tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53819443466958873342024-03-05T18:31:36.594-05:00Run. Ride. Read. Repeat. A runner, equestrian, bookworm, and musician all in one package! Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-33598818979935266142019-01-02T17:00:00.000-05:002019-01-02T17:00:04.210-05:00One Step, Two Steps, Breathe "One Step, Two Steps, Breathe." That's the mantra I repeated as I slowly hand walked Cupid around the farm.<br />
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"One Step, Two Steps, Breathe." Don't focus on the fact that my partner is in pain, don't obsess about the horrible outcome that could arise if this didn't resolve itself. Just focus on walking, breathing, and talking to Cupid.<br />
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Sunday started like any other Sunday for me. I woke up, made some tea and a bagel, and left for the barn. I arrived at the barn around 8:30 and took a minute to watch a pair of woodpeckers on a light post. Their little feet quickly moved them around the post as they investigated it for potential food sources. Eventually they fluttered away towards a tree in search of a better meal than the light post provided. Watching those woodpeckers in a memory seared into my mind. Just the peace and simplicity of seeing the joy they took in climbing that post.<br />
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I got the girls fed quickly and set about doing basic chores while they ate. After about 10 minutes I walked over to their feeding stalls to find Cupid performing a Flehmen response and pawing at the ground. Instantly, I knew something was wrong and let her out of the stall. She walked over near the paddock gate and laid down. As I saw her go down I felt my heart stop.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The droopy ears and flared nose killed me</td></tr>
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Thankfully, she just laid down and did not try to roll immediately. I quickly grabbed her halter and by the time I returned to her side she had begun to roll. All the hours we had spent training together came in handy as I quickly got her haltered and asked her to stand. From the look on her face I knew she did not want to rise but she did so because I asked.<br />
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We walked for what felt like hours waiting for the Banamine to kick in, waiting for her stomach to start rumbling, waiting and hoping and praying that I would not have to make the call that every owner dreads. I had called the vet and we decided to try a dose of Banamine with hand walking and seeing how she was in a few hours. The vet was confident from my description of Cupid's behavior that we would be successful with that treatment but her confidence did little to resolve my worry.<br />
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With each step I had to keep reminding myself that as long as she was standing, as long as she remained aware of our surroundings then things were alright. I spoke to her as we walked, talking to her about everything and anything I could think of. How stressed I was about the way things had fallen apart with a boy, how I wanted to succeed at my job and become a valuable team player, how excited I was to have her as my trail riding partner at my parents home, anything and everything that crossed my mind as we walked.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Investigating the stall for any food remnants while we took a walk break. </td></tr>
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After around an hour of walking I began to hear her stomach rumble lightly. I could have cried from relief because things were finally turning around. After 90 minutes of walking she began to bump my hip with her nose, directly at the spot where I always carried my training pouch. We did not make it to 2 hours of walking. Cupid decided, just after discovering that I had taken off the treat pouch, that she was done with this walking crap and instead decided she wanted to investigate what the chickens were doing.<br />
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Seeing that my friend was going to be fine I placed her in a stall to wait for her to pass manure. This was the longest 2 hours I could have imagined. Cupid was downright furious that she was being cheated out of a hay ration, and spent those hours flinging anything she could grab at me. Salt lick pan - flung all over the stall and scraped against the bars. Jolly Ball - stomped on until it resembled a pancake then thrown out of the stall. Water bucket - dumped several times and would have been thrown if I wasn't monitoring her. I think we were both relieved when she finally pooped and could go out on grass for a few minutes.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Mom, please let me out of the stall."</td></tr>
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The plan for the rest of the day was to leave her in a stall with her jolly ball and a bran mash. The vet agreed that, while the experience had been traumatic for me, it was an extremely mild case of colic. Everyone reassured me that she would be fine and that it was the best colic situation I could have asked for. I tend to disagree.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pissed off because she realized she's stuck in the barn for the night</td></tr>
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Walking Cue around the property because I needed to keep her moving was the worst part of the experience. I feared her giving up and just falling to her knees unable to rise, unable to join me on our long awaited adventure. Her eyes never lost their spark, and she kept tapping me with her nose, as if to say "I'll be alright, I'll be here with you". But my mind kept screaming "one step, two steps, breathe", because the primal act of breathing automatically did not seem like something I was capable of during those moments.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watching me walk up the next day. The spark back in her eyes.</td></tr>
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I don't know why Cupid coliced. The vet speculates that the sudden temperature changes and dryness might have contributed to it. No matter the reason, this is something I would never wish upon anyone. Currently, Cupid is back to her usual routine. She shows no indication that she was ever unwell and hopefully this is something we never have to experience again for a long time. I'll give her a bit of a break to ensure that she is fully recovered, but as I looked into her eyes yesterday I knew that every moment I have with her is a blessing. This little grey mare with the split ear has truly stolen my heart.<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-78871272789772899512019-01-02T05:00:00.000-05:002019-01-02T05:00:00.849-05:00Grooming the Grey - What's In My Grooming Box?If there's one thing I've learned from owning a grey horse it's that no horse is ever 100% clean. Every brush stroke adds dirt and removes it at the same time. Because of this I try to clean my brushes regularly. This not only allows my horse to stay cleaner but also gives me the chance to organize my grooming tools, or which I have far too many. While cleaning my brushes I decided it might be fun to share with you what's in my grooming box!<br />
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The following are some of my favorite grooming products that I keep in my everyday grooming box.<br />
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To start with, my grooming tote is a pink <a href="https://www.jefferspet.com/products/dura-tote?sku=M3DH" target="_blank">Little Giant Duratote</a> I bought from Jeffers Equine. The plastic makes it easy to clean and it has held up very well through several drops and kicks. Both sides of the tote are the same size which allows me to stuff all my various grooming products in without having anything fall out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEintA_nhZ03VxLvhPoE8kBwU-IjEEZIarEVzuul4sLObxgTnYR3oqUwkWmniJHJ4V9CQQbOYfqGs_ue95v440j1ZExFdcCi3Zx6L3Ecn8fAKDk5YNrkbkPHtm5178ChkCbE848o4QgRfGM/s1600/IMG_7727.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEintA_nhZ03VxLvhPoE8kBwU-IjEEZIarEVzuul4sLObxgTnYR3oqUwkWmniJHJ4V9CQQbOYfqGs_ue95v440j1ZExFdcCi3Zx6L3Ecn8fAKDk5YNrkbkPHtm5178ChkCbE848o4QgRfGM/s320/IMG_7727.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
The next critical products in my grooming box are my everyday sprays. The first is <a href="https://www.jefferspet.com/products/dura-tote?sku=M3DH" target="_blank">Endure Sweat Resistant Fly Spray</a>. Because Florida is extremely hot and buggy I need something that will not sweat off my horses and will not wash off in the rain. So far I have been very impressed with Endure. The <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/pyranha-equine-rollon-17421" target="_blank">roller ball</a> contains fly spray for face applications and around the occasional cut. The pink bottle contains <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/healthy-haircare-hair-moisturizer-233?_br_psugg_q=healthy+haircare+products" target="_blank">Healthy HairCare Hair Moisturizer</a>. This product has been a life saver for Cupid's mane and tail, and I can't wait to see how it helps Foxy's skimpy tail and thin mane.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJRk9plPmzN_zItdYd5LVsYuYu5kNAgt9i7beVGPUcO5bSNHTToGHIY7kvelOjKFBbwtH1QiFZNi5Vpgv2DM_LM4SLF8MxNG-8A5UMi8O-JtNERvgQQzsDHxFjnPBz3_xMZvJLSBBmzdk/s1600/IMG_7728.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJRk9plPmzN_zItdYd5LVsYuYu5kNAgt9i7beVGPUcO5bSNHTToGHIY7kvelOjKFBbwtH1QiFZNi5Vpgv2DM_LM4SLF8MxNG-8A5UMi8O-JtNERvgQQzsDHxFjnPBz3_xMZvJLSBBmzdk/s320/IMG_7728.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
The next image is some of my everyday hoof products. Because Cupid has a bit of a reoccurring thrush problem I always have a bottle or two of <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/thrush-buster-210" target="_blank">Thrush Buster</a> handy. While most people might use <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/hooflex-conditioner-227" target="_blank">Hooflex</a> for hooves I find it works amazing to keep chestnuts moisturized and clean looking. It does cause a bit of a greasy look to the hair around the chestnuts but my mares look less feral since I started applying this every few days.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvP0TGSOdUVW3oMuzf2brFayoCAQqxLYNv4aFFM7_7-0JO9fO1vwKaDPgwUBsy3zzsglR0MniWXJv8LvOzUq74XaGcrKCZfHFRbKmLYcLX3_iy57iQaPqd2bufK5gSRbxVwKpTeOWnP30/s1600/IMG_7729.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvP0TGSOdUVW3oMuzf2brFayoCAQqxLYNv4aFFM7_7-0JO9fO1vwKaDPgwUBsy3zzsglR0MniWXJv8LvOzUq74XaGcrKCZfHFRbKmLYcLX3_iy57iQaPqd2bufK5gSRbxVwKpTeOWnP30/s320/IMG_7729.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
The next product pictured is <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/farriers-finish-11875?_br_psugg_q=farrier+s+formula" target="_blank">Life Data Farrier's Finish</a>. I love using this as a disinfectant and conditioner on hooves. It helps keep thrush at bay and makes hooves look amazing. While this is expensive the bottle seems to last a long time. The final product is Iodine. I keep this on hand at all times for cuts, scrapes, or other funny ailments that might pop up from time to time on legs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAp_w7KOMB0U3Uvq20sYzu8BLzX_TO8CVvb2jH2PB9EjRwsYc7mFUiKIDY8h6VUMUrVF0P73b1vxRIE220yL3mmYwc2_UJvB4ZMG9nBzF6XSmBV-QYac6bQBfMk1Lm0-BegGkGcSevyg/s1600/IMG_7730.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAp_w7KOMB0U3Uvq20sYzu8BLzX_TO8CVvb2jH2PB9EjRwsYc7mFUiKIDY8h6VUMUrVF0P73b1vxRIE220yL3mmYwc2_UJvB4ZMG9nBzF6XSmBV-QYac6bQBfMk1Lm0-BegGkGcSevyg/s320/IMG_7730.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
The first curry, and a personal favorite of my horses, is the <a href="https://www.chewy.com/oster-equine-care-fine-curry-horse/dp/133277?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=hg&utm_content=Oster&utm_term=&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI7Jqrppy-3wIVC1YNCh2IywNxEAQYASABEgJuRvD_BwE" target="_blank">Oster Fine Curry Comb</a>. Both mares love this curry on their faces and it is amazing at pulling up dandruff on thick winter coats. The second curry is also by Oster, their <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/oster-coarse-curry-comb-12853" target="_blank">Coarse Curry Comb</a>, which is great for breaking up dirt and on winter coats. I also enjoy using this curry during baths around shedding season. The third curry is by far my favorite, the <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/the-epona-shed-flower-15838" target="_blank">Epona Shed Flower</a>. Shedding season with Cupid never seemed to end. She was a furry, shedding beast for far too long and the shed flower was greatly appreciated. The teeth pulled all the loose hair out gently, and the flower shape is comfortable to hold. The fourth and final curry comb is a standard <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/rubber-curry-comb-5215" target="_blank">rubber curry comb</a>. I do have a smaller size to fit my smaller hands.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj140HqIdSou83E9MBx4qvFPD99ftcGdmSvOlsqVTInVoUkpgtMIVsxBcSqf_qLCIYQ4zW9duieniF-pC0Z_NG_A4Xl5AkF8wEGgLn9R-rPReWjvkkp7AO4yY_qAoIhiQ4Qr0E6nPdKpNY/s1600/IMG_7731.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj140HqIdSou83E9MBx4qvFPD99ftcGdmSvOlsqVTInVoUkpgtMIVsxBcSqf_qLCIYQ4zW9duieniF-pC0Z_NG_A4Xl5AkF8wEGgLn9R-rPReWjvkkp7AO4yY_qAoIhiQ4Qr0E6nPdKpNY/s320/IMG_7731.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
My hoof pick collection might seem small but don't worry, I have plenty of backups in my tack trunk at home. With how often I lose these things I make sure to buy them in bulk. My favorite hoof pick is the <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/hoof-pick-brush-wgrip-1622?_br_psugg_q=hoof+pick" target="_blank">SmartPak Hoof Pick Brush with Grip</a>. This hoof pick feels right in my hand and sturdy enough to pick out packed dirt with ease. The brush has held up through several years of use and cleans up nicely. The second hoof pick that I always keep in my box is the <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/tail-tamers-coated-steel-hoof-pick-14047?_br_psugg_q=hoof+pick" target="_blank">Tail Tamer's Coated Steel Hoof Pick</a>, this is a smaller hoof pick that I use when it has been dry out and there is not a lot of debris packed in the hoof. Another item that I keep with my hoof pick collection is a <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/hoof-cleaning-brush-5034" target="_blank">hoof cleaning brush</a>, when applying thrush products I always make sure to brush out the hoof with this brush to ensure all the sand and dirt is removed. This also works great as a water brush to truly clean the hoof.<br />
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The next two items are pretty self explanatory, a pair of hair cutting scissors and a wide tooth comb from the dollar store. The scissors work well when I need to cut length off a mane or bang tails, and because they were cheap I don't need to worry about them getting wet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14hTO_pMAAz4Cany3NbIy-r0h4BM0GvqJs-FNPsaU3huJtkT_Z8n0lAOQOLcPqj2WBkNYD8yq2Q_uT4NCiFRtI0hJcaBlIzmAe2qnQ6NME22yYVMPdCDUGtPlG2buH252IjFGs57HnEs/s1600/IMG_7733.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14hTO_pMAAz4Cany3NbIy-r0h4BM0GvqJs-FNPsaU3huJtkT_Z8n0lAOQOLcPqj2WBkNYD8yq2Q_uT4NCiFRtI0hJcaBlIzmAe2qnQ6NME22yYVMPdCDUGtPlG2buH252IjFGs57HnEs/s320/IMG_7733.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
As every horseman knows, good brushes are worth their weight in gold. I keep four brushes in my grooming box. The first is the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-Animal-Grooming-858705/dp/B0098F05TE/ref=pd_sbs_199_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0098F05TE&pd_rd_r=31f9ce26-094c-11e9-bcdd-7501865a8e6d&pd_rd_w=PWSPH&pd_rd_wg=1K5XY&pf_rd_p=7d5d9c3c-5e01-44ac-97fd-261afd40b865&pf_rd_r=8A9ZN8ZC3C8VEYNFCGSC&psc=1&refRID=8A9ZN8ZC3C8VEYNFCGSC" target="_blank">Wahl Stiff Body Brush</a>, this is a nice hard brush with medium bristles that I use for everyday grooming. The next is the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-Animal-Equine-858704/dp/B0098F05TO/ref=pd_bxgy_199_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0098F05TO&pd_rd_r=43abd626-094c-11e9-ade5-fb19e6f8bfdd&pd_rd_w=eXETu&pd_rd_wg=KFY8h&pf_rd_p=6725dbd6-9917-451d-beba-16af7874e407&pf_rd_r=SC4PYMS88C8MKYWEDPB0&psc=1&refRID=SC4PYMS88C8MKYWEDPB0" target="_blank">Wahl Soft Body Brush</a>, which is a soft brush that brings out a nice shine. The third brush is Foxy's favorite, the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0098F05W6/ref=emc_b_5_t" target="_blank">Wahl Face Brush</a>. Fox will stand completely still and drop her head to her knees so I can brush her blaze with this brush. The fourth brush is my favorite during extremely dirty days or for a dusty winter coat, it's the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/EPONA-Fancy-Dandy-Flower-Flick/dp/B074MBYS4Q/ref=sr_1_2?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1545856033&sr=1-2&keywords=epona+flower" target="_blank">Epona Fancy Dandy Flower Flick Brush</a>. This is very comfortable in my hand and has longer bristles than the stiff body brush above.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigJgNeVg9xw19zZiD6PLCPsmExg8Z9vb0EWJi9Dvgns0dzUtKSCOr79wrWUPCDUb38wrmaNW92PK8E_4fMGF4mc9a9lh1mzTBpwVScBw3LgjNnUzy-x-uPhyphenhyphena-5LVZfmnIx9QclWk_PQw/s1600/IMG_7734.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigJgNeVg9xw19zZiD6PLCPsmExg8Z9vb0EWJi9Dvgns0dzUtKSCOr79wrWUPCDUb38wrmaNW92PK8E_4fMGF4mc9a9lh1mzTBpwVScBw3LgjNnUzy-x-uPhyphenhyphena-5LVZfmnIx9QclWk_PQw/s320/IMG_7734.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
The final items I keep in my grooming box are the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-Animal-Scraper-858713/dp/B0098F06DE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1545856346&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=wahl+sweat+scraper&psc=1" target="_blank">Wahl Sweat Scraper</a>, the <a href="https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/epona-tigers-tongue-horse-groomer-15840?_br_psugg_q=tiger+tongue" target="_blank">Epona Tiger Tongue</a>, and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N0NXG3W/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">pet grooming gloves</a> that I bought off Amazon for shedding season. The horses love the gloves and the tiger tongue and will lean into both of them for a deeper scratching.<br />
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So there you have it! My grooming items in my long running fight to keep that grey mare clean! What's in your grooming box?Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-2544180181538503392018-12-31T17:00:00.000-05:002018-12-31T17:02:19.619-05:002019 Repeat (Music) GoalsMy final set of goals for 2019! My repeat, or music, goals!<br />
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1) Push myself out of my comfort zone.<br />
This involves pushing myself to learn solos, work on the piccolo parts, and at least learn the 1st flute parts for all the songs in orchestra this year. I typically learn my part to the best of my ability but tend to sit back and ignore the solos or other "tough" parts that might appear which is not helping me grow as a musician.<br />
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2) Take advantage of all CFCArts opportunities.<br />
This means attending all sectionals, signing up for all secondary opportunities, and potentially volunteering to assist with CFCArts events outside of the orchestra.<br />
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3) Work on my higher register.<br />
I can pull off the first half of the 3rd register with very little difficulty but the second half requires some focus. A huge "reach" goal I have for 2019 is to master the entire 3rd register so I can perform it with very little focus.<br />
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If you're a musician or an artist what are your goals for 2019?Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-26408586365092394122018-12-30T17:00:00.000-05:002018-12-30T17:00:10.398-05:002019 Reading ChallengeQuestion, what do Leo Tolstoy, William Faulkner, Stephen King, and Amy Tan all have in common?<br />
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They're all authors who have books on the Rory Gilmore Reading Challenge! Every year I set a reading goal for number of books read, typically 100. This year I decided to be different and go for a specific set of books.<br />
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A few years ago I had attempted to start the Rory Gilmore Reading Challenge but got distracted by life and quit. While thinking about what to set for this years challenge I decided to give the RGRC another go. I have located <a href="http://bettyvintage.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Rory-Gilmore-Reading-List.pdf" target="_blank">this</a> list from Betty Vintage that I like the format of and plan to follow along and mark up the list as I go.<br />
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My goal for this year is to get through at least a third of the books on it. Ideally, I would like to take the books in order as found on the list. But, depending on availability at my library and other resources I may need to skip books and get back to them.<br />
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What's your reading goal for 2019?Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-2144415219197467452018-12-29T17:00:00.000-05:002018-12-29T17:00:01.070-05:002019 Riding GoalsMy 2019 riding goals are fairly basic and not very detailed. As always, I just want to focus on where life takes us and what the mares tell me they want to do.<br />
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1) Get them successfully settled into their new home!<br />
The mares will be moving out to my parents place after the shed is extended to accommodate them. I hope to help them through this transition so they can settle down comfortably and enjoy their new home. I expect there will be large learning curve going from boarding to self care so I look forward to conquering this with them!<br />
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2) Take both mares out on the trails.<br />
The new home will have trails and a shared riding arena. I can't wait to take the girls out on the trails and go exploring with them! We already have a few friends to go riding with so I anticipate this being fairly easy to achieve once they settle in.<br />
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3) Work on the Intro and Training Dressage movements<br />
I would love to continue my dressage education, but because of the pending move I am not sure if we will have the resources available to work with a trainer but I do plan on working on bending and transitions with my girls.<br />
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Overall, these are not overly ambitious goals but I wanted to set the bar low since I will be asking the girls to completely adjust to their new home and living schedule.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-24899905579894976602018-12-28T17:30:00.000-05:002018-12-28T17:30:09.988-05:002019 Running GoalsIt's that time of year again! Time to set goals that I probably will forget about and time to try and achieve the "New Year, New Me" mentality that everyone seems to focus on for the first few days. I've separated these into a four different posts, each post focusing on a different aspect of this blog. The first post is my running goals for 2019!<br />
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1) Actually maintain a consistent running schedule, ideally 2 times a week.<br />
Every year I try to focus on adding more mileage, bu this year I've decided I need to step back and focus on maintaining the consistency and quality of my running. In a perfect world I would manage 3-4 running sessions a week, but in my world I've decided to focus on twice a week with one run on the weekend.<br />
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2) Incorporate more hill work.<br />
I hate hill work. I hate walking hills, I hate running hills, I just hate hills. So for 2019 I've decided to try and master the hill work which will hopefully help me achieve a better pace during races.<br />
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3) Take advantage of the dog stroller.<br />
Yes, I am one of those people. My dogs have a stroller and with 70 lbs of dog in that stroller it is extremely difficult to push. The stroller is designed to be run with so I really should take advantage of that and run with the dogs. Hopefully their extra weight will work to improve my pace and muscle growth to make pushing myself during races easier.<br />
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What are your running goals for 2019?<br />
<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-47393919066841177802018-12-28T17:00:00.000-05:002018-12-28T17:00:07.080-05:00Oh For Fox SakeI apologize for the lack of posts this year, but I have a fun announcement for my readers!<br />
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In early November, Cupid and I have welcomed a new horse to our little herd! Welcome to the family Foxy, or For Fox Sake!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMtQIjtCfzbxPyuoBji0BAffr1hzXJWGGMirGbic_3qxNjm8aW4kfgBdPHeiIUoTq4iiUnhAnuvcE51MRRGqSzIM1sV12ZYgH5W0HrGFCB4dXzetFEB7RzV_WWRF5-47rnxaz91vnb-t8/s1600/IMG_7796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMtQIjtCfzbxPyuoBji0BAffr1hzXJWGGMirGbic_3qxNjm8aW4kfgBdPHeiIUoTq4iiUnhAnuvcE51MRRGqSzIM1sV12ZYgH5W0HrGFCB4dXzetFEB7RzV_WWRF5-47rnxaz91vnb-t8/s320/IMG_7796.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
Foxy is a 2004 American Saddlebred mare, who I adopted from Grune Heidi Farm Rescue in Lakeland, FL. I had initially gone to the rescue to look at a different horse, but when I looked at Foxy for my trainer I was impressed with what I saw.<br />
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Foxy has been found in New Holland back in 2003 and was rescued by another kind hearted horse lover. She spent several years with her savior, but unfortunately, her savior needed to downsize so she enlisted the assistance of Grune Heidi to find Foxy a forever home.<br />
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Foxy is a total love bug of a mare, who loves to work on groundwork and has a strong drive to please. She is a bit more sensitive than Cupid but has the same "in your pocket" personality that I'm attracted to. Under saddle she is an extremely fun ride and seems to have a nice movement for lower level dressage.<br />
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I'm still working on getting to know Foxy and earn her trust but it has been such a rewarding process so far. She has been getting along great with Cupid and has quickly learned that she is expected to dress up for the holidays.<br />
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One big project that we've been working on is desensitizing her to various "scary" things. When she first arrived at the barn, Fox would spook at me touching her on the center of her face. With time and lots of treats, she has come to learn that face scratches are amazing.<br />
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I can't wait to see how our partnership develops. The only goal I have for us at the moment is to have her trust me and to get her back under saddle with a solid foundation.<br />
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Welcome to the family Foxy!<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-59473889452920718162018-10-12T22:09:00.001-04:002018-10-12T22:09:29.355-04:00Unofficial Boarding Barn Rules*Note this is one of the many drafts that have been hanging out in my draft folder that I have finally gotten the motivation to edit and post*<br />
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Most equestrians end up at a boarding facility at least some point during their lives. No matter the reason, I have discovered there are seven unofficial rules that should be followed at every barn.<br />
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7. If you take it out, put it away<br />
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Grooming tools, blankets, halters, lead ropes, tack, these are all items that when left out in the barn aisles can clutter them up and make it difficult for others to work. By keeping spaces clean and neat you are encouraging an environment of respect for your horse and the other riders at the barn. If you're unsure of where something belongs then ask, don't just leave it laying around the barn for another person to hang up.<br />
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6. Pick up after your horse<br />
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Poop happens, pick it up and put it in the designated disposal location. Not the flowerbeds, not the grass behind the cross ties, not hidden behind the spare fence post pile. Make sure to put it where your barn wants to see it placed. If you don't know where this is then make sure to ask your barn manager or a fellow rider. No one wants to step in random piles of poop, or have to clean up the wash rack after your horse.<br />
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5. Clean borrowed items<br />
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We have all had a moment where we want to try a new piece of tack, or need to borrow something from a friend, before buying one of our own. Once you have used the item, clean it and put it back in the proper place. No one wants to lend a bit out and have it come back covered in slobber and chewed hay.<br />
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4. Read the notice board<br />
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If a arena is closed, or a paddock is being rested, it can typically be found on a central message location. Read what is listed and make sure to follow the requests. If you have any questions about what is on the board do not hesitate to ask someone.<br />
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3. Own up to broken items<br />
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As the owner of a chronic cribber I have had to notify my barn owner of several broken fence boards. If you or your horse break something, admit it to the owner of the item and take ownership for replacing or repairing that item. Barn owners would rather be aware of an issue than discover it after the fact.<br />
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2. Clean up after yourself<br />
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If you have a snack, enjoy a drink, or simply make a mess, be sure to clean up after yourself. Nothing is worse than coming out to the barn to discover it covered in ants because someone dropped food and did not pick it up. On a similar note, if you bring something to the barn be sure to take it home or put it in your locker/trunk. A clean barn provides a much happier environment for all of the horses and riders who utilize it.<br />
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1. Don't cause drama<br />
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Gossip and drama create an unhappy barn environment. If you have a problem with someone or something, speak in a diplomatic fashion to the barn owner or responsible individual. Spreading rumors and bringing up issues to people who are powerless just creates a tense environment that carries over to everyone involved with the barn.<br />
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We are all guilty of breaking these rules occasionally, but by acknowledging them and trying to follow them we are all able to make boarding a much more pleasant experience.<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><b>**Which unwritten rules does your barn have or do you wish it had?**</b></span><br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-83521263938224816972018-07-15T21:11:00.002-04:002018-07-15T21:11:52.693-04:00My Daith Piercing ExperienceEver since I received my second piercing (second lobe) I have been in love with piercings and creating fun looks with my earrings. On July 2nd I acquired my right daith piercing. I picked the daith piercing because of the supposed migraine curing properties and because I love the idea of a small, hidden piercing that can have unique jewelry like a heart or moon inserted.<br />
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Originally, I was going to wait until the fall to get the daith piercing, then my plan was to drag a friend with me while in DC but the day with her was too busy and I missed that window of opportunity. So, on July 2nd, while walking around the National Zoo I decided to call the piercing studio, Fatty’s Tattoos & Piercings, and see if their piercer had availability. She did so I dashed over to Chipotle for a quick lunch and then over to their DuPont Circle location to get my daith piercing done! </div>
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Once I arrived in DuPont Circle (thank you DC Metro!) I located the piercing studio and let the receptionist know that I was there for a daith piercing. She was extremely polite and took my basic information after letting the piercer know that a client had arrived. The piercer, Valerie, quickly came over to introduce herself and speak with me about the piercing. After looking at my daith she confirmed that there would be enough room to perform the piercing and have it sit correctly. She did inform me that once she was finally in my ear, performing the piercing, she might have to downsize from a 16 gauge to an 18 gauge based on my ear structure. </div>
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We looked at the jewelry options and I selected a simple captive bead ring with an imitation amethyst because it was one of the titanium options within my budget and would be subtle yet add enough sparkle to be fun. I will be honest that I was dying to get the $300 rose gold ring but it simply was not within my budget. After selecting the jewelry and confirming that I understood the risks involved with the piercing, Valerie left to go prep the room and ensure the jewelry was sterilized. While she did this I completed the final paperwork with the receptionist and purchased the cleaning spray that was recommended by the studio. </div>
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I did not have to wait long before I was called back to the piercing room. It was extremely reassuring to see that the entire room was clean and smelled fresh yet disinfected. Valerie had me lay back on the piercing table with my head tilted to the left so that she could disinfect and mark the piercing location. While doing this she walked me through how the actual piercing would go and what I might expect pain wise. </div>
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During the actual piercing part I was instructed to inhale, then exhale slowly through my mouth while the piercing was performed. There was a sharp flash of pain that quickly gave way to a feeling of extreme pressure. I was able to hear the exit hole crunch but overall I would rank the pain a 3 out of 10. It was not fun but I have had worse from migraines or silly injuries. After the needle was properly inserted it was left in place for a few seconds and used to thread the jewelry through. This was an odd sensation, almost like wearing chain threaded earrings but not unbearable. The ball was placed and there was another feeling of strong pressure and a slight tinge of pain while the ring was closed. </div>
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Once the piercing and jewelry insertion was completed the feeling of pressure went away and all I felt was a slight ringing in my ear and being extremely aware of the ring placement. Valerie cleaned the piercing, and stopped the bleeding, then sprayed it with sterile saline. She then walked me through the aftercare, which consists of cleaning twice daily with sterile saline (piercing specific with no additives) and letting it soak in warm water while in the shower. Beyond that, I was instructed to leave the piercing alone and it would heal within 6-12 months depending on various factors. If I wanted the jewelry changed after a few months then I could go to a piercer and have them change it but I was advised to stay with internally threaded jewelry that is titanium or higher quality.<br />
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Overall, the daith piercing process was extremely simple. It was not the most pleasant feeling but it was not the worst piercing I have ever experienced. That award would go to getting my helix done with a gun at Claire's, 0 out of 10 recommend that experience (Reminder, guns are bad for piercings. Don't be stupid like 18-year-old Laura was.). I was able to walk out of the shop without feeling lightheaded or in pain, just with a slight heaviness in my ear due to the blood rush and addition of jewelry in a strange location. Within a few hours of leaving the shop, I did not feel any different than when I had arrived at the shop.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My right ear set up immediately after the piercing was complete</td></tr>
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Now for the important part, how did I pick the piercing location and piercer.<br />
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1) Reviews.<br />
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I searched for a shop that consistently received positive reviews from their customers and was located in a good section of town. This last part was simply because I do not know DC and did not want to end up completely lost.<br />
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2) Artist<br />
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After locating several shops with positive reviews I looked up each individual artist and located their portfolio, Facebook, or Instagram page. I wanted to see which piercer had consistent placement with how I wanted my daith to look. During my research on the daith piercing, I discovered that several piercers tended to place them too shallow in the ear and did not create the illusion that the ring was coming out of the ear canal. As strange as that sounds this is placement I was looking for, so I narrowed my selection down to only piercers that had this placement consistently.<br />
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Once I confirmed that both these requirements were met I picked Fatty's based off Valerie's consistency with placement and one review that stated she was not afraid to say a piercing would work due to the anatomy of the client. This ability to say no was extremely important to me because I would rather be told the piercing wouldn't work then have a piercing that was improperly placed.<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-61849311463075275952018-06-02T20:27:00.000-04:002018-06-02T20:27:06.894-04:00Grooming the Grey - Dawn After the ketchup experiment, I decided that I needed to try something more heavy duty to pull the yellow stains from Cupid's tail. While picking at her tail I did realize that sections of hair at the top are growing in "blonde" so it is very possible that the bottom section is naturally blonde. But because there was fading from the ketchup, I do believe that the yellow is staining.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyuYoEc6jaS9srEykNxToztjiQc-jDRXgoGQiX9l709-Ii8AaR6iaBQutc8xaqHpn-cvVyjGjiX_pzKLNFG1bW8CpiNyajunTT2Ek8IelMY9AS6xIV6XCxY8Qhshy-EBKWezWMz06I41Y/s1600/IMG_6816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyuYoEc6jaS9srEykNxToztjiQc-jDRXgoGQiX9l709-Ii8AaR6iaBQutc8xaqHpn-cvVyjGjiX_pzKLNFG1bW8CpiNyajunTT2Ek8IelMY9AS6xIV6XCxY8Qhshy-EBKWezWMz06I41Y/s320/IMG_6816.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tail after the ketchup experiment</td></tr>
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Today's experiment consisted of V05 strawberry shampoo and conditioner, and Dawn Dish Soap (the blue bottle). I know several people who use Dawn as their primary shampoo for their horses but have never tried it myself. I do keep a large bottle in my tack locker for bucket and bit cleaning purposes.<br />
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To start I soaked Cupid's tail with water and spread the strawberry shampoo through it. This was then combed through to remove as much surface dirt as possible. The shampoo smelled great and really got all of the surface dirt out, but did not do anything to remove the staining.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVx0OEKi7vmhogwkHwTbw8gb6wWYUdbvOGUXwIVqG77md6HXgV3iaemW3rcwYVZ7wlLlXYqBtENJAD4CDXhA54b-sv3OGbGqKTFy5gqi1WxUtIuIM4BlTeNsPmgsmzvKAI5ANCyNQUh0o/s1600/IMG_6828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVx0OEKi7vmhogwkHwTbw8gb6wWYUdbvOGUXwIVqG77md6HXgV3iaemW3rcwYVZ7wlLlXYqBtENJAD4CDXhA54b-sv3OGbGqKTFy5gqi1WxUtIuIM4BlTeNsPmgsmzvKAI5ANCyNQUh0o/s320/IMG_6828.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the initial shampoo</td></tr>
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After the shampoo was fully rinsed off I coated Cupid's tail with Dawn, avoiding her tailbone. This created a ton of lather that I used on her feet. Lately, we have been having issues with scratches and I wanted to remove the excess grease from the ointment. I allowed the Dawn to soak into her tail for approximately 10 minutes while I soaked her hay cubes and conditioned her mane with Cholesterol Cream.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRjuIbdJhLigrtMtzzw0dH5T5vzV2r4DYxQV5IMyrufLpw8weVkWs65nDT99tcz4vKhQE3uysOb_Oqi7meJ6TAKPq4iYMB88vLqJeSKceGt2sIQgqSN1jTpMHv8eE_x2kaMDRUXBtmM2s/s1600/IMG_6829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRjuIbdJhLigrtMtzzw0dH5T5vzV2r4DYxQV5IMyrufLpw8weVkWs65nDT99tcz4vKhQE3uysOb_Oqi7meJ6TAKPq4iYMB88vLqJeSKceGt2sIQgqSN1jTpMHv8eE_x2kaMDRUXBtmM2s/s320/IMG_6829.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clearly super thrilled about standing around while she got bathed</td></tr>
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Rinsing the Dawn from her tail did take forever. The suds kept bubbling off the tail which did make me a bit nervous about possibly leaving too much residue that would attract dirt. Once the Dawn seemed to be rinsed out completely I coated her tail in the strawberry conditioner to restore moisture. While massaging the conditioner into the tail I discovered that there was still Dawn in the tail. Yay for soap suds mixed with conditioner.<br />
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I left the conditioner sit while I put away our tack and then rinsed it out. Thankfully the conditioner and the remaining bits of Dawn completely rinsed out within a few minutes. I left Cupid to dry on the cross ties. Once fully dry, I sprayed the usual hair moisturizer onto her mane, tail, and coat.<br />
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Overall the Dawn did seem to remove some of the staining from Cupid's tail. It was not a miracle product but it was good enough that I would use it again. I do believe that it dried out her tail a bit more than desirable, but it was not as brittle as it had been when I first got her. As you can see we're slowly getting the tail back to a clean and acceptable color, but it's a long process due to the amount of staining I allowed to build up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWQurRvNtWwz2ogGx-9AGWKj7OfZEhlEyD6-m4PV-GMS3ApyFMDHtMnbASs3Vk-PO_YJIZ0PKZ3f1mXrSXKkzMZPwHqvf9lBIdC5sZzwiqxgIxwFJWfPptEpCukKDCJ4jp7yCqV2-oKE/s1600/IMG_6830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWQurRvNtWwz2ogGx-9AGWKj7OfZEhlEyD6-m4PV-GMS3ApyFMDHtMnbASs3Vk-PO_YJIZ0PKZ3f1mXrSXKkzMZPwHqvf9lBIdC5sZzwiqxgIxwFJWfPptEpCukKDCJ4jp7yCqV2-oKE/s320/IMG_6830.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not bad but still a long way to go</td></tr>
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-81889915960549397242018-05-29T19:56:00.001-04:002018-05-29T19:56:41.937-04:00Grooming the Grey - Ketchup TailsMy dream horse was always a pure black with a small star and an angled snip. Owning a grey was the complete opposite end of what I wanted. Grey horses are a pain to get clean and seem determined to be as stained as humanly possible. Cupid, thankfully, is a bit picky about where she rolls and lays down. Plus she has a HUGE mud/water/pee spot phobia so I don't need to worry about those stains! But no matter how prissy my girl is I still have to deal with the typical grey stains, including a lovely yellow stained tail. Thus, I introduce the new post series "Grooming the Grey". <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7cqI680sf-35fRzEcT8vr0CTazebiruIU_NihrbiTr3ARtQ67k7u8_BOVqA6MiLXxAstyYxmpVfZuiNavtAYjwtSM3_8fRnorUkXduWCW6fB3TFZ4QUOfGq8n4Odq6_GPDqWFSQFJoH4/s1600/IMG_6790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7cqI680sf-35fRzEcT8vr0CTazebiruIU_NihrbiTr3ARtQ67k7u8_BOVqA6MiLXxAstyYxmpVfZuiNavtAYjwtSM3_8fRnorUkXduWCW6fB3TFZ4QUOfGq8n4Odq6_GPDqWFSQFJoH4/s320/IMG_6790.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet and innocent, but awful to keep clean</td></tr>
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*<i>Note* Please use all suggestions with caution. I can only speak to my own experiences with all products recommended.</i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsmKpSrR101yfBza-i2bixrL7ArgseW1sBnST5NafR0i8JpIMaPzBh4V0HEMExn4m7WvjBdrhYvZ0ehqmMbGIsAaetJW_hqRMtz-9-AdWBscnc_OvsUoRirOlpMRfW5eQLSt2OLksRr3c/s1600/IMG_6793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsmKpSrR101yfBza-i2bixrL7ArgseW1sBnST5NafR0i8JpIMaPzBh4V0HEMExn4m7WvjBdrhYvZ0ehqmMbGIsAaetJW_hqRMtz-9-AdWBscnc_OvsUoRirOlpMRfW5eQLSt2OLksRr3c/s320/IMG_6793.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before - A lovely black/grey fade to yellow tail</td></tr>
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Hours of digging through Chronicle of the Horse led me to discover several alternative methods for cleaning stains out of a grey horse. One of the stranger methods involves soaking their tail in ketchup. Supposedly the acidity of ketchup pulls the yellow stains from tail hairs without causing as much damage as bleach. Because I had an expired bottle of ketchup in my fridge I figured this would be my first try at turning Cue's lovely grey/white, black and yellow tail into grey, white and black.<br />
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Step one was to shampoo the tail with Shiny Silver Ultra from Sally's Beauty Supply. This was on sale last year so I grabbed a few bottles. It does brighten Cupid's coat and mane, but only takes a little bit of the yellow staining out of her tail. I figured a clean tail would allow the ketchup to penetrate better. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHvkSTPCVw7fe_SgARO1NZu7OZROkLQNcLPlqgm6EzZ0bNcREcjCJySC33EM4GvvHtAZsk5Y496-yrz3ArgMYSWyXY2uJFUGK1KN0xjtiVptMguN-vrjT0gUrqc2dJn4Aj_zxu-JdgQzI/s1600/IMG_6813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHvkSTPCVw7fe_SgARO1NZu7OZROkLQNcLPlqgm6EzZ0bNcREcjCJySC33EM4GvvHtAZsk5Y496-yrz3ArgMYSWyXY2uJFUGK1KN0xjtiVptMguN-vrjT0gUrqc2dJn4Aj_zxu-JdgQzI/s320/IMG_6813.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the first shampoo</td></tr>
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After the shampoo was completely rinsed out I coated it with ketchup. Naturally, Cupid kept swishing her tail getting ketchup water all over the barn and me. Because the bottle was almost empty I stuffed her tail into the ketchup bottle as far as it would go. I did not go past her tailbone because the staining was not too bad at that point and I did not want to irritate her skin. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI5Z28wDJixgHsDJIT36X-7cWEEsl1fZexnxP4kgn5M6oRrlpLPdUdFAPajxVSN6d5nJHXvFTFWWyRNA0-RO3o-0kgPSnYIVM-VZF-KPRszcdisn0cZnlodWgMbqbze_g-SkEXMx00FlI/s1600/IMG_6815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI5Z28wDJixgHsDJIT36X-7cWEEsl1fZexnxP4kgn5M6oRrlpLPdUdFAPajxVSN6d5nJHXvFTFWWyRNA0-RO3o-0kgPSnYIVM-VZF-KPRszcdisn0cZnlodWgMbqbze_g-SkEXMx00FlI/s320/IMG_6815.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ketchup coated tail</td></tr>
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The ketchup sat on her tail for approximately 10 minutes while I stuffed her full of carrots. Because I wanted to ensure that it was all removed I reshampooed her with the Shiny Silver after I rinsed the ketchup out. I was also afraid of her tail smelling like ketchup and getting eaten off by one of her pasture mates. After both shampoo and ketchup were completely rinsed out I covered her tail with a deep conditioner. I used Suave 2 Minute Super Conditioner Intense Moisture because it has been hanging out in my shower forever and I wanted to see it gone. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGl1JlYkZFO8NTIR3Bu4xksnlGiY2Y7xeAMElQOhtO-zhpYwAaTK2Uqav1Ayd0uafcQKdRg4NywXY1VobEuJUubLKRLLhORh117OgLldRFzpG31aZJ6VKVJLPnlR6nVtVJYH2J6oqkvkA/s1600/IMG_6817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGl1JlYkZFO8NTIR3Bu4xksnlGiY2Y7xeAMElQOhtO-zhpYwAaTK2Uqav1Ayd0uafcQKdRg4NywXY1VobEuJUubLKRLLhORh117OgLldRFzpG31aZJ6VKVJLPnlR6nVtVJYH2J6oqkvkA/s320/IMG_6817.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shampoo and Conditioner</td></tr>
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Once the conditioner was rinsed out and her tail was dried I was pleased to see that the yellow was faded more than shampoo alone would have done. and that her tail was not dried out. It was easy to comb through and felt healthy. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlBTPOSRLdxO1ThQZ172sJ9gV3rBYAdbSLPuZ9QNUmDKtWayqwG9Qbp4q0jS5k64bUlntHH1ZYiZVoaj_UOCoxF9rEMdww2WY-FgntDFryLRK2iHbL78GtFWRaT5LuF3ltxul0shOIsI/s1600/IMG_6816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlBTPOSRLdxO1ThQZ172sJ9gV3rBYAdbSLPuZ9QNUmDKtWayqwG9Qbp4q0jS5k64bUlntHH1ZYiZVoaj_UOCoxF9rEMdww2WY-FgntDFryLRK2iHbL78GtFWRaT5LuF3ltxul0shOIsI/s320/IMG_6816.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post-ketchup in the sun</td></tr>
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Overall, I don't believe the ketchup would have been a good last minute treatment before a show but it was a good "get the tail back to normal" option. I would do this again, but next time I would attempt to leave the ketchup in longer. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOVpZ4eNPhKcqAo0Yrz7xQB-RiaRwYwb2ybQPzXeoK9a45lZ8rwVo564rc2eeVSp3Ooe2d4XrsvJiPbYHIRZC7pgkqV8jo3O8F3gRQ385zEuWa2B1xOIb2leCwOs_mOLDsM_u8-v5WCY/s1600/IMG_6819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOVpZ4eNPhKcqAo0Yrz7xQB-RiaRwYwb2ybQPzXeoK9a45lZ8rwVo564rc2eeVSp3Ooe2d4XrsvJiPbYHIRZC7pgkqV8jo3O8F3gRQ385zEuWa2B1xOIb2leCwOs_mOLDsM_u8-v5WCY/s320/IMG_6819.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post-ketchup tail in the shade</td></tr>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-58345212814437852682018-01-31T19:30:00.001-05:002018-01-31T19:30:23.471-05:002018 Celebration Half Marathon RecapOn Sunday, I had the honor of running both the <a href="https://www.celebrationmarathon.com/" target="_blank">Celebration Half Marathon</a> and my fastest half marathon since I moved to Florida!<br />
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I woke up at the lovely hour of 5:00am and arrived at Celebration around 5:45. Thankfully, I was able to find parking and relax (more like nap) for a bit before heading over to the starting line.<br />
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The start was clearly marked with the various pace groups and I decided to line up between the 2:30 and 2:45 group. My goal for this race was to run consistently between an 11:00-minute and 12: 00-minute mile. I really wanted to try for a sub 2:30 but because I had been sick the entire week leading up to the race, I figured I would be better off trying to stay with a consistent pace.<br />
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The race started and I settled into my pace. I went a bit fast at the start to find a nice spot in the pack but settled into my run/walk intervals after about 5 minutes. The first mile was completed at an easy 11:51, the slow speed felt wrong but I knew that I was making the right choice to hold myself back. Mile 2 took 11:17, and as I neared the end of it I realized that I really had to use the restroom. Thankfully I knew that there would be one around the 2.5-mile mark so I hustled through that half mile in 6:40 to get there with time to waste. Unfortunately while pausing my Garmin I bumped it and ended the activity, so my data for this race is separated into two different Garmin entries. I swear, I'll eventually learn how to use this watch!<br />
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From mile 2.5 to approximately 6.5 I was able to maintain a consistent pace between 10:57 and 11:45. It was at that 6.5-mile mark that they were handing out gels, so I took my time walking to finish it. I accidentally grabbed the Double Expresso gel and was surprised to find that it worked extremely well for me! The taste wasn't bad and my stomach really seemed to agree with it!<br />
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From there my pace ranged from 11:00 to 13:17. The 13:17 occurred on a huge stretch of the boardwalk where I got boxed in behind some other runners. Normally, this would have upset me but the scenery was so pretty that I decided to focus on enjoying the race. Once the boardwalk ended I was able to pass the other runners and settle back into a steady 11:45 pace. This section went through the neighborhood and then back onto the boardwalks.<br />
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My least favorite part of this race was honestly the last boardwalk section. I knew that the finish line was coming up quickly and was actually disappointed by this. I crossed the finish in 2:40:48, which should be disappointing because I have run faster half marathons, but this was the fasted half I have completed since moving to Florida!<br />
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This race helped prove to me that I can race properly and I do have the ability to successfully run a half marathon. My pace was the most consistent it has ever been, and I felt great after the race. Usually, I am exhausted and feel as if my legs are going to give out but this race left me feeling fine! I want to be a sub 2-hour half marathoner, but this race proved to me that I need to focus more on maintaining a consistent pace as opposed to racing against the clock.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9MXI7rxi3CPIgWzC6iYTKY5sS3D8lCGzq2G9gPdt99wE2YxmgESBA6JYgXCAn-6S8OIMgkdd643l4tre9OHL-3l2yENhMuyaYFtCpCWtpCUfdlO_FQeKoDSucU6onRxlOcX5HR_0VATA/s1600/IMG_6127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9MXI7rxi3CPIgWzC6iYTKY5sS3D8lCGzq2G9gPdt99wE2YxmgESBA6JYgXCAn-6S8OIMgkdd643l4tre9OHL-3l2yENhMuyaYFtCpCWtpCUfdlO_FQeKoDSucU6onRxlOcX5HR_0VATA/s320/IMG_6127.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
After seeing that I can complete a half, in Florida, in 2:40 I have decided to set my goal for Princess at 2:35. That's enough time to shave off and feel successful, but not too much that I'll have to really push myself.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAXSgqh2drLYUCa5nWF5OthA0Oowb_dIKWJvBDZS9OeyPOK4N-EPp0dMHdB5DgllYTiuSQwIEF-dIExWe8LCkMD7SzbEtYHeVpS3RsIUherMDGHHMbdXV7J_Dq5rCt3YNxhF2M5setC_Q/s1600/IMG_6125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAXSgqh2drLYUCa5nWF5OthA0Oowb_dIKWJvBDZS9OeyPOK4N-EPp0dMHdB5DgllYTiuSQwIEF-dIExWe8LCkMD7SzbEtYHeVpS3RsIUherMDGHHMbdXV7J_Dq5rCt3YNxhF2M5setC_Q/s320/IMG_6125.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The awesome blanket that was part of the swag for this race!</td></tr>
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Overall, I would fully recommend the Celebration Half Marathon to anyone looking for a nice small race in the Central Florida area! I have already decided that I'll be signing up for the 2019 race as soon as it opens!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-45230702591909068702018-01-11T20:54:00.001-05:002018-01-11T20:54:09.997-05:00Steele My Heart 1 Year AnniversaryIt's hard to believe that a year ago I was dashing over to the barn on my lunch break to sign Cupid's sales contract.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ-Hyey_UJx6vaqF1WCbKdyQwjtKxv4V6oDzHW5S9s69DKvaeiBW3wKJ8WE5vhW-K7TrVXAITBT6VEUvl6P3qsg06ZtWxDBn_cVi-q0l7qQVZVTrCLFrsBts3SmmyhDZRZ_3mB35dpCh8/s1600/IMG_4322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ-Hyey_UJx6vaqF1WCbKdyQwjtKxv4V6oDzHW5S9s69DKvaeiBW3wKJ8WE5vhW-K7TrVXAITBT6VEUvl6P3qsg06ZtWxDBn_cVi-q0l7qQVZVTrCLFrsBts3SmmyhDZRZ_3mB35dpCh8/s320/IMG_4322.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
This past year has been filled with plenty of ups and downs:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPyzO3okJ5ftrkEd__AeaXH3XH9UVaOxGGinPtfBV4OhDcDEtJjd9etnFrIGbpA-1adlE-mz8YQjrcwaHo9mcQanR87g0ltBDDJK3AlmIT68cwoXRyR8hKq0QnbI6DW1kZoC7uVLkdiE/s1600/IMG_4532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPyzO3okJ5ftrkEd__AeaXH3XH9UVaOxGGinPtfBV4OhDcDEtJjd9etnFrIGbpA-1adlE-mz8YQjrcwaHo9mcQanR87g0ltBDDJK3AlmIT68cwoXRyR8hKq0QnbI6DW1kZoC7uVLkdiE/s320/IMG_4532.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
We spent hours working on her canter leads.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmEPlcSVXlQlM0nxnqWpTQDMvM1HMrNoqiK4DQZyabobc4ahD37Hs7zXJzIxgx9iV35XhdJH77p-DTTebjBXNcpujjMGdfbELbneo3GJ098lRpla8CVojp0Mq_MlP0r2rH3766h16dBcA/s1600/IMG_4350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmEPlcSVXlQlM0nxnqWpTQDMvM1HMrNoqiK4DQZyabobc4ahD37Hs7zXJzIxgx9iV35XhdJH77p-DTTebjBXNcpujjMGdfbELbneo3GJ098lRpla8CVojp0Mq_MlP0r2rH3766h16dBcA/s320/IMG_4350.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
We stood around working on being quiet for what felt like an eternity.<br />
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We went from going around like a drunk, one wheel car, to straight lines and deep corners.<br />
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We showed over fences successfully and received our first reserve champion ribbons.<br />
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We moved barns.<br />
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Started dressage.<br />
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Broke down several brick walls and stall panels.<br />
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Loaded and unloaded from a trailer quietly.<br />
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Worked through a fear of water.<br />
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Survived a hurricane (and didn't jump the paddock fence that broke!)<br />
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Rode bareback and without stirrups.<br />
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And so many other things.<br />
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I couldn't have asked for a better partner, and I'm honestly blessed to have found Cupid. Here's to another year of our ever-growing partnership. I can't wait to see where we go and how else this little mare can Steele My Heart!<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-24108032676964054452018-01-08T20:32:00.000-05:002018-06-02T20:27:34.406-04:00Weekly Update 1/1/18-1/7/18Monday was absolutely gross, it was cold and rainy, and I had been out super late the night before at Manager's New Year's Eve party. Because of this, I spent the day cleaning my house, reorganizing my closet, and preparing my planner for the year. I did briefly leave to run to the barn, pay Cupid's board, and make sure she had her rain sheet on. Aside from this, it was a Netflix and snack type of day.<br />
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Tuesday I did my first run of 2018, a slow 3 miler through my neighborhood, without a watch to encourage myself to enjoy the run and not think about time. Currently, the Bluetooth on my phone is broken which means I have to plug my Garmin into my computer to sync it with Garmin Connect. Because of this, I've been extremely lazy about actually using my Garmin to track my runs because syncing the data is a bit of a pain.<br />
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Wednesday I dashed out of the barn after work. The temperature really plummeted and I may have panicked and bought Cupid a medium weight blanket. Thankfully I have Amazon Prime and was able to get same-day delivery. The blanket didn't arrive at my house until 8:00 so I had to go find her in her paddock in the dark. I'm lucky that Cupid is super nosey and wandered up to me to investigate what I was doing out in the dark. It was slightly creepy being at the barn in the dark, but it was also extremely peaceful just listening to the horses and seeing them relaxed.<br />
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Thursday I went back out to the barn after work, then headed home. I felt absolutely awful and just wanted to sleep.<br />
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Friday I made up for missing my runs earlier in the week and did a solid 45-minute training run. I went about 3.5 miles and felt really good after it. I thought about pushing the pace but because of the cold, I decided to take it slow.<br />
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Saturday I dashed out to the barn to hack Cupid and spend time with her. We worked through the intro dressage movements and on her simple changes through the center of the ring. One major item that we're having issues with is performing the changes on a diagonal as opposed to a straight line. After we finished our ride we ended up standing and talking to our trainer while she warmed up the kids. It amazes me that a year ago Cupid couldn't stand still but now she'll willingly stand for several minutes while I talk. My little pony is growing up!<br />
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After I got home from the barn I went for a quick run of 3 miles then came home to practice for orchestra. I ran my scales on both the flute and bari, then ran New World Symphony on the flute. It makes me so happy to finally play the entire New World Symphony, especially because it's one of my favorite pieces!<br />
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Sunday I accidentally overslept and ended up getting to the barn extremely late. By the time I got out there most of the usual Sunday crowd had finished and was heading home. Cupid and I just worked on our walk to trot transitions and trot to halt. She's gotten so much better at halting squarely when asked, so long as my cue is clear and consistent.<br />
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Later Sunday evening I had the first orchestra rehearsal of 2018. We ran the 1st and 4th movements of New World Symphony and received two new pieces for the summer concert. It's so nice to be back with the orchestra and finally get the chance to start putting the spring concert together. I'm super excited for this coming year with the orchestra, and can't wait to see if I get selected for any of the choir shows.<br />
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Total books completed this week: 3<br />
<i>Waistcoats & Weaponry</i> by Gail Carriger, <i>The Stone Girl</i> by Alyssa B. Sheinmel, <i>Red Heart Tattoo</i> by Lurlene McDaniel.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-82904581880591977262018-01-05T22:37:00.000-05:002018-01-05T22:37:15.394-05:00What Happens When You Receive New MusicOne of the most exciting things is sitting in rehearsal waiting to receive new music. There's a range of emotions each musician goes through no matter what your level of expertise is.<br />
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Waiting to receive the new score:</div>
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Looking over your part:</div>
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After the first run through with the orchestra:</div>
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Trying to follow along with the conductors comments:</div>
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Practicing at home like:</div>
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Every rehearsal until the concert:</div>
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The conductor during the dress rehearsal and tech rehearsal:</div>
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During the concert:</div>
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Listening to the applause after the concert:</div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-39589606723794133602018-01-03T18:48:00.000-05:002018-01-03T18:48:04.064-05:00Final 2017 Ulta HaulIt's gotten so cold in Florida that I've actually gone and emergency ordered Cupid a medium weight blanket from Amazon (thank you same-day shipping!!!). So, while I sit here and wait for it to be delivered I figured I'd write up my final Ulta haul from 2017. Thank you, platinum 20% off coupon! I got lucky and the box arrived on the 30th, but I had other posts planned for that timeframe. So the poor box has been sitting in my guest room/office, waiting to get unpacked and shared!<br />
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The first two items I received were the Clinique Quickliner for Eyes in Dark Chocolate and Really Black. Black and brown are the two eyeliner colors I typically wear during the week so to get these for 20% off was exciting!<br />
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The next two items I received were the Origins Checks & Balances Frothy Face Wash, and Origins Ginzing Energy-Boosting Gel Moisturizer. I had received these two items as travel sizes in one of my November orders and loved them. So when I received the 20% off coupon I knew that I wanted to get the full sizes of these products. The face wash really works at making your face feel clean, without feeling dry, and the moisturizer is perfect for the morning before you apply primer and makeup.<br />
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The freebies that I received in this box were a travel size of the Origins Drink Up-Intensive Overnight mask and the Clinique Pop lip color in Cherry Pop. Both of these are new items to me and I'm super excited to try them out!<br />
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Now, I've got to go dash out to the barn and throw Cupid's new medium weight blanket on her. Not entirely sure she'll appreciate it but I'll sleep well tonight knowing that she won't freeze. Florida ponies, can't stick them in the backyard, can't stand having them out of sight.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-34207847690367453942018-01-01T19:55:00.003-05:002018-01-01T19:55:55.244-05:002018 GoalsI was lucky enough to ring in this new year at Manager’s house again. It was fun ending 2017 the same way I welcomed it!<br />
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The following are my top three 2018 goals, for each focus. Some of these are going to require a lot of work, while others should be easily mastered.<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>Run</u></b><br />
<ul>
<li>Re-break 30 minutes for the 5k</li>
<ul>
<li>I majorly slacked on my speed work this year. As a result, my 5k time suffered. I know I have a consist sub-30 5k in me, I just need to put the training time in and actually focus on keeping that time consistent. </li>
</ul>
<li>PR my 10k </li>
<ul>
<li>My idea PR for the 10k is sub-60. During the Pancake 10k, I felt like I had the ability to complete that goal. But I didn't have the training behind me. </li>
</ul>
<li>Maintain consistency</li>
<ul>
<li>As the two goals above reflect, my consistency with training this year was horrible. I skipped runs and didn't complete any speed work during the second half of the year. Both the above goals are completely possible if I maintain my training and actually work at improving. This year I need to focus on speed work and hill training to rebuild the endurance I was once capable of. </li>
</ul>
</ul>
<div>
<b><u>Ride</u></b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Attend a show</li>
<ul>
<li>After our barn switch, Cupid and I stopped attending shows and focused on going back to basics. My original hope had been to show her in the long stirrup or beginner hunter classes this year but after reflecting on everything I've decided to lower my expectations. As a coming 6-year old, who has finally started working correctly, I would rather take it slow and show in the pre-long stirrup classes.</li>
</ul>
<li>Master our simple changes</li>
<ul>
<li>Cupid has auto changed for me in the past but I want to really spend time this year and teach her the cues for simple changes. In order to step up into the long stirrup classes, we'll need to be prepared with a solid simple change. </li>
</ul>
<li>Complete a dressage test</li>
<ul>
<li>I never imagined I would want to try a dressage test, but after working with our current trainer, I am chomping at the bit to attempt one. I've been working on a lot of into level dressage skills with Cupid and want feedback, outside of my trainer, on our progress. </li>
</ul>
</ul>
<div>
<b><u>Read</u></b></div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Clear my GoodReads Currently Reading list</li>
<ul>
<li>There are currently 24 books on my Currently Reading list and probably about 5 of them are on my Kindle or in my house. Some of these books have been sitting there for ages and it is probably time to finish them (or actually start reading them).</li>
</ul>
<li>Read 100+ books</li>
<ul>
<li>This is the same total goal that I had last year. If I don't set the bar high then I won't have the motivation to reach it. </li>
</ul>
<li>Review at least 12 books </li>
<ul>
<li>The point on this blog was to also review books I love or hate. I failed on this focus but hope to put at least one book review a month on this blog. I promise to keep them honest and as spoiler free as possible. </li>
</ul>
</ul>
<div>
<b><u>Repeat</u></b></div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Master my scales, on the flute, at quarter = 104</li>
<ul>
<li>I used to be the scale queen. I knew every minor and every major scale and could do them quickly and clearly. But it's been years since I took the time to actually play and work on improving my scales. A huge goal for 2018 would be to remaster the major scales, in eighth notes, at quarter note = 104. This includes two octaves for every scale, with each note sounding clear, and various articulations. </li>
</ul>
<li>Become confident on the bari sax</li>
<ul>
<li>Basically, I'd love to be able to play the bari without feeling like I'm going to pass out from the amount of air required, or die because it's caused a killer migraine. I've debated about playing it for one of the choir orchestras but we'll have to see my confidence level!</li>
</ul>
<li>Feel confident with all the orchestra pieces</li>
<ul>
<li>This is a bit of a strange goal. I've been able to play all of the orchestra pieces from 2017, but I have not been 100% confident with several of them when concert time rolled around. This year I want to actually feel confident on all the selections and put extra work into the ones that require it. </li>
</ul>
</ul>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-6388987389101151212017-12-29T19:57:00.000-05:002017-12-29T19:57:15.456-05:002017 - A Year in ReviewIt's hard to believe that we're at the end of the year already. It seems like just yesterday I was at Manager's New Year's Eve party wondering who would attend with me after Vegas moved. This past year has been full of so many changes, yet so many other things have stayed the same. In staying with the general theme (give me credit, I like to believe that this site has a direction. lol) here are the major items that happened to me in my running, riding, reading, and repeating!<br />
<br />
<b><u>Running</u></b><br />
This year started slowly in terms of running. I did the bare minimum in mileage and ran races that I was a bit underprepared for. But I quickly turned it around and joined the Disney Springs Fit2Run Galloway Training Group which helped me jump start my running program into something more productive than it had been. While I'm only a casual member the group at the moment, because of the early darkness, I am looking forward to continuing my running journey with them. I was able to PR my 10k and place in my age group for a 5k because of them.<br />
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On the topic of my 10k PR at the Celebration Pancake Run 10k, it was a bit disappointing but it is a huge milestone for me. If you check out my races tab you'll see that my PRs haven't really changed in a few years. This is entirely my fault because I am the least consistent runner I know. I had hoped to PR in the 5k at the Jingle Jolly Jog, but my mental game wasn't there. I am so proud of my first age group award. I have lusted after them for, what feels like, ages so it is extremely exciting to finally have one on my wall! Ok, it's actually in a shoebox under my guest bed because I have yet to find a medal holder that I love, but that isn't the point!<br />
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<b><u>Riding</u></b><br />
Easily, the biggest thing that happened to my riding career, this year, was purchasing Cupid. I spent weeks last year debating about purchasing her, and I officially made the plunge on January 11th. I never imagined that my horse would be a little Welsh pony cross, who was green broke with a major attitude. But here I am, with my little Welshie who still has a major attitude, and is slightly better than green broke. Honestly, I wouldn't trade in our partnership for anything. Owning a green pony has taught me so much about riding, patience, and myself. For every step forward there are two steps back, but once we make a leap forward the landing is extremely rewarding.<br />
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In addition to purchasing Cue, I also uprooted her and moved to a new barn. Shortly after purchasing Cupid I realized that our current situation was not working out. The care wasn't what I wanted for <i>my</i> horse, I felt cheated out of my lesson package, and I was extremely nervous having my partner in a barn with minimal supervision. It took me until May to find a stable that met my standards. The major sign that this was the place for us was when we ran into our new trainer at a show before I had even told our old trainer we were leaving. The new trainer made several observations about Cupid and I, then commented that she would love to take us back to the basics because "she's a baby and there's no need to rush her". Hearing this proved to me that she would have Cupid's best interests at heart which is all I wanted in a boarding situation.<br />
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Moving Cupid was the best choice I could make for her. She's happy at our current barn, has put on much-needed weight, and is slowly becoming a solid partner for me. We still have a long way to go, and I miss jumping, but watching her move properly and understand what I'm asking has been worth everything we have been through.<br />
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<b><u>Reading</u></b><br />
According to GoodReads, I've read 112 books this year. My goal for the year was 100 so I am officially putting this in the win category for the year! A few of those books were the Saddle Club series because I started walking down memory lane and couldn't put the books down. What was really nice was that I'm able to get them from the Orange County Library Media Mall which means no awkwardly walking into the children section of the library or putting them on hold.<br />
<br />
Two other series that I have really gotten into this year are the <i>Finishing School </i>series by Gail Carriger and the <i>Throne of Glass </i>series by Sarah J. Maas. Hopefully I'll be able to finish the <i>Finishing School</i> series this weekend, so expect that review to come up in the near future!<br />
<br />
<b><u>Repeat</u></b><br />
If you've been around for awhile you'll notice that I fashioned this blog after my running, riding, and reading life. So you might be questioning what this whole "repeat" business is. I decided the other day that I needed a header for my twitter account and my facebook page. The plan was to do a running, riding, and reading silhouette on a glitter background. While putting this together it dawned on me to do a repeat sign so the entire blog title was represented. I looked up repeat signs to get an idea and had an "I'm an idiot" moment. In music, there is a sign that informs the musician to repeat a section, this is called a repeat. Because music is such a big part of my life and I've openly discussed it on here it only made sense to take the Repeat part of my title and have it represent the music portion of my life.<br />
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I now present to you the newest "official" section of the blog. My Repeat section, or music discussion.<br />
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With that little intro out of the way, it's time to discuss my year in music!<br />
In January I located a local orchestra that seemed like it would be at my skill level and was actively recruiting members, the Central Florida Community Orchestra. I signed up and attended my first rehearsal. It was terrifying and I almost walked away before entering the building, but I participated in that first rehearsal and loved it! The CFCArts #FluteNation welcomed me and has pushed me to want to become a better musician.<br />
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This year I participated in four different concerts with CFCArts; Jazz, Joel and John in March, American Roadtrip in June, Fiesta in November, and Once Upon a December in December. Once Upon a December was the first time, since college, where I've accompanied a choir. This pushed me to not only be aware of the rest of the orchestra but to also work on matching the choir without becoming the main focus.<br />
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Without the Orchestra, I don't think I would have found a group that feels like home or had the drive to pick up the saxophone again!<br />
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Overall, this is a quick review of my 2017. It was fun, it was great, but I can't wait to see what 2018 has in store for me!<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-86429163339435211812017-12-27T20:46:00.003-05:002017-12-27T20:46:59.745-05:00NYX Lippie Countdown Days Fifteen through Twenty-FourI was doing so good, then suddenly I wasn't! I honestly did try to get all 24 days posted as I opened and used the colors. But life got in the way and suddenly I found myself with less and less time to write as Christmas got closer. In an effort to make it up to you, dear reader, here are days 16 through 24 from the NYX 2017 Calendar.<br />
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<u>Day 15</u><br />
The fifteenth color was a purple from the Butter Gloss collection.<br />
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The shade is called Raspberry Tart which made me smile.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij-zYdw851CQZWQpVVZfL4LysYlx41bVy9ftepFlmSKO7Qv0BEOl3KE0l85VXNA4fmzuj_6uXslzG2rdOBqzdyqP62ke6Y7QV34rK3OF39kV9QEX6moGTAxrz6WlSsELsz_a_azzSHfcg/s1600/IMG_5921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij-zYdw851CQZWQpVVZfL4LysYlx41bVy9ftepFlmSKO7Qv0BEOl3KE0l85VXNA4fmzuj_6uXslzG2rdOBqzdyqP62ke6Y7QV34rK3OF39kV9QEX6moGTAxrz6WlSsELsz_a_azzSHfcg/s320/IMG_5921.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Overall, I didn't hate this shade but I didn't love it. Because the Butter Gloss collection is simply a tinted lipgloss it wears off quickly. After a few reapplications, I found that I didn't want to keep trying to wear this shade. It's pretty, but the dark shade combined with the gloss feature was a turnoff for me.<br />
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<u>Day 16</u><br />
Color sixteen is from the NYX Lingerie collection (yay!), and it's a purple (not yay).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB2kTIey8savFuOPaSXWJI1oC5ZCikljyqDNTW18JxyzbZRuVwpGN71SAminSinUbjye50FvV4MXc0P6efAiTymb1R7Q51x-1i5v43i-zh0VQKFWJYT5maXdG_HMzPB447FTj7FkH2LEw/s1600/IMG_6015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB2kTIey8savFuOPaSXWJI1oC5ZCikljyqDNTW18JxyzbZRuVwpGN71SAminSinUbjye50FvV4MXc0P6efAiTymb1R7Q51x-1i5v43i-zh0VQKFWJYT5maXdG_HMzPB447FTj7FkH2LEw/s320/IMG_6015.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
This shade is called Embellishment and it is not one that was included in the 2016 calendar, unlike the other Lingerie shades.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrgMRlGl_E3nRlyDYqiG3ZzGaqqhFX460aMKRxbchpQllom4kgKp5HTn_UM3VjRlVNl90AXbaZUJU7k3cd9_gWDcYdY63QP2f-9tdFsMVaARR4HCBkrVqkvQqb44OGwZ2VtZyhbkXVEM/s1600/IMG_6016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrgMRlGl_E3nRlyDYqiG3ZzGaqqhFX460aMKRxbchpQllom4kgKp5HTn_UM3VjRlVNl90AXbaZUJU7k3cd9_gWDcYdY63QP2f-9tdFsMVaARR4HCBkrVqkvQqb44OGwZ2VtZyhbkXVEM/s320/IMG_6016.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Embellishment applies nicely and looks a lot nicer out of the tube than in it. The shade is a purple-tinted nude that isn't too bold yet isn't too pale. There's more of a red undertone than blue which made this color a shade I can actually pull off! Like all Lingerie shades, this one does settle into lines but does last long with an application necessary after a meal. While I probably won't buy Embellishment again, I probably will continue to wear this shade until it runs out.<br />
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<u>Day 17</u><br />
Color seventeen is a red (yay!) from the SimplyRed line (double yay!).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindDqlgAe-VwUkNYyCNBvuE5Anl7lxOP59JBf0f3nL3ga7iMkrSyme1RekHwNYbl6XjYG5Q8jnzjG2hLFLLhLcjNOc0IzVmCaIeZQCEn-ldZdmIEyD6gIIW0wOVvhTytwF0RIurgYdgqs/s1600/IMG_6018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindDqlgAe-VwUkNYyCNBvuE5Anl7lxOP59JBf0f3nL3ga7iMkrSyme1RekHwNYbl6XjYG5Q8jnzjG2hLFLLhLcjNOc0IzVmCaIeZQCEn-ldZdmIEyD6gIIW0wOVvhTytwF0RIurgYdgqs/s320/IMG_6018.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
The shade is Russian Roulette, which matches my initial impression. In the tube, this seems like a nice sassy red shade.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_jIlz2_uytqMdb6rHsGfjP9v_t32slhD_9LUAhh3zltViSlKt-Ded6p0VWCvvNBjzTILXt0u1ty8v8NGvmjiDt-G0m4pGO2Bg127YkL30NzGA5OeywBct0TbxuxlLGBUXhh0AXTHTts/s1600/IMG_6019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_jIlz2_uytqMdb6rHsGfjP9v_t32slhD_9LUAhh3zltViSlKt-Ded6p0VWCvvNBjzTILXt0u1ty8v8NGvmjiDt-G0m4pGO2Bg127YkL30NzGA5OeywBct0TbxuxlLGBUXhh0AXTHTts/s320/IMG_6019.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
This color applies smoothly, yet is easy to color outside the lines with. Despite that, it cleans up nicely and feels almost invisible on your lips. It does wear off on various glasses and snacks but lasts long enough to only reapply every few hours. This color very well might appear on my favorites list from this calendar.<br />
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<u>Day 18</u><br />
Eighteen is a blue..... It's from the Liquid Suede collection which has been a success in the past, but it's a blue....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOAZImYU68yCvLGmwiSyKBEMRAY7e18OX26BvIAOJT547ebxKV5m3bF9KA2iCAYJNJ4auhVx2C9Ns3X5fPDexZ4g1Ckcxbbl-S71S8XAOIeaNDysOXFQqNpigT77D6mZBfVnx57qDvzY4/s1600/IMG_6021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOAZImYU68yCvLGmwiSyKBEMRAY7e18OX26BvIAOJT547ebxKV5m3bF9KA2iCAYJNJ4auhVx2C9Ns3X5fPDexZ4g1Ckcxbbl-S71S8XAOIeaNDysOXFQqNpigT77D6mZBfVnx57qDvzY4/s320/IMG_6021.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
The shade is Stone Fox which seems appropriate for the color.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz_UcXOS7hjZfgzMlIHYv-n0BACVM601EtZyAip3crWIYnxenEOVC5ahriFXEwkMRZKxIrUqN_6hTHl4xjTWKu3gTfEeOO8HPSpJvI4jmSwIeVx6Y_yZVm-NUUeNc5YS0vL__q5AtikX4/s1600/IMG_6022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz_UcXOS7hjZfgzMlIHYv-n0BACVM601EtZyAip3crWIYnxenEOVC5ahriFXEwkMRZKxIrUqN_6hTHl4xjTWKu3gTfEeOO8HPSpJvI4jmSwIeVx6Y_yZVm-NUUeNc5YS0vL__q5AtikX4/s320/IMG_6022.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I'll be completely honest, I applied this shade then wiped it off 30 seconds later. It is far too dark and bold for my personality. The color did apply patchily but that could have been because my heart wasn't really into sampling this. I can guarantee that this shade will end up in the bottom of my lip color bag only to reemerge when it's time to purge the collection.<br />
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<u>Days 13 through 18 Summary</u><br />
Overall, my favorite shade from this section was color thirteen, Vintage. It has a long wearing power and a nice unique color.<br />
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My least favorite shade was easily Stone Fox. Worst color ever, for my skin tone and personality.<br />
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<u>Day 19</u><br />
Nineteen was from the NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream line which I have recently become obsessed with!<br />
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The shade is called Copenhagen and it's a deep plum shade.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqOA6S_iOUCJTdIoxZg26ixphawktA7ZMFFWve1X-hIbCVULlRcZfNcAv5Whu90ptSHGVrK2eaEumQYECpELZhG4t6-dnf-j1OAwE199lzZ1-if2XF45R86P-s_YEarpjqIwCZt87dM8/s1600/IMG_6026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqOA6S_iOUCJTdIoxZg26ixphawktA7ZMFFWve1X-hIbCVULlRcZfNcAv5Whu90ptSHGVrK2eaEumQYECpELZhG4t6-dnf-j1OAwE199lzZ1-if2XF45R86P-s_YEarpjqIwCZt87dM8/s320/IMG_6026.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I'm not in love with the shade and it isn't the best color for me, but with the right eye and contour it could actually be a fun party look! This is a long wear lip color and did need reapplication during the day. With the dark shade, it did require two coats for the initial application but it built nicely and did not appear cakey.<br />
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<u>Day 20</u><br />
Color twenty was from the NYX Matte Lipstick collection.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPW4nxGsOlUWF8ywS8dyKYdSIn55HcT-AxQLkDsD7aiFEunsEMUDFgCH68jLieGZA_hgMSrPVqGOUCJSZG628QJtY0z30zJBlx65tIRh_jieeQ4KUzNUdLuY_51B-1JwhsoYAmbSMZ_-8/s1600/IMG_6028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPW4nxGsOlUWF8ywS8dyKYdSIn55HcT-AxQLkDsD7aiFEunsEMUDFgCH68jLieGZA_hgMSrPVqGOUCJSZG628QJtY0z30zJBlx65tIRh_jieeQ4KUzNUdLuY_51B-1JwhsoYAmbSMZ_-8/s320/IMG_6028.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
This is a fun blue-toned pink, named Shocking Pink.<br />
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I love this color. This is a shade for my personality and skin tone. It is a nice bold pink without being too shocking or overbearing. The application is nice, but the shade does require several reapplications during the day. Honestly, I am seriously considering wearing this color for New Year's Eve.<br />
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<u>Day 21</u><br />
The twenty-first color is from the Lingerie collection (which they must have really been trying to get rid of this year!).<br />
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The shade is Exotic and it was also one of the 2016 colors.<br />
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I loved this color last year and it was the first shade that I ran out of. Unfortunately, this year I either got a bad tube or the formula changed. It was oily and took more work to apply than I remember.<br />
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<u>Day 22</u><br />
Twenty-one is from the Butter Gloss collection so I instantly disliked it.<br />
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The shade is a pale pink/nude and called Tres Leches.<br />
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Despite my aversion to Butter Gloss I actually really liked this shade. It is extremely pigmented and applied really well. It lasted like a typical gloss but I didn't mind reapplying it because I was that in love with the shade. This might actually be a color I consider repurchasing!<br />
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<u>Day 23</u><br />
Another Butter Gloss for number twenty-three....<br />
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I had high hopes for this one because it's a hot pink titled Sugar Cookie.<br />
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Unfortunately, Sugar Cookie isn't as sweet as a cookie. The color was too bold and the gloss was too hard to apply evenly. This is another color I honestly didn't wear. I couldn't get it to apply and look good because the color kept running thin in spots or gathering in others. This was a big nope for me.<br />
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<u>Day 24</u><br />
Day twenty-four was another selection from the Butter Lipstick collection.<br />
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It's a mauve shade called Ripe Berry.<br />
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This applied nicely and actually looked good on me! It is not a long wear and did require several reapplications throughout the day, but it was worth it. This isn't a color I would normally wear but after trying it out I think it'll make a reemergence in my routine!<br />
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<u>Days 19 through 24 Summary</u><br />
I loved the shade from day twenty. This is hands down my favorite shade from this section, if not my favorite shade from the entire calendar. This color screamed my name and looked great on me!<br />
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My least favorite shade was day twenty-three. Between the gloss factor and the pigmentation, this was a horrible color. If it was a cream, then I would have probably loved it.<br />
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<u>Overall</u><br />
I love these Advent Calendars but did get a bit sick of having 24 different lip colors to try. The Butter Gloss was my least favorite collection and the Soft Matte Creams were my favorite. It was a fun experience and I look forward to using most of these colors in the coming year!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-54345267127947380882017-12-14T21:30:00.001-05:002017-12-14T21:31:00.431-05:003 Things I've Learned During The First Month of Bari Sax and NYX Lippie Countdown Day FourteenSo, I have officially been playing the Baritone Saxophone for approximately a full month. It is a lot harder than I expected, yet easier than anticipated. I am so thankful that the flute has extremely similar fingerings which have saved me a lot of work. But the following are the top three lessons I've learned from playing this monster saxophone.<br />
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1) I am a weakling. </div>
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For an instrument that basically dangles from a tiny little strap on your neck, that sucker is heavy. After only 30 minutes of practice, my shoulders hurt, my neck is sweaty, and I start wondering if my thumb is going to break from the thumb rest. Clearly, I'm either doing something wrong or need to start a workout program. </div>
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<img alt="Image result for weak gif" src="https://i.makeagif.com/media/8-21-2015/b0Piwc.gif" /></div>
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2) My breath control is not what I thought it was.</div>
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I can play the top register of the flute and piccolo for several measures without getting out of breath. Two measures of the bari and I'm dying. Clearly, I need to work on increasing my lung capacity or risk passing out and dying after that lead weight falls on me. </div>
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3) I'm not a complete failure.</div>
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Sitting there and running scales on the bari is not as hard as I initially expected. Sure, I'm extremely weak and dying because I can't breathe. But I'm running scales with almost 100% success on the notes and my tuner recognizes that I'm actually playing the correct note, in tune! Despite all my reservations about this, I think I might actually be able to pull off playing the bari in a concert one day!</div>
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So, today is day fourteen of the NYX Lippie Countdown and if we're being honest I completely forgot to pop today's color out until I got home from work. The preview for this color showed a nice pink toned shade that looked like something I would typically wear.</div>
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Upon opening the tab, I was disappointed to see that this was a Butter Lipstick shade. The Butter collection has not been kind to me in this calendar. Despite that, I was excited to see today's shade was a mauve/pink tone that seemed like something I would typically buy. </div>
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This color was called Root Beer Float, which is cute and reminds me of summer. </div>
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Root Beer Float applies nicely but has the lipgloss shine that the other Butter collection colors have. Despite this, I actually really like this shade on me. It's a bit different from my typical pinks but it is fun and appropriate for work and play! I'm not sure if I would buy this again but I do plan on wearing this shade until the little tube runs out! </div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-14182520951763891672017-12-13T20:46:00.003-05:002017-12-13T20:46:57.145-05:00Bok Tower Gardens and NYX Lippie Countdown Day ThirteenToday, I celebrated my final day of my vacation by going to Bok Tower Gardens. This is a location that I have been meaning to visit for a long time.<br />
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Bok Tower Gardens was donated to the American people in 1929 by Edward Bok, an author and one of the original editors of the <i>Ladies' Home Journal</i>. The gardens are laid out in several different sections including a children's garden, edible garden, endangered plant garden, wetland, and several ponds and reflecting pools.<br />
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The highlight of the gardens was the Singing Tower. The Carillon is not an instrument that I am actively familiar with or have had the opportunity to experience. Sitting and listening to the concert performed on the carillon was an amazing experience. I was able to snag a spot by the screen that allowed me to view the carillonneur as he performed his art. It amazed me that carillonneurs have to use both their hands and feet to perform on the carillon. The amount of talent that requires simply blows my mind. I look forward to going back to the Tower and experiencing another performance.<br />
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From the Singing Tower, I headed over to the Pinewood Estate. Initially, I believed that the estate belonged to Edward Bok which isn't actually the case. Instead, the estate was the winter home of Charles Austin Buck, a Bethlehem Steel Vice President. In 1970, the estate was obtained by Bok Tower Gardens and added to the areas that visitors could tour. While I did not go into the house, I did walk the grounds and admire the Christmas Tree. My favorite part of the estate was a small pond with a waterfall just off the main entrance. This area begged to have you curl up with a book and a cup of tea.<br />
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Overall, I loved the Bok Tower Gardens and fully intend on going back. Because I could apply my admission price from today to an annual pass, I may or may not have purchased one! I promise next time I'll get more, and better, pictures.<br />
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Today's color preview made me extremely nervous. It appeared to be a red/brown and I was not cool with that.<br />
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After opening it, I was pleased to see that it was from the NYX Liquid Suede collection and was actually a purple/brown which is much more doable for me.<br />
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This color is called Vintage which made me smile when I first saw it.<br />
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Vintage applied nicely but did settle into the lines on my lips fairly quickly. It didn't look half bad but was not a good color for my skin tone. It's a bit too dark for me but not bad enough to where I couldn't pull it off. Honestly, I would not hesitate to wear this again. Providing it is not in a professional setting. If this color seems like something you would like the I would definitely test it out!<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-91412893011235784722017-12-13T20:16:00.000-05:002017-12-13T20:18:36.304-05:00*Late Post* Coco Review and NYX Lippie Countdown Day TwelveI'm sorry for the late post. I went out to dinner and to see <i>Coco</i> with a friend last night and had no motivation to write my review. So, better late than never!<br />
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<i>Coco</i> takes place in Mexico and the Land of the Dead. It follows the story of Miguel, a young boy who has a passion for music despite his family's aversion to it. Miguel runs away to participate in a Day of the Dead talent show and suddenly finds himself in the Land of the Dead. To return to Mexico, within a specific time limit, Miguel must find his ancestors and receive their blessing. Along the way, Miguel discovers what family truly means and that idols might not always be what they come off as.<br />
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Overall, I really liked <i>Coco</i>. The story is fun and really makes you stop and think. Initially, I found myself disliking Miguel's family because of their insistence that music is horrible. But as the movie progressed I began to understand their initial logic and feel sympathetic for them.<br />
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This movie had a perfect balance of comedy and drama. I loved the humor provided by the dog, Dante, and the drama caused by the family dynamic. One thing that I wasn't really a fan of was the depressing build up of the storyline surrounding Miguel's family and what happens in the Land of the Dead when the deceased are forgotten.<br />
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I would recommend <i>Coco</i> to everyone young and old. The story was light enough for kids to laugh and enjoy it, yet deep enough for adults to think and reflect on their own lives. Plus, the music was amazing!<br />
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The preview for day 12 of the NYX Lippie Countdown showed a nice soft red. I was excited for this as it had been some time since the color of the day was red.<br />
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After opening it up I was happy to see that it was from the NYX Matte Lipstick collection.<br />
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This shade was called Indie Flick which makes it sound like a fun, cute, and edgy color.<br />
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Upon application, I was amused to see that this is a bright orangy/red color. It applied easily and cleaned up fairly nicely but did smudge slightly. This is not a long wear color but layered nicely without looking cakey. While I would not replace this when it runs out, I would happily continue to wear this shade.<br />
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For days 7 through 12, I was fairly amused by the color selection. They ranged from nude, to purple, to red, to pink. Overall, my favorite shade was day 11, Sao Paulo because it is closest to the colors I would normally buy. My least favorite shade was from day 8, Creme Brulee. This color had a lot of potential but was horrible to wear. I found myself constantly checking it and reapplying it.<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-36871198291789258032017-12-11T17:23:00.001-05:002017-12-11T17:23:32.182-05:00Ulta Cyber Monday Haul and NYX Lippie Countdown Day ElevenI swear this is my final Ulta haul post of the year. Late last week I finally received my Cyber Monday order which was fairly small in purchases but heavy in samples and freebies.<br />
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The first items are the Stila One Step Correct and One Step Prime primers. I had run out of my Smashbox primers earlier and decided to try these since they were on sale.<br />
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Because I purchased the primers I also received a sample of the Stila Magnificent Metals Liquid Eye Shadow in Kitten Karma.<br />
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The second items purchased were the Mario Badescu Chamomile Night Cream and the Mask & Mist Duo. The Mask & Mist Duo includes the Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea, and the Cucumber Tonic Mask. I have loved the Mario Badescu products that are currently in my skincare stash so I'm really looking forward to trying these.<br />
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Because I purchased the Mario Badescu items I also received two separate gift bags. The first back was the Mario Badescu Holiday Bag. This bag included samples of the Seaweed Cleansing Soap, Seaweed Night Cream, and Seaweed Cleansing Lotion.<br />
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The second Mario Badescu bag was the Mario Badescu Cyber Monday White Bag. This bag included samples of the Aloe Moisturizer, Cucumber Cleansing Lotion, Seaweed Night Cream, and Enzyme Cleansing Gel. Both bags contain products that I have never tried before so I'm excited to see how they work!<br />
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The final purchased item was the Body Shop Tea Tree Anti-Imperfection Night Mask. I have already used this several times and am super pleased by it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2A4iaFaKTEUhlUFyRl2Umv6LqyTcB59FJFQlpKgXj-uZoLvjaRakdi8CR0fZvXGrn2YyjYWNCDJ_jHU3SuzQHvnX0y5o1ZNqIqbZQYlo3E_JLgVWkkhA0u_e7-EgiwQOmEQE65m17QY4/s1600/IMG_5792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2A4iaFaKTEUhlUFyRl2Umv6LqyTcB59FJFQlpKgXj-uZoLvjaRakdi8CR0fZvXGrn2YyjYWNCDJ_jHU3SuzQHvnX0y5o1ZNqIqbZQYlo3E_JLgVWkkhA0u_e7-EgiwQOmEQE65m17QY4/s320/IMG_5792.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Like always, I selected the skincare products for my free samples. I received the Vichy Laboratories Aqualia Thermal Mineral Water Gel and the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2q-OVO17hqAQBZCcfSxVOZy0OtyzMtumm3H6JBcHD58KHjmsi5IGN0Zg1sNMbWl_iAFEENMICNtnE1viOsZRP7ihFIvXu7gPwGVjKRQIpbnZYt3XEcaQKRE7tZ1VJV8RTB7dduk51Rs/s1600/IMG_5805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2q-OVO17hqAQBZCcfSxVOZy0OtyzMtumm3H6JBcHD58KHjmsi5IGN0Zg1sNMbWl_iAFEENMICNtnE1viOsZRP7ihFIvXu7gPwGVjKRQIpbnZYt3XEcaQKRE7tZ1VJV8RTB7dduk51Rs/s320/IMG_5805.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Because it was Cyber Monday, and I have a slight Ulta addiction, I also received the Cyber Monday Peppermint Beauty Bag. </div>
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I received samples of the Becca First Light Priming Filter and Backlight Priming Filter, along with the All Nighter Liquid Foundation samples. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rmOjYq1yPI10oK0wWd-o4CY-jrQq895DIhI7Z7MAAGIo2h7yKj-7JeoZTagmLzNg_9kjdvqxeZDK6ye2socndykkRG0e5U9QRtbBVugkDO_ql7pNIkqIEuZUEDF2_r50Q886k3HtpPA/s1600/IMG_5797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rmOjYq1yPI10oK0wWd-o4CY-jrQq895DIhI7Z7MAAGIo2h7yKj-7JeoZTagmLzNg_9kjdvqxeZDK6ye2socndykkRG0e5U9QRtbBVugkDO_ql7pNIkqIEuZUEDF2_r50Q886k3HtpPA/s320/IMG_5797.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The fragrance samples were Acqua Di Gio by Giorgio Armani, Sexy Ruby by Michael Kors, and Bloom by Gucci. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT5p7_vglClPFZ_rmdThYGUNf-IRlsYidEdpvrn3m2H9Ujt4zWwkbVMjIq5htC4Qn7H0rFH0nonXYGM_eR9S5dN4IeWEeEVV9_L1CxC8x7aVNmjusIjWIPsYC6fKK33mMvWCU9sXlUSPM/s1600/IMG_5798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT5p7_vglClPFZ_rmdThYGUNf-IRlsYidEdpvrn3m2H9Ujt4zWwkbVMjIq5htC4Qn7H0rFH0nonXYGM_eR9S5dN4IeWEeEVV9_L1CxC8x7aVNmjusIjWIPsYC6fKK33mMvWCU9sXlUSPM/s320/IMG_5798.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The hair samples included Bed Head Screw It Curl Hydrating Jelly Oil, Sexy Hair Color Lock Conditioner, Hask Biotin Boost Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner, and Klorane Color Enhancing Anti-Fade Shampoo and Conditioner. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhebNUDe8Q8168ILZPJguW8smODtSWpLzfEYIi3_KSztpQmjLibvyTOIl2aqn_JyCULJtgT-zzDO4vt5OH4VkpZL2KS-bj99AyHTFnzRVkJNxLp6Ms-136JjF5Zvi1Mndiaw1sBKYqtQoA/s1600/IMG_5799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhebNUDe8Q8168ILZPJguW8smODtSWpLzfEYIi3_KSztpQmjLibvyTOIl2aqn_JyCULJtgT-zzDO4vt5OH4VkpZL2KS-bj99AyHTFnzRVkJNxLp6Ms-136JjF5Zvi1Mndiaw1sBKYqtQoA/s320/IMG_5799.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Makeup included was the Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eye Shadow Primer, Dermablend Loose Setting Powder, Ulta Super Blender, Tarte Lights, Camera Lashes Mascara, Philosophy Time in a Bottle Repair Serum, and Stila All-Day Liquid Lipstick in Rubino.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg728xBydAKzbRmSJrvd9BObRA_ayz0hFWMYZde9TfAtGuSJZ42zYwQwsXef4PPBF5Mfj2v3JcDx47bi1Uq0V_rh8G19WKCD6Sl2ZNXB8KkOiPudP9t78f7muF_FUkDtRk5mp7B6csL8xI/s1600/IMG_5801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg728xBydAKzbRmSJrvd9BObRA_ayz0hFWMYZde9TfAtGuSJZ42zYwQwsXef4PPBF5Mfj2v3JcDx47bi1Uq0V_rh8G19WKCD6Sl2ZNXB8KkOiPudP9t78f7muF_FUkDtRk5mp7B6csL8xI/s320/IMG_5801.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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For skincare, I received the Clarins Multi-Active Yeux & Multi-Active Jour, Proactive Green Tea Moisturizer, Bliss Grapefruit and Aloe Body Butter, and Cotz Flawless Complexion Mineral Sunscreen. </div>
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Finally, I also received the Savvy Travelers Speakeazy Teeth, Lip & Mouth cleansing wipe, and Vitabath Asian Orchid & Coconut Body Wash. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3E2L5KjmHILpCfnRcoWAHYixqOXdpilhijatv4GZayrq02JI2AqWSKFjHa-222srWMxug0fHM5nSTW8gth6gmRFkuHPGwU66LbipgE8zcepB3S83P650oo6UDqQHrXJGuH6TfvMfu0c/s1600/IMG_5803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3E2L5KjmHILpCfnRcoWAHYixqOXdpilhijatv4GZayrq02JI2AqWSKFjHa-222srWMxug0fHM5nSTW8gth6gmRFkuHPGwU66LbipgE8zcepB3S83P650oo6UDqQHrXJGuH6TfvMfu0c/s320/IMG_5803.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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After yesterdays successful color, I was excited to see that today looked to be a reddish pink color. </div>
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After opening the tab, I was happy to see that this color was part of the NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream line I have really enjoyed the wear on the colors I've sampled from this line so far.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQLe1IruN285dHmdT6r41FmJ68vwl01MWIVTKWfu6aMnezrh5WOszKebFl8bG0ejxzr_64I277x6_8PQmcLBhjPo00dWlMtoBqUgH9cLmGl-Ca2gBXQfQLQgj3m29k1bwrmEJ0rfc1CY/s1600/IMG_5879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQLe1IruN285dHmdT6r41FmJ68vwl01MWIVTKWfu6aMnezrh5WOszKebFl8bG0ejxzr_64I277x6_8PQmcLBhjPo00dWlMtoBqUgH9cLmGl-Ca2gBXQfQLQgj3m29k1bwrmEJ0rfc1CY/s320/IMG_5879.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Today's shade is called Sao Paulo, which plays into the city theming in the Soft Matte line.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyWXRRGDn26FgqP1uuwkOHEG3Z3rwk0QIsMYHTNAN6DbwAHn0LdEP8g_scdN27ONIgs8v-1ByZ2svd-RZRuX5Mc7kf3o6psa81xxUb-CvZf9eSgJq-WQJLzCl9bsVVjqxYJKV9BqkVAak/s1600/IMG_5880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyWXRRGDn26FgqP1uuwkOHEG3Z3rwk0QIsMYHTNAN6DbwAHn0LdEP8g_scdN27ONIgs8v-1ByZ2svd-RZRuX5Mc7kf3o6psa81xxUb-CvZf9eSgJq-WQJLzCl9bsVVjqxYJKV9BqkVAak/s320/IMG_5880.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
This color applies nicely and has a super pretty raspberry shade. It is easily corrected and does not settle into lines. This is a long wear color and only needed to be reapplied after lunch. I really like this shade and fully intend on repurchasing it after I run out.<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-71555617205166164642017-12-10T21:07:00.002-05:002017-12-10T21:07:48.715-05:00That's All Folks (2018 Music Goals) and NYX Lippie Countdown Day TenWith thunderous applause, the curtain has closed on the CFCArts Once Upon A December show and I am officially on break from orchestra until 2018. It was an amazing show and I am so proud to have performed in it. So now the big question is where do I go from here. I've got the following orchestra goals for the 2018 performance year.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4nQKYrHLVIBRKayd7lVe66hG8r1Lln0cMs6dLu5GYoJJQjUsSn1IYOpuP1WMLB-J3VAc_R3kW6w8wJ1c7KY7fhWIbBNWYr9y9LQujH7llUQ0bbA4HAbRVHFULcQYRqK-rGArY62avDo/s1600/IMG_5868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4nQKYrHLVIBRKayd7lVe66hG8r1Lln0cMs6dLu5GYoJJQjUsSn1IYOpuP1WMLB-J3VAc_R3kW6w8wJ1c7KY7fhWIbBNWYr9y9LQujH7llUQ0bbA4HAbRVHFULcQYRqK-rGArY62avDo/s320/IMG_5868.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
1) Strengthen my low notes on the flute.<br />
For the 2018 spring concert, the CFCArts Orchestra will be performing Maurice Ravel's Bolero. A large part of the flute part involves playing in the first octave. This is an octave that I rarely perform in so I'm a bit weaker in it than the others. My hope is that, through frequent practice, I'll be able to proudly perform Bolero without worrying about having a funky sound in that first octave.<br />
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2) Practice my piccolo.<br />
I did not have any piccolo parts, by my choice, this year so my poor piccolo sat in my flute bag without being used. My plan for 2018 is to at least pull up the piccolo parts on Dropbox and run through them. When I finally decide to try and get a piccolo part for a performance I want to be confident in my skills.<br />
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3) Relearn/Learn the saxophone.<br />
I've played the sax before. I know the fingerings and how to play basic items with it but I want more. I want to actually feel confident to perform both the bari sax and the alto sax. I've swiped all my brother's sax books from my mom's house and have been working on the bari. I have reeds for the bari but am still waiting for the alto reeds so picking that up might take a few more days.<br />
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4) Perform in the major choir concerts.<br />
This goal is a bit out of my control. Even though I played in Once Upon A December I am not guaranteed a spot in the choir orchestra. Just like everyone else I have to apply and get selected for each individual concert, so my goal is to at least apply with the hope of performing in the choir concerts for the 2018 year. I would love to perform at their spring concert and would kill to return to the holiday concert.<br />
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They might not be big goals for 2018 but they're goals that I'm pretty confident that I can accomplish or at least attempt to accomplish. Here goes another year of musical progress.<br />
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Day 10 of the NYX Lippie Countdown looked like it was a color that would be more my style than the purples that were included in previous days. From the mini preview, it appeared to be either a pale pink or a nude which, if you haven't been able to tell, are both colors that I love.<br />
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After I opened the tab, I was amused to see that this lip color was from the NYX Lingerie collection. Because this collection was the entire calendar last year I find it interesting that two have been included in this year's calendar, so far.<br />
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After removing the tube from the box, I was pleased to see that this was Corset. Corset had been included last year and while it wasn't my favorite color, it was a nice soft color that worked ok with my skin tone.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEy8wEj5HCmWw1m_7rCuuk9UfmOA6Hc29GFQGnQd_7Lw5iHkIzdDvUS4Hj0XcG2BniYnVOkDe-MhtLJZNrcuG2VZWdDmcmdTyoaUySSZrL_VQnb6pSHQ1Xnwo6xFjZ-O6OvbcR8UL6AuE/s1600/IMG_5876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1147" data-original-width="1600" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEy8wEj5HCmWw1m_7rCuuk9UfmOA6Hc29GFQGnQd_7Lw5iHkIzdDvUS4Hj0XcG2BniYnVOkDe-MhtLJZNrcuG2VZWdDmcmdTyoaUySSZrL_VQnb6pSHQ1Xnwo6xFjZ-O6OvbcR8UL6AuE/s320/IMG_5876.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Like other Lingerie colors, Corset applies nicely and mistakes are easily corrected. This color does settle into the lines on your lips but does not make them look overly dry. It lasts long and only needed to be reapplied after lunch. One word of caution, Corset does look cakey if too many layers are applied.<br />
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Overall, I wouldn't buy Corset just to have it but I would not shy away from using it. This is a nice solid color that can be extremely useful for a nude lip look.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5381944346695887334.post-87291925586595088092017-12-09T15:12:00.000-05:002017-12-09T15:12:04.508-05:00NYX Lippie Countdown Day NineIt’s official. For me, this is the craziest week in December. Between work, making sure Cupid gets worked properly, making sure the cats receive adequate attention and remembering to get to the orchestra concert on time, I am officially a chicken without its head. Because of this, I do apologize but today you’ll be left with only my feedback on the NYX Lippie Countdown day nine.<br />
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Before we get started with today’s color I figured I would share my social media accounts with you in case you wish to follow them. My Facebook for this page is <a href="https://m.facebook.com/RunRideReadRepeat/" target="_blank">Run, Ride, Read, Repeat</a>. My Twitter is <a href="https://twitter.com/eqbookworm" target="_blank">Equestrian Bookworm</a>. My Instagram is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/equestrianbookworm/" target="_blank">Laura under @EquestrianBookworm</a>. Finally, my Pinterest is <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/RunRideRead/" target="_blank">Laura @RunRideRead</a>. Feel free to follow me there and reach out if you’d like!<br />
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When I saw the tab for today I was extremely dismayed. It was another purple. It has been officially decided that I do not look good in purple.<br />
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Popping the tab revealed that this was from the NYX Matte lipstick collection, which I was pleased with on the first.<br />
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This shade is called Up The Bass which is super cute and totally appropriate for the last night of Once Upon A Time.<br />
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It is a pretty shade but applies unevenly and requires two coats. This is a long wear lip color and only needed reapplication after eating.<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09520944999959003462noreply@blogger.com0