tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77317926091410914672024-03-21T15:18:18.673-02:30Plans & Promisesseab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.comBlogger110125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-20749645324064237972018-11-02T11:09:00.001-02:302018-11-02T11:09:28.238-02:30Easy 20 Minute Minnie Mouse Costume {Halloween 2018}<div style="text-align: center;">
I'll be honest, Halloween is NOT my favourite season. I love fall, cooler weather, and alllll of the pumpkin spiced things. But I am also a huge wimp (I can't watch Hocus Pocus alone without being scared) so "spooky season" is not really my thing, I'm more of a holly jolly christmas loving gal.</div>
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BUT, when you work with kids, you can't be a stick in the mud and NOT dress up for Halloween! The reactions I got from my kiddos were adorable and it took less than an hour to pull together! The best part is, almost all of this costume came from my closet!</div>
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<img alt="Image may contain: 2 people, including Sarah Burton, people smiling, people standing and outdoor" height="640" src="https://scontent.fyyz1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/45221819_10161362994095647_4258168398459961344_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&_nc_ht=scontent.fyyz1-1.fna&oh=6dbefab8f7637a8b9719eda752edb4f6&oe=5C4A5C31" width="640" /></div>
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Of course, being the Disney nerd I am, I had to go with a Disney themed costume. I wanted something that was comfortable and casual enough to go to work in - so this is my 20 minute Minnie Mouse costume!</div>
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It is definitely leaning more towards a DisneyBound than a full out costume, but the kids loved it!</div>
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I went into my closet and layered black leggings, cardigan, and tank top under a red polka dot skirt (all from Old Navy!) and then went on the hunt for a pair of yellow shoes - which were actually ridiculously hard to find in October. I found <a href="https://www.ardene.com/ca/en/canvas-sneakers/8B+BANDANA-8B.html?dwvar_8B%20BANDANA-8B_color=8B-FW00067#start=1">these</a> white tennis shoes at Ardene for less than $10, and painted them yellow with some acrylic paint! The paint held up well throughout the day, and no one would believe that they were painted until they looked at them super closely. I used a dry sponge brush so there wouldn't be any brush strokes. </div>
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I grabbed my classic sequined Minnie ears, and there you go! A DIY Halloween costume for less than $20! If you want more of a "costume" look, you could totally go all out with a black nose, eyelashes and liner, but I was running late for work as it was! :) </div>
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What did YOU do for halloween? Are you as excited as I am for the Christmas season to start?</div>
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love + pixie dust, </div>
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sarah</div>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-10758115721621589362018-09-20T12:45:00.002-02:302018-09-20T12:45:38.937-02:30#BFFSDOEUROPE Pt 2 - ScotlandHere's a continuation of our #BFFSDOEUROPE adventure! If you haven't seen Part 1 click <a href="http://burtonsar.blogspot.com/2018/09/bffsdoeurope-recap-pt-1-london-travel.html">here</a> .<br />
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Now, where were we?<br />
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Oh yes. The train ride from London to Edinburgh took about four hours. Karima and I were both exhausted, so we both tried to nap (me, unsuccessfully). The train ride was a great break from walking all day, and by the time we arrived in Edinburgh we were rested and ready to go again!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honestly, fell in love with Edinburgh within 5 minutes of arrival</td></tr>
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We arrived at our hostel, dropped our bags, and headed out on a walking tour. Our hotel was right in the middle of the Royal Mile, one of the main roads in Edinburgh with Edinburgh Castle at the top and the Palace at the bottom. Our local guide brought us quickly up toward Edinburgh Castle, and after giving us a brief tour and explanation, sent us off to explore. We meandered through the castle, exploring the nooks and crannies.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guys, I want a castle</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100% starving and exhausted at this point</td></tr>
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It was fun, the view was beautiful, but in reality I wasn't feeling the greatest and we sat down most of our time at the castle. (We were also starving and the cafe was closed so that sucked.) We met back up with our group and made our way BACK down the royal mile, stopping to see and hear some really cool stories of historical Edinburgh.<br />
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Did you ever hear the story of the dog who slept on his owners grave until he died? Yeah, that's Greyfriar's Bobby - who cried while the tour guide was telling the story? Yeah, it was me.<br />
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We also saw the elephant house, where JK Rowling famously worked on some of the Harry Potter series!</div>
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By the time our tour was finished, it was almost dark. We were starving, so we grabbed some dinner before heading back to our hostel for the night. </div>
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We headed to bed as we had an early rise for another day of adventure - a day trip into the Highlands! </div>
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This trip was something I apparently overlooked in our itinerary but it was probably my favorite day of our entire trip. We started off on a bus to Stirling Castle! </div>
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It was SO beautiful and interactive. If you have to make a choice between Edinburgh or Stirling Castles, I would recommend making the trip out here! There were people in costume around to interact with and different displays and exhibits to see.</div>
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The photo ops were also a huge bonus.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Living our best life.</td></tr>
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We were having so much fun we almost missed our meet up time and were one of the last people on the bus! Whoops! </div>
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We boarded the bus and drove through the Scottish Highlands - which looked suspiciously like Newfoundland. We stopped in a small town that was ADORABLE and there were sheep, so, bonus.</div>
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We grabbed some lunch and did a bit of window shopping in Aberfoyle, and headed even further up into the highlands. We stopped again for a hike, which I was definitely not prepared for.</div>
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<br />Does this not look like Newfoundland??</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">trying to not look like i'm dying. </td></tr>
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I was super thankful to get back on the bus and sleep for the ride back to Edinburgh. In the evening I went on a tour of Mary King's Close, which took us below the Royal Mile and learned more about Edinburgh's past. <div>
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Our last day was a free day exploring Edinburgh! After our Primark adventures in London, we wanted to check out Primark in Edinburgh so we walked down to it. </div>
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We did some shopping and found an Tapas style Indian restaurant. </div>
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Karima wanted to get her nails done, but we couldn't find anywhere that would take walk-ins, but we did find bubble tea!</div>
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<br />We wandered through the streets for the rest of the afternoon, finished up the last of our shopping, then headed back to the hostel to pack up our belongings before heading to our farewell dinner.</div>
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Our trip was basically over, and I think our only regret was not being able to stay longer. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such an amazing group of people to travel with </td></tr>
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The next day we said our goodbyes, and began the long journey home. I ended up getting a bus to the airport, spending the night in the Dublin airport, and then a night layover in Toronto before finally arriving home. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was the adventure of a lifetime. The only question now is - where to next? </div>
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seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-32276262394643772732018-09-13T12:01:00.000-02:302018-09-14T20:07:56.598-02:30#BFFsDoEurope Recap - Pt 1, LONDON {Travel with EF Ultimate Break}<br />
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It's been a hot minute since I've updated this page. Between going back to school and working my life has been a hectic cycle of work sleep eat repeat for the past year or so.<br />
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BUT we had planned for a while to take a trip and expand on our #BFFsDo adventures - so I finished my summer job early, and boarded a plane to adventure!<br />
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We booked our trip with EF Ultimate Break because we were both just too busy to deal with the nitty gritty of booking hotels and finding things to do. We had both travelled with EF tours in high school and after looking at reviews from previous travellers decided that EF Ultimate Break would be the best for our post-grad adventure! Ultimate Break (previously EF College Break) caters to travellers 18-29 and hosts trips all over the world! We chose to do the London and Scotland Escape which covered London and Edinburgh with a day trip to the Scottish Highlands.<br />
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Because I was coming from Canada and the only departure point within Canada is Toronto, it was cheaper for me to book my own flights. I ended up booking a flight that arrived a day earlier than the rest of our group because it was way cheaper than the day after. Thankfully, EF makes it super easy to make your trip longer by going early or staying late - all you need to do is make the change through your online profile.<br />
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SO, we boarded planes in two different cities and met up in LONDON!<br />
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Back in 2011, I had a brief layover in London and fell in LOVE with the city - and vowed I would be back. We arrived in London with no real plan of what we wanted to see or do - except that we wanted to see everything and do as much as we could in a short period of time.<br />
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An overnight flight later, I made it though passport control, onto the Gatwick Express train to Victoria station, and then navigated my way through the London Underground. We ended up booking <a href="https://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/Palmers-Lodge-Hillspring-at-Willesden-Green/London/36345">this</a> hostel, which we didn't know at the time, but was only a twenty minute walk from the hotel we would be staying at with the group.<br />
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After dropping our bags off at the hostel (we arrived at around 10am and check in wasn't until 2pm), we ventured back to the underground station and headed to the city centre in search of coffee. After stopping for a latte, we walked around for hours just taking in the fact that we were 1) TOGETHER after two years of being apart and 2) In LONDON, a place we had talked about visiting for so many years. We walked along the River Thames, saw Shakespeare's Globe, the "Harry Potter" (aka Millennium) Bridge, and thought our legs were going to fall off.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Eventually, we found something to eat (Five Guys Burgers and Fries - a super european meal of course) and headed back to the hostel to check in. Karima napped, I edited and posted some photos while catching up on social media and talking to my fiance and family, and then we were ready for some more food (Jetlag will do that to you). We had the brilliant idea to walk to the hotel where we would be staying for the rest of our time in London to see if we could do it with our luggage or if we would need to get a cab (because adding another couple thousand steps to our day couldn't hurt). We ended up walking to the hotel and grabbing some food from a grocery store next to the hotel before heading back. By the time we got back, ate dinner, and rested our legs it was time for bed! We had an early-ish rise the next morning and desperately needed to catch up on our sleep.</span></div>
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The next morning we got up for free breakfast at the hostel (toast, croissants, juice, and - most importantly - coffee), and headed out on our next journey. We met our tour guide and went to grab coffee while we waited for our check-in time. In hindsight, I would totally recommend going a day early to ease yourself into the new time zones and give yourself time to adjust. We were ready to go for our first day while the rest of our group was exhausted and just ready for bed.<br />
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We finally checked into the hotel, dropped our things, and met with our group. Our guide gave us preloaded Oyster cards, went over some housekeeping and details for our trip, and we headed out to our welcome mixer!<br />
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We went to a pub and had drinks and appetizers, and got to know some of our fellow travellers. We then headed to Kings Cross station and saw Platform 9 and 3/4 - and the huge lineup that went along with it. We opted not to stand in the line with the hope that we might be able to do it at a later time...which we DID end up getting to do with a minimal wait (more on that in a bit!)! We found burritos for dinner (because we're always down to eat!) and headed back to the hotel.<br />
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Monday was an early rise as we were doing a group bus and walking tour of the highlights of London! We had a local guide who was so much fun and gave us great tips for our free time. We saw all of the "photo ops" that you want to see in London and ended our tour at Buckingham palace just in time for the changing of the guard.<br />
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After the tour, while the rest of the group ventured off in search of history and art we did what we do best - shopping! We headed to Camden Market to go souvenir shopping, then headed to Oxford Street! At this point we had walked tens of thousands of steps in just a few days, and the shoes that I had though would be really comfortable and last me the entire trip caught on fire and were made of shards of glass. That was fun. So we went on the search for a pair of shoes that a) were comfortable and b) matched my outfit. It was rough. I am honestly surprised that Karima didn't just abandon me in the middle of Oxford Street to limp home. But she didn't #friendgoals. We finally made it to the one store I had wanted to go to while in London - Primark! We were seriously like kids in a candy store and spent way too much money.<br />
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Another highlight of this day was visiting the first Twining tea store in London! It was super cute and little and we almost missed it. But for two tea lovers, it was a super cool experience. They offer tea blending classes and other cool demonstrations - which is on our list for next time!<br />
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That night we walked down the Shard to do one of the things on my bucket list - a West End theatre production! We ended up seeing Kinky Boots - which was not either of our first choice, but ended up being a great musical with a great soundtrack that we listened to for the rest of the trip!<br />
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Tuesday was our last full day in London :( We had the morning free and we headed BACK to Primark on Oxford Street because there were a few things we wanted to look at again. After dropping our bags back at the hotel, we headed to meet part of our group for a walking tour of "Alternative London". We were back with the same guide as the previous day, and we went outside of the royal mile of "old" London and explored how what once was on the outskirts and undesirable have become mainstream in the cycle of the city. We saw some wild street art and ended the tour with fish and chips (mushy peas and chips for me!).<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">In an effort to hold on to every moment we could of our London adventure, we stayed out late near Piccadilly Circus (not an actual circus, disappointingly) and visited the Lego store before doing some last minute shopping. </span></div>
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On Wednesday we had another early rise - this time it was because we were heading to Kings Cross Station to catch our train to Edinburgh! We got to the train station around 8am and there was NO LINE at Platform 9 and 3/4!! We were so stoked half of our group basically ran (with all of our luggage in tow) to queue up. We got some great pictures and were just generally super nerdy and excited to be actually getting a train from Kings Cross so close to September 1st.<br />
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We finally boarded our train to Edinburgh and settled into our seats for a four hour ride to the next leg of our journey. But, this post is getting ridiculously long, so that's another tale for another post!<br />
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<br />seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-79823783359438010172018-06-27T15:47:00.001-02:302018-06-27T15:47:59.377-02:30Influenster Review: Neutrogena<div style="text-align: center;">
This season has been BUSY. But I'm finally done with school for the year, and had a couple of weeks off in between starting a summer job...and finally getting back on the self-care train. </div>
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Influenster must have known that my skin has been feeling neglected, because they sent me some products from Neutrogena to test out! </div>
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First up was a FULL SIZE bottle of the Deep Clean purifying clay cleaner/mask combo. </div>
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I tried this as a cleanser, but I feel like it may be too harsh for my dry/sensitive skin! It contains salicylic acid which tends to dry out my face a little too much. I'm going to gift (aka force) my fiance to use it - I think it will work better on someone with a more oily/combination skin!</div>
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The Hydro Boost hydrogel mask is THE BOMB. It was the first time I've ever used a hyrdogel mask and I'm offocially in loooove with them. I love sheet masks, but they tend to slip and fall off of my face and are just annoying. This one stayed put and my face feels so soft and moisturized after using it! I'll definitely be purchasing these again! </div>
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** I recieved these products for FREE from Influenster for review. All opinions are my 100% honest opinion. If you want to join influenster feel free to use my referral link! :) <a class="" data-lynx-mode="hover" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.influenster.com%2Fr%2F1635906&h=AT0JyoxzUSbtIFQdW8HraxG5HaBiAz3FEzwN7J1aJl8iueRNW2meZnctI94AF9ae_CkbnRXdExaWQF59D0aCGMm8sQUyxs1sCYA9H566J11d1jtqJJ5j93eJSRgVKj8CtnFDDw" dir="ltr" href="http://www.influenster.com/r/1635906" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: #eff1f3; color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">www.influenster.com/r/1635906</a></div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-32265254568800460102018-03-04T13:09:00.001-03:302018-03-04T13:09:40.990-03:30Influenster Review: Balance VoxBox<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Who else LOVES getting mail? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I came home for my spring break to a pile of boxes waiting to be opened, and one of them was a new Influenster VoxBox to be opened and reviewed! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you don't know, Influenster is a FREE website that you sign up for to review products, and when you connect your social media accounts you can qualify for a Vox Box aka FREE products sent to you to give your 100% honest, unbiased opinion about! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I've recieved a few VoxBoxes, but this one is my favorite yet!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The #BalanceVoxBox included a Clif Nut Butter Filled Bar (Chocolate Peanut Butter - spoiler: YUM!), Herbaland Protein Gummies, a coupon for a free product from Vea Snacks, and my FAVORITE part - three new teas from DavidsTea's wellness collection! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Here's my 100% unbiased, true, honest review:</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Clif Nut Filled Bar:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I've been a fan of Clif bars for about a year now. I've tried a ton of different kinds but ate them so often as a pre or post workout snack that I got kind of sick of them. I had seen the new Nut Butter filled at the grocery store, but had not been interested enough to purchase. OH MY GOSH this was amazing. I grabbed my VoxBox from home just before I headed out on a three hour drive, and this was a lifesaver. It was the perfect amount of sweetness and peanut butter goodness, and I could see this being a great alternative when I'm craving peanut butter cups! 10/10 would repurchase, but only if I have a safe to lock these up in so I don't eat all of them in a day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">These gummy candy boast <strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">28g Fiber, 10g Protein, and only 1g Sugar! </strong><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">They're vegan, and gluten, soy, fat, dairy, and nut free.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I am a HUGE gummy candy lover, so I was super excited to try these....and I left a little disappointed. They were pretty hard to chew, and had a very grainy texture (from the pea proteins I assume). I'll stick to controlling my gummy candy habits, but if you need to reduce your sugar, these will work when a craving hits - and will keep you full with all of that protein and fiber!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>DavidsTea Wellness Sachets</b><br /><br />Anyone who knows me knows about my love affair with DavidsTea. It's been a long journey since the first time i ventured into a store in Toronto in 2013 (?) and my tea collection has grown exponentially since then!<br /><br />One of my new favorite teas has to be Lemon Cayenne Cleanse. It's a white tea, so it's recommended to let the water sit for a few minutes before steeping the tea and only for a couple of minutes. It's got a strong lemon scent and taste (....my friends liken it to floor cleaner, but I love it!). I did like Turmeric Glow, but it's not my favorite, the turmeric makes the tea a strange color and it kind of weirds me out! I have tried The Detox before, and it is NOT a tea for me, but I'll stick it into my stash and give it to someone who will love it! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">(I did get a coupon for a free Vea snack, and am still looking for somewhere to purchase! Let me know if you'd like me to review them if/when I find it!)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I hope this review is helpful, interesting, entertaining, etc for you! ❤️</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">love + pixie dust, </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">sarah</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(PSA: I received these product for free to review from Influenster. All opinions are my own!)</span></span></div>
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seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-13353991598954019422017-07-11T19:48:00.002-02:302017-07-11T19:48:46.225-02:30Purpose.<div style="text-align: center;">
{Hello Friends! It has been a while, so sorry about that! A series of unfortunate events (and a revelation of sorts) brought the creative out of me today! I missed writing a lot and am glad to be semi-back! Enjoy and make sure to comment below!}</div>
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"I was made for this,</div>
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I live for this,</div>
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God has a reason for my life"</div>
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This was our theme for Vacation Bible School this year: Maker Fun Factory - Created by God, Built for a Purpose. </div>
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I sang this along with over a hundred kids and volunteers this week.</div>
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I poured out my heart and soul telling kids that they had a <i>purpose. </i>That they were created by a God who knows them intimately, is for them, is always with them, and who loves them unconditionally.</div>
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But what happens when "this" - our purpose, our reason that we think we're on earth - doesn't seem to be happening? What happens when what we we think we were made to do doesn't come true?</div>
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I've struggled with this so much, and thankfully, VBS always seems to know what my heart needs to hear.</div>
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I remember back in my high school french class we were given an assignment to create a futuristic invention. My group for some reason created a very <i>interesting </i>(to say the least) object. If I remember correctly, it was a 4 inch tube shape, orange, with some little doodads, a sponge on one end, and some metallic detailing.</div>
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(I searched high and low trying to find a picture but the internet has failed me...trust me, it was a real treat)</div>
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Any guesses on what it was created for? </div>
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I remember people asking us what we had made. What was this odd creation's purpose? Some made guesses, they looked it over before class to try and gain some insight before they guessed. </div>
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But only the people in our group truly knew the answer. And we all felt a sense of pride and satisfaction when no one could figure out what our gizmo was. Only the creators knew what the creation was truly made for. </div>
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Only the inventor knows the purpose of his invention. </div>
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The thing we oftentimes get wrong about finding our purpose in life is that we'll never truly know what our purpose is until it happens. The creation doesn't know what the creator has imagined, planned, and hoped for them. </div>
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If I believe I am created by a loving, caring God, I can say that I am created for a reason.</div>
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If I am created for a reason, I know that I have a purpose. </div>
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The biggest lie I have ever believed about purpose is that it's what you do. Your purpose is not dictated by your profession, vocation, or career. It's not who you marry, or how many kids you can or cannot have. </div>
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My purpose is to follow my creator. To figure it out along the way by listening to His voice. My purpose won't be fulfilled when I land a full time job in ministry. It won't be fulfilled when I'm married, or when I've seen "X" number of students give their hearts to God. It won't be when I'm successful, in fact, in my experience, following God often means you sacrifice what is "success" in the eyes of the world. </div>
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My purpose will be fulfilled when I meet my creator face to face. When He looks at me and says "well done". When I arrive at eternity's shore. When I can say that I fiercely and loyally served my creator and God and spread the word of Him to anyone who would listen. </div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah </div>
<br />seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-38025085747283409902017-04-12T10:00:00.000-02:302017-04-13T22:25:12.141-02:30Top 5 Worry-Free Travel Tips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrILz6bqo3FVCxjw6L72pys41cbIWPmzYokt80I6nsmi5XPDxuCfNHSpKdby3np2oHYlNV4dPm8B87WMcMaPgtjv4BdEqrpn8zJjC1hZYAuHU2IwdO43WaiudqvDDVf3CRUXabTSt1tSZR/s1600/travel+tips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="417" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrILz6bqo3FVCxjw6L72pys41cbIWPmzYokt80I6nsmi5XPDxuCfNHSpKdby3np2oHYlNV4dPm8B87WMcMaPgtjv4BdEqrpn8zJjC1hZYAuHU2IwdO43WaiudqvDDVf3CRUXabTSt1tSZR/s640/travel+tips.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "lora" , serif; font-size: 17.6px;">“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – </span><a href="http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02084a.htm" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #547eaa; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 17.6px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 200ms;" target="_blank">St. Augustine</a></div>
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Travel is (IMO) one of the most important and influential decisions that anyone can make. Whether you're 10 or 100, travel broadens your horizons, introduces you to new people and experiences, and just makes you happy (and all of your friends jealous).</div>
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Travel is GREAT, but planning the perfect get-away can be stressful, especially on a budget. And that keeps a lot of people from travelling (cue to me wistfully looking at flights I can't afford!)</div>
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Here are my top 5 tips for stress free travel:</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1) Plan. </span></b></div>
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Planning can make or break a trip. I recommend at least a month for short trips, 6+ months for longer, international trips. Google, Pinterest, and search all your heart desires for accommodations, flights, transportation, attractions, etc. Find maps of the subway system, and make a schedule. If you know what you'll be doing every day and how to get there, you'll spend more time actually enjoying your vacation and less time stressing out about being lost in an unfamiliar city. You can be like the crazies (aka me) and plan every waking minute, or just get a feel for the city and be more spontaneous during your trip. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2) Save.</b></span></div>
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This kind of goes along with planning. But, if you're on a budget (or just plain thrifty), you're going to want to have an amazing vacation, while spending as little as possible. Putting yourself on a "payment plan" by putting away a part of your pay every week, or committing to not spending $5 on coffee every day, every penny will add up! Set up an automatic transfer through your bank and you probably won't even notice the money you're putting away. </div>
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Having the money saved in advance prevents that terrible post-vacation credit card bill guilt, and allows you to not stress about the money that you're investing into travel! This also puts you ahead of the game to start planning your next trip!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3) Make Copies.</b></span></div>
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Your passports, itinerary, flight details, hotel names and addresses, who you're travelling with, contact numbers. Anything and everything you could possibly need, print it off, screenshot it on your phone, email it to yourself (cell phones die people!), and leave a copy of everything with your family or a trusted friend. If anything goes wrong, you'll want to have a copy somewhere secure. Backups = less stress.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4) Consider Group travel.</b></span></div>
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Travelling in a group is a) cheaper b) FUN! </div>
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Grab a few friends, split a hotel room, and travel together! Or better yet, travel with a group of strangers through a tour company! Not only is there strength (and less stress) in numbers, it generally makes it cheaper to share travel costs than to go at it alone. I'm actually travelling to Europe next year with EF college break (not spons.) and instead of worrying about flights, hotels, etc, we're spending our time thinking about what we'll eat, see, and buy! </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5) Take care of your home.</b></span></div>
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While you're off travelling the world and making memories to last a lifetime, the last thing you want to worry about is your home. My friends at <a href="http://simplisafe.com/"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">SimpiSafe</span></a> sent me this<a href="http://simplisafe.com/blog/vacation-check-list"> <span style="color: #c27ba0;">awesome checklist </span></a>to make sure everything (and everyone!) in your home is safe while you're away! For more info on them and their system you can visit them <a href="http://simplisafe.com/wireless-security-systems"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">here</span></a> and learn more about keeping your home safe while traveling!</div>
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What are your favorite tips for a worry-free trip? Where is your next adventure taking you? Let me know!</div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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Sarah</div>
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seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-46291417341551804702016-05-26T10:00:00.000-02:302016-05-26T10:00:22.156-02:30Thrifty Thursday: Hidden Treasures<div style="text-align: center;">
The thing about yard sales, thrifting, or shopping secondhand is you never know what you're going to get.</div>
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Some weeks, you haul home armloads of stuff. Others, only one item.</div>
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This week, I visited multiple sales and nothing.</div>
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I actually only ended up with ONE item. But it was a good one!</div>
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<img height="640" src="https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/t51.2885-15/sh0.08/e35/p640x640/13277779_1739523299659673_941494405_n.jpg?ig_cache_key=MTI1NTA0NTcxNjMwNjAxNTIzNw%3D%3D.2" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="512" /></div>
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I scored this Kodak Colorburst 100 instant camera for ONE DOLLAR! I honestly was prepared to pay $5-$10 for it, but when the guy told me he only wanted a dollar, I was over the moon! I have no idea if it works, but it's still a great addition to my collection! A quick look on eBay tells me it's not worth too much, but it is still one of my favorite finds of the season so far! </div>
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This week we started getting ready for our own yard sale coming up...which means we went through everything in our house - from my school things, old movies, toys, and games to my grandmother's old recipe books.'</div>
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I was in vintage-lovers heaven when I hauled out this tin full of recipes. Some dated back to the 1950s and I was shaking just holding them. So much love and history soaked up in some pieces of paper. </div>
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Our family isn't really into sentimental keepsakes, but since my grandmother moved in with us, I've gotten to know a lot about her life and it is so wonderful. If there's one thing I've learned after travelling and being away from home over 5 years, it's that family is important and one day they'll be gone - so cherish it while you can!</div>
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What did YOU find this week? Let me know in the comments! </div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
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seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-25037631233528854662016-05-13T23:28:00.001-02:302016-05-13T23:28:42.710-02:30Thrifty Thursday (on a Friday!)<div dir="ltr">
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I am a terrible blogger..but better late than never!</div>
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Here are a some of my favorite things I picked up this week!</div>
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Hello, sideways pictures that I am too tired to rotate!</div>
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Teapot, $1 </div>
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Queen Elizabeth Mug, 10 cents</div>
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Jewellery Box, 75 cents!!! I am in LOVE with this box. it's the perfect size to hold my bracelets and i am just in love with it.</div>
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I also found a couple of purses (including a guess clutch that I got for 50 CENTS!!), some more dishes, and a picture frame + sweater for my sister!</div>
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Unfortunately I'm working this weekend so I won't get out to any yard sales (i MAY go out on my lunch break hahah), but I AM sending my dad out to check them out - so we'll see what he find!</div>
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seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-35732262527729497442016-05-05T10:00:00.000-02:302016-05-05T10:00:44.313-02:30Thrifty Thursday: Church Sale Haul!<div dir="ltr">
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Hey guys! Welcome back! </div>
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There's been a lot going on on my blog, and I'm going to attempt to narrow down my post topics...but it has proven to be hard as my interests tend to fluctuate and change every few months. </div>
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BUT yard sale season is here! There aren't any useful thrift or antique shops in my town, so when the snow melts and yard sales start up again, I get excited!</div>
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Every Thursday I'll be posting about my thrifting adventures the previous weekend!</div>
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This past Friday there was a Jumble Sale at a local church. </div>
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Now, yard sales are good, but CHURCH yard sales are better. Prices are always great, there's a huse assortment of goods, and you really never know what you're going to find! I think I got some good deals and found some stuff I'm really happy with!</div>
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Here's what I found!!</div>
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First of all: This tea set! I actually got this the week BEFORE the church sale. There was a small moving sale so obviously I hit it up!</div>
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The lady who sold this to me said it had been her grandmothers, was passed down to her mother, and then to her! Entire set cost me $5!</div>
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<i>(Note: I was going to include the prices for the items I got at the church sale, but there wasn't really any markings of what most of the things were priced at. However, I <b>do </b>know my entire haul cost me $7. )</i></div>
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1) I have a confession to make. I am obsessed with vintage kitchenware. Do I live on my own? Do I have a kitchen where I can actually use this stuff? Nope. Do I obsessively hoard it anyway? Of course.</div>
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I've been eating and drinking a lot of lemon-infused things lately so I had to have this Lemon themed pitcher! It is so cute! I'm going to use it for iced tea this summer!</div>
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I also got two casserole dishes, and a set of two Coca-Cola glasses!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPdPT19OX6b-7BQWoz80aqXKR8fQWrRB9WtO8trhgthVHJrOWiMIU6KZrNh82QRj3yBV7PBZCIwIZepej-xUMuztdM3zTtSrkiFAStlAn5Q5Ktm7b18UswMQ13tczqEfFJ8cBufUhSSA4/s1600/20160429_200851.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPdPT19OX6b-7BQWoz80aqXKR8fQWrRB9WtO8trhgthVHJrOWiMIU6KZrNh82QRj3yBV7PBZCIwIZepej-xUMuztdM3zTtSrkiFAStlAn5Q5Ktm7b18UswMQ13tczqEfFJ8cBufUhSSA4/s640/20160429_200851.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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2) On the list of "things sarah will not let pass at yard sales" are cameras. I usually head for more vintage-y styles, but for some reason these stood out to me. And, lets face it, these two Pentax cameras <b>are</b> vintage to some children!</div>
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3) A few things were set at a price, so I <b>do </b>know that books were .25 cents for soft cover and .50 cents for hardcover. </div>
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I picked up four books: </div>
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Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone (one can never have too many copies of Harry Potter)</div>
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In the Unlikely Event by Judy Blume</div>
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The Collected Works fo CS Lewis</div>
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Lord of the Flies (my current copy is very tattered!)</div>
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Total: $1.50</div>
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3) I've never actually seen Pete's Dragon, and there's something about things that look worn and well loved at sales that make me want to buy them. I also don't own Bambi in any format, so I had to have that as well.</div>
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Total: $1.00 (.50 each)</div>
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4) The crowning jewel of my haul! I stalked the one box of records until the person looking at them left. I think he felt my death stares on his back ;) Rummaged through old gospel and country albums and came across this! Mickey Mouse Disco! I'm always on the hunt for anything Disney, and Disney records is something I really want to collect more of. </div>
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(I <i>think </i>these were .25 cents?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEb4vItvafdcIuAn2evA89HX581NjsumxR9Kne8ghZGYWHKjb9mKNk3ptEw8N4U4c079yj4UA2EaA1uOlmoVX2vqJ9Mb9ZLQ8iFc7aeOAJ4BEnvKYk7I5sjLjUteupJadW8T3w83KtG0dn/s1600/IMG_20160429_193437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEb4vItvafdcIuAn2evA89HX581NjsumxR9Kne8ghZGYWHKjb9mKNk3ptEw8N4U4c079yj4UA2EaA1uOlmoVX2vqJ9Mb9ZLQ8iFc7aeOAJ4BEnvKYk7I5sjLjUteupJadW8T3w83KtG0dn/s640/IMG_20160429_193437.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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OH! I almost forgot! I may not have gotten him at a yard sale, but he is my favorite purchase of 2016! Meet my rescue dog, Flynn (yes, as in Flynn Rider from Tangled!) He's a year old, we don't know what breed he is, but he is a huge snuggle bug with lots of energy and love to give! </div>
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Happy #ThriftyThursday! What is your favorite thifty find? Let me know in the comments!</div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah </div>
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seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-9985812699379165152016-04-12T19:57:00.001-02:302016-04-12T19:57:26.072-02:30VoxBox: John Frieda "Brilliant Brunette" Review<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning/afternoon/evening/night/whenever it is where you are!</div>
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So a little while ago, I learned that companies will give you free things. Being a thrifty (never "cheap") person, you know I am all over that.</div>
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Thankfully there's a nifty little website called <a href="http://influenster.ca/">influenster</a> that partners up people wanting to try new products (but aren't trying to break the bank) and companies that want honest reviews of their product.</div>
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When I first signed up, I realized it was based on your social media influence (hence the name <i>influenc</i>ster) and I didn't really think I had a chance of getting a VoxBox full of goodies.</div>
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But a little while later, I got an email..and I was IN! A few days later I got a box full of John Frieda products to review!</div>
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I got the "Visibly Deeper" system for Brunettes. This is a shampoo/conditioner/deep conditioning treatment. It's been over 2 years since I last colored my hair and I've been embracing my natural color for the first time since the seventh grade. </div>
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So far I've been really enjoying the results! There aren't any drastic changes in my hair color, but there is definitely a deepening in the color. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left: Before Bottom Right: After 2 treatments Both: Oatmeal colored sweaters</td></tr>
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You can almost see a difference, but the way my hair feels after using the products isn't really worth it. My hair feels weighed down and doesn't feel clean. I will probably keep using it until I run out, but in between my regular shampoo as a "boost" for my color than using it on a regular basis. </div>
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I'm super excited to (hopefully) write more reviews in the future!</div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
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seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-84718446054786883322016-04-05T13:58:00.002-02:302016-04-05T13:58:25.265-02:30*NEW UPDATE* Animal Kingdom's Nighttime OfferingsI posted a while back about the new night time offerings from Disney Animal Kingdom and how excited I was for them to happen in April!<br />
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Disney Parks Blog posted today that the show will not be opening April 22 as planned, but it has been pushed back until Mid-Late May.<br />
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BUT we also get another peek into the show! I'm still super stoked and I hope the extra time going into making it the most magical show on property!<br />
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
<br />seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-32299102479109905452016-04-05T13:55:00.002-02:302016-04-05T13:55:39.980-02:30Fave 5! - Under-appreciated Disney Movies<br />
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Every Disney-lover knows there are a few movies that are the "favorites". The ones EVERYone and their mother has seen, the songs are everywhere, and unless you live on jupiter you know at least one song from these movies. They are the "Disney Classics", and usually feature at least one "official" princess (not always, but usually). And throughout this entire description, you've thought of at least one.</div>
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And there are what I like to call the "under-appreciated" movies - these movies didn't do as great at the box office, they may be less popular, they aren't the first you think of when someone says "Disney", but they are some gems of movies that get pushed to the side.</div>
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These "popular" movies get all the fame, the merchandise, and the theme park attractions while fans of the under-appreciated resort to Etsy and other online, unauthorized channels to express their love for their favorite movie.</div>
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Not to be a "I like it because it's not cool" snob, but some (if not most) of my favorite movies fall under the latter category. These movies contain just as (or even more) beautiful animation, moving messages, and life lessons as movies like <i>Frozen</i> or <i>The Lion King </i>that have gone on to become household names. Here's a list of my Fave 5! Underappreciated Disney movies!</div>
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<b>1) Meet the Robinsons</b></div>
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There are a lot of themes that pop up in multiple Disney movies and one that I've been noticing since rewatching a lot of my favorites is overcoming obstacles and moving past the bad things that may happen to you.</div>
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Meet the Robinsons is a great example of this.</div>
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We meet Lewis, an orphan and amateur inventor, who's imagination and creativity keeps getting in the way of what he really wants - a family who loves him. After one too many of his inventions ruining his adoption interviews, he gives up on even trying to get adopted and decides to build a time machine to go back and see his birth mother, because if anyone is going to love him, it is her.</div>
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He meets a strange kid who takes him to the future and to a family. Lewis finally fits in - his inventions and failures are celebrated here! He finally feels like he belongs somewhere and is loved. After being chased by "bowler hat guy" (Lewis' roommate from the orphanage) who was determined to ruin the world. Because of all the terrible things that had happened to him - like not getting adopted, missing a catch at an important baseball game - Goob became bitter and cruel. </div>
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Lewis learns that bad things happen, but you can get past them. Just let go of the past and<br />
"Keep Moving Forward".</div>
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This movie holds onto the future that Walt Disney himself had seen - a future of hope and excitement. They even take the movie's repeated phrase "Keep Moving Forward" from one of Walt's most famous quotes:</div>
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We all have bad things happen in our lives - and where it is something big or small - we all have to make the decision to hold onto it and let it make you bitter and jaded, or to let it go and move forward into something better. And that's why I think Meet the Robinsons is an important movie for people of all ages to see - and why it is underappreciated</div>
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2) Atlantis</div>
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Alright, first things first. Look at this nerd:</div>
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Milo Thatch is a linguist, I mean, how many Disney movies feature a linguist as a main character? Like many other characters, Milo is on a journey to prove himself. He's joined by this cast of characters:</div>
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The scenery, a diverse cast, exploring the concept of a lost city and what would be found there, new technology. Atlantis has it all. Milo's journey teaches us to follow our dreams and not to give up on what we believe in, even if we're laughed out of a room.</div>
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4) The Hunchback of Notre Dame</div>
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HOND is definitely underappreciated because it is kind of scary. I remember having an Esmerelda backback in preschool and loving it, but being too scared to watch the movie often. As an adult, I can see why. It definitely takes a risk making Hugo's novel into a children's film.</div>
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But the animation, the haunting score, and the message of justice and acceptance makes it one of Disney's greatest IMO. They took a risk, and it payed off.</div>
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The artistry itself is enough to put it on the top of my list.</div>
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Quasimodo is held prisoner for all of his life, but it is the walls he has built up himself that truly keep him in. There are so many lessons to learn from HOND - lessons about the inside matter more than outer appearances, believing in yourself, etc. Everytime I watch, something else stands out to me.</div>
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5) The Princess and the Frog</div>
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Last, but most definitely not least, one of my absolute favorite princess movies. Although The Princess and the Frog is starting to gain a little more popularity, Tiana is still one of the most underappreciated princess (Okay, there are a few, but my girl Tia deserves as much or more love than Elsa). Where do I even begin with this movie?</div>
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The music and setting are phenomenal - "Down in New Orleans" is an iconic opening song and sets the stage perfectly. There's just something magical (and creepy - Dr. Facillier is one of the scariest villians tbh) about all of the songs. </div>
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Tiana is the ultimate princess goal - she starts off having no interest in pursuing love because she had other goals. She didn't have a country to save or some kind of expectation to destroy, she just loved cooking and dedicated her time to it. She is a real person that young girls (and college aged girls who can't figure out what they're doing with their lives....*cough* me *cough*) can relate with. </div>
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And we've also got Charlotte, Tiana's BFF, who is NEVER demonized or looked down on for pursuing true love, and her and Tiana remain best friends despite having different aspirations. Which I LOVE.</div>
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As always, <b>Honorable Mentions </b>go to:</div>
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<li style="text-align: center;"><b>The Good Dinosaur</b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b>Ratouille</b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b>Big Hero 6</b></li>
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<b>What do you think? Any movies I've missed? Or do these movies not fit under the category of "Under-appreciated"? Let me know in the comments below!</b></div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
<b><br /></b>seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-35034330252089659832016-04-02T11:11:00.000-02:302016-04-02T11:11:19.808-02:30Fave 5! - Disney Snack Foods<div style="text-align: center;">
There are many things that make Walt Disney World the happiest place on earth, and one of those is food. And as we all know, Disney's magical calories don't count ;)</div>
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There are plenty of snack options around the four Walt Disney World parks. There are great snacks, good snacks, and even some not so great snacks for all ages, palates, and cravings. In no particular order, here are my top 5 favorite Disney snacks:</div>
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<b>1) Chocolate Chip Cooke Ice Cream Sandwich </b>- Sleepy Hollow, Liberty Square (Magic Kingdom)</div>
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Sleepy Hollow is located just over the bridge from Main Street. This is seriously one of my most favorite places to eat + people watch in Magic Kingdom! It can get crowded around parade times, but during slower times of the day it's a great place to sit, eat, and enjoy a great view of the castle. If you're lucky you can hear the castle party (RIP Dream Along With Mickey) and Move It! Shake It! Parade.</div>
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Most popular for their funnel cakes and Waffle sandwhiches (Try the Chicken waffle sandwhich and your life will be changed forever!), the Chocolate Chip Ice cream Sandwhich is often overlooked.</div>
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These Ice Cream sandwhiches aren't those pre-packaged, run of the mill kind. These are homemade and freaking delicious. Vanilla ice cream smooshed between fresh homemade chocolate chip cookies (I've heard there are even seasonal ice cream offerings), it is a cool yet filling snack that can easily be shared between 2 (or even 3!) people, but no judgment if you keep it all to yourself ;)</div>
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<b>2) BLT Waffle Fries</b> - Golden Oak Outpost, Fontierland (Magic Kingdom)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are waffle fries under there...somewhere.</td></tr>
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Located in between the popular Pecos Bill quick service and Pirates of the Caribbean, there's a small grab n' go food stand called Golden Oak Outpost. And, this place. It's small, not too busy, and a gem overall. The menu here revolves around one thing - waffle fries.</div>
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And yes, it's as good as it sounds. There are three offerings, my favorite being the BLT - waffle fries topped with bacon, lettuce, and tomato, then drizzled with ranch sauce. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. (Also available - an ode to the poutine, and pulled pork with creamy coleslaw. I'm also told there used to be a tex mex option...uhhhh yum!)</div>
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<b>3) Corn Dog Nuggets</b> - Casey's Corner, Main Street USA (Magic Kingdom)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2011/06/28/disney-corn-dog-nuggets-caseys-corner-vs-paradiso-37/"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_VpJIDlBDWInl6sRua71hKxmUoAMWeYQ2B5sWfc_c-LjY64Y6b1E1bMytjVv3LgR_MBzLJyt27n0Nr-pYo0gDNptfxCfjTc0h5ihOVBMYhCCsFvaKUJuagST29ppJSKSe56dtSINPEdKa/s320/Caseys-Corner-Corn-Dog-Nugget-Cross-Section.jpg" width="263" /></a></span></td></tr>
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On the corner of Good ol' Main Street USA, with a perfect view of the castle, Casey's Corner is the most popular place to grab a classic hot dog and fries on a sunny day. One of the crowning jewels (in my humble opinion) is the corn dog nugget. Picture a corn dog, then take out the stick (it only gets in the way of the delicious-ness), chop em up into little bite sized pieces, and you've got Corn Dog Nuggets!</div>
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Perfect for sharing (or not, I won't tell), Corn Dog Nuggets are a great midday pick me up, so grab a helping, stake out your seat, and take in the Festival of Fantasy Parade!</div>
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<b>4) Dole Whip</b> - Aloha Isle, Adventureland (Magic Kingdom) or Lanai (Polynesian Village Resort)</div>
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No Disney food list is complete without the infamous Dole Whip. This is a Disney classic - it's got it's own fanbase, tshirts, merchandise, etc. This pineapple ice cream concoction just screams "Disney". It is also great a quenching thirst on a hot, hot, hot Florida day! Try it on it's own, or as a float in pineapple juice! Dole Whip has gotten so popular it's been relocated to a bigger location just outside the Enchanted Tiki Room in Adventureland (just behind the Magic Carpets of Aladdin) and also at Lanai, a counter service at Disney's Polynesian Village resort on the monorail line! (PS. Check out the Poly if you have the chance - it is GORGEOUS and has a great view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the beach!</div>
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<b>5) Macaron Ice Cream Sandwhich</b> - L'Artisan Des Glaces, France (EPCOT)</div>
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Moving out of the Magic Kingdom for our last favorite snack! In the back of the France pavillion there's a little ice cream shop - L'Artisan Des Glaces. There are a lot of delicious things to eat around the World Showcase at EPCOT, but this little spot is my favorite. </div>
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Strawberries or Chocolate (Strawberry is my favorite!) ice cream sandwhiched between sweet macarons - it's so gooooood! It tastes lighter than your average ice cream dessert, and the fruity kick tricks you into thinking it's got some sort of health benefits. </div>
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<b>Honorable Mentions</b>: Mickey Pretzels, and this Falafel Sandwich from Mr. Kamal's, a food cart at Animal Kingdom.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgroMOAzrIq9GKJqz7-S5jEdBYUBeuvbFdWM0K873C2zUTsjj5d0Z5cJ3W_Blf3xwQzah1ykSpYGLUx-bsN5N0D7g7pbyN5SEVfrcvjqQpCbNA5XDGNaI2j9L2RZtTMvnYxMqWp9Dr_JARc/s1600/IMG_3732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgroMOAzrIq9GKJqz7-S5jEdBYUBeuvbFdWM0K873C2zUTsjj5d0Z5cJ3W_Blf3xwQzah1ykSpYGLUx-bsN5N0D7g7pbyN5SEVfrcvjqQpCbNA5XDGNaI2j9L2RZtTMvnYxMqWp9Dr_JARc/s400/IMG_3732.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free Mickey pretzels are the best mickey pretzels - and this guy apologizing for photobombing my pictures</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddOVLNm63JYggIdnIo5wNW9dKBGFU0s5rYmOdZFNu4ddXZXfyvF-Ftce5bO7rc-2XTK88pEpTVSiILZ8BrxbSbUpNOaexu-tM6YdUBDS5O179TzPe-wkjTK_0N30JulXAt_23Ijf93Deo/s1600/IMG_3935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddOVLNm63JYggIdnIo5wNW9dKBGFU0s5rYmOdZFNu4ddXZXfyvF-Ftce5bO7rc-2XTK88pEpTVSiILZ8BrxbSbUpNOaexu-tM6YdUBDS5O179TzPe-wkjTK_0N30JulXAt_23Ijf93Deo/s400/IMG_3935.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This Falafel was the bomb dig</td></tr>
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What is your favorite disney snack? Do you agree with my list? Let me know in the comments below!</div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-61281712552660999342016-03-02T14:30:00.000-03:302016-03-02T21:07:22.243-03:30Top 5 NEW Things I'm Excited for at Walt Disney World {2016}<div style="text-align: center;">
While I am currently in a state of incredible disney homesickness and don't have a trip planned anytime soon (being an adult without a permanent job sucks sometimes!), I am SUPER excited about all of the new adventures happening this year at my home of Walt Disney World! Here are 5 new things at WDW I am excited for!</div>
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1) Sunset Kilimajaro Safari</div>
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Animal Kingdom has a reputation as a "half day" park - many say you can skip it in favor of the other parks! This is FALSE information. I love DAK - between the theming, rides, and educational attractions there is seriously something for everybody. It is way more than a glorified zoo! Thankfully someone at Disney headquarters has heard the cry for more at DAK. First of all there's the construction of Pandora, the land of the best selling movie, Avatar. Besides that, there are even more great news for DAK!</div>
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One of the most popular attractions (and rightly so) is Kilimanjaro Safari. Disney is taking this ride to a whole new level by offering "Sunset" tours. This will feature some new animals and is sure to be a really cool adventure!</div>
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2) Rivers of Light</div>
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Along with the Sunset Safari, we're also get<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">ting a <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">new nighttime show at DAK!! They're really trying to make Animal Kingdom, not just a must see park, but a FULL DAY park! I've got to admit, it's hard to spend an entire day at Animal Kingdom, mostly because it is SO HOT!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">This show "</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;">will depict an ancient lantern festival guided by two storytellers who call forth four animal Spirit Guides: an Asian Tiger, Tropical Turtle, African Elephant and Great Horned Owl.</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;"> </span> (Disney Parks Blog, <a href="https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2016/03/first-look-rivers-of-light-to-debut-april-22-at-disneys-animal-kingdom/?CMP=SOC-TWITTER20160302171838">March 2016</a>). </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 20px;">It seems to be something like Disney hasn't done in the Florida parks before! </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 20px;">I'm super excited to see DAK getting the attention it deserves. </span></div>
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With attractions running into the evening, you will soon be able to spend a full day at Animal Kingdom without getting bored...but you'll still melt in the midday Florida sun. I would recommend checking out as much as possible in the early morning, taking a midday break back at your hotel pool, and then heading back for the new evening attractions! Rivers of Light is set to debut on April 22, 2016!</div>
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3) Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire aka A new CASTLE SHOW!</div>
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I will be the first to admit it...I cried when Disney announced the final days of Dream Along with Mickey. It was the first show I had ever seen at WDW, and it was my favorite show during my ICP. When Mickey says "Gosh Minnie, You've always been a princess to me" - my heart MELTS. I love this show. </div>
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That being said, I am SO EXCITED about the new Castle Show! Not only will "Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire" bring the classic characters like Mickey and Minnie back, they are rumored to be joined by Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Rapunzel, FLYNN RIDER, TIANA AND NAVEEN!<span style="color: #4e4e4e; font-family: "proxreg" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.6px;"> Ah, my heart! There is a desperate need for more Princess and the Frog around WDW. I love Tiana, and I'm so excited to see her get (some) of the recognition she deserves! </span></span></div>
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I think we all saw a new show with the "Frozen" sisters front and center (Disney knows how to capitalize on that, as we know), but I am glad they're bringing in the other "modern" princesses to join the party (the castle party..you're all invited...can you tell I'm still a little bitter about DAWM?)</div>
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4) Skipper's Canteen</div>
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Now, I know this is already opened and (I think) actually soft opened in 2015, BUT I am really excited about this restaurant! It is probably one of the first places I want to try when(ever) I get back to Florida! </div>
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Skipper Canteen is a restaurant based on the classic Disney attraction, Jungle Cruise! Like all Disney attractions, it has a backstory - some enterprising skippers decided to "skip" the cruising and open up their mess hall to feed the public! I love a good themed restaurant, and the best thing about Disney is their attention to detail so I know this will be a hit for me! </div>
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I heard a lot about it while it was being built during my program, and I love jungle cruise (and puns!) so I'm intrigued to try it out for myself! </div>
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5) Norway "Frozen" Experiences</div>
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"Frozen"...the word either strikes fear into your heart, the sudden urge to sing "Let It Go", or the desire to eat a dole whip....either way, you know it is the most popular franchise of ANYTHING Disney has done in ages. It has taken the world by storm. Love it or hate it (or love to hate it, or hate to love it - I fall somewhere in those latter two), Anna and Elsa (and Olaf) have slipped right into our hearts - and now they're gliding into EPCOT! </div>
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The fictional kingdom of Arendelle is taking it's spot in the very real (well, fake because it's in EPCOT, but real because it actually exists...you get what i mean) country of Norway! There's going to be a frozen themed ride (I can already see the standby wait times...) and a meet and greet location for the icy sisters themselves! As much as Frozen is overhyped and overplayed...it's going to be "cool"! </div>
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So there you have it! 5 things I'm pumped about coming to Walt Disney World in 2016! How about you? Is there anything I'm missing? Are you planning a trip down this year? Can I come with you???? Leave it all in the comments below! Until next time!</div>
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Love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-64178567284105609862016-03-01T15:00:00.000-03:302016-04-14T17:47:40.544-02:30DCP Prep: Packing<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: normal;">So you've been accepted, you've printed your documents, chosen your roommates, booked your flights. The final step in the Pre-DCP process is packing. Or, if you're like me, </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: normal;">packing comes somewhere in between the interviews and being accepted - as a disfigured lion once said, "Be Prepared", right?</span></span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">I curated my own packing list after reading/watching blogs and vlogs...and I honestly think I did a pretty decent job with what I took! Packing for 3 months is hard especially if you're flying into Orlando. It is super important to not only pack light, but to pack efficiently. If you are driving, you have a little more room and it is a little easier to pack more. </span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">How to Pack</span></div><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Before my program I was determined to only fly down with one suitcase. That way, I could buy a cheap duffle bag for the return trip and not have to shell out a billion dollars in overweight charges! </span></div><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">I ended up packing a little over 50lbs in my suitcase (had to take out a couple pairs of shoes and wear a jean jacket at the airport), a carry on, a back pack, and a purse. Taking one suitcase made it easier to navigate through the airport and check in, and gave me piece of mind when I was buying tons of discounted merchandise at Cast Connection ;) I did not pack a whole lot of clothes, but if you are planning on packing a lot, most people swear by vacuum seal bags! You can get them at the dollar store. Beware though - you may not have access to a vaccum that will reseal them on the way back. These are a great way to pack you bedding and pillows as well!</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-size: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><br />
</span></span></span> <span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">What to Pack</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><br />
</span></span> <span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;">I'm going to post my original packing list, with a commentary on if i needed it or would recommend not bringing it.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">Here's how I got my packing list: </span><br />
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<ul><li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">First, I did some research. I watched Disney housing room tours, read Disney "must have" packing tips and DCP packing blogs. I took their tips and tricks, and used them to figure out what would work best for me.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">During this whole process, I kept a small journal dedicated to packing. This list got re-vamped, added to, taken away from, for probably 3 months. I actually used a small journal that I basically kept on my person at all times - because, face it, you're going to be thinking about Disney 100% of the time, so you might as well be productive about it. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;">So, once you have your master list, it's time to get organized. </span><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: normal;">I split my list into 6 categories - "Common space" (ie. kitchen, living room etc), clothing, toiletries, decoration, electronics, and essential documents. I put an asterisk (*) next to the items </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">that I wouldn't be buying until I got in florida. </span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">Now comes the fun (?) part. I typed up everything on my computer and finalized my "Packing Master List". </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">After I had picked what luggage I was going to bring, I organized the items in my Master List into where I was going to pack it. </span></span></li>
<ul><li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">Purse: My passport, toiletries bag (easy access for security at the airport), wallet, journal, pens, kindle, headphones, cell phone, charger, etc. Basically anything I would want the easiest access to at the airport and on the plane. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">Backpack: here I packed my computer, iPad, my folder with all of my Disney documents, a travel pillow, books, my camera and lenses. Basically any electronics or other bigger things that wouldn't fit in my purse but I still wanted with me on the plane. I put my computer in this one because some planes are smaller that wont fit a standard carry on in the overhead bin or are overbooked and you may have to check one carry on! (This HAS happened to me multiple times, and i've had to quickly repack my carry ons because HECK I am not putting my computer in the bottom of a plane!)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">Carry On suitcase: I packed my non-liquid toiletries and clothes for my overnight hotel stay before check in and clothes for check in day. I did not want to have to open my big suitcase in the hotel because I knew it would be crowded (there were 6 of us in a room). This made it easier and I didn't have to root through my suitcase. I packed shorts, sandals, some lightweight t-shirts, a bathing suit. </span></span></li>
<ul><li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">I also packed my "buisness" wear for traditions and a couple more outfits *just* in case anything happened with my luggage. (Yes, i AM that paranoid!) I have always and will always pack extra clothing in my carry on. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">Heads up: you MUST be in Disney look from the shoulders up for check in because you will be taking your photo ID for housing - so no visible tattoos, piercings, or tanktops! You also want to be super comfy because you'll be a) sweating and b) running around trying to move in</span></span></li>
</ul><li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">Suitcase: everything else! </span></span></li>
</ul></ul><div><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">Master Packing List</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helveticaneue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">Here's my master packing list, with a commentary on if I needed it, and some added stuff I with that I had had. </span></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">1. Common Space</span></i></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><i>a. Fun Stuff/Living Room<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" />• WiFi router* - </i>We bought this through the DCP trading post facebook group and split the cost between our roommates. much cheaper than buying new, and if you move into an occupied apartment they may have one already!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><i>• Phase 10/Skip Bo/Disney Scene it - </i>I only ended up bringing phase 10 and never played it. We spent the majority of our time in the parks/sleeping!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><i>• DVDs - </i>again, I don't think i brought any after due to space. Netflix sufficed for me for 3 months (american netflix has SO MANY DISNEY MOVIES!) and you can rent movies from vista!</span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" />b. Kitchen <br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" />• Monsters U Mug </span>- Instead of this mug i brought an old resort mug that had a lid and was insulated. Your apartment will have standard mugs (and you can buy disney ones!). I used mine around the pool for hot or cold drinks and because it was plastic i wasn't worried about breaking it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Lunch box </span>- Again, space is an issue. I wish i had brought one with me (or even bought one when i was down there!) for work!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Tupperware* </span>- I bought mine down there and split a big pack with a roommate.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Water bottle </span>- SO IMPORTANT! I got one with a filter in it because florida water is gross. You'll get one for work as well, but the filter was nice for at-home days</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Coffee Maker/Keurig (?) - </span>Another thing you can find on the trading post. I bought a cheap french press and all of my roommates used it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Magic Bullet (?) </span>- I wanted to bring mine (i LOVE smoothies) but didn't. My roommate did bring one though!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Dish Rack* </span>- Bought when we got down there</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Dish Detergent* </span>^</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Dish Cloths* </span>^</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Toaster - </span>We got by without one by toasting things in the oven</span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" />c. Bathroom<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" />• Shower curtain - </span>We used the one provided, but it all depends on what kind of shape it is in</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Shower caddy </span>- Not useful. If you're only sharing with your other roommate, you have lots of space for shower things</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Bath math* </span>- Definitely buy when you get there</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Towels </span>- If you have space, BRING. One body towel, one hair towel. You'll survive with one of each</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Face cloths </span>- bring a couple! You can always buy a cheap one at Walmart.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Beach Towel - </span>Not entirely necessary, but a good idea to have for the pool so you don't use your bath towel!</span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" />1. Bedroom<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" />• Hangers* </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Closet organizer </span>- I would highly recommend! I brought one i had from home and used it for tshirts, bathing suits, PJs, and shoes!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Calendar - </span>For keeping track of your schedule!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Lamp/night light </span>- This is especially helpful when you and your roommate work opposite schedules! we plugged ours in by the sink (it was princessed themed and from the dollar store!) and was great for late nights/early mornings!</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">• Pillows* </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Sheet set* - </span>I got mine on the DCP facebook group for super cheap and it was in excellent condition</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Mattress topper </span>- not entirely necessary, but a nice thing to have</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">• Mattress protector</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">• Over the door hook</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Bed risers (?) - </span>Some say this is essential, but i found there was a lot of storage already in the apartment!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Extension cord(s) </span>- Always come in handy!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Laundry basket </span>- I got a princess one at the dollar store!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Quilt </span>- I didn't bring mine, but wished i had room!</span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">2. Clothing<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" />• Rain Jacket </span>- a NECESSITY for florida!</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">• Shirts</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">• Tank Tops</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">• Shorts/Capris</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Jeans (1 Pair) </span>- I wore these on my fly days!</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">• Underwear</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;">• Bras</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Sports Bras </span>- I intended to work out while down there...it didn't happen. BUT they're nice to wear under your costume for comfort!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: normal;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Panty Hose </span>- for traditions/training</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Socks </span>- you won't know what kind of socks you will need for work until your training. I brough a couple pairs of black and white, and then bought a bulk pack of what i needed for work when i found it out!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Workout Leggings - </span>again, i didn't do any type of real excercise....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Workout Tops </span>- Perfect for park days because they wick sweat!</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Bathing Suits </span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Cover Ups</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Cardigans </span>- If you take the buses, you're going to be cold! also good for post-work iHop days where you dont want to wear your costume.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Chambray Shirt</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Jean Jacket</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Dresses </span>- i packed a variety...some business/sundresses/formal for service celebration</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Skirts (circle skirt and pencil skirt </span>- traditions<span style="font-style: italic;">) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Shoes </span>- </span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">i. Sneakers </span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ii. Sandals</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">iii. Flip flops</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">iv. Birkenstock sandals</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">v. Flats </span>- make sure they are COMFY! You're going to walk during traditions and orientation.</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">vi. Slippers </span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Purses</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">i. Backpack </span>- i brought a small, lightweight backpack for the parks/work and it was a lifesaver!</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ii. Black purse</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">iii. Steve madden purse/camera bag</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">iv. Small purse </span>- </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">v. wallet </span>- i brought my regular wallet and a small ID wallet for my housing and CM IDs which was a help!</span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">^^ I could have taken out my camera purse, and the small purse.</span></span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">3. Toiletries - </span>Bring enough for at least a month and you don't have to worry about buying more!</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Shampoo/conditioner </span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Body wash</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Face wash</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Razors</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Nail clippers</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Tweezers</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Moisturizer/coconut oil</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Bobby Pins</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Hair elastics</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Hair accessories (Bows + Headbands)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Make up - </span>you'll be sweating so much you won't want to wear too much makeup! Bring the essentials.</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">viii. Contacts/Case/Solution</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Jewellery - </span>Again, bring the essentials!</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">i. Earrings</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ii. Necklaces</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">iii. Sunglasses</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" /></span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">• Medication/First Aid</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">i. Allergy meds</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ii. Ibuprophen</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">iii. Band aids</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">iv. Polysporin</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">v. After bite<br />
vi</span>. How did i leave SUNSCREEN off of this list??? I bought when i got to florida but it is one of the most important things to have!</span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">4. Decorations/Misc<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" />• Pictures </span>- for decorating your cork board!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Stuffed animals </span>- a necessity in my opinion!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Pens </span>- i was one of the only roomamtes to bring school supplies like highlighters, sticky notes, pens, etc. They all come in handy!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Journals </span>- for detailing your program!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Autograph Book </span>- extra points if you come up with a creative handmade book</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Sharpies </span>- for the autograph book! </span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">5. Electronics </span>(for the photo nerd!)</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• DSLR + lenses + batteries + charger</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Point and Shoot camera + charger (for videos)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• SD Cards</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Kindle + charger</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• iPad + Charger</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• iPhone + Charger</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• MacBook + charger</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• SD to iPad converter</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" /></span> <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">6. Must Haves/Documents</span> - You've probably already heard this, but have all of your documents in a designated folder and keep it IN YOUR CARRY ON and easily accessible. You'll need it at customs and at check in!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Sevis Fee Receipt</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Candidate Letter</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Passport </span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• DS 2019 Document</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Insurance information</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Payment confirmations</span></span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• Onboarding document</span></span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin-top: 15px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</b></div>seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-5017316811207290322016-02-24T21:01:00.002-03:302016-02-24T21:01:39.864-03:30DCP: Choosing Roommates<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Hey Y'all! I know I know... "But sarah, you're not even doing the Disney College Program this summer!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">...Well, no. I'm not. But I <i>am</i> a (self-proclaimed) expert on all things Disney programs and I have an obsession with answering questions about my summer and giving advice for those starting their adventure with the Disney Company!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">So here we go! I'm going to be answering some of the most asked questions about the DCP.)</span></div>
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So, you've been accepted to the DCP (or ICP!)! Congratulations! You've started packing your bags, creating that bucket list of park attractions, booked your flight for the long journey to Orlando, and placed the countdown on your phone.</div>
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There's a lot of decisions to be made in between acceptance and arrival...And the one that can truly make or break your program is choosing your roommates!!</div>
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If you have ever lived with roommates, you know this to be true. I spent 3 years living in dorms, and who you live with can completely change your </div>
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A couple of weeks before your arrival you'll get an email from DORMS (disney's onboarding site) asking your housing preferences. You have two options: link up with others, or be "adventurous". Both choices have their pros and cons...but lets just say you're like me, and want to know what you are getting yourself into. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Finding roommates.</span></b></div>
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If you want to link up with your roommates beforehand, you're going to need to know people who are doing the program with. Keep in mind that in order to link up, you must have the same arrival dates, be the same gender, and all be over/under 21. There should be plenty of facebook groups for your arrival dates, and there may already even be a roommate search group for your dates! Be active in those groups, talk to people, and let them know you're looking for roommates! Be upfront and honest in these groups - don't be afraid to voice your concerns about who you live with. </div>
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For example, my biggest concern about housing was being in a non-wellness apartment. I am uncomfortable with partying and hate when people are over in the apartment all of the time, but I didn't want to live in a wellness apartment and live with people who could potentially get me in trouble. I was completely honest about this when looking for roommates, and found people who understood that from the start.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Choosing the right roommate</b></span></div>
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One of the easiest ways to get everything out there is roommate surveys (try <a href="http://thedcplife.blogspot.ca/2013/11/disney-college-program-roommate-survey.html">this</a> one!). Here you'll learn about people, their likes and dislikes, habits, etc. This is EXTREMELY important for a great DCP experience. If you're a person who like to go to bed early, but your roommate is a night owl, you're probably going to have a bad time. If you're a slob, but your roommate is a neat freak, there's going to be tension (Sorry Val)! </div>
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Get to know each other, coordinate what you are all bringing (especially if one of you is driving down!), figure out your housing preferences, and get excited together! Make plans and get your disney nerdiness on! :)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Don't be Afraid</b></span></div>
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Our roommate group didn't get to know each other too well before arriving. There were four of us, but we were open to having more roommates joining us...and it was the best decision we could have made! The other two girls who got placed with us turned out to be the most wonderful, hilarious, caring girls and I don't know what my program would have been like without them. </div>
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There are so many terrifying roommate stories all over the internet, it is easy to get super anxious about what kind of crazy person you're going to be stuck with for the summer. But I PROMISE it's not all bad. There are so many more stories of roommates who turned into lifelong friends than there are the terror stories. Make the most of your roommate situation whatever it may be. </div>
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Remember, to have good roommates, you have to be a good roommate. Pull your weight, go above and beyond to make your program as special as possible. It all goes by so fast! </div>
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So that's my advice for choosing the perfect roommate! If you have any questions for me to answer, or any topics for me to cover on the DCP, let me know in the comments below! </div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-52124477559303606232016-02-09T17:51:00.000-03:302016-02-09T17:51:34.530-03:30Top 5 Underrated Magic Kingdom Attractions<div style="text-align: center;">
Magic Kingdom...my home and native land! Just kidding, I'm from Canada, BUT Magic Kingdom WAS my home this summer. I can honestly say it is my favorite park...and the one I have spent the most time in. </div>
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Magic Kingdom is also the park with the most <i>Disney </i>attractions...you know, those attractions that just send you into a nostalgic, magical state? The one's you see in basically every Disney commercial, and they are the ones that come to mind when someone says "Disney". I'm talking <i>Small World, Peter Pan's flight, Haunted Mansion, Space/Splah/Big Thunder Mountain(s).</i> Those Iconic attractions, with a capital "I". </div>
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But there are some attractions that can sometimes get overlooked...these are (potentially) overlooked, especially by first time guests. Here are five of my most underrated (and surprisingly a few of my favorite) Magic Kingdom Attractions!</div>
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<b>1) Mickey's Philharmagic </b>in Fantasyland</div>
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What it is: Mickey's Philharmagic stars my favorite Fab Five member - Donald. It's a 20(ish) minute 4D show featuring everyone's favorite duck, as well as a musical montage starring your favorite disney characters! You'll sing and dance in your seat, as well as maybe get a little wet ;) Don't forget to take a deep breath during the Be Our Guest scene - you won't regret it! </div>
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Why I love it: It's located right outside of Prince Charming's Carousel, and with the way I usually tour the park, (start in Adventureland and work your way to Tomorrowland) that means you are hot, tired, and sweaty by the time you reach it. Philharmagic rarely has more than a 20 minute wait time due to the size of the theatre, and it is air conditioned. Perfect for resting your feet, cooling off, and enjoying some of your favorite iconic Disney songs! Kids and adults alike love this attraction!</div>
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<b>2) Carousel of Progress </b>in Tomorrowland</div>
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What it is: Carousel of Progress first appeared at the 1964 World's Fair. It then moved to Disneyland, and then to it's current location in Disney World. It is a revolving theatre animatronic show that showcases the life of a "typical" American family throughout the 20th century, while portraying the message that there's a "great big beautiful tomorrow".</div>
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Why I love it: Okay, I'll admit it - my roommates make fun of me for how much I love CoP. There's just something wholesome and nostalgic about it - despite me not having ever even hearing about it until my ICP. It is the only WDW attraction for Walt Disney to actually step foot on, which is just really cool. It's also 20 minutes long, and a lot of people find it good for napping, so there's that. </div>
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<b>3) Liberty Square Riverboat </b>in Liberty Square</div>
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What is is: A real steamboat ride that circles around the Rivers of America. It's a 17 minute ride, narrated by Mark Twain. There are lots of things to see along the way!</div>
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Why I love it: This is another great relax-and-recharge attraction. It's also another very classic Disney ride...it's charming and has a "vintage" feel to it, immersing you into a different time. Warning: there are no bathrooms on board, and there's no air conditioning. I would recommend riding early morning or later in the afternoon/evening when it's cooler! </div>
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<b>4) Tomorrowland Transit Authority </b>in Tomorrowland</div>
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What it is: The TTA aka the Peoplemover is a ten minute tour through Tomorrowland! The entire ride runs on magnets making it environmentally friendly and really freaking <i>cool</i>! </div>
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Why I love it: It's a 10 minute ride through tomorrowland. That's enough right? Add on that it takes you through some of Tomorrowland's most popular attractions (and you might be lucky enough to catch it while space mountain is down - aka has the lights on! so cool!) and there are plenty of futurisic puns ("Paging Mr. Morrow...Mr. Tom Morrow") PLUS you'll see a model of Progress City - the predecessor of EPCOT! It goes a lot faster than you think it is, you're high in the sky and even catch glimpses of Cinderella Castle! </div>
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<b>5) Celebrate the Magic! </b>on Main Street</div>
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What it is: A projected light show on the castle. Happens twice a night, before and after the "Wishes' Fireworks show</div>
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Why I love it: Celebrate The Magic is always trumped by Wishes. People will ask when the fireworks start, then get confused when CTM starts 15 minutes before the fireworks. Many will avoid or not care about CTM but it is SO WORTH it! Wait until after Wishes to stake out your spot, or pick your spot early to fully enjoy this technical masterpiece. Watch the castle dance, bounce around, take off in a rocket, be set on fire (?!?!?!?!?!?) and freeze into a certain Ice Palace! You'll get to see scenes from your favorite Disney Films, hear some fun music, and cry because YOU'RE IN DISNEY WORLD AND THE MAGIC IS TOO REAL.</div>
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So there you have it! My favorite underrated attraction in Magic Kingdom! Agree with me? Did you favorite make it on the list? Let me know in the comments section!</div>
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Until next time!</div>
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love + pixie dust, </div>
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sarah</div>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-73937288355312957512016-02-07T14:43:00.002-03:302016-02-07T14:43:26.872-03:30Ministry: "A House of Prayer" - Prayer Stations<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Hey Y'all!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So if you didn't know, my passions (other than disney) revolve around kids. More specifically, Kids Ministry. Which means, one of my favorite things is teaching sunday school!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I got the opportunity to teach on the topic of prayer...a daunting task! Our kids are very restless when asked to sit and listen so I attempted to create a lesson that would give them a tangible grip on what prayer really is, and how they can pray for different aspects of their lives.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I focused on 5 prayer "stations": Confession, Reflection, Healing, The World, Our needs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We split up our group between our three teachers so the stations would be as close to "one-on-one" as possible. I also set up a CD player with kids worship music playing softly in the background in order to create a more "worship"-like atmosphere.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Here are the 5 stations - I meant to take pictures but completely forgot! I'll list what the set up looked like and the instructions I left at each station for the teacher to follow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Station 1) CONFESSION</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">What you need: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- slips of paper</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- trash bucket, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- sign with "Sea of Forgetfulness" written on it</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- pencils/pens</span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Set Up: </span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Place the trashcan in the "front" of the group. Attach the sign to the trashcan with tape. Prepare a slip of paper and pencil per child. Tape the following instruction to the wall at the station:</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><o:p><i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Instructions: </span></i></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><o:p><i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></o:p></span></div>
<div class="line" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Micah 7:19
“<span style="color: black;"> You will completely wipe out the evil
things we’ve done. You will throw all our sin into the bottom of the sea.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">God doesn’t want us to feel guilt – when we CONFESS our sins and
struggles to him, he forgets them completely! <o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">On the paper in this station write a sin or something you feel guilty
about and confess that sin to God. Then tear it up and throw it into the “sea
of forgetfulness”! You no longer have to worry because God has already
forgotten about them!<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Station 2) REFLECTION<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What you need: </span></div>
</span><br />
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- one handheld mirror per child</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Set up:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Place one handheld mirror per child at the station. Tape the following instructions on the wall at the station:</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Psalm 139:14 “</span><span style="background: white; color: black;">I am fearfully and wonderfully made!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="background: white; color: black;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We are all created in the image of God –
that means when God created us, He wanted us to be like Him! Take a mirror and
as you look at yourself think about how God created you – He your eyes, your
laugh, and He even knows how many hairs are on your head and what your favorite
pizza toppings are!</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
<i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background: white;">In this station, thank God for making you so wonderfully complex!</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Station 3) HEALING<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">What You Need:</span></div>
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- 5 pieces of brown constuction paper to create a cross <b>or </b>a cross of some sort</div>
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- bandaids</div>
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Set Up:</div>
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Use the construction paper to create a cross on the wall. Place the bandaids at the base of the cross. Tape the sign with instruction on the wall:</div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i>Isaiah 53:5 “His wounds have healed us!”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i>It says in the bible that because Jesus gave his life for us we can
experience healing form sickness! Do you know of anyone who has been healed of
a sickness? <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i>Think of someone who is sick and needs God to heal them. Pray for God
to heal them and when you are done, stick a Band-Aid on the cross to remind us
that Jesus’ sacrifice gives us healing!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Station 4) MISSIONS<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">What You Need:</span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">- A world map (a globe would work too!)</span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">- red string (you can also mark up your map if it isn't of value!)</span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">- pictures of missionaries your church supports,</span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">- descriptions of the work being done by the missionaries</span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Set up:</span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Tape the map on the wall. Tape the missionary pictures near the countries they serve. Use the string to make a connection between the missionary and the country. Tape the following instructions below the map:</span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i>Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the
earth…and He saw that it was good”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i>God created every person in the world – that’s 7 billion different
people! There are so many things we can pray for our world! People are sick and
many refugees are trying to find a safe place to live away from war.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<i>There are many people who love Jesus so much they moved to places far away to
share the news of Jesus with people who haven’t heard! We call them
missionaries.</i></div>
</span><br />
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i>As you look at the pictures of some of our missionaries, thank God
that someone is sharing the Good News with people from all over the world! Pray
that our missionaries would be kept safe and that the right people would be out
in their paths.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Station 5) PRAYER BOARD<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">What You Need:</span></div>
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- A large frame, glass and back removed</div>
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- string</div>
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- Hot glue</div>
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- paper slips</div>
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- clothespins</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Set Up:</div>
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To make a prayer board, glue the string end to the frame, criss crossing all the way up and down the frame. I was going for something like <a href="https://westavenueau.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/6b7f79610f04bd2c48209b026ea34fb8.jpg">this</a>. place the prayer board on a table, or hang it up on the wall. Place some clothespins on the strings, and have extras put to the side. Tape the following instructions near the frame. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i>Psalm 34:4 “I prayed to the Lord and He answered me, He freed me from
all of my fear”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i>God hears us when we pray. He hears us if we scream out our prayer or
if we whisper it in our heads! He will always answer us when we pray – He may
say “yes”, “no”, or “wait” – but he will always answer us.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i>Try and think of at least one thing you want to pray for this week.
Write it down on a slip of paper and attach it to a string with a paper clip.
We will keep praying for these things for the rest of the year, and you can add
another slip every week if you want! </i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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And that's it! It seems like a really daunting task at first, but it is super simple to set up all of the stations! Make sure to place the stations in separate corners of the room, you want to make every station as quiet and private as possible. </div>
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Prayer is such an important part of Christian life, it is even more important that our kids grow up having a strong prayer life! By giving them these tangible ways to make prayer real and alive we give them a leg up on creating a consistent prayer life. You may even find something that works for your personal life!</div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-29016676027158450762016-01-19T20:43:00.001-03:302016-01-19T20:43:33.110-03:30Top 3 Inspirational Movies {for those un-inspired days}<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you're a person who thrives on (or who's job depends on) creating things - whether that's writing, teaching, drawing, inventing, painting, or what have you - you've been here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">Those days when you just feel completely drained of inspiration. Those days where you don't know if you'll ever be able to create again. Like the future is bleak and there's nothing worth fighting for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">I've had a lot of those days - and today has been one of them. BUT as a self-proclaimed movie addict, there are a few movies that I can count on to boost my mood and inspire me to keep going and creating.</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">(Sidenote: these movies are all disney or children's movies. I'm a Kid Ministry leader at heart, and a disney addict, so this is what happens)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">1) Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (2007)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">During my four years of university, this is the movie that got me through the worst days.</span></div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">Molly Mahoney was told she was special all of her childhood - a piano prodigy - who then grows up to feel pretty ordinary. Working in Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (an incredibly magical toy store) she bides her time until she finds her "sparkle" again. It isn't until Mr Magorium decides he is leaving the world that she realizes that the magic of the toy store has been within her the entire time.</span></div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">This movie is full of terrible puns, magical whimsy, and hope. There's just something about Mahoney realizing how magical she is that put the spark of creativity back into your soul.</span></div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">2) Saving Mr Banks (2013)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">This movie. Oh. My. Gosh. Saving Mr. Banks tugs at your heartstrings, inspires you, and also makes you so sad it's ridiculous. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">The plot line is a little difficult to explain without giving away everything, but the basics are this: Pamela L. Travers, the author of the Mary Poppins books flies from England to California to meet with Walt Disney about signing over the rights to produce the, now iconic, movie based on her books. Mrs. Travers (as she prefers to be called) is very protective over her beloved characters, and we find out why she is so concerned about their well-being through flashbacks of her childhood. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;">Seeing Tom Hanks bring Walt back to life is enough to make this one of my favorite creative movies - Walt is one of my main inspirations when it comes to creating - but it is the scene where Walt promises that Mr. Banks will be redeemed in the film. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.2px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Walt: "George Banks and all he stands for will be saved. Maybe not in life, but in imagination. Because that's what we storytellers do. We restore order with imagination. </span><b><span style="background-color: white;">We instill hope again and again and again</span><span style="background-color: #fcfae7; color: #333333;">."</span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif; line-height: 18.2px;">There's something that just hits me. When we make anything we are telling a story - our story. And to me, art is just that. It is instilling hope for the future. That there is something great, big and beautiful about tomorrow.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif; line-height: 18.2px;">3) Tomorrowland</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif; line-height: 18.2px;">Speaking of a great big beautiful tomorrow.......</span></div>
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I hadn't seen tomorrowland when it first came out. I hadn't heard great reviews on it, I was a poor disney college programmer, and was super busy with my first weeks of work. Recently, it was added to netflix, so i thought I would give it a whirl. </div>
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And it was SO MUCH BETTER than what I thought it was going to be. </div>
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First of all - it starts off at the 1964 world's fair. WITH there's a great big beautiful tomorrow playing in the background. AND it's a small world. My disney nerd/homesick heart screams internally with glee. But it's so much more than that.</div>
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Tomorrowland takes Walt's true vision of what tomorrowland in the Disney parks was supposed to represent - a hope for the future. He truly believed that the future and technology were amazing and good and that it screams out a message of a "great big beautiful tomorrow!" What would happen if the greatest, brightest minds got together and attempted to change the world for the better?</div>
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I've got to admit, the scripts wasn't amazing and the plot left some things to be desired, but the message still stands - We can only have a future if we do something to change it. Casey (the main character) sums it up - <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18.2px;">There are two wolves who are always fighting. One is darkness and despair. The other is light and hope. The question is... which wolf wins? The one you feed." (I'm not going to spoil the ending bc it's kind of a twist, albeit kind of anti-climactic)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18.2px;">This movie gives me some hope - and on a day where everything is going wrong, every idea seems like garbage, a little hope is needed. That, and a big bowl of popcorn, of course.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18.2px;">So there you have it! My top 3 movies for inspiration on those days you're not feeling so inspired!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18.2px;">Do you have any movies that keep you inspired? Let me know in the comments!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18.2px;">love + pixie dust,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18.2px;">sarah</span></span></div>
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<br />seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-83451133527657002612015-12-27T15:48:00.003-03:302015-12-27T15:48:35.487-03:30Dear 2016 {and goodbye to 2015}<div style="text-align: center;">
Dear 2016,</div>
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You've got a lot to live up to. 2015 was by far one of the best years of my life and brought memories that I had never thought would ever actually happen.</div>
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2015 brought adventures and new friends and new confidence. New jobs, new skills, and a shiny "BA" added to the end of my name (not that I would ever do that.....maybe). It came with nerves and being terrified and flung into new and scary situations. </div>
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2015 was the year I cried in my car more times than I can count, but also the year of staying up until 4am laughing, eating pancakes, and thanking God for the amazing people in my life. </div>
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It was being an intern, panicking about my future, getting to do what I love, being simultaneously 100% sure of myself and completely certain that I had no idea what I was doing. It was faking it until I finally made it. It was finishing my degree (FINALLY) and finally feeling like I had a grip on my place in ministry.</div>
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It was getting accepted into the Disney International Program. It was disbelief and butterflies after four years of dreaming. </div>
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It was sweating more than I thought was humanly possible, memorizing the Magic Kingdom map, visiting princesses, and making magic every day, and feeling like I might pass out from exhaustion.</div>
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It was singing along to wishes so manny times it became second nature, it was actually getting used to basically living at disney world. It was crying in the middle of the park (definitely not disney look) on my last night of work and again on my last day in the parks. It was saying goodbye to friends from all over the world and going back to reality. </div>
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It was moving home, missing Disney and my friends. Finding a fit back at home after four years. And wondering what 2016 would hold.</div>
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So 2016 - this is what you have to live up to. I believe in you + cannot wait to become acquainted as well as I was with 2015. </div>
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love + pixie dust, </div>
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sarah</div>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-50292798762716316242015-12-04T00:22:00.001-03:302015-12-04T00:22:28.018-03:302015: Year in Review!<div style="text-align: center;">
It's that time of year again!</div>
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2015 has been a whilwind year for me...from graduating university to moving to florida and back I would definitely rate it in the top 5 years of my life! There have been many tears shed, laughs had, and lessons learned about myself, ministry, and following God through it all.</div>
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Let's start with New Years Eve. The end of 2014 and a new, fresh start. Coming off of my last full semester of classes for my degree, I had a really great Christmas break. It was my nephew's first christmas, so we had a lot to celebrate! New Years Eve was spent at a friends playing games and laughing and just having a ridiculous time. Probably the best way I could have spent my night.</div>
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I tried to do this month by month, but to be honest, they're all a little fogged in my head. So I'll go by season I guess!</div>
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<b>Winter: </b>January/February</div>
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Winter semester I started my internship in Springdale. This was one of the most nerve-wracking things I have ever done, and I remember driving home crying after my first sunday from the overwhelming pressure I put on myself to be someone I wasn't. Over my 4 months I learned a lot of what it takes to be a pastor - and that no one is really cut out for the job. That's where the grace of God comes in and saves the day. I also learned that if you really need to, you can fake it til you make it. Pretend to be a people-person long enough and you might just find yourself liking people a little more than you thought you would. I also learned that working and taking courses at the same time sucks and you have to be a lot more disciplined than I am to make it work.</div>
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In January I also had my interview in Toronto for Disney! After feeling so down on myself after the first couple of weeks on my internship I got to take a couple of days off and visit my baby "sister" and visit the Disney offices which was so incredibly cool. My trip started out rough (like a snow storm and potential cancelled flight) and finished up not so nicely (like coming back to a dead battery in my car and snowed in with no shovel), and I was convincing myself it was all a waste of time....but it wasn't! A week later and I had my offer letter for Custodial! January/February was a pretty exciting couple of months.</div>
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<b>Spring: </b>March/April </div>
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March and April kind of melt together in my mind, But in April I finished my internship and early May I finally graduated from Tyndale! That's right, you're looking at (reading from?) a BA. Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, that is. I packed my bags and headed home for a couple of weeks. Just long enough.....</div>
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<b>Summer: </b>June/July/August</div>
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To move to Disney! Summer 2015 was arguably the most incredible summer of my life because I spent it in Florida working at Disney (If you want to read, or re-read, about my adventures check them out <a href="http://burtonsar.blogspot.ca/search/label/disney%20icp">here</a>). Endless days at Magic Kingdom, in the florida sunshine (and humidity), with some of the greatest friends I have ever met from all over the world.</div>
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I learned to be fearless. I learned about my flaws. I learned how to make magic. I learned the location of every restroom in Magic Kingdom. I met the most magical people - and those were just the cast members. I memorized every second of the Electrical Parade even though it was the worst. I dealt with some disgusting situations and learned that watching wishes with your friends is the cure to a terrible day - and that iHop tastes the best at 3am when you're overtired and laughing with your favorite co-workers.</div>
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I could seriously go on forever. Man, I miss it. It was the perfect summer to end off my university career.</div>
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<b>Fall: </b>September/October/November</div>
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Okay, I'm going to include this with "Fall", but I really had already gotten my job at Claire's around the end of July after a facetime interview. The day after I had gotten home, still with pixie dust in my eyes, I started working. It took some time to get used to it after not having worked in retail before, but I adjusted and put the skills I learned from traditions and my Disney training to good use. I learned how to pierce ears and adjusted to living with my parents again for an undetermined amount of time. </div>
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It was during the fall that I started to panic a little. Over the past four years I had always had a plan. I knew exactly where I would be an what I would be doing. I would memorize my class schedules, plan out when my papers needed to be started and finished, and counted down the days until the end of the semester. Now I had no plans....this was my life for an undetermined amount of time.....since I graduated from high school I haven't lived in one place for more than 4 months at a time. So being able to settle and commit to things is still a big, scary thing. On top of all of that, I got hit with a big bout of the post-disney-depression. Night and day missing disney and missing having things to do after work. In florida there were literally endless possibilities - I could spend every waking moment doing things and I still wouldn't have been able to do it all - so coming back to my small town was kind of a disappointment. </div>
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But, I'm learning to deal with it. Picking up new hobbies, obsessing over the Hamilton soundtrack, and beginning to pay off my student debt. As always, there are days I am up for anything, and those when I am paralyzed at the thought of the future. Right now I get to teach Sunday School under the leaders who raised me up in God, and to lead kids in Worship every sunday in KidsZone, which is my happy place. </div>
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So there's a quick glimpse into my 2015. What will 2016 look like? I have absolutely no idea. If you have any ideas or know what I'm supposed to be doing, please let me know ASAP. Do you have any exciting plans or resolutions for 2016? Let me know in the comments! I'd love to hear from y'all!</div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-73253522970547189602015-12-01T00:14:00.001-03:302015-12-01T00:14:58.959-03:30Christmas With a Cause: Gifts that Give Back<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy December Friends! </div>
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Can you believe it's that time of year already????? Today is the official start of "christmas" for me...and my blog! I've been feeling very un-inspired lately, but I am totally gearing up for a better blogging 2016! This next year may not include a summer like I had at Disney, but I really want to get on the ball with my blog and try some new things!</div>
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Today I want to talk about some great gifts that actually give BACK this christmas season! As I've gotten older, I've realized how much money has dominated my Christmas wishes every year...and how awful that really is! Here are 5 companies that have gifts that give back - and have something for everyone on your Christmas list!</div>
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1) <a href="http://www.sevenly.org/">Sevenly</a></div>
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Sevenly is a really cool company that has gained some popularity over the past few years. Basically, every week they support a new cause...whether it's a well-building project, funding education, or autism research! They release a new design focused around that cause, and seven percent of the funds go towards that cause. The designs are always really really nice and they have almost any style you want in a shirt. If you're looking for a great way to gift something that matters this year, this would be my first suggestion! </div>
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Basic Ts start at $25 - which is cheaper than a shirt from some popular stores AND it gives back - it's a win-win!</div>
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2) <a href="https://catalogue.worldvision.ca/?dclid=CKW3vqvWuckCFYSnaQodyYYETw&gclid=CjwKEAiAhPCyBRCtwMDS5tzT03gSJADZ8VjRtemjMB_Toql8EBtob9ZGT9xQlUcMjgfLtVLMjEjkkxoC2YXw_wcB">World Vision</a></div>
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World Vision is known for their work around the world, and their sponsorship program that gives children from all over the world an opportunity to have food, medical care, and get an education. Around Christmas, WV releases a "Gift Catalogue" - and it has nothing on the Sears Wishbook! You have the opportunity to give gifts of vaccines, goats, sheep, care kits, and school supplies. Your gift can literally change a life. What's more in the spirit of christmas than that? </div>
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Gifts start as low as $20 for baby chicks and go all the way up to $15, 000 to build a well and provide clean drinking water. </div>
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3) <a href="http://www.toms.ca/">TOMS</a></div>
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TOMS are a trend that started where I live a nice few years ago. A girl I went to high school with had gotten a pair while at a conference with her family and told me about them. When you buy one pair of TOMS, they give one pair to a child in need of shoes. Not only do they do one-for-one donations, TOMS are probably the most comfortable pairs of shoes you will ever wear, and now they even have wedges, flats, and boot styles. Also - Tiny TOMS for babies/kids. So adorable! </div>
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Classic TOMS start at $55 and they even have a SALE SECTION where you can get older styles at an even lower price!</div>
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4) <a href="http://www.thegivingkeys.com/">The Giving Keys</a></div>
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It is only recently I have heard of The Giving Keys. This company actually employs people who are transitioning out of homelessness to make jewelry out of
repurposed keys that get sold and shared around the world. Every key is unique and carries a one word message. You can choose from a bunch of pre-selected words or get a key custom made. When the wearer of the key encounters someone else who
needs the message, they give it away - hence the name "The Giving Keys". They then ask that you share your story of paying it forward. Such a cool idea!</div>
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The Giving Keys start at $40. </div>
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5) <a href="http://krochetkids.org/">Krochet Kids</a></div>
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Krochet Kids started with three friends who knew how to crochet. Weird right? Well, these friends decided, if anything could help break the cycle of poverty, why not crochet? By teaching this craft to the women of Uganda and Peru, they have been empowered and employed. Your purchase gives employment, education, and mentorship to the women of Uganda and Peru - and you get a pretty sweet hat in exchange. Your purchase comes with a tag of the lady who made it, and you can look her up on their website to know more about her life! </div>
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Products start as low as $20. Check them out!</div>
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There you go! Five companies that make gifts that give back in some way, shape, or form! Now, time to finish off that christmas list! These are by no means the only companies out there - there are a million on every scale - you may even have one in your hometown! </div>
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Let me know in the comments below if you've ordered from any of these places or tell me your favorite companies that give back! </div>
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love + pixie dust,</div>
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sarah</div>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-80399073148163621242015-11-19T20:05:00.000-03:302015-11-19T20:05:03.114-03:303 Tips to Combatting Post DCP Depression<div style="text-align: center;">
Over the years I have prided myself on being a professional homebody. </div>
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I love staying at home, being inside, doing nothing all day. Like one week during university I legitimately did not step outside for a week....(I was living on residence, but still)</div>
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But since Disney, I've been finding it SO HARD to stay in all day. I'm blaming this on Disney, but maybe i'm just getting older and more mature? </div>
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I mean, there were VERY few days this summer I stayed inside - even the days where I <i>wanted </i>to stay in and binge watch the office or sleep all day I either had to work <i>or </i>I would convince myself to get out to a park, even if it was just to see Festival of Fantasy or to get a Mickey Pretzel and watch Wishes. </div>
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Coming back to my small town, with nothing exciting to do.....staying inside kind of sucks. And that's when the post-Disney depression sinks in. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">What is Post Disney Depression? "It is a<span style="background-color: white; color: #2c353c; line-height: 22.4px;"> condition suffered by diehard Disney park fans after coming home from a Walt Disney World or Disneyland vacation. Feels like something is missing and real life is depressing. There is only one cure; planning another trip, and if that cannot be done the phase will last several weeks, either immediately after arrival home or a short delay after." (Urban Dictionary)</span></span></div>
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So how do you combat the PDD? </div>
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1) Get outside: </div>
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One of the things I miss the most about Disney is the weather. Yes, even the florida thunderstorms. For me, I got home from my program in August so enjoying the last of summer was a MUST. It's november now and there's snow on the ground and it's been below freezing almost every day in the past couple of weeks - and there are so many days I want to cry because my friends back "home" in florida are still wearing shorts and t-shirts outside....</div>
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2) Try Something New: </div>
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If you're sitting in your house (bonus points if you still live with your parents like me), trying to get through another semester of school, and torturing yourself by reminiscing about disney, you're going to go crazy. Find something that catches your attention - try a new hobby, make something, pick up running, start a YouTube channel, or blog about you Disney experience - anything to help you move forward. For me, after I got home I somehow really got into watching beauty youtubers and experimenting more with makeup...which was something completely new to me because I legit never ever used to wear any makeup. I've moved into a new chapter in my life, so trying something new has been a great way to take the confidence that I had gained on my program back into my "normal" life.</div>
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3) Make Some Magic: </div>
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If you ask anybody who has ever been to disney (but especially DCP-ers or former CMs) they will no doubt tell you the best part of Disney is their special brand of magic. And the best part of being a Cast Member is getting to make that magic yourself! So when you're going about your day - whether you're still in school, or working like me, find a way to spread a little magic every day. Since I work in a store that attracts a lot of kids, and I volunteer in the kids programs at my church, I get to take the magic I learned at Disney and bring it home with me. It's the next best thing to being a Cast Member again!</div>
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4) Keep in Touch with Disney friends:</div>
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Let's be honest. On your CP the friends you make are a special kind of friends. Between your roommates who drove you crazy, yet were the best support system and funnest people to play in the parks with, and your work friends who kept you sane, picked up for your slack on your off days, made late night trips to iHop with you, and got to know you at your worst and weirdest. </div>
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And on the days that you're missing Disney the most, the ones who left with you get how bad it is, and those who are still at Disney can keep you updated on your crazy coworkers and everything happening in the parks. Keep that group message going strong, snapchat like your life depends on it (and be jealous when they're at MNSSHP and MVMCP), keep up on instagram or twitter or whatever social media outlet you prefer to use. </div>
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And if all of these tips fail:</div>
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4) Plan your next disney trip</div>
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Of course, living in the most magical place on earth for a few months doesn't mean you're sick of it...in fact, you get homesick for it! Whether you're applying for another program or are just going back for a vacation, planning your next trip will definitely help ease the sting of Post-Disney Depression. And when you get back, read this post again! Haha!</div>
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love + pixie dust, </div>
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sarah</div>
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seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731792609141091467.post-54862161460497488622015-11-11T13:27:00.001-03:302015-11-11T14:12:04.401-03:30{Remember}<p dir="ltr">I never ever know how to write remembrance day posts because how do you sum up being thankful for people giving up their lives for the freedoms we take for granted today?</p>
<p dir="ltr"> And then somehow thank those who in my lifetime have fought for others to have the freedoms we have? </p>
<p dir="ltr">And on top of that thank those you know personally who have given up their lives and cry for their sacrifice and those they love who they left behind? </p>
<p dir="ltr">So instead I just say this: remember. Because that is the ultimate way for us to repay them - for their legacy and sacrifice to never be forgotten. For our children and grandchildren and great great great grandchildren to know why and how and who has given us the freedom we have. </p>
<p dir="ltr">So: remember. Remember the grandfather, uncle, brother who have or are serving. Tell your kids about the loss you feel, about the hole in your heart where someone used to live. Tell your story - everybody has one. Listen to your parents or grandparents tell <i>their </i>story. </p>
<p dir="ltr">listen and tell and remember. And one day we won't take this day for granted. </p>
seab458http://www.blogger.com/profile/09845638177532319178noreply@blogger.com0