Monday, March 25, 2013

Relationships




A healthy relationship can leave you feeling on top on the world. However, a relationship that isn’t working can leave you feeling drained and stressed. I’ve personally been in both types of relationships. Relationships are an investment; but without building a stable foundation it’s likely for your investment to crumble between your fingertips.



Everybody’s relationships are unique but knowing a few key tips can keep your relationship thriving and well nourished. So here are a few tips that I've learned over the years. However, I must admit that these tips are easier said than done. But the best things in life aren't worth it without applying a little bit of work and effort!! ^_^



Communicating with one another. Honest and direct communication is the key to any relationship. Communication can keep confusion down and when both people feel comfortable expressing their needs, fears and desires, trust and bonds are strengthened.


Staying involved with each other. Some relationships get stuck in peaceful coexistence, but without truly relating to each other and working together. While it may seem stable on the surface, lack of involvement and communication increases distance. When you need to talk about something important, the connection and understanding may no longer be there.


Getting through conflict. The key in a strong relationship is not to be fearful of conflict. It’s best to work on your problems as they occur so your partner can understand the issue and hopefully resolve the dilemma right away. Both parties need to feel safe to express things that bother them without fear of retaliation.


Keeping outside relationships and interests alive. No one person can meet all of our needs, and expecting too much from someone can put a lot of unhealthy pressure on a relationship. Clinginess can push your partner away but having friends and outside interests not only strengthens your social network, but brings new insights and stimulation to the relationship, too.


Spending quality time together. When you first start dating everything is new, fun, and exciting. In the beginning, your learning things about each other, going on dates frequently, staying up all night on the phone, and simply spending a lot of time dedicated towards the relationship. However, as time goes by, the honeymoon period ends. Reality steps into play and demanding jobs, children, long commutes, time with friends, different hobbies and other obligations can make it hard to find time together. But it is critical for you to make time just for your relationship. If you don’t have quality time, communication and misunderstandings start to erode.

I hope you find these tips helpful to your relationship!!! 

Ashley

Sunday, March 24, 2013

Sunday Social



I hope everyone had a great week!!! Always remember to do your best for today, better than yesterday but not as good as tomorrow. 


What is your favorite thing about spring?
My favorite thing about spring is knowing SUMMER is around the corner!!!!

What is your favorite kind of flower to grow or receive?
 I don’t have a great green thumb sooo I wouldn’t try to grow any flower lol. But if my special guy wanted to surprise me with a banquet of flowers, I would love to receive a dozen red roses.

What is your favorite nail polish color?
 I don’t necessarily have a favorite nail polish color… I just like whatever I think is cute at that point in time.

What is your favorite outdoor activity?
My favorite outdoor activity is walking on the lakefront hand in hand with my guy…. We only walked along the lakefront once this winter but I’m hoping that will change once it start warming up outside.

Do you have any fun spring plans? Details! :)
My main spring plans are finding a career so I can begin to solely depend on myself.

Sunday, March 17, 2013

Sunday Social




Hey guys I hope your week has been amazing!!! Here's my second SUNDAY SOCIAL ;-)



1. What is your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?


On rainy days I love to sit in the house and relax by the tv, read a good book, or cuddle with my guy. I must admit cuddling with my guy is my absolute favorite. It’s something special about listening to the pitter pats of the raindrops as he wraps his arms around me.

2. What is your favorite thing to do on a summer weekend?

On a summer weekend I love to enjoy the lakefront (I live in Chicago by Lake Michigan), barbeque, drink Jamaican Me Happy, hang out with friends, wear little cute summer outfits and drive while enjoying the sunshine, blasting my favorite songs.

3. What is your favorite spring activity?


I’m not sure if I have a favorite spring activity but I know I love it when the sun finally decides to show and the weather starts warming up.

4. What is your favorite way to spend a winter day?

I love when Chicago has one of its notorious blizzards but I’m warm inside watching the snow fall; sipping on hot chocolate.


What is your favorite season and why?


My favorite season is summer because you can do so much more when its warm outside. When its winter all you want to do is stay inside and keep warm but in the summertime you want to take advantage of everything!!! I know this summer I’m looking forward to swimming, road trips, The Taste of Chicago, chillin’ on the lakefront, skating, barbeques, and soooo much more!!

5. What is the best birthday you ever had?

For some reason my birthdays normally suck!! But I do remember I had a great time for my 12th birthday because I had a sleepover and the next day my entire family came over for a barbeque. My 21st wasn’t that bad either… me and a group of friends visited Bdubs and afterward one of my best friends, at the time, went to the bars and I got completely wasted.




Saturday, March 16, 2013

Recipe Corner



Recipe Corner 
Potatoes Skins

Recently, I made a great appetizer, POTATOES SKINS!! They are extremely delicious and very easy to prepare.



Ingredients:
·         10 potatoes can give you 20 potatoes skins
·         3 cups of canola oil
·         1 bundle of green onions
·         1 bag of bacon bits
·         1 bag of shredded cheese

Step 1: Scrub the potatoes clean and place in the oven for one hour at 400 degrees.

Step 2: When the potatoes are finished baking give them a few minutes to cool down. Once, the potatoes are finished cooling slice them in half and scoop out the insides leaving only a little bit of the potatoes and the skin. You may want to save the additional potatoes so you can make regular mash potatoes.

Step 3: Once the oil is heated, place potatoes inside until they are browned on both sides.

Step 4: Slice the green part of the green onions.

Step 5: Sprinkle on the inside with cheese, bacon bits, green onions and if you desire sour cream.

Step 6: ENJOY!!!!