nineteen days until I know for sure.</div>
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But since then, I have found SO MUCH FREE TIME! Monday night I came home and played Zelda and did laundry and read some of Bossypants and played piano and had all kinds of fun. So now, finally, I can get back to what most people call life.</div>
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I was going to start my running regimen this morning, but it was raining, so it's getting put off until tomorrow. I'm going to use <a href="http://www.superskinnyme.com/beginner_running_program.html" target="_blank">this guide</a>, that I mentioned back in January, to get my lazy butt moving. I think it's mild enough to make sure I don't burn out, and I'm actually really excited about it. I'm also going to try using the Nike+ app to track my progress.</div>
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I also signed up for my first <a href="http://www.coursera.org/" target="_blank">Coursera</a> course. They're free, and I love learning. The class officially started back on Jan 28 but I was still allowed to sign up, and I'm just trying to catch up now. Luckily, the first quiz deadline was extended until February 13th! The one I'm enrolled in is <a href="https://www.coursera.org/course/healthinformatics" target="_blank">Health Informatics in the Cloud</a>. So far it's super interesting - dealing with the current state of healthcare in the US, where it's going, how to fix it, and how information technology is desperately needed in order to have any hopes of improving. I'm such a nerd. If you too are a nerd, you should sign up for a course!</div>
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Zach and I have just gotten into House of Cards on Netflix. It's. Awesome. Go watch it. Netflix original. Kevin Spacey is the bomb.</div>
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Speaking of Zach, our 4th anniversary is one week from today, which is crazy to think about. But exciting, too!</div>
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Ok, I need to go read for my class :D</div>
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ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-85329866261973054912013-01-29T18:38:00.003-06:002013-01-29T18:39:13.956-06:00sickness<div style="text-align: justify;">
There's nothing like a cold to bring you down off of a good productivity streak.</div>
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And it's even more awful when it happens on the weekend. Weekends are supposed to be the MOST productive!!</div>
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I'm one week out from my CPA exam and kind of terrified. I was able to buckle down Sunday but I completely lost Saturday to being miserable and unable to do anything at all. But I'm determined and trying to remain optimistic. I feel like my entire universe will fall into place once I get this done and over with. It's been on my shoulders for far too long and I can't take the dread anymore.</div>
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So, since that's on Monday, I plan on starting my workout regimen on Wednesday, taking Tuesday to make myself a game plan. I'm still on a good path.</div>
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I really intended on posting pictures of things I cooked in the past week or so, but blogger is making that super difficult for me right now. So, here are the recipes instead:</div>
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<a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2012/02/16/mini-ham-cheese-quinoa-cups/" target="_blank">mini ham & cheese quinoa cups</a></div>
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<a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2013/01/02/simple-shrimp-and-asparagus-risotto/" target="_blank">shrimp and asparagus risotto</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theyummylife.com/Slow_Cooker_Pumpkin_Pie_Oatmeal" target="_blank">slow cooker pumpkin pie oatmeal</a></div>
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<a href="http://foodonthetable.com/recipes/2381-barbeque-beef-casserole" target="_blank">barbecue beef (or turkey, in my case) casserole</a></div>
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Anyhow, back to the grind.</div>
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ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-13076225087045618342013-01-21T13:59:00.001-06:002013-01-21T14:06:57.051-06:00diy velcro makeup battlestation<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hey hey hey, how about that three-day weekend?</div>
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I've been mostly studying, but I did manage to do a little DIY organization with my bonus day. I had originally made myself a magnetic makeup board out of a dry erase board that FAILED MISERABLY. Turns out, dry erase boards just aren't strong enough to hold up makeup with much weight, no matter how many magnets you put on the makeup. SO, since everything had reduced itself into chaotic disarray, I thought... why not Velcro?</div>
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My original game plan was to buy some foam board, cover it with felt using some fabric spray adhesive, then attach the hook side of the velcro to my makeup and stick it straight to the felt.</div>
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Velcro: 1, Felt: 0.</div>
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The velcro was just too strong for the felt and ripped it away from the foam board. Plan B: Assign everything its own spot on the board and stick the fuzzy part of the Velcro to the foam board.</div>
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You wanna do this too? ALRIGHT, LET'S DO A TUTORIAL BUT WITHOUT PICTURES BECAUSE I FORGOT TO TAKE THEM ALONG THE WAY, WHOOPS.</div>
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<b>Step 1:</b> Figure out where you want to put this bad boy. Measure that area. Measure that area again. Okay, one more time. Good. Write those numbers down. Now you should know how much foam board you'll need.</div>
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<b>Step 2: </b>Evaluate your makeup stash and figure out about how much velcro you'll need. The Velcro I used is sold in 18", 5', and 15' rolls/strips. You're probably not going to need 15' unless you're doing your entire bathroom wall. I bought the 5' roll and had about 2 feet leftover. Do whatever is most cost effective for you.</div>
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<b>Step 3: </b>Go to the store and get the things you need. Here's a list of things that might be handy!</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://shop.hobbylobby.com/products/20-x-30-white-100-biodegradable-foamboard-566380/" target="_blank">Foam board</a>: I got mine in this size at Michael's for $2.99. You can also get colored boards if you so choose.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_65535-388-90677_0__?Ntt=velcro+5%27+sticky+back&UserSearch=velcro+5%27+sticky+back&productId=1095759&rpp=32" target="_blank">Velcro</a>: I recommend NOT buying this at Michael's. It was a good $3 more expensive there. Also, make sure you get the STICKY BACK kind and the 3/4" width. It sometimes comes in different colors but I didn't really care and just bought black.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">A box cutter/exacto knife: You're probably gonna have to modify that foam board.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">A straight edge and pencil: So you don't end up with a jankety edge on your foam board.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Scissors: to cut your velcro.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Hammer and nails: To mount this buddy to your wall.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Command strips: To mount your brush/eyeliner/mascara/whatever cups to the wall.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Some creative thinking to figure out what to use for your brushes/eyeliner/mascara. I didn't want to go spend money on actual pencil holders so I improvised. I had an old pink square pen cup that was handily divided and decided to use a recently finished bottle of hair stuff for brushes. Other options might be a soup can (cleaned and ensuring that the edges aren't sharp) or an old pill bottle/vitamin bottle. Bottles like that are great if you can manage to chop the tops off with the exacto knife like I did with my hair stuff bottle. But the important part is to figure out how much stuff you have that you need to put in those cups and make it happen. ANYWAY.</li>
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<b>Step 4: </b>Now that you have all your stuff together, cut that foam board up. measure it out to whatever size you need, mark it off with a pencil and make sure it's even, and cut that thing to size.</div>
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<b>Step 5: </b>Get out all your makeup and lay it out on the board. Organize it so it's aesthetically pleasing because this is what you're going to be stuck with. Literally. </div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">There's all my stuff laid out on the coffee table.</span></div>
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<b>Step 6: </b>Once you have all that settled, it's time to get to Velcroing. Take the Velcro you bought and attach the hook sides to the loop sides all the way down so it's nice and even. This should result in the velcro being stuck together and the sticky sides on the outside. Evaluate how much velcro you'll need to attach each item to the board (more for palettes, less for individual eyeshadows, you get it). Cut a length of velcro to match the item you're working with. Peel the sticky back off of the <b>hook</b> side and stick it in the middle of the item. Then peel the sticky back off of the <b>loop</b> side and stick it to its assigned spot on the board. Repeat with everything.</div>
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When you do it this way, with the velcro already attached to itself, you can make sure that your makeup is perfectly lined up where you want it and you don't have to go trying to line it all up AFTER you cut it. Makes everything nice and uniform.</div>
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<b>Step 7: </b>Mount that baby to the wall! I used two nails each at the top and bottom and two nails along each side (since mine is super tall) in order to keep it stable. Mount your brush/eyeliner/mascara cups nearby using your command strips.</div>
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<b>Step 8: </b>Pat yourself on the back because your makeup looks awesome now and you're no longer taking up all the counter space and irritating your boyfriend.</div>
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All in all I spent about $10 on this. To be fair, I already had the exacto knife, hammer, nails, cups, and command strips, but it's still crazy cheap considering how helpful it is! </div>
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ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-16600253848770334572013-01-18T10:35:00.001-06:002013-01-18T10:36:13.517-06:00checking in<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm still studying. Still cooking. Still taking pictures of my food that I don't have access to right now.</div>
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Just wanted to say that I'm still on the right track. </div>
ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-44621019653598990702013-01-09T09:08:00.001-06:002013-01-09T09:19:22.196-06:00round is a shape<div style="text-align: justify;">
In fact, round is the exact shape I'm in. I'm not gonna lie, I haven't actually begun working out. I'm trying to tackle that #1 goal before I really hit the others super hard. I don't want to kill myself here. But I have found a few things that are helping me make plans and make goals.</div>
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Firstly, a dear friend of mine told me about a social fitness site, <a href="http://www.fitocracy.com/" target="_blank">Fitocracy</a>. I made my profile and played around with it a little bit, and it's basically a way to log your exercises and burned calories and whatnot and share it with your friends. It even has starter workouts and descriptions of a bunch of different workout moves that you can pull together to create and save your own routine. Sounds legit to me.</div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4182982851150053116" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Secondly, after being encouraged to do so by another friend for YEARS now, I've decided that I'm going to run a 5k. I'm just going to do it. Mind you, I <u><b><i>hate</i></b></u> running. But so many of my friends love it and live by it so I feel like there's just some hurdle I have to get past to enjoying it. So, while cruising around on Pinterest I came across this <a href="http://www.superskinnyme.com/beginner_running_program.html" target="_blank">beginner's running guide</a>. It seems doable. I mean, I think it is. I think a big part of my problem has been pushing too hard too soon and burning out. But, as I've mentioned, PLANNING is incredibly important for goal maintenance. So I'm gonna do it. And I'm roping Zach into joining me. And I think I want my first 5k to be <a href="http://thecolorrun.com/" target="_blank">the color run</a>. It's fun and they donate to local charities in each city, keeping the benefits close to home. It's far enough out that I can adequately train and hopefully do it no problem by May.</div>
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And now, for the food porn:</div>
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Here's
that pretty incredible steel cut oatmeal with apples and pears. Doesn't
look like much but it DOES keep incredibly well and is quite filling.</div>
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And this is the <a href="http://www.foodonthetable.com/recipes/25576-chicken-tortilla-soup" target="_blank">chicken tortilla soup</a> I made last night. SO good and so easy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKu6JmGKQ8AdzsI92eYo3nQwNV-Zzf6qm3nb3tf9GUT5mfCmH0Sxfhc-RYZysTS9RiUiN9yri38QH_RN-qcE_FmTKr66h4cbeSZjpA-BlXHGcFgr1lYJrOd_QVKnLowhaWNlQoCF-gAQ/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKu6JmGKQ8AdzsI92eYo3nQwNV-Zzf6qm3nb3tf9GUT5mfCmH0Sxfhc-RYZysTS9RiUiN9yri38QH_RN-qcE_FmTKr66h4cbeSZjpA-BlXHGcFgr1lYJrOd_QVKnLowhaWNlQoCF-gAQ/s1600/image.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Stay
tuned for more food pics, recipes, and wellness updates. Let me know in
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ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-2351236236322757992013-01-06T15:23:00.002-06:002013-01-06T15:36:57.333-06:00weekender<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's going to be hard to turn down social invites. But I know I have to.</div>
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I've managed to study a bit so far this weekend, but not as much as I'd like. I'm currently taking a study break to write this, in fact. I have been productive, though! Zach and I reorganized the kitchen cabinets which opened it up for a LOT more storage and easier access to things. And with as much cooking as we will be doing soon, that will be much needed. We also did a lot of laundry, flipped our mattress, changed the sheets, and generally tidied up.</div>
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We made a decent grocery trip on Friday night to stock up for the awesome meals we're planning on making this week. Protip: Grocery shopping at 7pm on a Friday is awesome because NO ONE is there. You know, because other people have social lives.</div>
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--- <i>Sidenote: where the hell can I buy mason jars?</i></div>
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What's on the menu today!</div>
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This morning I made some <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/product/sticky-fingers-scones-mix-raspberry.do" target="_blank">raspberry scones</a> from a mix I got as a stocking stuffer. Not the healthiest, but quite delicious and good for sharing! Zach's brothers are currently munching on them with some coffee, in fact.</div>
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I also started a double batch of <a href="http://www.theyummylife.com/Slow_Cooker_Apple_Cinnamon_Oatmeal" target="_blank">slow cooker oatmeal</a> with apples and pears for Zach and I to have for breakfast all next week. My original game plan was to store the portions in mason jars for easy transportation and reheating, but, as I mentioned before, I can't seem to find mason jars anywhere. I'm super excited about it as it smells INCREDIBLE right now. Also, apparently steel cut oats reheat really well, so it should be a solid week-long breakfast.</div>
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Tonight I'll be making this <a href="http://www.foodonthetable.com/recipes/353732-salmon-baked-in-foil-with-green-beans-and-pesto" target="_blank">pesto salmon with green beans</a> with this <a href="http://www.foodonthetable.com/recipes/346500-spinach-and-rice-casserole" target="_blank">spinach rice</a> dish on the side. I'm sure this is going to make for some AWESOME leftovers and I'm really curious about the rice situation. I'll make sure to food porn it for viewing pleasure.</div>
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ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4182982851150053116.post-17549599857744085732013-01-04T11:13:00.002-06:002013-01-06T15:36:41.081-06:00new beginnings<div style="text-align: justify;">
New year's resolutions are dumb. Most people never keep them and then the resolutions sit there and make people feel bad about themselves. Mainly because these resolutions are far too ambitious for most people and they have no plan set up to make them happen. I think the missing key is accountability. Whether you want to lose weight or quit smoking or play your guitar more or whatever, if you don't have a way to keep yourself on track, you're not going to do it.</div>
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I'm not saying that EVERYONE fails. I'm sure people succeed. I mean, I don't know them, but they've gotta be out there right?</div>
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For me, 2012 was full of ups and downs. More downs than ups, to be perfectly honest. I kept setting goals and failing to meet them and disappointed myself immensely. I don't just want 2013 to be different, I want the rest of my life to be different. I want to be happier, healthier, and better off.</div>
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This blog and whoever decides to read it will be the ones to hold me accountable. I have a lot of goals and I know they're ambitious, but I'm determined to live life better from here on out. Let's go through them, shall we?</div>
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<b><u>1. Pass my motherf*cking CPA exam</u></b></div>
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I am not playing around with this one. In 2012 I went through the shame and torture of failing this bastard not once - but TWICE. I have until May 23rd to pass, but I NEED to get it this time around. I'm scheduling the exam for early February and I am on complete social lockdown until then.</div>
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<b><u>2. Get organized</u></b></div>
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I am the queen of clutter, and it drives Zach (and me, if we're being honest) nuts. I need to find a system to keep things tidy, organized, and inspiring. It's hard to be happy and productive when you're living in a pile of ... stuff. Just lots of stuff everywhere. So I want to tackle some projects that will make keeping organized and tidy easier. Time to bust out my Real Simple magazines and take their tips. Time to throw out stuff I don't need. Time to reorganize closets and cabinets and make everything easier.<b> </b></div>
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<b><u>3. Get fit</u></b></div>
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I need an exercise routine, man. Like some serious cardio and core toning. I've gained more weight than I'd like to admit, and watching what I eat alone isn't cutting it. I've never been good at working out. I have bad knees. I have bad ankles. I hate running. So I'm determined to find some kind of cardio workout that will work for me, whether it's fast paced circuit training or jumping rope and hula hooping or just forcing myself to suck it up and deal with a treadmill/elliptical. It's gotta happen. First goal: losing 10lbs. Once I reach that, I'll reassess my willingness to buy an entirely new wardrobe.<br />
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This leads me to...</div>
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<b><u>4. Be healthier</u></b></div>
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I generally eat fairly well with low calorie, low fat foods. We use whole wheat pasta and ground turkey instead of beef, and we only eat beef once every 2 weeks or so. But we also have the same 6 or so recipes we use in rotation<b> </b>and I'm just tired of it. I need new recipes and healthier snacks. For example, Zach eats a veritable shitton of cereal. Any snack/fourthmeal/breakfast opportunity results in cereal consumption. And not usually some Special K extra fiber good for you stuff. It's like, Cinnamon Toast Crunch or Rice Krispies. He wants to lower that down and get fit and healthy with me, which will help this whole transition be easier.</div>
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I found an amazing app, <a href="http://www.foodonthetable.com/" target="_blank">Food on the Table</a>, that allows you to search for meals and add them to your plan, while automatically populating your grocery list and pulling in sale items from your local grocery store. (P.S. - all the meals that I've seen through the app include nutrition facts. Kind of awesome.) The free version only allows 7 meals at a time/per week, but that's plenty, right? You can also add as many grocery items as you want, manually, so you don't have to pop your awesome oatmeal recipe into the app in order to remember to buy the ingredients. I highly recommend it.</div>
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And finally,</div>
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<b><u>5. Be happier</u></b></div>
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It's hard to be happy when you see yourself as a failure. 2012 saw CPA exam failure, weight gain, junk food, and generally unhappiness with my life. I want to change that. Making the first four things happen will go a long way towards that happiness, but I also need to remember to keep a positive attitude. I will struggle. I will fall short. I will cry. But I will not beat myself up anymore. No one is perfect and no one should be. All I can hope is to be better.</div>
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This is the start of life, but better. Join me. We can hold each other accountable. </div>
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ashley mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15829082391263475659noreply@blogger.com0