Tag Archives: happy

Jun4

New Hot Pink & Charcoal Grey Nails

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New Hot Pink & Charcoal Grey Nails

Hello! After over a month of not wearing acrylics due to the quarantine, I finally made my way back to the salon under guidelines that I was comfortable with. At Elysian Nails, I was able to come in for their very first appointment of the day. To be let inside the building, you had to text upon your arrival, get your temperature taken, and be wearing a mask. Check, check, and double check.

Once I was in the salon, there was only about six people there in total with well over six feet of distance between all of the customers. Plexiglass barriers were placed between the nail tech and client as well as between each station. Although these guidelines may feel over the top to some, I felt very safe with them. In turn, this made me feel like it was okay to treat myself to these beauties:

Despite being in a face mask and Elysian being nowhere near its full capacity, I felt right at home as soon as I walked in. Seeing all of my favorite nail techs, hearing the trendy music, and melting into one of their comfy chairs was just what I needed after working the duration of the coronavirus pandemic. It was amazing to be back and I was proud of all of the measures being taken by the owners to keep their customers and employees safe.

While acrylic-less, I already had the colors I wanted to use planned out – flirty and sassy pink in Summer Fling paired with the edgy and cool charcoal grey in Put The Kettle On. Both of these polishes are by Londontown and I highly recommend checking their page out for more beautiful colors and nourishing products.

My nails turned out exactly how I wanted them and, MAN, did it feel good to type with them! Going acrylic-less for the first time in years wasn’t the fondest time of my life but I got through it. I think I’ll stick to my monthly fills from now on, though. 😉

Have you been to a salon recently? What was it like? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun1

Happy Birthday, Boyfriend!

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Happy Birthday, Boyfriend!

Hello! Today is a very special, happy, wonderful day because it is my boyfriend, Johnny’s, 31st birthday. And, in exactly one week it will be my 26th… Ahhh! Johnny and I have been together for almost a year and it has easily been the best almost year of my life. Before the quarantine began, we were constantly going on adventures and enjoying nights out when his band, The Outside Voices, would play.

Now, we are hunkered down in the apartment with binge watching marathons and video games for our entertainment. But, I wouldn’t want to be stuck at home with any other person. Johnny knows how to turn anything into a good time, even if it is the most boring day on the planet. And, that is because Johnny is a person who is just full of light and a little bit of mischief when he lovingly pokes fun at me!

I have been waiting for a relationship just like this for forever and I wish that we could celebrate Johnny’s big day in the manner that he deserves. Instead, I’ll be picking up a steak dinner for him at Outback and FINALLY give him the presents that I have been begging for him to open since they arrived in the mail.

Is it the most exciting birthday event ever? No. However, Johnny knows how to make anything he does for me special and exciting and if I can take a few notes from his book, I think his birthday celebration will be a hit.

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I love you, babe!

Happy Birthday! ❤

May25

Having A Great Day, The Safe Way

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Having A Great Day, The Safe Way

Hi! While in quarantine, there have been many special occasions that have came and passed, including several birthdays in my family and Mother’s Day. Although it would have been nice to have big birthday blow outs and celebrations, that just isn’t possible right now. However, my family always seemed to manage to have a good time, despite the obvious set backs.

For example, for my sister and dad’s back to back birthdays, Johnny and I ordered pizza and we made an evening of it at my parents’ house. And, for my brother’s birthday, we hit up a local ice cream stand and brought that deliciousness home to enjoy. We also took the dogs (and ourselves) for a walk around the neighborhood, too!

While these are, admittedly, tame ways to celebrate someone’s big day, it worked perfectly for the current circumstances. Good food and company was shared between all of the people I love and it doesn’t get much better than that. Also, Pizza Hut… Need I say more?

Although your get togethers might not be picture perfect right now, you can still make a great day with the options that are safely available. My boyfriend’s birthday is a week before mine and, while I have gifts at the ready compliments of Amazon, I am also making him something special for dinner. AKA I’m getting him Outback Steakhouse so he can have that for his birthday dinner and watch WWII documentaries a la Parks & Rec. Like I said, work with what you’ve got given the circumstances!

Enjoy your low key celebrations for now and plan for an even bigger and better bash next year. Stay safe and have fun. ❤

How are you celebrating special occasions social distance style? What is your favorite takeout treat? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May24

Just Something Nice :)

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Just Something Nice :)

HELLO! So, this quarantine has been lots of fun… I mean not the quarantine itself, everything kind of sucks. But, hanging out with my boyfriend at home when I’m done at work has been a hoot. Johnny and I have binge watched series after series and played countless hours of Animal Crossing to help us pass the time and, although it’s boring, I wouldn’t want to be quarantined with anyone else. :*)

One of my favorite nice Johnny stories that I never shared was from after I attended a wine and paint night with my best friend and some of the bridal party for her upcoming wedding. I came home with my tail between my legs because I thought my painting turned out like BOO BOO:

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But, the first thing Johnny said when he saw my painting was that he liked it and it looked like a Christmas card. Now, I have the painting proudly displayed in the living room. He always knows how to turn something I see negatively into a positive which I suck at doing and I always feel happy when I look at my masterpiece now.

Another thing that never fails to put a smile on my face is when I notice that Johnny has put my little artist’s wooden body model into a different position:

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^^^ It’s the little things, right?! 😅

Although things are far from awesome right now, I get to spend my excess free time safely tucked away in our goofy apartment world and I am so thankful for that. Especially when such fun surprises are scattered about if you know where to look! 🙂

Who has helped make this time in quarantine more tolerable for you? What is a silly tradition between you and someone your close with? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May21

How To Live A Healthier And Happier Life

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How To Live A Healthier And Happier Life

If you have been trying to change your life around and live a healthier and happier one, then it can be overwhelming knowing where to start. It can be tricky to take the first step, so read on to find out what you can do to begin improving your life today:

Visiting a recovery center:

If you have been struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, taking a step towards a Renaissance Recovery Center Outpatient Treatment can be very scary. But, seeking treatment is a significant first step to transforming your life. They can find you a program and a routine that works for you and your needs taking note of any commitments you have, such as work, school, and other priorities that you need to work around.

No matter what your struggle is, these centers are here to help you shape your life into a healthier, happier, fuller one. When deciding on a center, choose one that will best suit your needs. Do you prefer to stay at the center or would you rather it be an outpatient program similar to the alcohol rehab near Overland Park? Do the counselors have a personality that meshes well with yours? You want to set yourself up for the best chance of success.

Should a recovery center be something you are interested in going to, it is a good idea to take a tour of several different options to find the best fit for you. This is a big change and it’s so important that you feel fully comfortable where you are and their services are applicable to your needs. To begin scheduling tours, simply enter a search for “90-day addiction treatment program in south carolina” (or your local area) and research your options. A recovery center that is an excellent fit for you will increase your chances of a better life upon graduation.

Taking up a hobby:

With hundreds of various hobbies and activities around, there is something for everyone. Whether it’s something such as cycling and running to pot throwing and tennis, these are all hobbies that can be done in your spare time. This is a great time to clear your mind while releasing any stress and worries. If you are looking for a small hobby that can be done within the home, then try an adult coloring, writing, and meditation – which can all help calm your body.

Looking after your body:

Taking exercise classes can be nerve-racking and cause anxiety with many people, but it can relieve a lot of stress while making you overall happier and healthier. While there are many exercise classes for you to take, you can also complete courses at home, whether it is on a video call or guidance through a YouTube video. There are many options you can choose from, such as yoga, HIIT, spin classes, and cardio to boost your fitness levels and have a healthy heart.

Gratitude and journaling:

A popular way to release any negative energy is to replace these thoughts with things that you love and cherish. Starting every morning, write three things that you are grateful for, something that would make today better, three things you love, and a quote to boost your confidence and to encourage each day to start in the best way.

Hopefully, with this guide, you will be able to take those first steps to living a healthier and happier life. Will it be easy? Nothing good ever is! But, it’s up to you to give it your best shot. Good luck!

Featured Image By: Pexels

May16

Mother’s Day Bouquets

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Mother’s Day Bouquets

Hello and a very happy belated Mother’s Day to all of my lovelies who celebrated! Although I normally love getting creative with gift giving, I always find Mother’s Day to be a bouquet occasion. So, I went to our local grocery story and picked out some beautiful flowers and floral decorated mason jars for them all to go in for my giftees.

Over Mother’s Day weekend, my boyfriend and I made our flower delivery rounds and, although these pictures are admittedly not the best (I was half asleep!), take a look at my handy work:

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Once I bought my Mother’s Day flowers, I took them home so that I could begin arranging them into their jars. My dad is an amazing bouquet arranger so I thought back to all of the million times I’ve seen him prepare a bouquet for my mom and gave it my best shot. And, I think they ended up looking great – the recipients definitely thought so!

I am partial to receiving flowers, myself, but there’s nothing like giving them on a special occasion to all of the strong, beautiful women that you love. Again, a very happy belated Mother’s Day to all and I wish I could have given flowers to all of you. ❤

How did you celebrate Mother’s Day? What is your favorite flower? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Apr15

Looking On The Bright Side

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Looking On The Bright Side

Hi! While things are so uncertain and the best course of action is to just stay home to help combat the coronavirus, it’s easy to feel down in the dumps. There’s nowhere to go, there’s nothing to do, and cabin fever could definitely be kicking in. And what’s more? The internet is filled with people telling their newsfeed to just get over it, making it difficult to decipher how to feel at all.

Well, I’m here to tell you that it is absolutely okay to not know how to feel considering we’ve literally never experienced anything like this before. It’s also okay to be disappointed about all of the events or occasions that have been cancelled due to the current state. I know I am and I have found that once I acknowledged that I was upset and allowed to be, I felt a whole lot better.

I know it sounds tacky and a bit too simple but, sometimes, the only thing that can make you feel better is looking on the bright side. So tip your cap in acknowledgement to your upsets and remember the following:

There is safety in being at home:

When you’re bored out of your gourd at home, remember that you are safe and that is a blessing. And, I know you are all sick of hearing that it’s time to learn something new… But try learning something new! Noticing little improvements every day you practice a new skill will make for some excitement and you’ll come out of this situation being able to do something you haven’t before. All of this from the safety of your home? Score!

There are things to look forward to:

I work with people with special needs and a lot of my clients are having a hard time understanding why I can’t take them out in the community anymore. So, I told all of them to come up with a special activity that we can do together once things open up again. Whether that be a favorite restaurant or going to the flea market, I wanted each of them to have something to look forward to as the days at home progress.

All of you can do this too! Come up with a perfect day out. Whether you spend it alone, with friends and family, or with a significant other make sure it’s something that you can think about and be excited for. That’s the most important part.

There are options:

Although none of the social distancing methods are as good as the real thing of sitting down next to a friend and having a chat – there are still options. Have a virtual drink over video chat with your friends. Talk to your neighbors from your porch. Visit your friend’s village on Animal Crossing. Yes, they are not the best options but they are there and are worth taking advantage of if you’re missing social contact.

And remember:

Most importantly, don’t stress yourself out about feeling like there’s nothing to do because we’re all in the same boat. There is nothing wrong with treating yourself to another Netflix bingeathon or a take out meal because we should be indulging in little things that make us feel good right now. Just remember to look on the bright side and all will be well. 🙂

What do you do to improve your mood during this crazy time? How do you look on the bright side? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Apr9

Dinner For Two Pt. 2

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Dinner For Two Pt. 2

Hi! On April first, Johnny and I celebrated seven months of PASSIONATE LOVE with each other. Thankfully, neither of us said April Fools and it was easily the best day I’ve had since all of this self-isolation business. If you recall from previous posts, I love cooking for my boyfriend. And if you recall from a very previous post, Johnny surprised me with dinner he made a few weeks ago when I came home from work.

Just when I thought that he couldn’t top himself, he raised the bar as he always does. On our seven month, we both got dressed up and when I got home from work I couldn’t believe my eyes when I opened the door. As I stepped in, I heard music playing on our record player, smelled garlic bread, and saw a fireplace screensaver burning brightly on the TV.

The best sight of all, though? Definitely seeing Johnny standing in the kitchen in a button down top and skinnies stirring a huge pot of spaghetti. We ate a delicious meal that he got stressed out cooking at our coffee table that he cleaned off special for the occasion. Then, we drank champagne and listened to all of our favorite songs. I lied when I said it was one of the best days of self-isolation because it was one of the best days of my life.

This has been a very stressful time for both of us and it was so nice to escape those feelings of unease for the day to celebrate our relationship. Johnny’s theory was that he wanted to make the dinner special because he couldn’t take me out to a restaurant. He succeeded with flying colors and, to me – a night in like that trumps going out on the town any time.

How have you celebrated special occasions in self-isolation? How have you kept your spirits up during this difficult time? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Apr8

Happy Birthday, Kristen!!

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Happy Birthday, Kristen!!

Hello! We are ringing in another Mushenheim family birthday because today is my big sister, Kristen’s, big day. My sister is my best friend in the whole world and it is my life’s greatest achievement to be the designated fourth wheel to Kristen, her boyfriend, and their little girl named Valerie. Kristen is celebrating her “one year and one day” of motherhood and she is amazing at it. But today, it is all about her!

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I know I just used the word “amazing” to describe Kristen but I’m going to use it again. She is AMAZING! She is the most loving mother and it is the best feeling in the world to watch her playing and cuddling with her sweet daughter. Kristen is my BFF but Valerie is definitely a close runner up! Her compassion knows no bounds and when she’s not caring for the dogs and cats at the animal shelter she works at or tending to her daughter and two dogs and two cats, she is never too busy to participate in family time or help a friend (Or sister!) in need.

When I was younger, I used to get somewhat annoyed when people told me Kristen and I looked alike but now I consider it the highest compliment. My sister is the epitome of beautiful inside and out and it makes me so proud to be her little sis. I wish we weren’t under lock down so we could properly celebrate Kristen’s day but I can’t wait to spoil her with a candle lit Taco Bell dinner once this all blows over. 😉

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KRISTEN!

I LOVE YOU! ❤

Apr6

Happy Birthday, Dad!!

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Happy Birthday, Dad!!

Hello! March through May is a stretch of the year where birthdays are plentiful in my family. It starts with my niece’s birthday at the beginning of March then goes to my mom, dad, sister, and brother ending in mid May. Today, we are on birthday number three in my family, which belongs to my dear old dad. Despite him despising birthdays, I can’t not give him a shout out on lifewithlilred so here it goes:

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Ever since I was little, I can remember my dad’s lament that birthdays are “another year closer to the grave” and he still feels that way today. Lol so, needless to say, his birthday is filled with begrudgingly opening presents and accepting birthday wishes. The best part, though? I think we can all tell that he secretly enjoys himself and that makes the obnoxiously huge birthday hugs I give him even more fun. 😀

Although we all love pushing my dad’s birthday buttons, it really is a special day. My dad is one of my favorite people on the planet. He is so funny – like so unbelievably funny. The humor is then amplified by his infamous and infectious “laugh attacks” which is the cherry on top of whatever my family was joking about.

What I love the most about my dad, though? He is such a thoughtful man and it always makes me so happy when my boyfriend gifts me with flowers or cooks dinner for me because my dad is constantly doing stuff like that for my mom. He provided me with the best guidelines of how I should be treated in a relationship and I am so thankful for that.

When I had a really early class in college and had to drive an hour to get there, my dad would always get up and make coffee for me so I could have it during my commute. That’s the kind of guy my dad is. Sweet gestures and kind words from my father will forever be treasured by me and he is a man who deserves to be celebrated… Even though he hates his birthday. 😉

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD!!

I LOVE YOU! ❤