Tag Archives: lilred

Dec1

Holiday Gifts That Always Go Over Well

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Holiday Gifts That Always Go Over Well

Hi everyone! The countdown to Christmas has officially begun, which means it is definitely time to start finishing up your holiday shopping. I, for one, have been done since mid November. Just the mere thought of last minute shopping gives me anxiety! I also love Christmas shopping (And any kind of shopping!) so I was eager to get going.

As much fun as gift giving is, however, it can still be stressful. Maybe you have someone really hard to shop for in the family. Or you have a giftee on your list who has it all already. Regardless of the case, there are certain gifts that always go over well, including some of the following:

Candles/Bath & Body Care:

I used to think that candles and bath and body care was a total cop out gift. Then, I realized that I love being gifted with those goodies so that means other people do, too… At least, I think so! Treat your giftee to some pampering. How about a gift card to their favorite nail or hair salon? Or maybe all of the fixings for a perfect bubble bath with supplies from Lush.

The candle and bath and body care route it always a good one to go with because they are something that your giftee might not necessarily buy for themselves. So, I feel incredibly spoiled whenever those gifts are under my tree.

Concert Tickets/An Experience:

You can literally never go wrong with an experience related gift. My sister and I often gift each other with concert tickets and I love that because you get to share in a memory with them. Is your giftee’s favorite band coming to town? Boom. You’re done. Did a new ride open up at their favorite amusement park? Nailed it. What about a sporting event with your brother or dad? Easy as pie.

Experience gifts are an exciting option to go with and this is one of my favorite types of presents to receive. So, in case you were wondering, I wear a size Marilyn Manson concert tickets, please!

Date Night Supplies:

If you are shopping for a couple, you could provide them with all of the necessities for a night on the town. I usually opt for a gift card to a restaurant and then a movie theater for your classic dinner and a movie date night. And, if you really want to go the full nine yards, you could gift a bottle of wine or champagne for their nightcap.

A fully funded night out will always be much appreciated by any couple and I really like this idea for the favorite love birds in my life.

Food, Glorious Food:

You can never go wrong with a food related gift because everyone eats! I love the idea of the adorable mason jars filled with the ingredients to make a pot of soup or a tray of holiday cookies. Delicious and simple, these gifts are thoughtful and won’t break your bank if you’re ballin on a budget.

If you want to get a bit fancier, you could supply a basket filled with the necessities for a full on dinner. Maybe a homemade pizza night with a lovely bottle of vino? Or an Indian food extravaganza filled with all of the necessary spices for the meal. Regardless of what you choose, everyone (Me, especially!) loves food. šŸ˜€

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to be so stressful with the pro tips above. Customize them to suit your giftee and you’re all set. Happy shopping!

What is something that you love to gift for people? What is your status on completing your holiday shopping? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov29

Ringing In The New Year: Lil Red’s Pro Tips

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Ringing In The New Year: Lil Red’s Pro Tips

Hello everyone! It is almost 2020 on good old planet earth and that means it’s time to start thinking New Year’s Resolutions and how to improve the way you go about your life with another year’s worth of knowledge behind you. I, for one, never participate in New Year’s Resolutions but that doesn’t mean that I don’t have some good tips and tricks to help you ring the new year in right. Let’s get to it:

Get A Calendar:

The first thing I always do when a new year is upon us is get a new desk sized calendar. With my crazy schedule, organization is key and it’s always nice to see my days planned out before my eyes. I’m sure all of you can relate to a busy lifestyle and the stresses that come with it and, sometimes, all you need is a visual of what you have going on to help you get through your day in a timely and effective manner.

Have A Think:

What goals do you want to accomplish in 2020? What bad habits would you like to break? How are you going to better yourself? Working out? Therapy? Budgeting more wisely? The possibilities for your New Year’s Resolution are endless, which is why it’s important to think long and hard about what you would like to achieve.

It is also crucial to think of goals that are possible to reach. Is it really plausible that you can lose fifty pounds in one month by going to the gym once a week? No, it’s not. If you create unobtainable goals, you’re just going to end up feeling down and out about it and giving up. Create small goals and challenge yourself more and more each time you achieve them for maximum results.

Leave Negativity In 2019:

Feeling bad about yourself or being surrounded by toxic people is so 2019. So, maybe your New Year’s Resolution can focus on bringing more positivity into your life. It is okay to let go of certain people who cause you undue pain and stress. Your well-being should be your top priority so don’t be afraid to let it be. Focus on you and watch yourself flourish in the new year.

Self Care Is Cool:

Sometimes it’s impossible to cut back on the hustle and bustle that goes on in our daily lives. Believe you me, I get it. But, it’s also important to set aside at least a little time for you during the week. For example, I always look forward to my Wednesday night bubble bath. It’s a small Hump Day treat that makes me feel happy and pampered. Think of a way that you can treat yoself throughout the work week and I can guarantee an improved state of mind.

And, Remember:

Not having a New Year’s Resolution is fine, too! Maybe your 2019 was a banger so if it’s not broken, don’t fix it. If you feel comfortable and content with where you’re at in your life, why rock the boat? New Year’s Resolutions are not meant to stress you out but to help you make positive changes. If you find yourself freaking out about it, then maybe the hype of “new year, new me” just isn’t for you – and that’s okay!

2020 is coming in hot so follow the tips above and let it be your best year yet!

How do you feel about New Year’s Resolutions? What are your goals for 2020? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov28

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Happy Thanksgiving!

Hello everyone and a very Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite holiday. Actually… any holiday that revolves around eating is my favorite holiday. But, seriously. There is nothing better than spending the morning helping my mom cook Thanksgiving dinner, chilling in the afternoon, and then sitting down to a beautiful meal with my loved ones.

The food is the bomb, the cozy atmosphere of my home is perfect, and the time spent with my family is second to none. And, I sincerely hope that the same goes for all of you. I always try to remember what I’m thankful for on the daily and all of my sweet readers in one hundred and eighty-eight different countries are on my list every time – especially today!

Thank you to everyone who has supported lifewithlilred throughout the years and, no matter how you spend today, I hope that it is an amazing one. Much love. -Sarah

Nov27

Holiday Season Guest Bloggers Wanted

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Holiday Season Guest Bloggers Wanted

Hiya! With the holiday season in full swing, now is the perfect time to join lifewithlilred’s family of guest bloggers for some good cheer. If you are interested in sharing any winter or holiday themed posts for my viewers in one hundred and eighty-eight different countries, then please email me at: sarah.mush6794@gmail.com

Your guest post could range from anything to photos of your hometown during the winter to your favorite holiday traditions or recipes. Or, how about a New Year’s Eve inspired OOTD or MOTD? I’m not picky! Email me some ideas and we will get you all set to star on lifewithlilred for the day. Looking forward to hearing from all of you! Much love. -Sarah

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Nov24

Lil Red’s Black Friday Shopping Pro Tips

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Lil Red’s Black Friday Shopping Pro Tips

Howdy!! In a mere handful of days it will be my favorite holiday of Thanksgiving because FOOD… and family, of course. šŸ˜‰ And, with Thanksgiving just around the corner means that Black Friday will be coming in hot on its heels. I, personally, have never gone Black Friday shopping before because I suffered through five years of working on the day during my time in retail.

It’s no surprise that I have no desire to be within twenty feet of a mall on Black Friday. But, Lil Red lives and breathes shopping so allow me to grace you with these pro tips for a successful Black Friday haul:

Be Nice:

Although this has nothing to do with scoring the best deals, it has everything to do with being the best person. Please, please, PLEASE be kind to your retail and restaurant workers on Black Friday and every day. Those who have never worked a Black Friday before honestly have no idea how stressful it is and a rude customer can be enough to completely ruin someone on the biggest shopping day of the year.

Say please and thank you, try not to leave destruction in your wake as you shop, and be mindful of the other shoppers. And, always remember, you literally just spent the day prior celebrating all you have to be thankful for so if you don’t get what you wanted, there’s no need to punch someone in the face about it. Je-sus!

Do Your Research:

Now, having said all of that, the first step to a successful Black Friday is to do some research. It’s a mixed bag of which stores reveal their deals before the day and which don’t, so try investigating by either calling the store or going online. This will help you to decide the best order in which to shop. If there’s a hot deal going on right at midnight for something you have your eye on, then twenty-five percent off at your favorite store can wait.

Often times, stores repeat the deals that they had in year’s past so also bear that in mind when you are making your preparations.

Make A List:

Once you have a general idea of where to go and when, it’s time to make a list of what you would like to purchase. I know I always mention list making – but, damnit, it’s helpful! If you have specific things in mind that you want to buy on Black Friday, you cannot hit the stores willy nilly. It’s important to coordinate your wants with the deals happening so that you can create the best course of action for the order of stores you want to visit.

Time Is Of The Essence:

So you have a plan of what you want, the deals happening, and where you want to go. But, the thing is, so does everyone else. It’s all in the timing when it comes to Black Friday shopping. If you are shopping for specifics, you can’t spend too much time in one store or you might jeopardize getting the other things you want. Get in, grab your item, check out, and head to your next location. Then, once your shopping is complete, feel free to revisit anywhere else you want to spend more time in.

However, if you are going shopping just for the fun of it, take all of the time in the world. But, remember, if you do shop at a leisurely pace, a lot of the stores will be pretty picked over by the time you get there.

Know When To Say When:

Black Friday shopping is awesome for nabbing a big electronic for a song or doing your Christmas shopping. But, don’t be crazy about it. If you find yourself spending way too much money or shoving other people to get to the next place or hot item, then you’ve probably had enough Black Friday. Go home, take a chill pill, and try again on Cyber Monday when you’re not in the general public. šŸ˜‰

Speaking Of Cyber Monday…

If you’re not keen on the craziness that is Black Friday, Cyber Monday is just days away and you can enjoy the deals from the comfort of your own home. Just remember to do your research prior. This might involve signing up for emails, which could notify you of the deals ahead of time (The same goes for regular Black Friday shopping!).

Get ready, get set, and shop with Lil Red’s Black Friday Shopping Pro Tips!

Have you been Black Friday shopping? Do you have any crazy stories from working or shopping a Black Friday? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov14

Lil Red’s Holiday Shopping Pro Tips

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Lil Red’s Holiday Shopping Pro Tips

Helloooo! There are some who holiday shop in the summer, there are those who wait until the last minute, and there might be a group of you who is getting their shopping done now, like myself. No matter what your shopping style, purchasing gifts for your loved ones can be a big task. No one wants to give a dud of a gift and this can be a huge stresser if you have someone on your list who’s difficult to shop for.

Lucky for all of you, Lil Red is an absolute pro at holiday shopping and I’m here to break down some of my favorite tips to make your experience much easier. Check it out:

Listen Up:

When trying to get inspired with gift ideas, I make an extra effort to put my listening ears on. For example, I purchased a gift for my mom this year because she flat out said in conversation that she would like this specific thing. Done. If you’re struggling for ideas, spark up a chat with the person you’re shopping for, because the answer might come a lot easier than you think. Discuss favorite things, favorite previous gifts or experiences, and the like and you should have a firm idea of what to purchase by the end of it.

Make A List:

I know that I put this suggestion in my shopping tips every year but that’s because it’s important. Keeping organized while completing your shopping is key because a jumbled mess just means extra stress. Write down everyone who you need to buy for, list some ideas of what you would like to gift them, and cross them off once the task is complete. This will also help you when you are making your rounds in store and online because it will give you a better idea of where to purchase what and you won’t end up back at the same place a million more times.

There’s No Shame In Gift Cards:

I always used to think that gift cards were a cop out but I have grown quite fond of purchasing them for gift giving occasions. Whether it be a ten dollar Starbucks gift card along with other goodies or treating the giftee to a night out for dinner and a movie – gift cards can go a long way. Gift cards are a great add on or full gift and it makes your shopping experience a lot easier if you are coming up short for ideas.

Give An Experience:

What do you give to the person who has it all? How about an experience! Take your favorite sports nut to a game. What about a spa day for your mom? Or take your favorite body modified blogger to the tattoo shop for the afternoon! Haha, either way, gifting experiences is a sure fire way to please even the most difficult person to shop for and you will both have happy memories to cherish afterwards.

And Remember…

Yes, holiday shopping can be stressful. But, it should be fun too! Being able to treat your loved ones to something special is a beautiful thing. Remember that, and your shopping experience will start feeling a whole lot better.

What are some of your tips and tricks for holiday shopping? Who is done with their shopping already? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Oct21

Guest Bloggers Wanted!

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Guest Bloggers Wanted!

Howdy everyone! Just a friendly reminder that lifewithlilred is always accepting guest bloggers if you are interested in having your work viewed in 188 different countries! With the cold weather officially among us, I am looking for your best comfy cozy OOTDs, MOTDs perfect for a family get together, favorite holiday recipes, and your go to fall and winter activities in your neck of the woods. And, of course, I am always up for any of your ideas as long as they are fall or winter related!

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, feel free to email me at: sarah.mush6794@gmail.com ā¤

Oct14

Back To Normal

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Back To Normal

Hello! I’ll tell you guys what, getting back to work after the car accident was really hard. And I’ll also tell you guys what, getting back to work after the car accident after an additional week off from family vacation was even harder! My life went from having a blast with my family in North Carolina for a whole week to barely moving for a week in a matter of twelve hours, because the accident happened the day after I returned home.

Returning to work was definitely just as difficult as I imagined it to be. I was still experiencing aches and pains and my stamina was so low that not even my normal venti iced coffee from Starbucks could help me. But, like all things, it just took time. And, I figured if I could resume my job after a month and a half off from a surgery gone wrong, surely I could manage after two weeks!

However, I am pleased to say that things are finally on the upswing and I’d like to think that things are officially Back To Normal… as normal as Lil Red can get, anyways. šŸ˜‰ Now, I can fully enjoy my favorite fall season and Halloween without a dull throb in my chest as well as revel in my time with my clients. And, for that, I am thankful.

The most difficult thing about this whole ordeal, though, was probably getting behind the wheel of a car again. I hadn’t drove for two weeks minus making a trip or two back to my family home, which is literally right up the street. So, diving completely back into it on my first day back at work was scary – especially because I was on the highway and it was rainy during my morning drive.

I would never say that I was a nervous driver before the accident. I have always been highly confident of my ability to drive and am usually quite relaxed in the Little Red Love Machine. And, while I still consider myself an excellent driver, I notice that I have become extra cautious post accident. I am even more aware of my surroundings than usual and I find that my red hot road rage has simmered down to a soft glow.

The car accident was easily one of the scariest things that I’ve experienced in my life and the last thing I want is for it to happen again. And, if that means tacking on some extra time to get to where I need to be without being in a rush, then so be it. A little more patience never hurts anyone and it could end up saving lives in the process. Thanks for coming to my Ted Talk.

I am so happy to be back into the swing of things and I want to thank all of you again so much for your support during such a difficult time! ā¤

How did you handle a scary situation in your life? How do you keep a level head while driving? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Sep14

Autumn Must Haves & Favorites

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Autumn Must Haves & Favorites

Hello everyone and welcome to a fall guest post brought to you by my friend, Becki, at Bekkibee22! Becki runs a wonderful page that features her journeys through health, makeup, and this thing called life. It is insightful, inspiring, and definitely worth checking out so do be sure to give it some love! Now, check out Becki’s post all about her favorite fashion and beauty must haves for fall special for lifewithlilred:

Autumn Must Haves & Favorites

This is a special blog, as a fellow blogger called lifewithlilred was looking for guest bloggers for fall. I jumped at the chance as her blogs are amazing and I have been following her for aĀ while now. So, I got in contact with Sarah and we discussed what would be a great blog to do andĀ this is the outcome.

As summer is over and we are now entering autumn, I wanted to share with you my must haves and my favorite things about autumn for me, and I hope down belowĀ you will share your must haves and your favorite things in this incredible season we are entering.

Lets start with my must haves for the season, this is exciting because it meant going shopping for autumn, which I loved, as did my partner.

Boots: I recently brought a new pair of ankle boots from KurtĀ Geiger, which I fell in love with. IĀ believe you should have at least one pair of boots for the upcoming cold weather. I also have a pair of knee high and over the knee boots for different outfits.

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Outer Layer: I have a fine knit poncho in an asymmetrical pattern, as the weather is starting to cool and that extra layer is needed but you donā€™t want a full on winter coat yet.

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Knitted Tights: Iā€™m not one to wear a lot of trousers apart from the couple of pairs of jeans I have so having a variety of knitted tights is great for protecting my legs with all of my dresses and skirts that I wear.

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Over the Knee Knit Socks: For those days where I donā€™t want tights but still want something to protect my legs.

Basic T-Shirts: Having these basic items help with layering and I recommend getting them in at least black and white.

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Jeans: I may not wear a lot of trousers but I have at least one pair of good jeans for the colder weather, plus they are a basic and a great starter to build and create numerous outfits.

Turtle Necks: These are my favorite during the colder weather as I use them as layers underneath dresses or with skirts. They look fab and stylish while also providing warmth.

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Lip Balm: With the colder air coming, avoid having cracked lips by keeping them moist with a lip balm.

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Hand/Body Moisturizer: With the colder air, the same happens to your skin as it does with your lips so having a good moisturizer helps protect and hydrate your skin.

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Dark Red/Purple Lipstick: Autumn always makes me want to wear my dark red and purple lipsticks as they look so fab with all outfits for the season.

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Cozy Slippers: Keeping my feet warm is very important with my health issues so a comfy cozy pair of slippers helps do just that.

Vanilla and Spiced Fragrances: I love these scents during the colder weather and they just seem to warm up the environment while smelling lush and inviting.

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These are my must haves for autumn but the reason why I love the season so much is because you get to watch the cycle of life and get to experience the most amazing colors all around you. I also love autumn because it is my favorite season to dress for. I get so many ideas and get to be creative with styling. My partner is looking forward to this, too, as he really enjoys picking clothes for me. The colors are super lush and you can create some super dramatic and amazing outfits all just by layering.

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Iā€™m looking forward to the cozy nights with home cooked meals as well as the walks in the evenings and weekends. And, of course, stepping on the fallen crunchy leaves while enjoying the sunsets where the evenings are getting darker more quickly. Autumn is a magical season. It’s not boiling hot like the summer and not freezing cold like the winter and you can still go out and enjoy yourself without experiencing such extreme temperatures.

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Thanks again to Becki for creating a guest post for my page! A lot of her faves are mine, too, and I am anticipating the fall just as much. What are your fall must haves? What is your favorite fall activity? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug4

Fall Guest Bloggers Wanted!

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Fall Guest Bloggers Wanted!

Hellooo everyone! I know, I know, it’s only the beginning of August BUT that doesn’t mean that we can’t start thinking about fall! Or, at least, I can start thinking about fall, because I have been since summer began, lol. I am an autumn girl through and through – the weather, clothes, activities, holidays, and the food all speak to me on a spiritual level and I know that I am not the only one.

So, if you are a lover of all things fall and would like to create a blog post for lifewithlilred and the one hundred and eighty plus countries reading me, then please get in touch at: sarah.mush6794@gmail.com ! From back to school fashion, hearty recipes, MOTDs inspired by fall colors, and the best autumn activities – I want it all. Seriously, I want your posts and all of the aforementioned in my life. If you’re interested, shoot me an email and let’s get this fall guest bloggers series started! Much love. -Sarah