tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73439888083496060552024-03-13T03:37:40.983-07:00Out of the Notebook and into the blogReyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.comBlogger416125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-40320714525463692422016-01-28T18:26:00.002-08:002016-01-28T18:26:23.918-08:00When the Mountains Calli love to hike. My brother loves to hike. We also happen to like taking pictures - and since I've been in Arizona with him and my parents for the past week, we did. <br />
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<br />Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-70379756331086267282016-01-27T21:58:00.001-08:002016-01-27T21:58:19.221-08:00Something for this Summers Music Festivals I mean - how many people don't go to music festivals with at least one piece of Urban Outfitters clothing? Not many. How about breaking the trend and being truly "hip" by wearing some <a href="http://www.forloveandlemons.com/spring-2016" target="_blank">For Love & Lemons</a> pieces? I mean they are killing it with...well, all of their clothing lines ever.<br />
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Also by the way. Urban Outfitters sells some of their pieces. Which brings me to my conclusion that you shouldn't care if "everyones" wearing Urban Outfitters or Free People or whatever it is they are wearing - just wear it if you like it. It seems a little ridiculous to go out of your way for something no one cares about/will ever even realize. Buy Urban Outfitters. Buy For Love & Lemons. Buy whatever you want to buy. But right now I really am loving Love & Lemons spring line. <br />
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<br />Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-7720548492912486922016-01-27T21:45:00.001-08:002016-01-28T18:32:33.925-08:00Life: VW On the Loose<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today something a little strange happened in Tucson Arizona. <br />
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My brother and i were just driving our way down the road - listening to some Caged Elephants all nonchalantly. My brother was navigating the roads like a the hyper-cautious champion of a driver he is, while I was zoning out into the extreme "cool" vibe that was filling the car at that moment - when a little black VW bug started backing up down a used car lots driveway. <br />
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The driveway was a little bit steep - yes, but it didn't seem like it would be that challenging for the car. <br />
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Even so - the car caught my brother and mines attention. How slanted and strangely it was backing out of the driveway seemed a little out of the ordinary. <br />
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We passed it - only millisecond's later, did it roll right on into the street! Straight in front of the white truck driving directly behind us. <br />
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My brother interrupts Caged Elephant's soulful voice coming out of our speakers and breaks me out of my trance by exclaiming "there's no driver in that car!" <br />
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The little VW black bug rolled right down into the busy Tucson street, without a driver or passenger for that matter, missing us and the car behind us by inches.<br />
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What a funny little story to store in our heads to maybe tell our kids or random strangers that we meat on the plane or in the grocery store - who really don't care, someday. It caused quite a laugh - how does that even happen? Who leaves their car on neutral on a hill? Theories? Do share!Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-33065873403478755232016-01-14T09:53:00.001-08:002016-01-14T09:58:39.382-08:00Ballet by the Beach - Lake Calhoun Minneapolis To be a professional ballerina, training 8 hours everyday, you have to love it. You have to love everything about it and want nothing else more, Ellington's passion for ballet is so obvious, and when we paired her passion for ballet with my passion for photography - we ended up with some pretty jaw breaking portraits of her at Lake Calhoun!<br />
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Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-24598919524544674952015-12-19T21:47:00.002-08:002015-12-19T21:47:44.342-08:00Life Hacks: De-stress for the holidays with an Aurorae Yoga Mat Giveaway! <br />
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How do we get more Zen in our life? Lately I've been overwhelmingly busy, which makes the little bit of "zen" I get in my day an absolutely amazing moment that feels better anything else!</div>
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The thing is, is that I don't want to live my life like everyone else.</div>
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I don't want to be worried about money all the time. Where to be next. What's for dinner. What's am I missing on my planner.</div>
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Sometimes though, in the pursuit of making a difference in the world and becoming the best I can be, the worry seeps in and fills me up, as I'm sure you can relate to. But then, i get home at the end of the night and i remember…I'm just a being in this world, the world will happen and revolve, I can relax.</div>
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At the end of my long day's, I'll light three candles, dim the lights, and just relax. <a href="http://www.auroraeyoga.com/products/aurorae-yoga-spa.html" target="_blank">Aurorae's new Spa Candles</a> are heaven. After a few minutes of lighting the Eucalyptus candle I was feeling relaxed and in complete stress-fee zone. This is rare…I wake up at 6 am and there isn't a pause in my day until I get home at 10pm. This candle makes me say "goodbye" to Monday (oh wait everyday feels like monday!) stress and hello to "zen."</div>
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I also try hard to fit yoga into my weekly schedule. I purchased a Core-power unlimited membership - if you do this FORCE yourself to go! Put it on the calendar - make it non-negotiable. It's been amazing. I've been using the <a href="http://www.auroraeyoga.com/products/best-yoga-mats/aurorae-northern-lights-yoga-fitness-mats.html" target="_blank">Aurorae Impressions Yoga mat</a> lately and have loved it. They come with a small chalk pack which is fabulous to put on your hands and feet and on your mat before a hot yoga or any CorePower class. The grip is fantastic and even when I forget my chalk or towel, I somehow manage to be ok without slipping and sliding around.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r-nDkRhEFEU/VjvVA3sejmI/AAAAAAAACvA/EFlQaCo3cRk/s1600/Impressions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>
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I'd love for you to give the Aurorae Impressions Yoga Mat and Aurorae generously offered one for me to giveaway!</div>
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<i>*While Aurorae did sponsor this post and giveaway, I have been an avid user/fan/lover of Aurorae since my yoga practice began 4 years ago! I have never used a different mat! </i></div>
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Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-48107306175865919342015-12-19T21:32:00.003-08:002015-12-19T21:32:57.451-08:00Why Ballerinas Smoke<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Ballerina's appear to live in a world distinct from the rest of the world. They create art with their dainty, impossibly small lines. They appear to fly across the stage in an unrealistic way, and cause an audience to gasp, jaw's opening in awe. Beyond the stage, the world of a ballerina is somewhat hidden. A professional ballerina spends a majority of her time rehearsing, spending hours upon hours in the studio working to achieve the perfection she so desires but deep down knows is impossible to reach. Many don't realize the darker world of being a ballerina, the pressure, the constant judgement, the harsh critique that one hears on the daily. When you enter the intense lifestyle of ballet, you begin to learn some of these secrets, one of which being the huge amount of smokers that make up this world. </div>
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Percentage of Professional Ballerina's that Smoke: 45%</h2>
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<br />Dancer Newark Star-Ledger said "I'd like to stop smoking, I have smoked for about 15 years. I was a dancer, and all dancers smoke, it's the most bizarre thing."</h3>
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1) Dancers live in the <i>moment</i>. Ballet is a short career - most "die" their first death in their thirty's. Dedicating ones life so passionately to one thing that is only humanly possible to strive towards for a short period of time, proves that ballerina's care intensely about living in the moment and deriving pleasure from the now. Thinking about the damaging affects of smoking in the future becomes abstract to them.</div>
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2) Many ballerina's that I personally know believe that smoking aids to weight loss - something that <i>is passionately sought for in the ballet world</i>. Ballerina's are 7 times more likely to be anorexic than non-ballerinas. One needs - desires - stunning lines, and with beautiful lines classically comes skin and bones. </div>
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Ballerina's are 7 times more likely to become anorexic than non-ballerinas. </h2>
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3) <i>Escape</i>. Long rehearsal hours, stress, ones entire self dedicated to one thing. Smoking becomes an escape for many - especially when it becomes a culture within a ballet school and everyone begins to join it. </div>
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4) To create <i>beauty on stage,</i> one must dance with intense passion and feelings, and one can't do this without real life experiences. Smoking, drugs, sex, they all become outlets for these stories that can be re-created on stage as the beautiful art that you watch from the audience. </div>
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5) The physical demands of ballet dancing are insane. Training is intense 12 hours a day, and ballerina's/ballerino's are badass fitness masters. They have muscles in places you don't even know exist. This eludes to the notion that they are so fit they can abuse their bodies on occasion - and many do. </div>
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Ballerina's don't smoke because they are bored, they do it because they need an escape, something outside of their rigorous routines. It's 2015 and everyone knows that smoking is detrimental to ones health, but so is manipulating your body to dance on bloch's and turn out for hours upon hours every day. To change the culture of smoking in the world of ballet, one must first delve into the deeper reasons of why they do what they do and the solution must be sensitive to the insanely passionate, detail orientated, ruthless desires of ballerinas. </div>
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In a world where your constantly being told that you aren't good enough, skinny enough, strong enough, beautiful enough, one faces the impossible challenge to learn to love their bodies and themselves despite the critique - and until this happens, and even if it does, smoking will remain present in the secret world of professional ballerinas.</div>
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What's your experience with smoking in the world of ballet? Did you realize it existed? </div>
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<br />Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-1778314961457590002015-12-07T06:50:00.000-08:002015-12-07T19:00:16.226-08:00How Ballerina's Feel Pain <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7LMbC-QxEu4/VmWcJxJmoxI/AAAAAAAACwA/YbcSyHX_adM/s1600/Ballerina%2527sfeelpain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7LMbC-QxEu4/VmWcJxJmoxI/AAAAAAAACwA/YbcSyHX_adM/s640/Ballerina%2527sfeelpain.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This picture was my most re-pinned photo of the <br />
weekwith 114 re-pins. Ballerina's relate :)</td></tr>
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I arrive to my 8am classes in college to hear my peers bragging about the lack of sleep they had last night from going out, jostling back and forth between each other in the grand debate of who has it worse with the highest level of sleep deprivation. This is the college student normal, and a conversation that I am almost never apart of.<br />
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However, arriving at my ballet studio on a Friday morning after a week of grueling rehearsals and long barre classes, there is a different type of bragging happening. <a href="http://outofthenotebook.blogspot.com/2014/05/adult-ballet-on-pointe-at-metropolitan.html" target="_blank">From the moment a girl tries on her first pair of pointe shoes,</a> whether she's 10 or <a href="http://outofthenotebook.blogspot.com/2015/01/10-tips-for-your-first-adult-ballet.html" target="_blank">starting as an adult</a>, a mindset of determination takes over and one is blinded by the fact that she will do anything to reach the impossible perfection. For a ballerina, you will never hear us bragging about our lack of sleep - it's necessary to perform - but rather, the blisters on our toes, how bloody our toe pads got in yesterday's rehearsal, or how bad our hip needs to pop. Pain to us is received at a different level. We grow accustomed to dancing on our toes on top of metal blocks for hours on end, our toes becoming so numb that we can't feel the pain anymore. We keep going because love it, without ballet we wouldn't be whole. The pain is no more than a representation of the hard work that we are putting in to become the most beautiful Odette, Jewel Fairy, Rat, or Choir dancer that we can push ourselves to be. <br />
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<i><span style="color: #f4cccc;">"The pain is no more than a representation of the hard work that we are putting in"</span></i></h2>
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For ballerinas, foot pain, aches in our hips, day's where every step hurts our knees, is a sweet reminder of how much love and dedication we put into our work. It's a pain that's never filled with regret or bad thoughts, but rather one filled with love and inspiration. You'll never meet a retired ballerina without pain, and you'll never meet a retired ballerina that isn't grateful that the pain represents her opportunity to dance. </div>
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And that is the reason why, as ballerinas, we don't mind dancing for hours on end during the day in dainty pale pink pointe shoes only to be bandaging our blisters and soaking our ingrown toenails at night.</div>
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Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-2826528555652253322015-11-09T06:50:00.000-08:002015-11-09T15:52:35.486-08:00Aurorae Yoga Mat Review + Giveaway!! <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TU8tJi_ijYk/VjvVvukIDPI/AAAAAAAACvQ/4QtziFfe6Bk/s1600/Yoga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TU8tJi_ijYk/VjvVvukIDPI/AAAAAAAACvQ/4QtziFfe6Bk/s640/Yoga.jpg" width="496" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source: Unknown</td></tr>
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How do we get more Zen in our life? Lately I've been overwhelmingly busy, which makes the little bit of "zen" I get in my day an absolutely amazing moment that feels better anything else! <br />
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The thing is, is that I don't want to live my life like everyone else. <br />
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I don't want to be worried about money all the time. Where to be next. What's for dinner. What's am I missing on my planner. <br />
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Sometimes though, in the pursuit of making a difference in the world and becoming the best I can be, the worry seeps in and fills me up, as I'm sure you can relate to. But then, i get home at the end of the night and i remember…I'm just a being in this world, the world will happen and revolve, I can relax. <br />
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At the end of my long day's, I'll light three candles, dim the lights, and just relax. <a href="http://www.auroraeyoga.com/products/aurorae-yoga-spa.html" target="_blank">Aurorae's new Spa Candles</a> are heaven. After a few minutes of lighting the Eucalyptus candle I was feeling relaxed and in complete stress-fee zone. This is rare…I wake up at 6 am and there isn't a pause in my day until I get home at 10pm. This candle makes me say "goodbye" to Monday (oh wait everyday feels like monday!) stress and hello to "zen."<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HQGjH47CI7I/VjvVA8XLnII/AAAAAAAACvI/R-5n07EU-uw/s1600/Impressions2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HQGjH47CI7I/VjvVA8XLnII/AAAAAAAACvI/R-5n07EU-uw/s640/Impressions2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also try hard to fit yoga into my weekly schedule. I purchased a Core-power unlimited membership - if you do this FORCE yourself to go! Put it on the calendar - make it non-negotiable. It's been amazing. I've been using the <a href="http://www.auroraeyoga.com/products/best-yoga-mats/aurorae-northern-lights-yoga-fitness-mats.html" target="_blank">Aurorae Impressions Yoga mat</a> lately and have loved it. They come with a small chalk pack which is fabulous to put on your hands and feet and on your mat before a hot yoga or any CorePower class. The grip is fantastic and even when I forget my chalk or towel, I somehow manage to be ok without slipping and sliding around. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r-nDkRhEFEU/VjvVA3sejmI/AAAAAAAACvA/EFlQaCo3cRk/s1600/Impressions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r-nDkRhEFEU/VjvVA3sejmI/AAAAAAAACvA/EFlQaCo3cRk/s640/Impressions.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div>
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I'd love for you to give the Aurorae Impressions Yoga Mat and Aurorae generously offered one for me to giveaway! <br />
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How to Enter:<br />
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Leave a comment telling me what you do to relax and feel more "zen?" Also make sure that you include your email address!<br />
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<i>*While Aurorae did sponsor this post and giveaway, I have been an avid user/fan/lover of Aurorae since my yoga practice began 4 years ago! I have never used a different mat! </i><br />
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7343988808349606055%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-HQGjH47CI7I%2FVjvVA8XLnII%2FAAAAAAAACvI%2FR-5n07EU-uw%2Fs640%2FImpressions2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=4aRKtNamUkd6&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1044px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7343988808349606055%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-HQGjH47CI7I%2FVjvVA8XLnII%2FAAAAAAAACvI%2FR-5n07EU-uw%2Fs640%2FImpressions2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=4aRKtNamUkd6&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1044px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-71389497271693283442015-11-05T14:36:00.002-08:002015-11-06T06:37:48.448-08:00Should we Strive for Mastery?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HKbVFwjlgYE/VjvZv24thdI/AAAAAAAACvc/lYtsITLHnVk/s1600/10%252C000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HKbVFwjlgYE/VjvZv24thdI/AAAAAAAACvc/lYtsITLHnVk/s640/10%252C000.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mandinelsonphotography.blogspot.com/2014/01/blog-post.html" target="_blank">Mandi Nelson Photography</a></td></tr>
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They say that it takes 10,000 hours to master something. I've always had a desire to master a lot of things - ballet, photography, blogging, yoga, hunter/jumping, archery, among the few. Obviously it would be impossible to master all of those things. What about you? I can't imagine there has ever been a person that hasn't aspired to reach their full potential at the things that they love. <br />
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If it only takes 10,000 hours of practice to master something, we would need to spend 5 hours practicing daily for 5 years. In the grand scheme of things that's not that much. (On a positive note, we definitely are masters of sleep. However, could that be the only thing?)<br />
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Why then, do we not follow through? Why do only a few become masters at what they have fallen in love with? <br />
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Dan is a pretty normal guy like you and I, he lives in Portland Oregon. He's decided to master the art of Golfing, and this is what he has to say about it:<br />
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"Anything you could do limits other things you could potentially do,” he says. “As long as you’re doing what you want and you’re happy and healthy, you’re on the right path.’"</h2>
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But wait a second - are most of us living day to day happy and healthily? When I look around at my peers and people walking on the streets, it's hard to believe that most of us are. Maybe that's where the problem of most of us not mastering anything - we are focused too hard on the things that don't make us happy or healthy, rather than truly reaching for the things that really inspire us.</div>
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What are your thoughts? </div>
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Read more about this on <a href="http://chrisguillebeau.com/the-more-you-improve/" target="_blank">Chris Guillebeau's</a> blog.</div>
Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-80626532841187755542015-11-01T18:19:00.003-08:002015-11-06T07:19:13.044-08:00Forget Getting Sick - 4 ways to avoid it at all costs!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Forget waking up in the morning not being able to make talk because your voice is so raspy. Nobody has time for trying to shove an entire box of kleenex's into their already over-packed backpack. Bronchitis? There's no way you'll be able to concentrate in class after walking 10 minutes in the cold/rain/snow weather only to be greeted by life threatening hacks that leave you wheezing like your dying - but hey, you really cant skip class because the Professor takes attendance so suck it up! <br />
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This was my first semester of college at the University of St. Thomas. Every other week I was practically dyeing with some sort of illness - bronchitis, cold's galore, even the flu at one point. I was blaming it on the world, as people tend to do - "Oh, it was the crazy girl sitting next to me in my psych 101 class, she's always sneezing." or even just "children...so many children..." Then however I became a little bit smarter, either college was doing what it was supposed to or I just became more insightful, because I realized it was my own fault that I was getting sick so much and it was on my to fix it. And so I did just that. I starting to <i><u>eat-up</u></i> any article/research/person with knowledge on health. This semester, literally all of my friends at St. Thomas have been stricken with boogery, disgusting, colds, and I have persevered, healthy and well, though not wealthy yet. <br />
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The more people that don't get sick - the less likely I am to ruin my track record of a sick free semester, so I would really appreciate it if you followed these tips that are practically sure fire way's to increase your immune system!<br />
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<br /><i>1) Splurge on the Fresh Squeezed Oj.</i></h2>
Orange juice is actually an opportunity to provide some of the most fundamental ingredients to boost our immune system. It's truly a powerhouse with over 200% of your daily Vitamin C - plus, Vitamin A and B!<br />
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<br />2) <i>Become a Whale/Dolphin/Sea Turtle/Sea animal of choice and drink water bottles upon water bottles of water.</i></h2>
We are told to do this so often, but we never do. Why? Are we lazy? Obviously we are lazy. Have self control, rise above the laziness - drink more water!<br />
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<i>3) Sleep.</i></h2>
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If I were to choose a single thing from this list to pick out as the #1 way to avoid sickness, sleep would be the one. This is what I was lacking the most that first semester and is also the thing that I have increased the most since. I use an amazing app called Sleep Cycle which tracks your sleeping patterns. You can set the alarm so that it wakes you up gradually so your not being forced awake in the middle of REM sleep, which will throw off your entire morning. Aim for 8 hours a night and the difference will be unbelievable. <br />
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4) <i>De-Stress.</i></h2>
This is also super important. When you are stressed out, it is literally 10000000% easier to forget all of the things that I've already listed, and it lowers your immune system by a ton. It is horrible for you mentally and physically to be stressed out. Make a list of five things you can do when you start to feel stressed out - mine include taking a bath, reading a book, breathing, and yoga. Always come back to these things the second you start feeling yourself inch into the depths of stress.<br />
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And if you do find yourself sick (probably because you forgot one of these 4 tips), here's a great article by one of my favorite blogs, <a href="http://thechalkboardmag.com/natural-antibiotics" target="_blank">The Chalkboard Mag on some natural remedies to try before you go to the doc</a> - which always seems to be much easier in college!<br />
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What are your tips on not getting sick? Leave a comment, I'd love to know!Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-3324398078057229892015-10-26T21:25:00.002-07:002015-10-26T21:25:13.806-07:00Lake Calhoun Minnesota Ballerina Shoot Preview <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGmHJoHsClM/Vi78PSVqW0I/AAAAAAAACuU/mn_qMptaFfI/s1600/PA209550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGmHJoHsClM/Vi78PSVqW0I/AAAAAAAACuU/mn_qMptaFfI/s640/PA209550.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ellington is 15 and is among some of the most talented people I know. She is an accomplished ballerina working vigorously to make a career out of her passion. I was lucky to shoot her last Tuesday and can't wait to share the rest of her photos over on my <a href="http://reynameinhardtphotography.com/" target="_blank">Reyna Meinhardt Photography</a> website!Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-69346929551673165652015-10-26T21:09:00.001-07:002015-10-26T21:09:59.732-07:00Dance video of the Day: A-Z's of Dance <div style="text-align: center;">
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Watch It. Love it. Fall in love all over again with dance.</div>
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Which A-Z is your favorite? Mine will always be the ballet ones - A for Arabesque anyone?! </div>
</div>Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-45657915548799738292015-10-11T12:33:00.002-07:002015-10-11T12:33:45.624-07:00Yoga or Ballet? Which is better for your Body? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u8ceKBd2Lmk/Vhq5CzgfLHI/AAAAAAAACuA/4B9Q0ppO-wM/s1600/BalletvsYoga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u8ceKBd2Lmk/Vhq5CzgfLHI/AAAAAAAACuA/4B9Q0ppO-wM/s640/BalletvsYoga.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Photo Sources: Unknown</i> </div>
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One of the key's that I have found in avoiding sickness and being an all around happy individual, is to stay active. <br />
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<i>Creating the habit of being active is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.</i> How do you did this? <u>Intense repetition</u>. Research proves that you <b>must</b> create a reminder for yourself daily to follow through with the habit you want to create (I leave my leotard on my bed, or yoga mat by my door) and then afterwards reward yourself with something small, such as a warm bath or lighting a candle, to create the habit. <i>Pro tip: make sure you always reward yourself with the same thing - don't switch it up! Your trying to create a habit! <b> </b></i><b>However, before you create the habit, you must determine what habit is the best choice for you.</b> I am active in both yoga and <a href="http://outofthenotebook.blogspot.com/2015/01/10-tips-for-your-first-adult-ballet.html" target="_blank">ballet</a>, and wanted to share my insights on which might be better for you.<br />
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My experience with BALLET:</h2>
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I joined <a href="http://www.metroballet.org/" target="_blank">Metropolitan Ballet Academy</a> two years ago, a competitive academy that expects excellence. If you truly want to experience the benefits of ballet, you must join a competitive academy. After I had danced at Metro for a few months, I moved to Arizona for the winter and joined a small ballet studio there taking adult classes. I was not pushed to the level that I needed to be and my skills did not develop and my body didn't show results. Trying different academies is key to your success, avoid adult only classes if you want to really push yourself. If you are just starting ballet at a competitive studio, expect your confidence to diminish. Expect to be pushed to a level that you never thought you'd experience. Expect to feel physical and even mental pain and a passion that could move you to tears. <br />
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If you put a lot of effort into ballet, and you find a competitive studio that will push you - you will see a physical different quickly and your body will become flexible and strong to a level that you wouldn't have expected. Your calves will be shaped, your thighs will get smaller, your abs will be harder, your arms will be more toned. Ballet works every part of your body, and to be honest, it will never ever compliment you but rather continue pushing you, you will never feel "comfortable" with ballet. Ballet can be extreme as you want it to be. <br />
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You will see results with ballet - but in the long run you have to be careful. Extreme knee pain will happen, your feet will never be the same, and your mental state will definitely grow harder and more passionate. If you are prepared for this, by all means go for it! I will never say it wasn't worth it. <br />
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My experience with YOGA: </h2>
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I have been a Yogi for three years, I began with taking two light Vinyasa classes twice a week for 4 months. After a hiatus due to Ballet, I have now begun taking level 2 Hot Power Yoga classes at Corepower. Let me tell you, that class will make me soaking wet with sweat. I leave feeling revived, renewed, and energized. Mentally, I feel more grounded and true to myself. I feel empowered to be no one but myself. One of the best physical benefits that I feel I get from these classes are the de-toxifying benefits. <br />
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My biggest disappointment in these classes? Despite them being high level classes, I don't feel sore the next morning. <br />
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Final Thoughts</h2>
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For me, personally I find a better workout in Ballet and better mental benefits from Yoga. If I were to choose one of the two to keep in my life short term I would choose Ballet. Why do I say short term? Because of the natural wear and tear that Ballet has on ones body, moving away from it long term and something that is kinder such as yoga would be beneficial. Combining both Yoga and Ballet into my lifestyle right now is my goal as they both benefit each other immensely. For you, definitely look at your own personal needs and go from there!<br /></div>
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<i><br /></i><i>What are your thoughts on Ballet Vs. Yoga? Which do you prefer? </i></h2>
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<br />Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-37270599809339727172015-09-12T12:20:00.002-07:002015-09-12T12:20:16.423-07:006 of the BEST Thigh High Socks In Stores right now! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zESTI5s7fhQ/VfR4zTpI7uI/AAAAAAAACtg/YdP9NCq9aYE/s1600/socks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zESTI5s7fhQ/VfR4zTpI7uI/AAAAAAAACtg/YdP9NCq9aYE/s640/socks.jpg" width="467" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: Abercrombie and Fitch</td></tr>
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After my t<a href="http://outofthenotebook.blogspot.com/2015/09/lets-talkthigh-high-hold-ups-stockings.html" rel="" target="_blank">high high Pull Up stockings post</a> yesterday I felt I should share my second love - thigh high knit socks. Too die for. I'm in <a href="http://outofthenotebook.blogspot.com/2015/01/10-tips-for-your-first-adult-ballet.html" target="_blank">ballet</a> and they are vital for long days at the studio. In between class and rehearsals sometimes your sitting for a long time, and having thigh high socks keeps my muscles warm and makes it harder to suffer from injuries. I also have achilles tendon issues and wearing them for warm ups and again, in between classes, helps keep the soreness away! <br />
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More than just helping out with ballet, they are SO cute! I wear them over tights to prevent runs when I'm walking around my condo without shoes on. They are also adorable to wear with skirts and dresses, and of course, with boots. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J9M2x0d8cjM/VfR5_X_F7nI/AAAAAAAACtw/HREW7NhXTKM/s1600/Lacey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="415" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J9M2x0d8cjM/VfR5_X_F7nI/AAAAAAAACtw/HREW7NhXTKM/s640/Lacey.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sy3aycEeO9Q/VfR2A4pkBgI/AAAAAAAACtQ/KW5_IYz1E7U/s1600/highsocks2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sy3aycEeO9Q/VfR2A4pkBgI/AAAAAAAACtQ/KW5_IYz1E7U/s640/highsocks2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=35679471&category=I-SOCKSTIGHTS" target="_blank">1) Urban Outfitters $14</a> <a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=35508613&category=I-SOCKSTIGHTS&color=079" target="_blank">2)Urban Outfitters $14</a> <a href="http://www.freepeople.com/shop/lacestation-over-the-knee-sock/?c=socks" target="_blank">3) Free People $18</a> <a href="http://www.freepeople.com/shop/hideaway-striped-otk-sock/?c=socks" target="_blank">4) Free People $24</a> <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/shoes-legwear/35935436.jsp#/" target="_blank">5)Anthropologie $34</a> <a href="http://6) ModCloth $14.99" target="_blank">6) ModCloth $14.99</a><br />
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How do you wear thigh high socks? Where do you buy yours? Leave a comment, I'd love to know so I can stock up on some more!Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-25848526613939553462015-09-09T21:51:00.004-07:002015-09-09T21:57:22.515-07:00Let's talk…Thigh High Hold Ups (Stockings)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have always been fascinated by things that are slightly more "pretty" than average, the things that make you gasp a little bit out of surprise that something could be created so unexpectedly beautiful. Why should something be normal if it can be taken to the next level? While I have always loved the idea of thigh high stockings, I recently became addicted to them and feel that you probably will as well!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2juOC2Z3Zj0/VfEEW7bwKJI/AAAAAAAACrU/BK47joxd7xI/s1600/holdups5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2juOC2Z3Zj0/VfEEW7bwKJI/AAAAAAAACrU/BK47joxd7xI/s400/holdups5.jpg" width="298" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5Xx7HerL2w/VfEEW8MoXwI/AAAAAAAACrQ/oTb8XRm3vI0/s1600/holdups3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5Xx7HerL2w/VfEEW8MoXwI/AAAAAAAACrQ/oTb8XRm3vI0/s400/holdups3.jpg" width="270" /></a></div>
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The 5 Reasons Why I've Fallen in love with Thigh High's </h2>
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1) <i>They are logical</i><br />
It is September. Today was the first day back to school and I was already wearing my autumn jacket and a sweater, 65 degrees and getting much more crisp within the next couple of weeks. I'm not complaining though because my legs will be staying warm under my skirts and dresses thank to my thigh highs - and no one will notice my summer tan (or lack of), slipping away. <br />
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2) <i>Comfort</i><br />
Oh my goodness. The nightmare of being in public with a pair of nylons or tights on, as they are slowly slipping down your legs and hips because your slightly too tall for them, or they are a little too big in the waist, or the length of the weird underwear portion just isn't working for your body. It's definitely one of the worst situations to be in, and luckily with Thigh High's, this is something you never have to think about!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NFS0y13rLJ0/VfELnULRBfI/AAAAAAAACsU/J0SBHJ7fiVw/s1600/holdups12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NFS0y13rLJ0/VfELnULRBfI/AAAAAAAACsU/J0SBHJ7fiVw/s1600/holdups12.jpg" /></a></div>
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3) <i>No one has to know</i><br />
If you purchase the actual "Hold Up" stockings, they will be high enough on your thighs that unless you skirt is really really really short, no one will know you aren't wearing nylons, unless you want them too… shhhh! But in all reality, worn both ways can be beautiful if done right!<br />
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4) <i>No Complicated Accessories Necessary</i><br />
Most hold up stockings have rubber grippy's on them that keep them put on your thighs and ensure they won't sleep down! I've had LESS issues with my thigh highs slipping down than actual nylons/tights. Yes the sales lady at Victoria's Secret will try to convince you that a garter belt is necessary to hold them up, and no, you don't have to believe her!<br />
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5) <i>They are ohhh so much prettier!</i><br />
Going back to my original love for thigh highs, they are just so much prettier than your typical nylons/tights. Lacey or sheer on top and simple on the bottom, there is something so classic about them that is hard to resist! Plus - Blair Waldorf, must I say more?<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My favorite Hold Up/Thigh Highs </span></h2>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IueVIeKT0j0/VfEKpXSvi3I/AAAAAAAACsM/6YiYt_cPcnw/s1600/holduptemplate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="537" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IueVIeKT0j0/VfEKpXSvi3I/AAAAAAAACsM/6YiYt_cPcnw/s640/holduptemplate.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="https://www.victoriassecret.com/panties/hosiery-and-garters/lace-top-thigh-high?ProductID=233466&CatalogueType=OLS&origin=pRecommend" target="_blank">(1)Victoria Secret $16</a> <a href="https://www.victoriassecret.com/panties/hosiery-and-garters/classic-stockings?ProductID=4451&CatalogueType=OLS&origin=pRecommend" target="_blank">(2) Victoria Secret $10</a> <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-15-Denier-Lace-Top-Hold-Ups/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=4235899&cid=7657&Rf900=1603&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Nude&totalstyles=124&gridsize=3" target="_blank">(3) ASOS $14.33</a> <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-15-Denier-Lace-Top-Hold-Ups/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1184505&WT.ac=rec_viewed&CTAref=Recently+Viewed" target="_blank">(4) ASOS $14.33</a></div>
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I absolutely love the Victoria Secret Hold Ups. Yes, they're pictures are a little bit crazy scandalous - but in real life...they don't have to be! They stay up impeccably well and are extremely comfortable, not scratchy at all. They are true to size. I do have to be careful about getting runs in them, as with any nylons - wearing a par of cozy socks over them while I'm at home help boatloads. </div>
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Now I need to know! Do you wear Thigh High Stockings/Hold Ups?? If so, what is your favorite brand? Would you try any of these? Let me know in the comments! </div>
Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-47579278534916528772015-06-08T22:12:00.002-07:002015-06-08T22:12:45.438-07:00NO List: Makeup Remover Wipes <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DtrGevKmXII/VXZwfF2oUxI/AAAAAAAACp8/pbZVMu2r7Cg/s1600/PureSkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DtrGevKmXII/VXZwfF2oUxI/AAAAAAAACp8/pbZVMu2r7Cg/s640/PureSkin.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #999999; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Photo: Enrique Badulescu/TrunkArchive.com</span></td></tr>
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I've always been devoted to my skin. When I was 13 I first became interested in avoiding future wrinkles at all costs, and have tried to be careful with my skin since. </div>
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Every night, there are three things that cause the most annoying little nagging voice in my head. Not brushing my teeth, not washing my face, and needing a drink of water. It feels literally impossible to go to sleep without doing these tasks, and I must not be the only one who has relied on a stack of easy to grab makeup remover wipes to put that voice to sleep. </div>
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I've purchased 4 difference packages of different brands ranging from Burts Bee's, Nutregena, Target Brand, Yes2, and they worked great to remove makeup, I was soaking up the easssseee of "washing" my face right after ballet and without leaving my comfy bed at night. After a few usages that magic wore off and my face would burn and turn bright red immediately after using the cloths. That was the first warning sign... </div>
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After discovering BeautyCounter and Gregg's (BeautyCounters founder) passion to get rid of chemicals and nastiness in the stuff we put on our skin, which clearly played a large portion in my face turning bright red like Rudolphs nose when using the wipes, I've been paying more attention to what I've been using. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xDyWOU40dDI/VXZv7xErUdI/AAAAAAAACp0/BRLzPUHdzEI/s1600/clean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xDyWOU40dDI/VXZv7xErUdI/AAAAAAAACp0/BRLzPUHdzEI/s640/clean.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>Why they make the No List</u></h2>
The first issue with makeup remover wipes is that many of them have toxic chemicals that are related to cancer and infertility - check out <a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/ingredient-glossary" target="_blank">BeautyCounter's A-Z Glossary of ingredients</a> that can be found in skincare (the good and the ugly).<br />
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Another huge issue with Makeup Remover wipes is that when you wipe your face with them, you are basically wiping your face with soap - and leaving the soap to sit on your skin, all night long. Yuck. It dries out your skin and causes acne. <br />
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<u>Solution</u></h2>
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Make sure to make a trip to the sink before floating into dream land. I recommend using Tata Harpers Nourishing Oil Cleanser to remove your makeup because if the real ingredients and lack of toxins/chemicals. If you must use wipes because of their convenience, be sure to rinse your face with water afterwards! </div>
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Have you taken advantage of makeup wipes? Will you be giving them up? </h2>
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<br />Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-36185125780835134802015-06-02T22:55:00.000-07:002015-06-02T22:55:52.658-07:00Transformative and Refreshing Meditation <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K3lpwkdy3PI/VW6WZMoY5TI/AAAAAAAACpc/hY9Zi9Tgql0/s1600/grave4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K3lpwkdy3PI/VW6WZMoY5TI/AAAAAAAACpc/hY9Zi9Tgql0/s640/grave4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Fun fact: Last semester I meditated at least once a day! St. Thomas is a huge advocate of meditation and has three free classes weekly that are aimed at helping students de-stress and meditate. While I haven't taken advantage of these classes, which is silly because one of them includes yoga which I pay $15 a class for down the road at CorePower, I was introduced to it during a mentoring breakfast at school. <br />
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Pick a Mantra!</h2>
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For me, the most important part about meditating is to pick a mantra or a word to focus on throughout the meditation. Love, Kindness, Earth, Happiness, are all good ones. The hardest part of meditating is to stay focused on nothingness - to draw your thoughts away from the world and inward - to you. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's so Good for YOU!</span></h2>
For me, I have a hard time sticking with things unless there's proven value that I can recognize from doing it. Studies show that meditating helps ones overall health, helps with depression greatly, helps you live longer, helps your memory, and decreases anxiety. Meditating actually changes your brain, causing different parts of it to light up and be more engaged and active than if you weren't meditating!<br />
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Clearing your Mind? </h2>
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One of the goals of mediating is to not let your mind wander into "thoughts" of the outside world. However, when meditating my guide/instructor constantly reminded us to not feel bad about it happening. It's completely normal to think of outside thoughts, and you shouldn't punish yourself for it. Simply reel your thoughts back in and focus again on meditating. Repeat as often as necessary and never beat yourself up for it!</div>
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Where to meditate and how to do it? </h2>
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I like to meditate in my room with the free <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/calm-meditate-sleep-relax/id571800810?mt=8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Calm app</a>. I love the Calm app because it has beautiful backgrounds to bliss out to, white noise for after you meditate, and a great selection of free guided meditations such as a body scan. </div>
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Another even better choice for a free and huge selection of guided meditations is the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/project-for-mindfulness-contemplation/id969731780" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">University of St. Thomas's Project for Mindfulness and Meditation app</a> that includes 22 different meditations such as Laughter, Purifying, Living from our True Self, and more. </div>
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What's your meditating experience like? Are you up to trying it? I'd say challenge accepted ;) </div>
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<br />Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-88214384341669292152015-06-01T13:59:00.000-07:002015-06-02T09:01:36.732-07:00How to use Smoke Bombs to create Dramatic Senior Portraits <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7wDCy-MCPyU/VWzCL3J47rI/AAAAAAAACk8/A7yyW-k9f5I/s1600/SmokeBombs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7wDCy-MCPyU/VWzCL3J47rI/AAAAAAAACk8/A7yyW-k9f5I/s640/SmokeBombs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Jade wanted her senior portraits to be unique - something different than the rest. We brainstormed and I suggested incorporating smoke bombs into our shoot. The created drama and interesting portraits to fill her gallery with. <br />
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First things first is purchasing smoke bombs. I at first debated making my own following tutorials online. However, I passed up that idea because using a toilet paper tube looks much less professional than the packaging a real smoke bomb comes in. The homemade ones also take quite a bit of time to make and end up costing about the same price. Because I live in Minnesota, a friend and I went over the boarder to Wisconsin to pick some up at a fireworks shop.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_3-jOI1-gk0/VWzEL9K53OI/AAAAAAAAClI/RpvMHMJzjfo/s1600/Smoke2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_3-jOI1-gk0/VWzEL9K53OI/AAAAAAAAClI/RpvMHMJzjfo/s320/Smoke2.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tHcXCYMPHls/VWzEMCLDS-I/AAAAAAAAClM/gFTH0ZkovB0/s1600/Smoke1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tHcXCYMPHls/VWzEMCLDS-I/AAAAAAAAClM/gFTH0ZkovB0/s320/Smoke1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These are the two types of colored smoke bombs that I purchased. I wasn't sure which would be better, and the small balls had more color selections - or so I thought. The salesman said that the larger (second image) only had red and white in it, but it ended up having yellow, purple, and even blue.<br />
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In terms of which of the two I would recommend purchasing? Definitely the Jumbo smoke Canister. It lasted long enough to get a plethora of images, the colors were vibrant and and it lasted for a good two minutes. The smaller bombs that are shown in the first image really aren't worth it. They last for about 15 seconds and aren't that vibrant. You'll go through them way too quickly and will need a ton. <br />
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For every photo that is shown in this post, only one smoke bomb was used per shot. If you want a smokier effect, I would throw a second canister in, but just one has a nice effect. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pQs8OKrl6xY/VWzFDF3tejI/AAAAAAAAClY/w4rd3Jz0U5c/s1600/Jade1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pQs8OKrl6xY/VWzFDF3tejI/AAAAAAAAClY/w4rd3Jz0U5c/s640/Jade1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is extremely important to have a helper with the smoke bombs - someone to light the bomb. Jade's boyfriend was with her for her shoot, and he lit the smoke bombe when we were ready. You could also have your senior's mom light it. The smoke goes away quickly, so having someone else light it gives you more opportunities to get the shot you need. </div>
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Before you light the smoke bombs, go over what poses you want your senior to do. Practice them beforehand and direct where you want her to be moving, and what you want her to be doing. There isn't enough time while the smoke bomb is lit to give her directions. </div>
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Before lighting the bomb, do quite a few practice shots to ensure that your settings are correct for the bombs. You may want to increase the shutter speed by a bit to ensure you get a clear shot, since their are no redo's with smoke bombs! They literally only last for 2 minutes if you get the good ones - the small ball's that are shown in the first photo last for about 15 seconds - not enough time to make any changes to camera settings. </div>
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When your shoot is done and you are editing photos, I find that burning the smoke creates a more dramatic affect and really brings out the color! <br />
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Smoke bombs are a great way to add some non-traditional excitement to your seniors session! Creating dramatic photos for seniors is a lot of fun, and while their parents often will be purchasing the classic portraits that you take, seniors love having bold and expressive shots for Facebook and Instagram! <br />
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Summary of Smoke Bomb tips:</h2>
.Stock up - you'll go through more than you expect!<br />
.Going to a firework store is often less expensive than using Amazon.<br />
.Make sure to purchase the longer lasting smoke bombs - often this means you'll be purchasing the colored canisters which are awesome.<br />
.Make sure to have an assistant to light the smoke bomb - your clients boyfriend, her mom, or your own personal assistant. <br />
.Go over poses with your client before you light the smoke bombs.<br />
.Make sure your camera settings are good before the bomb is lit - higher shutter speed helps with the movement to ensure you won't have blurry photos, and creating slightly darker photos than usual will make sure that the color of the smoke isn't blown out.<br />
.When you process the photos in photoshop, burning the smoke can really bring out the color and make the smoke pop.<br />
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What's your experience with smoke bombs? Love them for shoots or no? Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-16084083785555730572015-04-16T18:30:00.000-07:002015-04-16T22:05:03.601-07:00College is Competitive And Common Core can Help <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ecTAqtWrXvc/VTBhgQI7S3I/AAAAAAAACj4/pj3Y7USBpHg/s1600/books1.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ecTAqtWrXvc/VTBhgQI7S3I/AAAAAAAACj4/pj3Y7USBpHg/s1600/books1.1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by myself, more at <a href="http://reynameinhardtphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Reyna Meinhardt Photography</a> </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -24px;">College is, and needs to be competitive. </span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;">Things I've learned as a student at the University of St. Thomas, a competitive private college:</span></span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;">1) You must have a strong tool kit of critical thinking skills</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -24px;">2) Real life "soft skills" are crucial. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -24px;">3) A common core knowledge in maths and sciences is critical to success.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -24px;">4) Classes aren't just about memorizing and getting the right answers every time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -24px;">5) Classes are more about applying skills to real life situations, critical thinking, analyzing, and learning how to work with other people. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -24px;">6) Being competitive and competent in college is crucial to getting a great job after college.</span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;">The kids that enter college without these skills struggle, their grades suffer resulting in a low GPA that is hard to get back up, they end up having to pay more to re-take classes, and often drop out. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://wildflowersphotos.com/blog/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Joy Prouty</a> </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -24px;">I was homeschooled and in Minnesota, a homeschooler isn't required to take the yearly success competitive required exams. One of the big critiques of these exams for parents was that teachers were teaching just so their students would get good grades on the exams - memorize, memorize, memorize. My mom worked hard to not teach my brother and I in a memorization only way, but rather in a life skill gaining, tool box, curiosity filled style. As a result, I feel that I was actually more prepared than my peers in college and I am excited that high school curriculum is making a change in this direction. </span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;">I can vouch that memoriziation isn't going to help in real life - <i><b>it's about the soft and critical thinking skills.</b></i> The new common core assessments are replacing the previous end of year assessments (!!!) and are great because they </span><span style="font-size: 16px; text-indent: -24px;">ask students to demonstrate and apply what they know, instead of just picking the right answer from a multiple-choice question. (according to Be a Learning Hero)</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LRJfzuRyfwg/VTBhc_q-GPI/AAAAAAAACjw/iJlFpoGWqMY/s1600/book2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LRJfzuRyfwg/VTBhc_q-GPI/AAAAAAAACjw/iJlFpoGWqMY/s1600/book2.jpg" height="434" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By myself, more at <a href="http://reynameinhardtphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Reyna Meinhardt Photography</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -24px;">The new common core standards are setting higher standards and using better tests to see if students are reaching the goals needed to put students on a path to success. It is exciting that we have already seen resulting in improved student performance! Be a Learning Hero states that "</span><span style="text-indent: -24px;">In Kentucky, the first state to begin using the Common Core State Standards, the percentage of high school graduates ready for college and careers has increased from 34 percent to 62 percent in four years." </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -24px;">Change is hard and it takes time! Adjusting to new standards, new tests, new homework, etc. is a process, but it's what's best for students. <a href="http://bealearninghero.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Be a Learning Hero</a>, partnered with national PTA, is an amazing resource available to parents. They have a bucket full of wonderful videos to watch that fill you in on the common core and answer questions that you likely have. They also have some great apps that are approved by teachers and help supplement the common core! A great tool to get your child ready for next fall. There is also a homework help section which is a great tool to take advantage of. </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/POO316QPXjg" width="560"></iframe>Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-73788921283066119262015-03-29T21:35:00.005-07:002015-03-30T20:51:48.759-07:00Live Refreshed: 5 Non Toxic Candle Picks <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qPrtGHSKk1Q/VRoZUCjZCmI/AAAAAAAACig/kpyyi6FqBfc/s1600/img1c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qPrtGHSKk1Q/VRoZUCjZCmI/AAAAAAAACig/kpyyi6FqBfc/s1600/img1c.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/pink-grapefruit-essential-oils-collection-boxed-candle/?cm_src=AutoRel" target="_blank">Photo: William Sonoma</a></i><br />
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Burning candles are such a simple way to refresh your life, and a simple reminder to be more mindful. As a downside - many of them are actually toxic. </div>
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Scented candles often have paraffin wax in them (check the labels!), which creates extremely toxic pollutants. Relaxing in pollution doesn't sound attractive. <a href="http://www.scsu.edu/news_article.aspx?news_id=832" target="_blank">South Carolina State University</a> published this research on candles:</div>
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"The paraffin candles we tested released unwanted chemicals into the air. For a person who lights a candle every day for years of just uses them frequently, inhalation of these dangerous pollutants drifting in the air could contribute to the development of health risks like cancer, common allergies and even asthma. said Massoudi a chemistry professor in the Department of Biological and Physical Sciences." </div>
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Yuck! Luckily, there's a few great alternatives. </div>
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Beeswax candles are my new obsession, because they actually release negative ions - which means they are actually GOOD for the air and help clean and refresh the air in your apartment and homes. Plus, you don't have to give up yummy smells, just look for ones that are scented with essential oils. </div>
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Here are my favorite healthy candles for you to try: </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JdJisnYs1D0/VRjOSH3KQ7I/AAAAAAAAChI/eajLxCy6cQo/s1600/candle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JdJisnYs1D0/VRjOSH3KQ7I/AAAAAAAAChI/eajLxCy6cQo/s1600/candle.jpg" height="318" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/pink-grapefruit-essential-oils-collection-boxed-candle/?cm_src=AutoRel" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">William Sonoma's lovely pink grapefruit</a> (Hello Spring scents!) natural essential oils candle. Plus it's only $15.96</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uPetlKQXT8s/VRjPCEqlc2I/AAAAAAAAChQ/vaKMz4KjXxk/s1600/CandleSmokeAshA-new.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uPetlKQXT8s/VRjPCEqlc2I/AAAAAAAAChQ/vaKMz4KjXxk/s1600/CandleSmokeAshA-new.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.baxterofcalifornia.com/C-ASH.html?cgid=lifestyle-candles&dwvar_C-ASH_scent=Smoke%20Ash#start=1&cgid=lifestyle-candles" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Smoke Ash</a> candle from Baxter is to lust after. It's meant to be a men's candle, but girl's, we'll enjoy it's yummy scent just as much. It's a soy candle, healthy for the environment, and healthy for our souls. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UG5D93tbKoU/VRjP8LyCAJI/AAAAAAAAChY/xKjSEHaY7e8/s1600/MM_GER_CandleSoy7oz.image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UG5D93tbKoU/VRjP8LyCAJI/AAAAAAAAChY/xKjSEHaY7e8/s1600/MM_GER_CandleSoy7oz.image.jpg" height="400" width="305" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.mrsmeyers.com/product/Geranium-Scented-Soy-Candle-Large/155692.uts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mrs. Meyer's</a> soy candles are perfect if you are an avid candle burner - they are $9.99 and still healthy (soy) so you won't feel guilty splurging on all of her refreshing Spring scents, like the Geranium one pictured here. Plus, how cute are the containers?!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nl9IYCJc4iA/VRjRHA_0UwI/AAAAAAAAChk/s8bKuFkziXs/s1600/cannibas%2Bcandle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nl9IYCJc4iA/VRjRHA_0UwI/AAAAAAAAChk/s8bKuFkziXs/s1600/cannibas%2Bcandle.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div>
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Well, I had to picture this one for kicks. A <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Malin-Goetz-Cannabis-Candle-9-oz/dp/B000YOUCQE" target="_blank">cannabis scented</a> BEESWAX (yay for beeswax!) candle. Better to light a candle than to smoke it! Plus your actually making the world healthier by indulging! Malin+Goetz also has some flavors on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001E8OUSA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001E8OUSA&linkCode=as2&tag=thechamag-20" target="_blank">Amazon</a> such as mojito, or dark rum. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LqdYTBiwU88/VRoUx7EwP3I/AAAAAAAACh8/fiHyCWj5Zac/s1600/nordstroms%2Bcandle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LqdYTBiwU88/VRoUx7EwP3I/AAAAAAAACh8/fiHyCWj5Zac/s1600/nordstroms%2Bcandle.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LqdYTBiwU88/VRoUx7EwP3I/AAAAAAAACh8/fiHyCWj5Zac/s1600/nordstroms%2Bcandle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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One of my favorite online places to shop is Nordstroms - free shipping and free returns. They have this lovely <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/malie-organics-plumeria-organic-soy-candle/3435895?cm_mmc=Google_Product_Ads_pla_online-_-datafeed-_-women:home:candle-_-648770&mr:referralID=15448186-d756-11e4-8635-001b2166becc" target="_blank">Malie candle</a> that has a 100% cotton wick (always look for cotton wicks!), and completely soy, petroleum free candle. Drift peacefully into the Hawaiian State of mind!</div>
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Have you tried any beeswax or soy candles? I want to try them to! Leave a comment to give me the details, and let's start a discussion! </div>
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<br />Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-50049553512759614252015-03-09T17:01:00.001-07:002015-03-09T18:17:18.433-07:00Insta Monday - SeanGaleBurke <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qFeyFP896TI/VP5F5AYTCLI/AAAAAAAACgY/0FU3Cm-0U1g/s1600/SalveSummer%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qFeyFP896TI/VP5F5AYTCLI/AAAAAAAACgY/0FU3Cm-0U1g/s1600/SalveSummer%2Bcopy.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.seangaleburke.com/#/ivyleague/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sean Gale Burke</a></td></tr>
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Sean Gale Burke. Let me tell you. There's nothing like following a preppy boy instagrammer that also happens to be an amazing photographer. His stream smells of Polo Ralph Lauren, bow ties, and everything summer dreams are made of. <br />
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Take a peak into his life with me on Instagram here: <a href="https://instagram.com/seangaleburke/">https://instagram.com/seangaleburke/</a> or view his photography work on his website here: <a href="http://www.seangaleburke.com/">http://www.seangaleburke.com</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1) leave your Instagram name in the comments so I can follow your pretty accounts!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2)Tell me who's Instagram accounts you've been drooling over?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3) Follow me at: <a href="http://instagram.com/reynagirl95" target="_blank">http:/instagram.com/reynagirl95</a></span><br />
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Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-36675387375958609642015-02-20T10:49:00.002-08:002015-02-20T10:49:43.297-08:00If you miss Serial...<a href="http://serialpodcast.org/" target="_blank">Serial</a> Podcast swept the world by storm in October and recently came to an end…leaving me with serious withdrawal. I finally said enough is enough and looked up some new Podcasts that are worth listening to. <br />
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My favorite so far has been <a href="http://www.npr.org/programs/invisibilia/" target="_blank">Invisibilia</a> which resulted in me binge listening to all 7 episodes in a matter of two days. Invisibilia looks into the psychological strangeness of life and us as beings. It is interesting because it uses research to delve into the why's and what's of strange things we experience that we don't realize are even happening. One of the episodes focuses on why people feel better in "categories" and other's explore fear, what would happen without it and why we experience it. <br />
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Photo: Invisibilia </div>
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What Podcasts do you love?<br />
<br />Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-71142553335541114032015-01-22T04:00:00.000-08:002015-02-06T22:15:52.040-08:00Action 2015: OUR year to make the world SHINE<!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page -->
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When there are so many huge issues facing someone that want's to do good in the world, it's hard to choose just one. How do you decide if you should fight poverty in America, or poverty in Africa? Or you could save sea turtles, promote sustainability, fight for equality, fight cancer, give shoes to poor, there isn't one right answer to "what should I do?" Do what comes to you first, the opportunity to help that is right in front of you, and I believe it will lead to more.</div>
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<a href="http://mic.com/articles/105102/the-39-most-iconic-feminist-moments-of-2014" target="_blank">In 2014 we heard Feminism</a> being sung loud and proud, Taylor Swift, Keira Knightly, Emma Watson, the book "Lean In," all examples of equality being spoken up for in the past year. We've taken leaps and bounds to the awareness of inequality, but now, 2015, is time to DO something about it! </div>
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The other day I was babysitting a 5 year old little boy. We were coloring pictures, and he said he was going to draw me a picture. He grabbed a pink marker and said he had to use pink because pink is every girl's favorite color. I asked him if he liked pink and he said "no, ewww, it's a girl color." Inequality starts at such a young age, he hasn't even started preschool yet! Children are learning inequality from their parents, media, and music, and it needs to stop spiraling. <i>Everyone should be allowed to love pink.</i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mEKF_mARssY/VMA7XgedtNI/AAAAAAAACdk/1BsT3d__tbo/s1600/150108_Action2015-social-images_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mEKF_mARssY/VMA7XgedtNI/AAAAAAAACdk/1BsT3d__tbo/s1600/150108_Action2015-social-images_7.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.action2015.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Action 2015</a> is going to work together, with us: citizens, and organizations to change the world. There will be two summits with the sole purpose of solving three key issues: Poverty, Inequality, and Climate change. They are honestly going to change the course of the world, and make it a better place for you and me, and the millions of other people on this planet. There's no purpose on waiting, and Action 2015 realizes that, which is why this is the year for change.</div>
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Some of the highlights of things they are working on:</div>
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.A transition to 100% renewable energy</div>
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.An end to inequality and discrimination</div>
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.An economic system that benefits everyone, rather than just a few. </div>
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The best thing about Action 2015 is that everyone can support it, you can step up to fight discrimination and inequality, you can make changes to your life to help climate change, you can even fight poverty, YOU have the power to make a change.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In 2015 I am going to find ways to fight against inequality. They may be little, but if everyone does something little, it will make a huge impact. </span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/0oMvlJjFcEw" width="640"></iframe></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> How are you going to support Action 2015? Leave a comment and let me know, I'd love to share your ideas and photos! If you write a blog post, or leave a comment with what your doing and a link back to your blog/twitter/etc. I will write up a post here, and on instagram/pinterest/twitter/facebook with your amazing ideas!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Also to learn more about Action 2015 and how to get involved visit their <a href="http://bit.ly/action2015teens" target="_blank">website,</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/action2015" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/action2015Global" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</span><br />
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We took a look weekend vacation to San Diego (from Tucson Arizona, 7 hours), and it was really a vacation from a vacation for me, but was perfect in every way! </div>
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We arrived late Friday afternoon and went down to old town San Diego, there were a few cute shops open, but all in all it wasn't to exciting. We stopped at a little thrift store that was full of vintage finds and bought a few books, and a collectible clock to sell on Amazon...</div>
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On Saturday we woke up early to find the ocean, we went to a national monument that overlooked the ocean, and saw a whale which was pretty thrilling to me. (I'm a huge fan of everything whale related). Whales travel for 5 months south to give birth, not eating anything in that time period, until they get back to Alaska! I can't imagine..<br />
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This is a cute little fella I found hanging out in a tide pool, waiting for the tide to come back in...<br />
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About 3 minutes after this picture was shot, I was jumping up to a higher part of a beach, and my toe hit a rock and started bleeding profusely. Bubbling blood…I'll spare you a picture. My toenail was ripped off and our beach trip for the day was over!</div>
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Did you do anything fun/relaxing for the weekend?</div>
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<br />Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7343988808349606055.post-47268041072818340672015-01-19T09:09:00.001-08:002015-01-19T09:55:32.465-08:00DIY: Preppy Cape/Cloak <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page -->
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a3u61ZAXqlk/VLyIRFUht0I/AAAAAAAACbY/up04VHRMVX4/s1600/DIYCloak2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a3u61ZAXqlk/VLyIRFUht0I/AAAAAAAACbY/up04VHRMVX4/s1600/DIYCloak2.jpg" height="640" width="401" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uUZdi7TEVnU/VLyIPq-GEFI/AAAAAAAACbQ/3KkfLd9SgYs/s1600/DIYCloak3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><i>Cape: DIY White Waterfall Shirt: Anthropologie (2012) Dark wash Jeans: Banana Republic Nude Heels: Nine West</i></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dHkUhosx2R8/VLyIVrthw4I/AAAAAAAACbg/GF1hPGVIokI/s1600/DIYGossipGirlCloak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dHkUhosx2R8/VLyIVrthw4I/AAAAAAAACbg/GF1hPGVIokI/s1600/DIYGossipGirlCloak.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was inspired by this <a href="http://inhonorofdesign.blogspot.com/2012/10/diy-audrey-inspired-cape.html" target="_blank">DIY cape tutorial</a>, and endless hours of re-watching Gossips Girl and seeing how gorgeous Blair's classic style truly is. At first, I envisioned creating a cape like the one in the tutorial, longer, more of a winter style, black and white. Life is full of surprises though, and I fell in love with this flannel fabric at Joanns, and my vision took a 360, I wanted a color, regal cranberry velvet, a classic "preppy" look.<br />
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I definitely recommend <a href="http://inhonorofdesign.blogspot.com/2012/10/diy-audrey-inspired-cape.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this pattern</a> for the cloak, it is extremely easy to follow and you can modify it to your liking! For some more inspiration, I <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/reynam/cape-fashion/" target="_blank">curated a few different ideas onto a pinterest board</a>.<br />
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If you want your cloak shorter, as mine is, look for 45inch fabric! It says the width of the fabric on the label by the price on the bolt.<br />
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The velvet I found for the trim was in the by the yard ribbon section at Joanns!<br />
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Blairs take on shorter cape:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rpKF1ddyIo8/VLyItTXKrdI/AAAAAAAACbo/swXtSmZFEvU/s1600/DIYCloak4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rpKF1ddyIo8/VLyItTXKrdI/AAAAAAAACbo/swXtSmZFEvU/s1600/DIYCloak4.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>Reyna Meinhardt http://www.blogger.com/profile/02907698284744738714noreply@blogger.com2