PinchMe

   I don't know about you, but I love FREE stuff and any chance I get to receive Free stuff, I take.  PinchMe is a lovely little site I came across that offers FREE samples of products every month.  Basically, you choose the samples you want to try, try them, fill out a survey, and earn points.  The more points you earn, the more chances you will have at receiving prizes and being entered into drawings and sweepstakes.  Check out my latest sample below and be sure to sign up for your own free samples HERE!

Sincerely,

Wellness Wednesday

   Today I am starting "Wellness Wednesday" in honor of my good friend Bonnie, her mother, and her sister.  They have struggled with their weight and are striving to live a healthier, more active lifestyle.  I believe it is important to support each others goals and encourage one another as much as possible.  It is inspiring to know three women that have the drive and courage to make such big and positive changes in their lives.  That being said,  on "Wellness Wednesday,"  you can expect to read about anything involving health and wellness, whether it be tips for your diet, healthy recipes, or workouts.  Today I am going to share one of my favorite HIIT workouts from fitness blender, that I currently use.  Check out the video here and the entire workout in text below.

Fat Burning HIIT Cardio

5 Minute Warm-up (30 seconds per exercise)

• Boxer Shuffle
• Up & Over Lateral Steps
• Walkdown Plank
• Torso Circles
• Jog in Place
• Squats
• Alternating Lunges
• High Kicks
• Butt Kickers
• Jumping Jacks

12 Minute HIIT (20 seconds on, 10 seconds off per exercise X 4 rounds)

• Broad Jump + 2 Jumping Jacks
• Pop Squats
• Front Kick Burpees
• Switchfoot Jumps + Reverse Lunge
• Squat Jump Slides

Cool/Down Stretch (20 seconds per stretch)

• Jog in Place
• Lateral Steps + Row
• Toe Touch Circles
• Inside Thigh Stretch 
• Toe Touch Stretch
• Inside Thigh Stretch (opposite side)
• Quad Stretch
• Downward Dog
• Pigeon Pose (alternate sides)
• Plank Calf Stretch
• Cobra
• Child's Pose
• Deep Glute Stretch
• Full Body Stretch

Sincerely,

12 Years a Friend

  When you hear the word friendship, what goes through your mind?  For me the question isn't easily answered.  A number of thoughts swim in my head.  Passing notes in class, critiquing each others attempt at poetry, bowling alleys, and arguments over boys to name a few.  Real and true friendships aren't that simple however, at least mine isn't.
   It began our freshman year of high school, and as far as I can remember we hit it off in "Mrs. Umm's" science class.  Remember those notes I mentioned?  This is where they happened.  Sitting either behind or in front of one another hardly paying attention to the lesson being taught.  It was then that we realized we needed each other to survive that place.  We fueled one another, stood up for each other, and spoke our minds to everyone.  On the weekends, we spent our time at the bowling alley either having a great time or being the victim of some boys terrible attempt at a kiss.  We talked boys, listened to SPM (the south park Mexican for those who don't know), and laughed our butts off at basically everything.  I don't think either one of us really realized back then how special our friendship really was.  We were inseparable, until we weren't.
   It was gone like the snap of a finger, drop of a hat, or whatever other metaphor you want to use.  She dropped out of high school after freshman year and I made new friends.  No friendship was ever as easy or meaningful after that though.  Fast forward a few years, well quite a few more than just a few. Try about eight years to be precise.  We didn't speak, write, or send post cards.  What we did do was miss out on each others lives.  I missed her marriage and the birth of her two children and she the birth of mine.  We missed out on having each other for support through heart aches and disappointments.
   I don't think either of us thought we could ever pick up where we left off, but we did.  It really was that easy.  We trusted each other with every secret, every mistake, and every flaw.  See, we had both grown so much since we last saw one another, but the bond never changed.  We talked about our lives, our loves, and our dreams, always laughing in the process.  No more bowling alleys or passing notes, but a lot of heart to hearts, dinners, and invisible ninjas.  We helped each other through hard times, always being honest and empathetic toward each other.  We saw each other at our worst and at our very best. 
   We hit a very big rough patch in our friendship about seven months ago.  We saw the very worst in each other then, and today I still don't know if we will ever be the same.  After everything we've helped each other through and as much as we've believed in each other, I truly feel that no one will ever take her place.  We could go years without speaking again, but in my heart I know we would pick right back up where we left off.  Bonnie Jo Wilson, you are and will forever be my best friend.  No matter how bad we may have hurt each other, we have helped and loved each other way more.  Though it brings tears to my eyes, I know that a bond of friendship between two souls can never be broken.

Sincerely,
Angie

My Top 20 Best Dressed Celebrities

   Almost everyone has their own opinion on which celebrities are the most fashionable.  My personal opinion is based on those celebrities, man or woman, that are consistent. That being said, here are my top 10 fashion icons: 

20.  Bradley Cooper

It doesn't matter where he is, Bradley Cooper is always looking dapper.

19.  Mark Wahlberg

From his modeling days to his acting days, Marky Mark has maintained his classy style as well as his good looks.  This man looks good on and off the screen.

18.  Colin Farrell

This bad boy sure is well-dressed.  From his tuxedos to his v-neck shirts and beanies, Colin is one sexy man.  That irish accent of his doesn't hurt either.

17.  Zac Efron

 Ok, so maybe I have a little bit of a crush on this boyish hunk, but putting that aside he is well dressed.  It doesn't hurt that he looks great without a shirt too ;)

16.  Taylor Swift

Taylor made my list because she always looks amazing.  Whether it be on stage, out and about, or on the red carpet.  This lady has a wonderful sense of style and always looks very classy.  She can pull off anything whether it be high fashion, vintage, or casual. 

15.  Kate Hudson

Kate Hudson always looks so beautiful.  Her gorgeous gowns on the red carpet never fail to get her noticed.  

14. Heidi Klum

This lovely lady sure knows how to carry (and dress) herself.  She always looks fantastic, whether it be on the runway or on the red carpet.

13. Reese Witherspoon

Reese is one of my favorite celebrities of all time.  She is the girl next door, always looking classy and laid back.

12. Kristen Stewart

KStew made my list because she has a very unique style and she is a trend-setter.  She has this rock-chic style that's hard to igore.  Another thing that I personally love about her, is the fact that she has a very pale skin tone (like me) yet isn't afraid to show it off.

11. Zooey Deschanel

Zooey is the cutest quirky celeb EVER!  She has this classic style that is to die for.  She always looks adorable!

10. Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood is by far the biggest fashion icon in country music in my book.  She is always looking beautiful on and off the stage.  Her gorgeous dresses never fail to impress and she can pull off a pair of short sorts very well with her fabulous legs.

9.  Michelle Obama

Politics aside, this is one fashionable lady!  Michelle always looks so classy, never showing off too much skin.  She always dresses for the occasion.

8.  Usher

Putting the sultry voice aside, this man can pull off black on black like no other.  On top of that, he sure knows how to wear a white tee!  One of my favorite things about Usher, is his constant need to wear bright colorful shoes.

7.  Johnny Depp

Who doesn't love Johnny Depp?!  This man can pull off a striped suit better than anyone, as a matter of fact, I don't think anyone else could pull it off.  Depp is always getting attention for his fashion choices.  You can count on seeing Depp in either a hat, sunglasses, bearing a few or more bracelets, or a combination of all.  There's no way Johnny wasn't making my list.

6.  Justin Timberlake

Mr. Timberlake is definitely on my list of fashion icons.  He has a very classy sense of style and never fails to pull off a fancy suit or a pair of jeans with a classic blazer.  On top of that, he sure can rock those leather jackets.

5.  Beyonce

As we all know, Beyonce has curves, and man does she know how to flaunt them!  Beyonce always looks fabulous in her evening gowns, stage ensembles, and street wear.  This hot mama can pull off every look from long flowing dresses to sweatpants and hightops.  #Diva

4. Rihanna

Call me crazy, but my girl RiRi has style.  This girl is not afraid to take risks and she proves that with her outfits, hair, and bright red lipstick.  Rihanna can go from evening gowns to combat boots and still look phenomenal.  She can rock any look, and that's why she's on my list.

3.  Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez has always been fashionable.  She can pull off elegant gowns, short dresses, her famous body suits, and even casual sweatpants and tennis shoes.  Jenny from the block can basically pull off any style and any print.  I absolutely love her style.

2. Marilyn Monroe

Do I even need to explain this one?  Marilyn Monroe had such a sexy classic style.  Her smile was contagious and the fact that she was proud of her curves makes her a fashion icon in my book.  

1. Elvis Presley

 Why is Elvis number one on my list?  Here's why, he made a statement with his stage ensembles.  That statement being "I am the king."  Enough said.

Sincerely,

L'Oreal Paris Sleek It

 

Or more like grease it! Now, I don't enjoy giving bad reviews because frankly that means the company failed; and I'm the type of person that likes to see others succeed. However, somebody has to warn the public right?  By no means is this an expensive product, but a waste of money is a waste of money! Who like to waste that green stuff that doesn't grow on trees?  Anyone?  That's what I thought.  This product fails at everything it claims to do, other than the "hi-shine," which is actually more like a hi-oil.  This claims to be a strand smoother that provides frizz control, but it definitely didn't smooth my strands or protect from humidity.  Cherry on top?  It stinks!  Has a strong "cheap perfume" smell.  Nobody likes to smell cheap.  Keep it classy and save yourself (and your money) from this product.

Sincerely,

Book Review - "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children"

This book is a must-read. It is without a doubt a page turner.  Ransom Riggs did an extraordinary job with his first novel, as it is well written and creative.  My attention was captured within the first two pages and I never lost interest.  The story plot is different from that of any other book I have personally read.  You also get a bit of a history lesson throughout the book. My favorite part of the book were the photographs.  Some may say they like to "leave it to the imagination," however the text and photos coincide so well to make the story.  The book has a sense of suspense that really captivates you and constantly keeps you on your toes.  It was hard to put this one down.  Another good thing about this book is the interview with Ransom because he talks about how he got the idea for the book and where he got the photographs that were used.  You also get a sneak peek at the sequel "Hollow City," which upholds the reputation of the first one by capturing your attention right away.  In football speak, this book is a TOUCHDOWN!

Want to Lift Your Bum? Try This:

   This is by far one of the best butt workouts I have come across so far.  By no means am I a fitness guru, but I do workout everyday.  Since I don't like sticking with the same routine or workouts for too long,  I am constantly on the prowl for effective workouts.  This one will have your glutes and outer thighs screaming at you, but in a very good way.  The best part?  It's only takes 10 minutes.  So for those of you who may be pressed for time, this workout would be perfect.  I personally like to work on my bum/lower body at least 2 times a week.  It is important to not stick to the same routine or structure for too long in order to save  yourself from that dreaded "plateau."  If I lost you, it just means that your body gets use to the same muscle movements which can become ineffective.  You want to switch it up every once in a while in order to work all of your muscle groups.  You can find this butt-lifting workout HERE.  What are you wating for?!  Get sweating!

The Sunshine Award

My friend Krystal at That Redheaded Life, has given me the challenge of interviewing myself for the Sunshine Award.  Now, this is probably one of the hardest tasks I've been given because I'm not very introspective, creative, or really interesting for that matter.  However, who doesn't love a challenge that not only allows others to get to know you, but for one to get to know oneself.  The rules to the sunshine award are below.

1. Post 11 Random Facts about yourself

2. Answering the 11 questions asked by the nominating blogger.

3. Nominate 11 bloggers (if you know that many) that you think bring sunshine into the world

4. Come up with your own questions to ask your chosen bloggers!

Now on to my task:

1.  I am a huge bookworm, but I don't often find the time to read as much as I would like to

2.  I am basically addicted to all things television and film.  

3.  I have always dreamed of being an actress.  As a matter of fact, I will be starting acting classes soon :)

4.  I'm a daddy's girl.  Always have been, always will be.  My dad is my hero.

5.  I have confidence issues.

6.  I am really shy until I get to know you, but no matter how well I do know you, I very RARELY ever let my guard down.

7.  I don't have many close friends, and those that are are chosen wisely.

8.  I've always struggled with my religion, going from believing, to not, to believing again.  That being said, I've never even read the entire Bible, only passages that someone else may have suggested.

9.  I wish I was closer to all of my family members.  I have a love/hate relationship with my mother and a non-existent relationship with my baby sister (both of which I have tried to fix.)

10.  I love being outdoors and enjoy adventures.  I actually plan on embarking in many adventures once I get settled in Texas.

11.  I work out everyday, am an amateur "yogi," and have been striving to live a healthier lifestyle.

Below are my answers to Red's questions

1. What are your nicknames? What do you prefer to be called?

My nicknames are Ang and Angie, but I prefer to be called Angie.

2. What books on your shelf are begging to be read?

Right now I have two books that are begging to be read.  The Help and Hidden from The House of Night Series (of which I am super behind on!)

3. How often do you doodle? What do your doodles look like?

I very rarely doodle, but when I do you can expect flowers, stars, and hearts, ya know, the basics. :)

4. What do you do if you can’t sleep at night? Do you count sheep? Toss and Turn?Try to get up and do something productive?

I often have problems sleeping at night which almost always results in tossing and turning and if that doesn't work, I sometimes turn on the tv.

5. How many days could you last in solitary confinement? How would you do it?

I think I might be able to last in solitary confinement for two days, and that's pushing it.  The only way I could survive those two days would be if I had a lot of books to read and I would work out to pass the time.

6. Do you save old greeting cards and letters? Throw them away?

I save almost all of my cards and letters

7. Who is the biggest pack rat you know?

My grandma Cynthia is by far the biggest pack rat I know!  Don't worry, she knows it too.

8. When making an entrance in to a party, do you make your presence known? Do you slip in and look for someone you know? Do you sneak in quietly and find a safe spot to roost?

This really depends on whether or not I pregamed! LOL  If I haven't had anything to drink I would most likely slip in and look for someone I know,.  If I pregamed, I would probably just start chatting with strangers.

9. What is your strongest sense? If you had to give one up, which would it be?

My strongest sense would probably be my sense of smell.  I wouldn't want to give any of my senses up, but if I had to choose I guess it would be..ummmm this is so hard...smell.

10. How many times a day do you look at yourself in the mirror?

Probably 3 or 4 times

18. What is something about yourself that you hope will change, but probably never will?

My temper

Whom I will be Tagging

I actually do not know anyone, other than Red, who has a blog so basically anyone who reads this is welcome to comment with your blog info and complete the challenge. :)

My questions to you:

1. What is your favorite book?

2. What historical event fascinates you the most and why?

3. Who do you idolize?

4. What is your most prized possession?

5. What is your favorite type of food?

6. What is one exercise that you loathe?

7. If you could be anything in the world, what would it be?

8. If you could only choose one foreign place to visit in your lifetime, where would you go?

9. You're making a playlist and only have room for 5 artists.  Who would you choose?

10. If you could reconnect with someone from your past, who would it be?

11. What's your guilty pleasure?

Thank you for nominating me Krystal!  It was actually very fun!  

Thanks for Reading!

-Angie

What's That Smell?

That sweet, woodsy smell that is quite irresistible?  Burberry you ask?  Why yes, yes it is.  It is the new fragrance for women, Brit Rhythm by Burberry.

  

This fragrance is amazing!  As I described before, it has a sweet, woodsy smell with a hint of berries.  The fragrance would be perfect for a night out or for a romantic evening with your special guy.  As a matter of fact, I would pick this as an almost instant aphrodisiac.  Now, I can be quite sensitive to perfumes.  I sometimes get breakouts or headaches if the scent is too strong and it is so annoying.  However, with Brit Rhythm, that's right! No Headaches!.  I would highly suggest this fragrance and you can get your free samples here. #THISISBRIT

Free Graze

If you're interest in healthy snacking, have I got a treat for you!  Graze provides "personalized" healthy snacking boxes directly to your mailbox.  You can choose to have boxes delivered every 2 or 4 weeks. There is a fee per box of course and graze is invite only.  Lucky for you, I have an exclusive invite code which gets you your 1st and 5th box for free (including shipping.) If you don't want to continue to receive boxes after your first free box, you can simply cancel deliveries with no penalties.  I love the snacks so far because they're perfect portions, healthy, and delicious.  You can rate each snack on the website to better help personalize your boxes.  If you're interested in a free graze box, comment on this post with your email address and I will send you an invitation code. What are you waiting for?! Let's get snacking!

www.graze.com

Product Review-Gevalia

If you're a coffee/cappuccino drinker (who isn't?) you should try Gevalia! I got a free sample from www.pinchme.com and I will definitely be purchasing some on my next trip to the grocery store.  I had the pleasure of trying the caramel macchiato and it is absolutely delicious! It is so frothy and light!  Normally I like to sip my hot caffeinated beverages, but this one was so tasty I practically chugged it!  I would suggest that you sign up at pinchme.com and get your own free sample if they are still available. (If not, there will be other completely free samples you may be interested in.)  Don't just take my word for it, try this deliciousness for yourself!

Vinted-Buy, Sell, Swap

   Vinted.  An app/website for buying, selling, and/or swapping clothing and accessories.  For those of you who don't know me, I am what you would call a "bargain hunter." I like to find good deals and if you are anything like me, I would suggest trying Vinted.  I have swapped and sold items through vinted.  It's setup is amazing and the customer support is very quick and helpful if you ever do have any issues.  I have gotten so many good deals and I've been able to make others happy with their purchases from me.  The prices are great on this site/app!  There are a lot of fashionable clothes and surprisingly a lot of designer clothes that sellers sell for REALLY great prices!  Check it out for yourself at www.vinted.com and you can even check out my page if you would like by going to "members" and typing in angimae2007.  Happy shopping, swapping, & selling!

Grey's Anatomy Review

   Ok, so I am a television junkie, but my downfall is not staying caught up on my favorite shows!  The problem is, I have SO many favorites.  One of my all time favorites however is Grey's Anatomy.  I watched the first 5 seasons back to back, then life happened and I just didn't have time or the money to keep buying the boxsets.  Then Netflix came to the rescue and I was able to watch the remaining seasons except for the current season 10.  Lucky for me, HULU has EVERY season and EVERY episode!  I am now completely caught up and can't wait for the next episode to air this Thursday on ABC.
   This post was meant to praise this show so let me just start by saying WOW!  The writers of this show are brilliant!  They have managed to keep this show alive for 10 seasons now, and not once have they disappointed me.  Obviously we all know what this show is about, but every character has their own story, their own problems.  With so many story plots and so many real life relationships, the show is truly inspiring.  In fact, I have caught myself wishing I would've went to medical school and became a surgeon!  I can't get enough of this show!  For those of you that haven't watched it (has anyone really not seen it?!) I highly suggest you grab some popcorn and a blanket and get cozy my friend!