I'm the girl, Gracie. Here at GML you can follow my journey of dreaming, working, eating, loving, and blogging my way through life in NYC.
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Welcome to 2012, where there’s an app for everything.
That’s right – apps aren’t just for games and music anymore – they cover just about every interest and industry out there. As a typical girl who is constantly browsing for fashion and style ideas on Pinterest and the like, I was excited to learn that there are actually useful fashion apps now as well.
So here’s a great guest post by Jane Johnson for my fellow iGeeks who also happen to have a thing for fashion.
six must-have tools for the fashion-forward.
Technology has revolutionized the way we shop, find the duds we love, find the best deals on designer brands, and it even influences the fashion that will be on the runways next season. Thanks to smart phone apps like the following six style-inspired beauties I’ve listed below, all you need is an iPhone, a BlackBerry, or an Android to get impeccable style inspiration while you’re on the go! It’s true; these apps offer something for runway fashionistas, accessory addicts, global fashion connoisseurs, shoe-o-holics, and even a closet organizer to keep your boudoir looking as fabulous as you do!
Check out my tops picks for the must-have, fashion-focused smart phone apps that every fashionista needs at her fingertips. However, I must warn you, if you choose to get caught up in any of these on the subway, you’ll probably miss your stop because they are just so incredibly addictive…
1. Snapette (Free – for Android and iPhone)
The perfect smart phone app for accessory addicts, Snapette is a cult-favorite app among fashion’s elite. Snapette features accessory shots—from Rome to Rodeo Drive—and allows users to upload a photo of their favorite shoe and handbag obsessions for other viewers to “like”. What’s better than a global consensus to convince you that you should buy those $800 Manolo Blahniks? It will sure make you feel better about a little shoe shopping spree every week or so!
2. The Cut on the Runway (Free – for iPhone)
A free app from New York Media LLC., The Cut on the Runway features the latest and hottest runway shows from Fashion Week, plus fashion archives that date back to 2002. Fashionistas can slink their through the latest designs from the hottest designers a la a model on a catwalk. And if you see something you just have to have (and can actually afford) you can bookmark it, save it to your “wish list”, or get opinions from your 250 closest Facebook friends before you pull out that credit card.
3. Stylebook ($3.99 – for iPhone)
Think of Stylebook as your really hip fashion accountant (with designer glasses of course)…one that you would kill for their sexy peep toe pumps. Anyhow, the Stylebook app will catalogue every single item of clothing in your closet and pair clothing items, shoes, purses, and accessories together to take the confusion over your morning dressing routine. Literally, this app put together items I never thought would work, and now I have a dozen fabulous, brand new looks in my fashion arsenal. All you need to do to get going with Stylebook is load images of your clothing items on to your smart phone. My girlfriend and I did it in under an hour using our Samsung cell phones. You never know what items you have tucked away in the back of your closet that might be the key piece to a new look or the next style trend.
4. Satorialist (Free – for iPhone)
Talk about fashion eye candy! I can’t get enough of the Satorialist, acclaimed fashion photo bug and blogger Scott Schuman began his popular fashion photo blog, The Sartorialist, in hopes of creating a two-way dialogue about the world of fashion and its relationship to real life. Follow the latest trends and styles of fashion from the busy streets of New York, the romantic area of Paris, and the fashion-forward runways of Milan to discover the trendsetting styles before all of your friends.
5. iShoes (Free – for iPhone)
The crowning piece to any outfit is obviously the shoes! iShoes is your fashion ally to tracking down that perfect pair from over 50,000 stunning styles. You can sort by color, style, or by lowest price.
6. Go Try It On (Free- for iPhone)
Have you ever thought it would be nice to have a second opinion when shopping by yourself? Especially before you bought that pair of electric blue jeggings last fall! Never fear, Go Try It On is your second opinion fashion app. Simply snap a shot of you wearing any item you wish you buy, upload it to the Go Try It On app, and let strangers or friends decide the fate of that bubble skirt vs. the strapless dress with the sweat heart neckline. You can also do your fair share of critiquing their fashion choices whenever the mood strikes.
Bio: Jane Johnson is a writer for GoingCellular, a popular site that provides cell phone related news, commentary, reviews on popular providers like T-Mobile.
Have you ever used a fashion app? What’s your favorite resource for style tips and ideas?
Hi! I’m Erica, Gracie’s room bud 
Because she’s running in overdrive for the next few days, she asked if I would be willing to write a guest post….to which I said, “OF COURSE!!!”
I figured I write a post on something we’ve all done, had to do, or are maybe in the process of doing right now! THE JOB HUNT.
I’ve been working at my current job for about four months now. which is an ah-mazing recruiting firm located in Midtown Manhattan (if any of you are looking for a job in the NYC area…email Gracie!). My job as Front Office Manager is…busy. I am responsible for payroll, invoicing, parsing resumes, creating profiles, administrative office duties, answering high volume phone lines—the list could go on! But maybe most importantly, I am the first person candidates see when they walk through the door. You would be surprised by the number of people who forget that the interview starts the moment you enter the building. Like I said before, it’s only been four months. But already, I feel like I’ve seen it all!
A plethora of articles have been written on interview etiquette. What to say: “Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me today.” What not to say: “I hated my boss, so I flipped on him in front of the whole office. He totally deserved it! It was epic.” How to talk about your resume: “This role taught me how important it is in any position to pay close attention to the finer points.” What to wear: “Be polished. Suit, jacket, and button-down shirt. And remember, iron the entire outfit!” But what about the time before and after your actual interview? It is crucial. It can make or break a call back opportunity. So here are a few things I’ve observed that I’d like to share with all interviewees.
BEFORE….
The Arrival. It happens to all of us. We leave the apartment with more than enough time to get to our big interview or meeting. Then the train is running 20 minutes late, someone spills their coffee all over your white blouse, and there is not a single free taxi in a 10 block radius. Panic sets in (!!!!). We know how it feels; we’ve all been there. But don’t just show up 20 minutes late! All you have to do is give us a call and say, “I am so sorry, but the train is running late. I will be there in 15 minutes!” Our response? “Take your time! We’ll see you soon.”
The other side of this is just as important. Showing up early. For an interview, you should show up between 10 and 3 minutes early. It is actually frustrating when someone shows up 15, 20 or 30 minutes early. The person you are meeting with feels pressured to be ready sooner. The bottom line that coming in at a time that your interview was NOT scheduled, early or late, is unprofessional. Period.
The Door. I used to absolutely dread this part of any first round interview. How is it that every single door in Manhattan has a different mode of entry? Seriously. Just take a deep breath, and be observant. Is there a button? Is there a sensor that automatically opens the door? Is there a sign that says “Push” or “Pull” on the door? Try the door gently. If it doesn’t open, take a step back and look around a bit. Chances are you’ll figure it out in about 3 seconds if you just stay calm. 
The Receptionist. That’s me! If you want to make a good impression, say hello with a smile! Introduce yourself. Tell me what you’re here for and who you are meeting with. So many times, whether it is nerves or anxiety or pre-interview jitters, candidates will walk up to my desk with a blank face and say….nothing. Don’t freeze up. If you’re warm and personable, I will convey that to the person you are about to meet with, and your interview will be off to a great start! If you give me an attitude or are rude, I’m definitely going to tell the person you’re about to meet with.
The Paperwork. It’s a drag, we know. But it’s part of the process. So take your time, pay attention to directions, and be thorough! If someone fills out the paperwork the right way the first time, I am blown away. Sounds so basic, right? It’s true; the tax forms are complicated and have a goofy format. Mistakes happen, and we miss stuff. At Clarity (and most places I would imagine), the staff is very understanding. But if I have to point it out 4 times and ask you to date in the same place….you get what I mean. If you take your time and read it over, you will make a great impression when it’s all filled out correctly the first time.
And AFTER….
The Exit. Ending on the right note is hugely important because you want to leave a good impression. Be genuine in expressing your gratitude for the time the interviewer spent with you. If they don’t offer (which most places will), ask for a business card of the people you met during that day’s visit. Acknowledge the receptionist and other office team members that helped you earlier. Smile, thank them, and wish them a great day. Sincere friendliness is truly refreshing!
The Follow-up. After you leave, send a thank you note or an e-mail to your main point of contact. Tell them how much you enjoyed meeting them and that you look forward hearing from them. And leave it at that. If you write a thank you note, e-mail two days later “just checking in,” and then give a phone call the next three days in a row, it’s a little bit overkill. Be patient! There are a million things on that person’s desk to take care of in the next 10 minutes. If you do not hear anything back, it is appropriate to follow up ONE more time, a week later. If you still hear nothing, you can safely assume that your time and energy would be better spent pursuing other opportunities.
All in all, the most important thing to remember during the pre and post-interview time is to be personable and professional. Stay in interview mode before and after the interview, keeping in mind that you never know with whom you are interacting. It’s very simple: If you are positive and pleasant, it will go a long, long way!
When was the last time you interviewed—and how was it? What’s your “secret interview weapon?”
Hello dollbabes! This evening I’m bringing you a guest recipe from Katie of What Katie’s Baking. 7 Layer Bars have always been a favorite dessert of mine – they’re a definite crowd-pleaser, and it turns out that they’re actually quite easy to make. So – real life friends – you can expect a taste-test in the very near future
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Hi guys! I’m Katie from What Katie’s Baking. I’m so excited to be doing a guest post for Gracie. She’s gorgeous, funny, and a wonderful role model! I love stalking checking out her site for new updates 
One of the things I like the most about Gracie’s blog is her recipes. They’re always so yummy, and I’m going to contribute to that today!
Now, do you like to make people happy? Because I do. I’m all about making people happy. And if you want to make someone happy today – make these guys!
7 Layer Bars.
They are the easiest things in the world to make, but also one of the best desserts ever. If you don’t receive a good reaction after making these, then feel free to send them to me
INGREDIENTS:
(Yields 16 large bars)
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup graham chocolate animal crackers, crushed
- 1 cup flaked coconut – sweetened or unsweetened
- 6 ounces (1 cup) chocolate chips
- 6 ounces white chocolate, chopped
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
DIRECTIONS:
- Preheat oven at 350 degrees F.
- Toast walnuts for about 8 minutes.
- Mix chocolate animal cracker crumbs and melted butter until it becomes dough like.
- Press the “dough” into the bottom of your (8×8) dish.
- Layer the coconut and then the chocolate.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk over all.
- Top with nuts.
- DO NOT mix together.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
 
The finished product:
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Uh, YUM. Thanks so much, Katie!
I think I’ve asked this a million times but, what’s your go-to recipe when baking for a crowd?
(Mine is blondies…or CHOC’s…)
Hola, gorgeous ones! Today’s guest post is brought to you by Arianna from Laughter & Linguini. Her recipe is for a dessert that I’ve actually never heard of but have got to try STAT – old-fashioned Tortoni. So read on, and try not to drool too much
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Hi everyone! My name is Arianna, and I’m the author of the blog Laughter & Linguini. I’m so excited to be featured on Gracie’s blog, and today I’d love to share a delicious, simple recipe that has been passed down in my family for generations.
Tortoni is an old-fashioned, Italian ice cream which is said to be named after an Italian café owner living in Paris during the 18th century. I really love anything old-fashioned – add ice cream into the mix and I’m a very happy girl.
My great Aunt Connie used to make this for special occasions, and her recipe is quick, fun and simple!
Old-Fashioned Tortoni
- ¾ cup crushed macaroons
- ¾ cup confectioner’s sugar
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ pint heavy cream
- ¾ tsp almond extract
(makes 1 dozen if made in cupcake pan)
Combine ¾ cup of crushed macaroons with ¾ cup of confectioner’s sugar. Mix with ¾ cup milk, then let stand in refrigerator for 1 hour. Whip ½ pint heavy cream until stiff.
Fold in macaroon mixture and ¾ tsp almond extract. Fill cupcake papers, and sprinkle with toasted almonds if you’d like. (To toast, sprinkle layer of sliced almonds onto shallow pan and toast at 325 degree for 20 minutes.)
Cover with plastic and freeze overnight. The next day, you’ll have delicious Italian ice cream waiting for you! It may be frozen for a while, and I store them in a container so that mini-ice cream is always in my freezer.
Enjoy!
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Have you ever had Tortoni?
What recipe has been passed down in your family?
Today’s guest post is from a close blend of mine, Caitlin from The Twenty Fifth Year. Caitlin is one of the best writers and photographers I know, so I’m honored to have her share this post on GML. Read on, and then be sure to check out more of her amazing work at 2526 Studios!
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I love photography. I love capturing a moment in time that would have otherwise escaped and sharing it with others. To me, there’s nothing as satisfying as watching the reaction of someone when they see a photo that strikes a chord with them. Whether it’s an emotion or a memory, I love the way an image can stir someone and that – among many reasons – is why I’ve turned it from a hobby to a lifestyle.
People often look at a shot I’ve taken and ask, “How did you do that?” Maybe they’re referring to an angle or an expression I’ve captured. It could be the lighting, the composition or just the surprise as to why I’d take a photo of something so ordinary like an umbrella or a street sign.
Every explanation is different. Sometimes I can just get in a position or angle my camera and show them. Sometimes it requires a bit more detail. What it all comes down to is this: trust your gut and believe in yourself.
Now, before you hand me the cliché of the century award, let me explain.
Maybe photography isn’t your thing. Maybe running is. Or baking. Or cooking. Or teaching. Whatever your bag, I can almost guarantee that when life presents you with an opportunity to get a little more or be a little better, you’re not only there, you’re there, first in line, camping out the night before telling anyone who will listen how crazy you are about it, what new thing you learned about it, all the while trying to convince them to love it, too.
How did you get to be that way?
You found this thing you liked, you tried it and discovered you were pretty good at it. You tried it out a little more, and you were great! So great, in fact, that right away you became the best there ever was at your new interest.
Or maybe, this thing you liked? Didn’t come naturally. It didn’t fall right into your lap, in no need of an instruction booklet, waiting to make your life instantly gratifying.
Now is the time to call upon those dear little friends of yours – the clichés.
Think about what you love. Take away the fear of being judged, of failing and the uncertainty of what the result will be. Take away the audience, your peers and the idea of facing adversity.
What are you left with?
Oh yeah, that thing you love.
And your mojo.
Start there. Strip it down and get back to basics. You and that thing you love? Are awesome together. The more you practice and pursue, the less you’ll even think about those things you took away. Sure the audience will come back. Peers will start to pop up. Some may even judge. But you followed your gut, you believed in yourself and you will then know having that power means more than any negative thought, word or deed that could be thrown your way.
Don’t believe me?
Let me tell you something. Almost a year ago, I left the state where I’d spent my entire life. I sold everything that wouldn’t fit in the back of my SUV and moved half way across the country. I took a severe pay cut and completely revamped my lifestyle. Being away from the people and places that had been a distraction to me let me break everything down to its simplest form. My intuition had told me to make this move and even though there were times I doubted my actions, nothing was pulling me as hard in another direction as it did to come here.
Five months after my arrival, I received my camera. I’d always had an interest in photography but when I picked up my DSLR for the first time, the only thing I knew how to do was turn it on and off. I started snapping and never quite stopped. Tens of thousands of photos, lots of research and a few small investments later, I launched my own business.
Now, I’m booking shoots. I’m crawling in dirt, getting in rivers, standing on my kitchen counter and doing whatever it takes to capture that moment that will evoke a person’s reaction.
I’m not thinking about other amazing photographers’ work when I’m shooting. I’m not thinking about what they’d say or how my friends and family will react. I’m not thinking about anything except what ‘s happening in that very moment. Truth be told, I follow a very keen sense of myself as I move through positions and angles. I trust that I know what I’m doing and know that if I’m not, it’s not the end of the world. Either way, there’s a lesson to learn and it in comes another little piece of confidence.
By listening and believing in myself, I’ve ended up right where I need to be. And guess what? The same story is one you can tell others, too. All you’ve gotta do is believe, trust, listen and get back to the most basic and stable approach you can take: it’s just you and that thing you love. Nothing else.
If it’s something as special to you as my camera is to me, you’re in for a real treat. Watch it become an extension of you. Watch your life prosper and grow. Never, ever ever, let anyone take it away.
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What hobby (or cause/belief/etc.) are you particularly passionate about?
Hi sweets! Today I’m thrilled to bring you a guest post from one of my favorite bloggers – Katie. CKK is a go-to of mine for simple-yet-healthy recipes, and homegirl is a *pro* when it comes to single-serving meals/treats. So please read on to get to know Katie and for a new recipe of hers! xoxo G.
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Hi!! I’m Katie, of the blog: Chocolate-Covered Katie.
It’s such an honor to be on Gracie’s blog. She is adorable and I love her for so many reasons! First, she appreciates all things cake batter, just like me! My own blog is filled with cake-batter recipes:
Such as the healthy Chocolate Cake-Batter Milkshake.
But more importantly, Gracie and I are both single ladies. When she asked me to highlight one of my single-lady cupcake flavors for today’s post, I was super-happy to oblige!
Single-Lady Banana Bread
(This makes one muffin or cupcake… Feel free to use a mini loaf pan if you’d rather have bread.)
- 3T flour (30g) (such as spelt, ww pastry, all-purpose…)
- heaping 1/16th tsp salt
- 1 heaping tablespoon very-ripe banana (20g)
- 1T oil, pre-melted vegan butter, applesauce, or combo (I used 10g coconut oil)
- 1T liquid, or more or less as needed to moisten batter (nondairy milk or water)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp baking powder, and tiny pinch baking soda (for flavor)
- Sweetener (For normal tastebuds, 1 to 1 and 1/2 T sugar. If you use liquid sweetener, cut back on other liquid. You can also use stevia. I omitted sugar, but most will probably want some.)
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Mix the dry, mix the wet, then add the two together. Pour into an oiled (or sprayed) muffin pan. Smooth top of batter. Cook for 10-14 ish minutes. (You can also cook in a microwave: spray a dish or mug with oil, and microwave about 90 seconds.)
See original single-lady post for Nutritional Information.
Let’s talk frosting!
This is really good with healthy Vanilla Fudge Frosting.
But it’s just as good with regular ole pb, coconut butter, or even plain!
Healthy can be naughty…
On my blog, I try to show that healthy food can taste amazing when it’s prepared the right way. One shouldn’t have to choose between good health and good taste; you can have your cake (preferably chocolate!) and eat it too.
Please do stop by sometime, at Chocolate-Covered Katie, and say hi. I love meeting new bloggie or reader friends! 
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What’s your go-to single serving treat?
LADY FRIENDS! (and two male-readers out there…waddup ). I have a treat for you today. For the first time ever, a guy will be posting on GML! And to represent the opposite sex, I’d like to introduce you to Chad.
Chad is new to the blogging world (check out his Tumblr), but he’s got a way of putting together quite the thought-provoking posts. I’ll admit that I was slightly hesitant when he offered to do a guest post since the majority of my readers are les femmes, but, don’t we all want (and need) a guy’s perspective from time to time?? Take it away…
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What a guy wants…eat your heart out Christina Aguilera.
I know we are familiar with Christina Aguilera song. Most of us were singing this at the top of our lungs (yes even guys) as they drove their cars or singing along to it in their rooms (okay, maybe not guys). It was pretty much that song and well “Genie in a bottle” that took her to the “OMG…she’s better than Britney!!!” status. What’s funny is that we tend to hear lots of songs about this. There is always a song about “what a girl wants” there really aren’t that many songs about “what a guy wants”, which I find funny. I mean, there are tons and tons of songs about girls. Think about “Hey There Delilah” by Plain White T’s. Funny thing is that guys tend to write songs about a specific girl not the “perfect girl”. You ever notice that? Girls tend to sing songs about the “perfect guy”. Think about it - dare I even say “Google it” -dig a bit and you’ll see.
So consider this post a guys’ song about “what a guy wants,” and for once it’s not the girls perspective. I think it’s hilarious when girls try to give girls advice on what a guy is thinking and vice versa. I’ve been in so many conversations where my guy friend is asking me to help figure out what she is thinking. Like some kind of professor I try to help them uncover the truth of the situation, usually to no avail. Why is that? This is about examining what I believe to be unhealthy dogmas about guys. With anything in life, when things aren’t communicated properly assumptions are made; and when assumptions are made that’s when we get into trouble. So here it is…two massive myths about guys…debunked.
1.) We actually aren’t afraid of commitment.
It cracks me up just how much of a stigma guys carry about being the noncommittal ones in relationships. I couldn’t find this further from the truth. I could tell story after story of my guy friends who start to hang out with a girl. They start spending a lot of time together. The girl is totally fine with this until the guy finally comes out and says, “Sooooooo…I like you!” Like someone who just had a surprise party thrown for them, the reaction on the girl face is completely surprised by this. Your response ladies is usually, “Oh really? I’m sorry I just don’t feel that way about you. I thought we were friends?”
Believe me – guys are guilty for this as well, but I don’t believe as often. Guys actually understand that spending a lot of time with a specific girl will give her that impression, which is why most guys get accused of being afraid of commitment. Just because we don’t spend a lot of time with you doesn’t make us players. It does if we go around kissing every girl we meet, but to be honest that’s only a handful of guys that ruin it for the rest.
If anything, I think girls are more guilty of spending to much time with a specific guy that they have no interest in than guys do with a girl. If you’re honest with yourself you know what I’m talking about girls. You all have that “good guy friend” who you had to let down easy because he started to like you and you just…didn’t. Remember, don’t be surprised if you spend a lot of time with someone and it leads to them liking you. TIME ALWAYS EQUALS INTENTION. You give your time to the things you like, right? There are plenty of ways to get to know a guy without spending all your free time with him, texting him, asking him for advice. Don’t ask to be invested in then be surprised when he starts to have feelings for you.
You might say, “I wasn’t asking to be invested in.” Well I’m sorry but you were when you started asking for his time in helping you sort through your thoughts and feelings. You wanted his attention but were shocked when he offered you his affection. What you say and what you do are usually completely opposite things. It’s not his fault that he likes you. You got him to care, and isn’t that you’ve wanted from a guy to begin with? A good guy who cares…
2.) We actually aren’t afraid of communication.
This point is the one that will probably drive most of you girls nuts. I can see you sitting there now going “alright moron, this is what I try to do.” A good relationship and being the kind of girl a guy wants is someone who learns how to speak his language. Not every guy is the same, just like every girl isn’t the same. You wouldn’t like me talking to you the same way I talked to my past girlfriends would you? Of course not! You’re not them, you’re you; and therefore I need to be the kind of guy who needs to learn about you so that I am able communicate well with you.
I feel like guys actually get this better because we’ve been brainwashed (in a good way) that “every girl is different,” while in contrast the stigma for guys is “all guys think the same thing.” Not true, contrary to your books we don’t think about sex every 5 seconds or whatever the statistic is. Sure, maybe there are some of us that do, but most of my guy friends are living pretty incredible lives doing things they love, and to be honest sex isn’t ruling the majority of their thoughts. So if that’s your assumption ladies its probably why you constantly end up disappointed. You tend to seek out what you perceive. So if your perception is “all guys just think about sex” well then you’re going to end up finding guys that just think about sex. If in a conversation I said to you, “all girls are skanks” you’d absolutely lose your mind. You’d quickly come back with a strong rebuttal as to why that isn’t true. If it’s true for you when can’t it be true for us? Why do we have to sit and just accept that “all we want is sex?” Just like you, there are versions of guys that are extroverted and introverted, both great and horrible. As much time as you would expect us to put into getting to know you, that should also be reciprocated back to us. Every guy has his different loves and passions (not all of us love video games) and are just as unique. Figuring out what makes us tick is just as vital as is us trying to figure out what makes you tick.
In the end it takes two to tango…
I am just a guy at the end of the day. I’ve been burned by girls and I have also burned girls. We all have similar stories. This isn’t about being perfect or right. At the end of the day this about being honest. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m willing to have a good conversation to find the truth that’s needed to do life well. I know you want to be a good girlfriend/wife as much as I want to be a good boyfriend/husband one day. That can only happen, though, when we stop assuming so much.
You can read this and think I’m a total moron and a “typical” guy for writing something like this. But I would challenge you to take 5 minutes and be honest with yourself about the whole thing. A big part of the myth about guys is that you ladies are just as guilty of the very same things you accuse us of being. You hate to be stereotyped but you have no problem putting stereotypes on us. So let’s start by knowing both sides are guilty at times. This isn’t about winning an argument. This is about guys and girls as individuals getting to place of confidence, strength, and health. Here’s to the journey…cheers.
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All I have to say is, touche Chad…touche. But I may have to come back with a counter post sooner or later
What do you think about Chad’s perspective on “what a guy wants?”
Hi friends – Gracie here. One of the reasons I was excited to feature guest posts was so I could introduce you to some rockin’ bloggers that I’ve recently become a fan of myself. So please give a warm welcome to Jessica from Stylish Stealthy and Healthy. Homegirl’s recipes are all sorts of amazing (and she’s quite hilarious), so be sure to check out her blog. But for now, read on!
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Well hello there Girl Meets Life readers! I’m Jessica from Stylish Stealthy and Healthy and I am super excited to be participating in my very first guest post Gracie’s blog is truly one of my faves and I’m honored to be able to share this delicious and healthy recipe with you!
So yes… where was I…
I’m a pretty classy broad. Give me a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, a ruffly dress and some pink nail polish and I’m all set. But every now and then, there’s another world that I long to be a part of. And this world, my friends, is filled with cold bubbly beer, spicy messy wings and, of course, pizza. Whether it’s a dark crowded dive bar filled wall to wall with a sea of NFL jerseys or a good old-fashioned backyard barbecue, every now and then I get a hankering to roll up my sleeves and indulge in “the good stuff”.
It’s a world where it’s ok to go through an entire roll of paper towels in one sitting and silverware is not only unnecessary but unheard of. It takes me back to my college days and I like it.
I mean really, what could be better than a dozen piping hot wings and crispy cheesy pizza, you may wonder. Well I’m glad you asked.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza, my darlings, that’s what. It’s actually fairly simple to throw together (unless you’re a crazy person like me who insists on making their own whole wheat crust), and with a few lightened up alterations, it’s also conveniently not so bad on that girlish figure we try so hard to maintain.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
(Adapted from Rachael Ray)
You’ll Need:
Whole wheat pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 lbs boneless skinless chicken tenders
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp grill seasoning
1 tbsp light butter
2-3 tbsp Frank’s RedHot Original hot sauce (or hot sauce of your choice)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp garlic, minced
1/2 small onion, cut into long slivers
1/4 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese
1/4 cup reduced-fat mozzarella cheese
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spread your dough out on a round pizza pan.
In a large skillet, sautee chicken in olive oil over med-high heat for about 4 minutes on each side. Slice into small pieces and set aside. Throw onions into the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes or until carmelized.
In a small sauce pan, melt butter and add buffalo sauce, tomato sauce, Worcestershire and minced garlic, mix. Add diced chicken and stir until all pieces are coated. Spread chicken and sauce mixture over your pizza crust and top with onions and cheese. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes or until crust is golden brown. (You could definitely sub bleu cheese for the mozzarella, but we’re not big bleu cheese fans in the SSH household.)
Printer Friendly Recipe
One bite and it’s like I’m back on my old campus, convincing myself I don’t really need to study for that Chem test tomorrow, even though I totally should.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to head back to my dorm room and listen to Dashboard Confessional until the new episode of Friends comes on tonight.
Enjoy!
xo Jess
Hi darlings! I’m glad to hear that you learned a thing or two from the Allure article. Now get ready to learn even more about how to spot potentially dangerous moles. Alex from I Eat Asphalt put together this amazing post to share with you all. Alex actually works at a Dermatology practice, so this lady really knows what she’s talking about! Enjoy =)
Holy Mole-y?
Gracie has provided a ton of great info about the dangers of tanning and sun exposure, but I will be the first one to admit that I did the tanning regime while in high school and college. I’m currently working for a Dermatologist, and let’s just say I’ve been scared into lathering myself with SPF 30 every day… even when working in an office with fluorescent lights. If you are guilty of one too many sunburns, start checking your skin periodically. Changing or irregular moles can be serious and should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Identifying a potentially cancerous mole is as easy as A-B-C-D-E.
A = Asymmetry. If you draw a line through the mole, are the two sides equal?
B = Border. Are the borders uneven or scalloped?
C = Color. Is the mole one solid color, or is it several different shades? Is it brown or has it changed to red?
D = Diameter. Cancerous moles are typically larger than the size of a pencil eraser. Does this mole look larger than other moles?
E = Evolving. Has this mole changed in any way (color, size) or started to bleed or itch?
Okay, so maybe your mole is just a little funny looking but isn’t as bad as the descriptions above. Sun exposure can cause several different types of pre-cancerous and cancerous skin lesions.
A general irregular mole is a Dysplastic Nevus, which is an unusual benign mole that may resemble melanoma. People who have a DN are at an increased risk of developing a skin cancer later in life.
A large, crusty skin lesion is most often an Actinic Keratosis, which develop from chronic sun exposure. AKs develop when ultraviolet light from the sun damages cells in the skin, specifically affecting the keratinocytes which give skin its texture. AKs are the most common pre-cancerous lesion.
The most common type of skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinoma occurring the basal cells, which line the deepest layer of the epidermis. Nearly all reported basal cells occur on areas of the body that were chronically exposed to the sun, such at the face, neck, back and shoulders. Basal cells often do not resemble other irregular moles and have a separate class of characteristics.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. SCC arises in the squamous cells that make up most of the skin’s epidermis. Squamous cell carcinomas may occur on all areas of the body, but is most commonly seen in areas with high sun exposure. Here’s a startling fact: Frequent use of tanning beds multiplies the risk of developing a squamous cell by 2.5 times. Squamous cell carcinomas typically appear as a thick, rough, scaly patch that can bleed if irritated.
 So let’s say that your dermatologist has identified a suspicious lesion and confirmed the diagnosis with a biopsy. What are your treatment options? Most pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions are removed through a local surgery. These procedures can be completed in the doctor’s office without anesthesia, and often have both short healing times and minimal complications. The only major side effect is scaring from stitches. Several other options exist to treat lesions, which are evaluated based upon the patients past medical history, medications and age.
The only way to prevent these lesions is protective skin measures. This means applying an SPF of at least 15 every day. This will not only help prevent a nasty growth, but will also help to keep you wrinkle free. And that is a beautiful thing my friends.
Sources
Skin Cancer Foundation: http://www.skincancer.org/
American Academy of Dermatology: http://www.aad.org/public/
A HUGE thanks goes out to Alex for this wonderful post. You’re the best, girl!
- Have you ever experienced a strange-looking mole? Did you get it checked out by a doctor?
Hello, my little tan-free beauties!  It’s now week two of National Skin Cancer Awareness Month. I’ve got quite a loaded post for today’s Tan-Free Tuesday, including two readers’ stories, so let’s get started!
Melanie’s Story
I recently just canceled my tanning membership for various reasons. I’ve been tanning since the age of 19. I’m a Hispanic American and as you may obviously know, many Hispanic people are naturally tanned. I was an exception and am pale as a ghost…or I was. My entire family has the “natural” glow so I was always made fun of for being “white” by my family, my friends, and just random people. I felt the need to keep up or try to live up to them. I wanted to fit in because being “white” was not cool. After I started tanning, some of my family members would tell me that they didn’t like my tanned skin and that they loved my “porcelain” skin. WHAT?! You call me names and then say you miss my “white” skin??? I’m 22 years old now and I’ve quit tanning FOR GOOD. Why? Because I don’t feel the need to live up to my family and friends. My health is far more important than to please them. I quit because I don’t want that risk of getting skin cancer (I KNOW IT CAN HAPPEN TO ME OR TO YOU…SCARY), I don’t want to wrinkle/age faster than what I should, and I never really know if those tanning beds are really clean. Not only that, I have freckles and when I tan they come out even more… I just want people to know that there REALLY are light skinned Hispanics and I’m one of them. I’ve learned to embrace my skin now because it’s beautiful and clean and taken care of. Now, I’m the “white” family member or friend and I’m totally okay with it.
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Michelle’s Story
I started tanning when I was 17 and worked at a hair salon that had a bed and a hex (stand-up tanning booth). I first went for my senior homecoming dance because all the other girls were and it was free since I worked there. I’ve always been freckled and very pale, and even though I didn’t get very dark from the tanning it gave me a burst of color that made me much more confident. I got so many compliments and felt so much cuter that somehow a few months turned into 9 years.
My first year of college I got a job at a tanning salon and went to tanning seminars and learned a lot about different lotions and different products to better enhance tanning. I never even thought about my skin being damaged really I wasn’t worried about it. But in the back of my mind the fact that I couldn’t be honest about my tanning to my mom or my little sisters that looked up to me I knew it wasn’t a good choice. Yet that still didn’t stop me. Even as a very poor college student I still continued paying a monthly fee to keep up my tan.
Then last year I got a random text message from my mom saying “do you still tan” and the fact that it was just an something that was never talked about it really startled me. She then sent me an article on new facts about tanning and skin cancer and how it was just as bad as smoking for your health. For some reason that one article helped me to completely stop I went that day and canceled my package. I haven’t tanned in over a year. Several times in the last year I’ve thought about going again and honestly its been hard. But my skin is much more soft and healthy and I’m actually starting to like my true skin color. I know that my future self will always thank me for quitting when I did.
- MKG from MoveLoveCook
Reader Tips: Self Tanning
Some of you left comments with great self-tanning tips last week, so I wanted to take the opportunity to share them!
- Tracey @ I’m Not Super Human – I pick Jergen’s Natural Glow, since it builds over time. Here’s a tip, though: If you’re fair-skinned, stick with medium. The pigments in it are better so you don’t turn orange. It’s much more natural than the light version.
- Alison – I used to use Coppertone Endless Summer self-tanner and loved it. However, it’s super hard to find nowadays! I haven’t used self-tanner at all this year and am learning to embrace my pale skin. It’s easier said than done!
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- Lily @ Lily’s Health Pad – I am naturally fair skinned and freckly. I used to apply self tanner all the time. But A couple years ago, I gave it up. I’ve come to appreciate my natural color, and I don’t mind rocking the white- even in the summer!
- Nicole @ Making Good Choices – I love Jergens for everyday use..I usually just use that on my arms though and it leaves a nice amount of color all year round (I like to think anyways!)
- Michelle @ Give Me The Almond Butter – I like Nivea sun-kissed products. They dry really fast and don’t have the icky smell of Jergens natural glow.
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- Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine – favorite self-tanner is L’oreal sublime glow mist. it’s a gradual tanner, and it’s super easy to apply!
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Thanks so much, lady loves!
Must-Reads
Alex from I Eat Asphalt commented last week, and I was excited to hear that she actually works for a dermatologist in nearby Philadelphia! She gave me the link to the American Academy of Dermatology Fact Sheets, all of which are incredibly helpful and interesting. Some of my favorites are:
Thanks Alex!! That’s it for this week’s edition of Tan-Free Tuesday. If you’d like to share anything for next week, please feel free to leave a comment letting me know!
Subway Giveaway Winners
#14: Lisa (I’m an Okie) – “I want the egg white omelet on Flatbread! The flatbread looks SO good.”
#19: Jennifer (shesafitchick.com) – “I would get tuna & veggies.. yum!!”
#38: Katherine – “I would also love to try the egg & cheese breakfast sandwich on an English muffin!!”
Congrats! Please email me with your full name, email, and mailing address.
- What’s your favorite sunscreen?
- What pressure (if any) do you feel from your peers or society when it comes to being tan?
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