tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77320285640435865472024-02-18T20:12:10.617-08:00brittany anne dangerfieldAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14385505657536658381noreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-34987326534658854842018-02-06T19:16:00.001-08:002018-02-06T19:19:42.230-08:00CHICKEN LETTUCE WRAPS<div style="text-align: center;">
Winner winner chicken dinner! But for real... haha. One of my New Years goals has been to follow through with things. Yesterday, I posted a picture of this dinner on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/brittanyannedanger">my Instagram</a> and everyone wanted the recipe--so here it is! Read to the end for a way to make homemade hoisin sauce in under 5 minutes.</div>
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I found this recipe on <a href="http://www.watchmewhipblog.com/">Watch Me Whip's Blog</a>, and it's delicious and easy to make. I dare say it tastes remarkably similar to P.F. Chang's lettuce wraps!</div>
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You will need: </div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">1 tablespoon olive oil</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 pound ground chicken</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 tsp minced garlic</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 onion chopped</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1/4 cup hoisin sauce</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 tablespoons Kikkoman Less Sodium Soy Sauce</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 tablespoon rice white vinegar</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 tablespoon ginger</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 tablespoon Sriracha</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 (8 oz) water chestnuts - chopped and drained</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 green onions chopped</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">salt and pepper</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">a head of lettuce.</li>
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Directions:</div>
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Over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil in a pan. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned while making sure that you break down the meat. Add the garlic, onion, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, ginger and sriracha. Stir all together and cook for about two minutes until the onions start to become translucent. Add the water chestnuts and green onion pieces. Cook for another two minutes. Remove from heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Separate the lettuce pieces. Eat the lettuce with a small amount of the chicken mixture on it. Drizzle with Kikkoman Soy Sauce, and white or brown rice (if you're a rice lover like me!) YUM.</div>
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I realized after the chicken was cooking that we were out of hoisin sauce--a major ingredient for this recipe. No biggie! To make homemade hoisin sauce in under 5 minutes, you need:</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">4 tablespoons soy sauce.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 tablespoon dark brown sugar.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 garlic clove, finely minced.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 teaspoons sesame seed oil.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 teaspoon hot sauce (more or less to taste)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1/8 teaspoon black pepper.</li>
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I just threw everything in the pan once the chicken was browned, and it tasted amazing!! I prefer it over store-bought hoisin sauce now.</div>
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Hope you enjoy!!</div>
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x</div>
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Brittany</div>
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Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-51742553335477559342018-01-10T20:37:00.001-08:002018-01-10T20:47:39.087-08:00DEEP BREATH | RE-FOCUS<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"when you are struggling in your writing (art).<br />it usually means you are hearing one thing. but writing (creating) another."<br />-- honest | risk</span></div>
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I stumbled across this gem on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/nayyirah.waheed">this</a> instagram account and it struck me to my core. As part of my healing process from growing up with <a href="http://www.wolfertssisters.blogspot.com/">years of abuse</a>, I have been slowly shedding my skins as if I had been encased in a cocoon (living in survival mode ages 0-18, I pretty much had been). I have been finding joy in things I never thought I would enjoy. I have been learning about who I am for the first time in my life, because I have been able to explore/create/admire/breathe for the first time in my life, freely. It has been so healing to find success in writing a personal blog, designing an <a href="http://www.instagram.com/brittanyannedanger">Instagram account</a>, modeling, and of course, continuing my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BrittanyAnneArt">art business</a>. </div>
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This past year, I have felt as if I've been running into a brick wall whenever I've tried to write and create. I haven't had a problem fulfilling custom orders for <a href="http://www.brittanyanneart.com/">artwork</a>, or scheduled posts for collaborators that I adore... but when it came to creating <i>for</i> <i>me</i>? Nothing. Blank, vast, emptiness. This has been such an odd feeling, especially coming from a background of writing lengthy blog posts and legal papers and interviewing with countless news stations--even traveling across the U.S. to work with some of them, including the Dr. Phil show. I built my voice as I shared my story countless times over the course of about two years. My vision and direction was clear as day. Then...<br />
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Scott and I were surprised with an incredible blessing: the pregnancy of our firstborn. I embraced motherhood on every level, and dove into research about what my baby and body needed from me. One of the first things that I knew I needed to do for our health: weed out any major stressors. That's when I went into hibernation mode and broke down the legal work to the bare minimum. (I wasn't going to give up fighting for my sisters, but I stopped writing and interviewing with news stations.) I went into mama bear-mode and that only became stronger with <a href="http://brittanyannedanger.blogspot.com/2017/05/dages-birth-story.html">the arrival of our little baby</a>. Doing this allowed me to focus more on other things--such as <a href="http://www.instagram.com/brittanyannedanger">my Instagram</a>, where I have shared words, music, photos and brands that inspire me. I have been <i>so</i> grateful for the ability to focus on happy things.</div>
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However...</div>
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When the focus shifted away from the harder parts of my life, a lack of depth accompanied it, along with a great piece of who I had become: my writing. Something that once came so easily to me has been lagging and difficult to create. I have longed to write more about my healing process and share inspiration and information with all who may use it (this is truly my life dream), and my heart has been yearning to continue on that path. I am full to the brim of gratitude for the paths that I have walked in recent years--and I am by no means discounting anything that I've shared recently on my social media platforms--but I am thankful for this little quote that has reminded me of something very important: </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am hearing one thing, and writing another.</span></div>
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Prepare to hear more from me as I choose to tune in to the messages that have been sent my way, so that I can receive them, decipher them, and know how to better create the words and art I am meant to create for this world.</div>
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And if these words also spoke to YOU: I would recommend to cut anything out of your life that isn't serving your purpose and divine destiny. If you close your eyes, take a deep breath and picture your life heading in the direction you feel it needs to go, those things will become apparent. I wish you luck on your journey!</div>
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Brittany</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.instagram.com/brittanyannedanger">@brittanyannedanger</a></td></tr>
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Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-22906723042836026502018-01-05T17:05:00.000-08:002018-01-10T20:38:06.306-08:00PROTEIN SMOOTHIE + NEW YEAR GOALS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Another year has passed us by, and I can't believe it! 2018 is going to be a good year; I can feel it. This year, my resolutions / goals are simpler, and I'm spacing them out in order to not overwhelm myself. In 2018 I will:</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Remember that food is MEDICINE for my body and I need to treat it that way. I will fuel my body with healthier foods. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">I will view working out the same. Rather than losing x amount of pounds, I will consistently remind myself that it is fueling my body and increasing my quality of life, from the inside out!</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Remember that perfectionism breeds procrastination, so I am going to focus more on completing tasks and not being as hard on myself to make everything "perfect"</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">I am going to serve more people, with more kindness and love</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">I will focus on not holding back when I think of a compliment for someone--even if they're a stranger. We need more kind words in our world!</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">I am a creature of CHANGE, and want to become more of a creature of habit! So many things are about making habits, such as: healthy eating, working out, getting plenty of sleep, being productive at schoolwork. This year I will work on establishing good habits and keeping them!</li>
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In addition to many of you kicking off the Near Year by starting my juice cleanse, I have received questions about other things I do to stay fit and healthy. One of the most important things I can emphasize is that most Americans don't eat enough protein every day--especially moms! The Dietary Reference Intake is 0.36 grams per pound. This amounts to <i>56 grams per day</i> for the average sedentary man, and <i>46 grams per day</i> for the average sedentary woman. Pregnant women need at least <i>70 grams per day</i>. That's a lot. Did you know that your body uses protein to build and repair tissues, make enzymes, regulate hormones and other body chemicals? Protein is such an important building block--hair and nails are almost entirely made of protein. The following list are some symptoms that your body is lacking protein:<br />
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<li style="text-align: left;">A sluggish metabolism</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Trouble losing weight</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Trouble building muscle mass</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Low energy levels and fatigue</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Poor concentration and trouble learning</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Moodiness and mood swings</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Muscle, bone and joint pain</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Blood sugar changes (that can eventually lead to diabetes)</li>
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I don't know about you--but I definitely don't eat my proper protein intake every day (I sense another resolution coming on)! Foods like chicken, milk, eggs, nuts, cottage cheese, quinoa and kefir are good sources of protein, but they're not enough on their own. A quick, delicious way to fill your body with protein is a shake. However... we all know protein shakes can tend to taste grainy and hard to muscle down. I've got a little secret hack for you today--my favorite protein shake recipe that you can pack your daily greens and protein into, all while tasting like dessert.</div>
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<u>CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER PROTEIN SHAKE</u></div>
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- 1 large banana</div>
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- 1 cup Silk almond milk</div>
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- 6-8 ice cubes</div>
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- 2 handfuls of spinach</div>
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- 1/2 scoop organic PB Fit powder</div>
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- 2 scoops (20-40g) <a href="https://www.idealfit.com/sports-nutrition/ideallean-protein-chocolate-brownie/11331980.html?affil=thggpsad&switchcurrency=USD&shippingcountry=US&thg_ppc_campaign=71700000020461710&gclid=Cj0KCQiA4bzSBRDOARIsAHJ1UO5yOdrDmXZAPp6-FDo5Ay4V9W8Fxf3YA_WX1TzfBPSHmkVYNYwEc14aAgIqEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">IdealLean protein powder</a></div>
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(Chocolate Coconut or Chocolate Brownie)</div>
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- 1 tbsp raw organic honey (optional)</div>
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Blend and enjoy!</div>
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IdealLean protein powder is the best I've found, and those who have bought it on my recommendation agree wholeheartedly. The other ingredients can be found at Costco!</div>
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Here's to kicking the New Year off and fueling our bodies right! Hope you enjoy! :)</div>
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Brittany</div>
Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-75801849846564771462017-11-25T10:00:00.000-08:002017-11-25T16:37:12.660-08:00MY JUICE CLEANSE<div style="text-align: center;">
For those of you who don't know me--hey there! My husband and I started this juice cleanse at the end of October. I'll be updating this post in the near future with photos--I don't want to wait a moment more in getting this up for you guys--but the difference has been incredible to my husband and I. It is the perfect time of the year to start!<br />
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It all started when we curled up one night to watch a movie together and after searching for a minute, we decided to watch the documentary <a href="https://www.rebootwithjoe.com/">Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead</a> on <a href="http://www.netflix.com/">Netflix</a>--best decision ever. If you haven't seen it, please watch it before starting this cleanse with me. It's the backbone of every idea and recipe from what you're about to read. Now for the results!<br />
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<b>Physically</b><br />
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In total, I lost 8 lbs in the 7 days I did the cleanse, and another 3 lbs shed in the following week when I was back to eating "normal" (dairy, gluten, less veggies, etc). My hypothesis is that it altered my metabolism, because I've been eating "normal" over the last three weeks and my weight has continued to maintain itself. I am at a weight that I haven't had since junior high and dropped three pant sizes--something I <i>never</i> thought was possible, especially after having a baby. I have noticed a huge difference in my energy as well. My husband lost 15 lbs in the first 2 weeks and he's still going strong! Doing the cleanse has cut his long-lasting insulin in half, and he hardly has to take any short-lasting during the day. It's such a miracle.<br />
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The weight wasn't the reason I kicked into juice-mode, but it has been an amazing side effect. I started this because wanted to feel better and healthier inside; another benefit I enjoyed from the cleanse.<br />
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<b>Emotionally</b><br />
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While days 2 and 3 sent my body into emotional havoc (<i>can someone say "hangry?"</i>), I felt more stable than I ever have towards the end of the week. I didn't hit a point of noticeable energy after the toxins cleared until day 4, the clarity came on day 5, and wow was it ever clarity! I felt that I had the focus and stability to complete three times the amount of tasks than I did before the cleanse.<br />
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Another element of the cleanse that affected my emotional well-being was the control of my body and my health. I was confronted with a psychological struggle that I didn't expect when starting this cleanse. I was seriously <i>sad</i> about not snacking on nachos/tacos/cookies/etc whenever we started a movie. As my mind went through the withdrawal stage from sugars, starches and simple carbs, I had a major struggle within myself over how addicted I was to emotional eating. My body was receiving plenty of nutrients (and adequate calories) and yet, I was <i>so</i> emotionally tied to junk food. As I continued to stick to my smoothies, taking charge of my health began to have a healing effect on me. I learned that I didn't need the junk like my mind was trying to tell me I did, and that I had the strength within myself to take care of my body's true needs.<br />
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**Disclaimer: though your body will feel like it for the first few days, this is not an extreme form of dieting because your body isn't being starved of nutrition--in fact, it's getting more nutrition than it ever does in a regular day. My husband and I have had amazing results doing this cleanse, but I am not a professional dietitian. Please participate in this cleanse at your own risk. If you have diabetes or any other illnesses, consult your doctor before you begin.**<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Wci1cUywC3sMvPiuYopYICjmSuPXJl8bzLPPTu5foKfJOWh5kFQvtz_qS3JyqG1UFG8AXg16O-g6XOizBSPQwKUH4-fIubjoiiP5QZj9SyGVD4_psZBjevaPvc-tSlAsBXYfkt4XVsPS/s1600/juice+cleanse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Wci1cUywC3sMvPiuYopYICjmSuPXJl8bzLPPTu5foKfJOWh5kFQvtz_qS3JyqG1UFG8AXg16O-g6XOizBSPQwKUH4-fIubjoiiP5QZj9SyGVD4_psZBjevaPvc-tSlAsBXYfkt4XVsPS/s640/juice+cleanse.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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These recipes can be rotated however you wish! They can be easily prepared in multiple servings before work and stored in the fridge. The hardest part of the cleanse is that you will have to take trips to the store more frequently for fresh food. Some prep will be required for peeling oranges, coring apples, etc. but never requires more than 5 minutes prep time. I have loved that about this cleanse.<br />
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DAY 1<br />
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Breakfast--serves 1<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-2 handfuls spinach/greens<br />
-1/2 cucumber<br />
-1/2 avacado<br />
-juice of 1/2 lemon<br />
-1 green apple<br />
-1 scoop (20g) protein<br />
(I use IdealLean, but a plant based protein is recommended and what my husband has been using)<br />
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Lunch--serves 1<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-2 handfuls spinach/greens<br />
-1/2 avacado<br />
-juice of 1/2 lemon<br />
-1 peach<br />
-1 banana<br />
-chunks of pineapple<br />
-1 scoop (20g protein)<br />
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Dinner--serves 1<br />
-1/2 coconut milk or 2 tbsp coconut flakes<br />
-1 banana<br />
-1/2 avacado<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-dash of tumeric or cinnamon<br />
-2 handfuls spinach<br />
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DAY 2<br />
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Breakfast--serves 2<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-2 cup spinach/greens<br />
-1/2 cucumber<br />
-1/2 avacado<br />
-juice of 1/2 lemon<br />
-1/2 green apple<br />
-chunks of pineapple<br />
-6-8 strawberries<br />
1-2 scoops (20-30g) protein<br />
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Lunch--serves 2<br />
-2 cucumbers<br />
-8 celery stalks<br />
-4 apples<br />
-16 leaves of kale with stalks<br />
-juice of 1 lemon<br />
-1 inch piece of ginger<br />
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Dinner--serves 1<br />
-5 strawberries<br />
-2 handfuls kale<br />
-2 tbsp cacao nibs or 1 scoop chocolate protein<br />
-dash of tumeric and cinnamon<br />
-8 oz almond milk<br />
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DAY 3<br />
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Breakfast--serves 2<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-2 cups spinach/greens<br />
-1 stalk celery<br />
-1 1/2 green apple<br />
-juice of 1/2 lemon<br />
-chunks of pineapple<br />
-1-2 large carrots<br />
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Lunch--serves 1<br />
-1/2 cup almond milk<br />
-1 cup spinach/greens<br />
-1/2 avacado<br />
-1 large banana<br />
-1 scoop (20g) protein<br />
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Dinner--serves 2<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-2 cups spinach/greens<br />
-10 strawberries<br />
-pineapple chunks<br />
-1 peach<br />
-juice of 1/2 lemon<br />
-1/2 avacado<br />
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DAY 4<br />
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Breakfast--serves 1<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-2 cups spinach/greens<br />
-1 green apple<br />
-1 carrot<br />
-juice of 1/2 lemon<br />
-20-40g (1-2 scoops) protein powder<br />
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Lunch--serves 1<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-1 pear<br />
-1 banana<br />
-2 leaves kale<br />
-1 tsp honey<br />
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Dinner--serves 2<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-2 handfuls spinach/greens<br />
-1/2 cucumber<br />
-1/2 avacado<br />
-juice of 1/2 lemon<br />
-1 green apple<br />
-2 scoops (40g) protein<br />
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DAY 5<br />
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Breakfast--serves 2<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-1 scoop protein powder<br />
-1/2 cup blueberries (frozen or thawed)<br />
-1/3 avacado<br />
-2 kale leaves<br />
-1/2 tsp vanilla<br />
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Lunch--serves 1<br />
-1 cup coconut water<br />
-1 pear<br />
-1/3 cucumber<br />
-1 cup of spinach<br />
-1/2 peeled lime<br />
-1 tsp coconut oil<br />
-1 handful of ice<br />
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Dinner--serves 2<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-2 cup spinach/greens<br />
-1/2 cucumber<br />
-1/2 avacado<br />
-juice of 1/2 lemon<br />
-1/2 green apple<br />
-chunks of pineapple<br />
-6-8 strawberries<br />
1-2 scoops (20-30g) protein<br />
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DAY 6<br />
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Breakfast--serves 1<br />
-3/4 cup raspberries<br />
-1 cup spinach<br />
-1 scoop protein powder<br />
-1 cup almond or coconut milk<br />
-3-5 ice cubes<br />
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Lunch<br />
(I had court this day and ate a salad of spinach, tomatoes,<br />
shredded carrots and mushrooms on the go)<br />
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Dinner--serves 1<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-2 handfuls spinach/greens<br />
-1/2 cucumber<br />
-1/2 avacado<br />
-juice of 1/2 lemon<br />
-1 green apple<br />
-1 scoop (20g) protein<br />
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DAY 7<br />
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Breakfast--serves 1<br />
-12 cherries<br />
-1/4 pineapple<br />
-1/4 beet (beetroot)<br />
-1 cup coconut water or almond milk<br />
-1 handful of ice<br />
1 tbsp chia seeds<br />
-1 tsp coconut oil (optional)<br />
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Lunch--serves 2<br />
-2 oranges<br />
-1 tsp honey<br />
-1 cup coconut milk<br />
-1 large handful of ice<br />
-1 tsp chia seeds<br />
-1 tsp fresh ginger<br />
-1/2 tsp cinnamon<br />
-1 tsp natural vanilla<br />
-pinch of ground clove powder (optional)<br />
-pinch of nutmeg (optional)<br />
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Dinner--serves 2<br />
-1 cup almond milk<br />
-2 handfuls spinach/greens<br />
-1/2 cucumber<br />
-1/2 avacado<br />
-juice of 1/2 lemon<br />
-1 green apple<br />
-2 scoops (40g) protein<br />
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SUBSTITUTIONS<br />
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cherries -- raspberries, blueberries, strawberries<br />
oranges -- apple, mandarin, tangelo<br />
pineapple -- apple, pear<br />
beet -- carrot, raspberries<br />
chia seeds -- flaxseeds, hempseeds<br />
almond milk -- hemp milk, coconut milk, coconut water, hazelnut milk, rice milk<br />
honey -- stevia, maple syrup<br />
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APPROVED SNACKS<br />
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These are meant for breastfeeding women and special health circumstances. Remember that eating any solids is "cheating" off of the cleanse because liquidating your meals is the main idea--but if you HAVE to snack, make sure to stick to veggies or fruits and stay away from dairy/starch/gluten. The other snacks are what I had in between smoothies to keep my caloric intake where it needs to be, as I'm exclusively nursing my baby. If you're nursing, please make sure you are having enough calories!<br />
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Protein bars (must at least 18g each), nuts, eggs, multigrain toast with butter, Lara bar, Aussie Bite (Costco carries), salad, cuties/oranges, avacado, sliced bell peppers, carrots and hummus, an apple or banana, grapefruit, pomegranate, grapes, etc. A Bolthouse Farm "Daily Greens" smoothie is also approved, if you're caught in a pinch without your smoothie.<br />
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Feel free to leave any questions in the comments or send me a DM on Instagram, and I will answer as soon as possible. The most important thing to remember during those first few rough days is that it is all worth it! Doing this with my spouse has helped me stick to it. I would definitely recommend doing this with your significant other or other family member or friend. Good luck!!<br />
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Brittany</div>
Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-57279725035588780652017-10-25T12:02:00.003-07:002017-10-25T12:08:21.483-07:00THE TRUTH OF DEPRESSION<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's the thing.</div>
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I don't want to be someone you follow who shares nothing but the happy parts of their lives. I don't want to be just another lifestyle blogger from Utah, or another set of pretty pictures displayed in a square grid of happiness. I want to be there for you, I want to be your real friend--not just another "screen buddy." I want you to know that I understand the depression thing, wholly and fully. I want you to know that I know what it feels like to shake with sobs as the gaping hole in your chest widens into an abyss of black. I know what it feels like to be bullied, misunderstood, deemed an outcast at school. I know what it feels like to be abused, hurt every day by someone who is supposed to be one of your greatest supporters and role models. I know the pains of loss like the back of my hand--friends, family, people I knew for ages and loved with all my heart. I know the sting of rejection, the despair of divorce, the fear of the unknown, the torture of truly believing you will never amount to anything in life. I know all of this and so much more. </div>
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The truth of depression is that it's harrrdd. An equal truth, however, is that during your most lonely moments, you are never really alone. We all have unique trials that we face, and if you're fighting something I've never had to understand, God still knows. I'm obsessed with this beautiful quote by Mallory Stevens: "The miracle of the Atonement is this: the Savior not only knows what it's like to have depression; he knows what it's like to have your exact depression. He literally experienced it as if it was his own. He felt your infertility as if it was his own, your struggling business as if it was his own, your heartbreak at being single as if it was his own. Not only that, He knows what it's like to have a spouse with depression, or a spouse struggling with an addiction, or a parent who passed away. He knows not only how our own trials weigh on us, but also how we crumble under the weight of our loved ones burdens - desperate to administer relief but feeling, largely, helpless. He knows what it's like to miss the very person you are currently missing, not just what it's like to miss someone in general. He knows what it's like to lose the very person you have lost. He knows the weight of losing a child, but not just any child, he knows the insurmountable heaviness of losing your exact, sweet, perfect baby. He knows what it feels like to miss their very laugh, their very smell, their very warmth. He didn't experience our sorrows in general terms, he experienced them exactly. Your exact heartbreak is intimately familiar to Him - He, too, shook as he bore it. He remembers the pain of it as if it was His own. And that is why He can succor us."</div>
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I know that through utilizing the everlasting power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, you can be healed. Whenever I'm asked how I got through my crazy experiences and rebuilt a beautiful life, I never hesitate in my answer... "All that I am, I owe to my mom and Jesus Christ." He saved me, and I'm forever grateful I didn't turn my back on His love. (Don't you dare turn your back, either.) Other powerful forces against depression are service, self-care, natural remedies and supplements, and even medical treatment. Part of my self-care routine includes: keeping a gratitude journal, eating healthy, painting, enjoying nature, and listening to good music. Part of my service is taking care of neighbors, cooking or baking for others, and reaching out to those who are going through a difficult time through social media. I take vitamins and supplements every day that I remember to, and it makes such a difference! If I don't have a balanced diet and schedule, it's much harder to fight the stresses of life and they go from manageable to overwhelming. </div>
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We live in a world where it seems that happiness is glorified and sadness is kept from view. Do not believe the voices that tell you nobody cares or that you are less of a person because of your hardships. <i>I care.</i> I care so much that I'm dedicating an entire blog to this kind of thing. I care about your well-being and healing, despite the trails you face, because I have been through hell and back and I'm here to tell you that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Know this: when you are struggling, I am here for you! Please, let me be there for you. I will try my best to keep up on all my messages.<br />
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"We must remember that we did not come to this earth to gain our worth--we brought it with us." // A.G.K.<br />
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xoxo<br />
Brittany</div>
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Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-90975568817310581712017-08-31T12:26:00.000-07:002017-09-01T15:59:37.659-07:00THE TRUTH OF CHANGE<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">Here I am, just as promised, with my first "truth": the reality of change. </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In my desire to be more transparent and open with you, I </span><strike style="color: #222222; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">want</strike><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> need to be real about all the changes going on in my life, and how I've grown through them. I am not who I once was, and it's time to own my struggles and triumphs. & Make sure to read to the bottom for a message I wrote directly for YOU.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">I wanted to start here because this topic is one I am extraordinarily passionate about, and I'm hoping that it brings serenity to those who need it. </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Change is soo interesting to me. It can be so painful, but it's </span><i style="color: #222222; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">so necessary</i><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> for us to progress. There is <i>no </i>growth without change. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">These are things you've probably been told throughout events in life that rocked your world. As you know, they're harder to remember in the soul-wrenching moment as you are being pushed to your limits. It's easier to give into the voices that say <i>forget it, I'm done, I don't belong here, I'm not cut out for this</i> than it is to remind ourselves that change is shaping us for greater things.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">First, and most importantly of all my changes, I have changed through the transformation of motherhood. I am still me to the core, but so many pieces of my life have modified in becoming a mother! I dreamed and longed to be a mom, but I was taken aback at how daunting life was post-baby. I passionately prepared for my <a href="http://brittanyannedanger.blogspot.com/2017/05/dages-birth-story.html" target="_blank">home delivery</a> for nine months and conquered it--the most empowering thing I've ever experienced--yet I was left thinking, what next?? As my organs shifted back to normal. As my body was completely different. As my hair fell out. As my baby <a href="http://brittanyannedanger.blogspot.com/2017/08/my-nursing-story.html" target="_blank">screamed and screamed</a> for three long months to no end. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Even after things became more normal again, it was not the same. It will never be the same. (Now I can truly say that I understand the mom-term, "new normal!") </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">My patience has expanded, my resilience tested, and my eyes opened to the most valuable and important aspects of life.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">My life is not my own anymore, a</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">nd I've tried to embrace the journey the best that I can. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm teaching myself the importance of not comparing to other moms; whether it be physical looks or the level of what they seem to conquer. No matter how strong or perfect they may seem, every mama has a struggle. We all handle our circumstances differently and different trials change us in different ways. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Secondly, my hobbies have changed and expanded. Between painting & drawing (as always!), writing, modeling, photo-taking, influencing, blogging, exercising and up-keeping a business (all while taking care of myself, the baby, the dog and the house), my time is always full with new endeavors. I have a soul that chases anything creative and potentially successful, which leaves me with armfuls of hobbies and passions. It can be really difficult for me to focus on just a couple things at a time--it's not in my nature--so sometimes I struggle to decide exactly what I need to pursue. Sometimes I have to stop from beating myself up because I feel that my focus is torn. (You may notice changes in my feed's theme now and then; that would be attributed to my hesitation to choose one solid theme or one main goal!) </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have found that the most important thing is to remember that everything I feel drawn to is for a reason.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I feel that I could go on and on about some deeper changes in my life, but feel the urge to say something especially for YOU. If you have found yourself struggling with change--whether it be due to motherhood, a new job or hobby, a move or any other life-altering event, stop and take a breath. We tend to put excessive pressure on ourselves when we should be giving ourselves a break more than ever! Things take time... businesses always dip before they start to gain. Instagram accounts don't explode the first day. Scars don't heal overnight. <i>We cannot become who we want to be until we've gone through some tough stuff. That's how change works. </i>And while you're going through that tough stuff, don't forget to increase self-care and remember that you're doing amazing. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Too often, we see ourselves as "human doings" instead of what we are: human beings. We should not measure our worth off of comparing to others. We should not beat ourselves up for not handling more. <i>We are worth so much just as we are!</i> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">There is a beauty in figuring out what we're doing with our lives. There is an art in the way we balance different responsibilities and adapt to change as it comes. Remember that. Exhale doubt, inhale peace.</span></div>
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xo<br />
Brittany<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14385505657536658381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-71952013088867737802017-08-06T22:00:00.000-07:002017-08-07T16:23:16.120-07:00MY NURSING STORY<div style="text-align: center;">
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This week was World Breastfeeding Week and the month of August is National Breastfeeding Month. I have been waiting to post about my nursing journey for three months, and what better time than the most celebrated month for breastfeeding?? This post is a big one because I am so passionate about this topic. In the first section, I'll be going over my experiences and the different nursing "complications" I've overcome. In the second part I'll be providing research detailing why breastfeeding is so important, and finally I will be offering some free lactation and breastfeeding services for Utah moms!</div>
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I must start by saying that <b>this post IS NOT:</b> shaming moms who choose to formula feed, have to formula feed for medical conditions, are substituting with formula, etc. <b>This post IS:</b> encouraging breastfeeding moms, spreading the importance of breastfeeding, offering assistance to those struggling with breastfeeding and documenting my journey over the past seven months. I also want to add that these are my experiences alone, and I'm not claiming that everyone's stories are the same; I can only speak to my experiences. I have to list this disclaimer because I have seen a lot of moms this week feel put down because of their feeding choice. It makes me absolutely sick to my stomach to ever see moms shame other moms for birthing, feeding or raising their babies differently than they are. We all need each other! Motherhood is <i>harddd.</i> (If you follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/brittanyannedanger">Instagram</a>, you've seen my post about this the other day.) This journey is so trying and we need to support each other. So, with that being said, on to my story!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dage at one week old</td></tr>
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MY NURSING STORY<br />
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Breastfeeding was extremely hard for me, from the very beginning. It "came natural" in the sense that <a href="http://brittanyannedanger.blogspot.com/2017/05/dages-birth-story.html">Dage came at home at 41+6 weeks</a> and he had a perfect latch within minutes of being born. It "came natural" in the sense that I found it didn't feel weird at all to have this little baby basically have full control of my boobs from that moment on (<i>haha</i>). It "came natural" in the sense that I <i>wanted </i>to nurse and had planned to breastfeed my kids as long as I knew I wanted to be a mom. However... I ran into a myriad of complications that made me doubt if my body was capable of sustaining my son. Complications that made me feel that it wasn't coming natural. Some of the experiences I've had are very common hardships of nursing a new baby such as: sleep deprivation, cluster feeding, engorgement, and more. Other things are added hardships that can occur, such as: supply drops, mastitis, thrush, tongue and lip ties, painful letdowns, silent reflux, etc. <b>These were <u>all</u> things that I was absolutely not prepared for </b>and I feel that most first time mamas can agree. Even the most common difficulties that stem from the sacrifice of breastfeeding were really hard for me. I always imagined nursing as being a sacrifice, but I had no idea how much of a sacrifice it would become in my life. I'm hopeful that my post can relay what is normal, what isn't, what you can do to remedy certain situations, and <i>most importantly</i> encourage moms who are battling with breastfeeding!</div>
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<i>[Extreme exhaustion.]</i> The first 3-4 days after his birth before my milk came in, I went through a lot of fear (as most moms do) that I wasn't going to produce enough for him. My amazing, intuitive midwife continued to reassure me, saying that I would provide for my baby. I trusted her, and boy am I glad that I did. Those first two weeks were a total blur, but I can remember one thing: from the second I would set Dage down after nursing him until he was hungry again, the longest we would ever clock was 20 minutes. Within those 20 minutes, I could hardly close my eyes--let alone fall asleep--and it got so bad that I started hallucinating from lack of sleep. Scott did all the diaper changes--but felt pretty helpless as he wanted to latch constantly! I was engorged and miserable. The only thing that gave me hope was the constant promises from other mommy friends. <i>Hang in there! It gets better! </i>One friend who had a baby two months before I had Dage told me, <i>I promise, it really does get better! We're only getting up once during the night now!</i> Oh my gosh, <b>I can't tell you how much I lived and breathed every ounce of that encouragement. If you were one of those moms, THANK YOU. </b><br />
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<i>[Tongue/lip ties.]</i> During this time, I experienced the most intense pain when Dage latched, to the point where I would see stars and cry every time. I got various advice, ranging from, "That's totally normal! Get some nipple cream and it'll eventually pass" to, "That's not normal at all. Nursing should feel like a gentle massage. Check him for tongue and/or lip ties." I felt so confused and lost. I knew something was wrong but a lot of women apparently struggled with the same pain. I decided to do some of my own research and found that he had both a tongue <i>and</i> lip tie that was missed (they commonly are). Once we had them revised, EVERYTHING changed! Immediately after revision, I held him to nurse and cringed as he latched, expecting the intense pain like before. He started eating and wasn't causing me any pain anymore! <b>I literally wept and said aloud, "So <i>this </i>is what it's supposed to feel like."</b> Needless to say, I'm a huge advocate for increasing tie awareness now.<br />
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<i>[Nipple shields.]</i> Though that issue was resolved, I had been cracking and bleeding from his too-strong latch. To allow myself to heal, we started using a nipple shield and I would apply coconut oil with a mix of tangerine and lavender essential oils in between nursing sessions. I had avoided a shield up to that point because I was terrified of him becoming dependent on it--which is exactly what happened. I only really needed that shield for a week or so, but he forgot how to nurse without it and I ended up struggling to wean him off of it until he was 12 weeks old. It was a hassle to not be able to nurse him without that silly piece of plastic, but one day after many attempts, he decided he didn't need it anymore. We have been gold ever since! :) I do not regret buying one; it saved my sanity. I needed it.<br />
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<i>[Mastitis.]</i> If any of you are nursing a new baby or are about to have a baby, let me spare you a lot of sickness and say that it's GOOD TO PUMP when you feel too full but it's not time for a feed. Don't go too crazy; simply pump enough to relieve intensity. My son was two weeks old when I reached out on Facebook expressed my difficulties, including engorgement. I was told multiple times, "Whatever you do, don't pump! It'll mess up your supply!" and "You don't want an oversupply!" I heard this so much that I went against my better judgement and trusted their advice. I didn't pump even a tiny bit when I was painfully full, and as a result I ended up with one of the worst cases of mastitis that I've ever heard of. I could write pages about my experience with mastitis, but in short: it is literal hell. <i>I thought there was a good chance I wouldn't make it. </i>I kept telling my husband, "I would rather go through another natural birth <i>right now</i> than go through this!" and I was entirely serious. I know how awful antibiotics are for the gut and I was absolutely not interested in taking them, so I cured it with natural supplements and remedies. Finally, after nearly a week, it was gone... but so was my supply. :(<br />
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<i>[Supply drops.]</i> I have read a lot--and I mean, a lot--of books and articles supporting natural birthing and exclusive breastfeeding. There is a debate about supply drops and what causes them, if they really do occur, to what extent, etc. There is lots of information that I didn't have a chance to cover by the time I was navigating my breastfeeding experince with Dage. I'm no expert by any means, but I did have a natural birth at home and I'm a big believer in trusting our bodies. I will say that in MOST ALL cases, other than medical rarities, the mother's body will always provide enough for her baby. We live in a world that is increasingly making us feel dependent on other things and steering us away from listening to our bodies. However, there are circumstances that can factor into any mom's supply like drinking enough water, eating enough carbs, getting enough rest and more. After my first bout of mastitis, I had become so sickly that my supply totally tanked. I was only able to pump about 1/8th of what I had been before; mere drops. Dage was constantly hungry. Which led to...<br />
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<i>[Cluster feeding.]</i> This was one of the hardest parts of nursing Dage, because when he hit 7 weeks he suddenly needed to eat 1-2 hours at a time with only 30 minutes break in between. <i>In total, I was nursing 16-18 hours every 24 hour period for two weeks straight. </i>After those first couple weeks, he continued to nurse for an hour at a time with 45 mins to an hour break in between, and stayed on that schedule for another two months. My daily schedule was this: Scott would make me breakfast, set me up with snacks and anything else I'd need for the next eight hours. He would leave with me sitting on the couch in a robe nursing the baby, and when he came home there I was; on the couch nursing the baby. I had such little time in between feedings that I hardly had time to feed our dog or take a bathroom break. I became pretty depressed, thinking that my body simply wasn't producing enough. He would cry and cry and never seemed completely full. I would only have a letdown once every 30 mins or so while he was latched, and the letdowns were small. I started to think that there was something wrong with my production. I began to supplement with a 3 oz bottle at night (from my pumped freezer stash) to see if he would sleep longer, and he did--but as it always happens, supplementing restricts supply even more. I stopped doing that after a couple weeks and went back to nursing on demand for multiple days straight without any substitutions. <i>I basically thought I would give it one. last. try. </i>Cue Netflix, cozy blankets, gallons of water, Costco's Aussie Bites, <a href="https://sunstoneformulas.com/en/teas/133-premium-organic-nursing-tea.html?search_query=nursing+tea&results=2">red raspberry leaf tea and nursing tea</a>, sunflower lecithin and a huge intake in carbs... lights, camera, action. <b>That's when the magic happened.</b><br />
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Now, there are more complications I dealt with after this point... namely poor response to pumps (to this day), more mastitis (not as bad as the first bout), thrush (ouch), painful letdowns (which I will always have), and silent reflux (which deserves it's own post in the future). For sake of time, I'm not going to dive into detail with these today, but if you have any questions about them please comment or shoot me a message. I'm anxious to move forward to what happened next; the magic part of my story. <i>When I made that decision to give breastfeeding everything I had one final time, my life totally changed.</i> I geared up and exclusively fed Dage for an entire month--no bottles, no substitutes--and at first, I was terrified he was going to starve! But guess what? He didn't! And more than that, he began to <i>thrive</i>. My supply started to regulate (meaning I was not as engorged and could go longer between feedings, hallelujah). His feeding times quickly tapered and suddenly he was only eating for fifteen minutes at a time. He became a happier baby. I became a happier mama. I was FREE! Like I could actually take my baby to the store or on a walk, because I had time to! I was no longer confined to a bed or couch. I felt like I could live again.<br />
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It all made sense when we measured Dage at his three month checkup and he was 24 inches. Then when he jumped to 28 inches at four months. Then 31 inches at six months (the average for most 1 year olds)! <i>No wonder </i>he had been eating literally around the clock. The mystery was solved. When a baby cluster feeds, they're telling their mom's body to produce more--a common concept. I just never thought cluster feeding could be <i>that</i> intense!<br />
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I feel like I could go on for days about how happy I am that I stuck with breastfeeding. And how proud I am that I stuck with it--because holy cow, I NEVER thought it would be as hard as it was for me. Breastfeeding then was stressful, painful, uncertain, irregular, exhausting. Breastfeeding now is empowering, peaceful, blissful, convenient, wonderful. It's not only a method of providing nourishment, but calming him down, too. Right now, I'm nursing him as I type. He's grabbing my shirt with one hand and pulling it into his face. The other hand is wrapped around me. He will finish in five minutes and I will tuck him in bed. I never imagined during those first 3-4 months how easy it could be--how easy it WOULD become. This is my reality, but it couldn't be closer to a dream. I'm so grateful I'm able to breastfeed my son over the last seven months, and I plan to as long as we can.<br />
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<i>After months of struggles, Dage and I made it, and we definitely deserve to celebrate this month!</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dage at four months</td></tr>
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THE IMPORTANCE OF BREASTFEEDING</div>
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There is a ton of great information available about why breastfeeding is so important, I don't know where to begin. Human milk goes through incredible changes, like how the milk type changes depending on the time of the day, if you get a cold, or your baby's needs for their current period of growth. It not only changes in color and density, but in nutritional value. I want to share some amazing facts that <a href="http://instagram.com/love_your_labor">my doula Kamie Dangerfield</a> organized:</div>
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"Human milk resembles unstructured living tissue like blood and is capable of transporting nutrients, affecting biochemical systems, influencing & improving immunity and can destroy pathogens. It also heightens brain development. Breastmilk changes and adapts as the baby grows and as their needs change. At birth a newborn's immune system is small but complete. It expands in response to the new environment and bacteria, but it takes time. Breastfeeding helps the baby's immune system until it is fully able to defend itself.<br />
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> "</span>Another great benefit from breastfeeding is the fact that breastmilk offers protection from disease and infection. A mother's breastmilk composition changes according to what nutrients the baby needs. The longer you breastfeed, the lower the risk for illness. The likelihood of infantile diarrhea and gastrointestinal disease lowers significantly when breastfeeding. It also helps prevent respiratory and ear infections, lowers the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and can also contribute to the prevention of Celiac Disease, diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis and childhood cancer, allergies and asthma.<br />
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> "</span>Around the world, breastmilk composition remains about the same unless a mother is significantly malnourished. The following nutrients are contained in breastmilk:<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Fat: Fat amount varies from mother to mother based on her diet. Fats provide essential fatty acids that help the brain develop and grow.<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>DHA &AA: Docosahexanoic acid (DHA) and Arachidonic acid (AA) are both associated with higher visual acuity and cognitive ability.<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Lactose: Lactose enhances calcium absorption and metabolizes glucose.<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Protein: Protein in breastmilk plays an important role in immunological defense.<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Nucleotides: These compounds metabolize energy, enzymatic reactions and helps the gastrointestinal tract mature.<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamins A, D, E, B6, K, B12 are all found in breastmilk. The following minerals are found in breastmilk: Zinc, Sodium, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese. Each plays an important role in the health and growth of an infant."<br />
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<i>How cool is that?? </i>I had never known those things before. To me, breastfeeding wast just "what you do" when you have a baby... but it's so much more. There are entire textbooks dedicated to breastfeeding and human lactation that are filled with fascinating details about the structure and role of human milk and how it corresponds to babies' needs.<br />
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SUPPORT FOR BREASTFEEDING MAMAS</div>
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If I could leave you with a piece of advice, it would be this: educate yourself on the importance of breastfeeding. If I didn't have such a strong support system and a ton of information at my fingertips, I definitely wouldn't have had the motivation to continue. I personally feel that there need to be more resources to promote breastfeeding, to encourage mamas when they hit those really tough moments. Yeah, there are lots of group classes and things you can take before your baby comes, but they're usually pretty pricey. Financially and mentally, we were pouring so much into preparing for our son's birth that we didn't really have the extra money to spare. But guess what? This week I discovered some amazing FREE resources for mamas to increase their breastfeeding knowledge and gain support!<br />
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If you're in Utah County, there is a FREE breastfeeding class every Wednesday afternoon at 5:30pm in the Utah County Health Department Rm. 2601. They are there to teach you how to meet your breastfeeding goals. Everyone is welcome and no appointment is needed! You can call 801-851-7312 with any additional questions. There is also a FREE parent / infant class series that provide different classes each Wednesday in the month at 4:00pm. These are held at the WIC office, second floor. The first Wednesday is infant massage, second Weds is baby behaviors, third is happiest baby on the block, and forth is all about baby-wearing.<br />
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An additional free service is the Utah County WIC Lactation Services, who's mission is to help mothers achieve their breastfeeding goals by offering a Breastfeeding Support Team who are ready to answer questions and offer expert help. This includes: a prenatal breastfeeding class, a parent infant class series, one-on-one counseling sessions and telephone support with peer counselors, LEC & IBCLC's, and breast pumps and breastfeeding aids available for those who qualify. Their Breastfeeding Warmline is 801-851-7312.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by CaLea Gunther Photography</td></tr>
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In closing, I just want to speak to those struggling to breastfeed their little ones, and all moms alike: <i>You are doing amazing.</i> You're always doing far better than you think you are. IT DOES GET BETTER. You are making a beautiful sacrifice for your baby. If the pain and difficulty is overwhelming you right now, I know what you're feeling. Don't give up! Don't be too afraid or embarrassed to ask for help. We women are here to help each other. Don't hesitate to ask someone to help so you can shower and nap. In those moments when you just want to cry and give up, give it one more try--it might just be the day that the magic happens. Wear all the comfy clothes, the loose bra, the soft robe. Don' worry about comparing to what other moms are doing and focus on what you and your baby need to do. Snuggle your little one closely. Seriously... you are doing angel's work.</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Brittany</div>
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P.S. If you haven't read Dage's home birth story, you can catch up by clicking <a href="http://brittanyannedanger.blogspot.com/2017/05/dages-birth-story.html">here</a>.</div>
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Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-64517970334214540622017-07-06T13:35:00.001-07:002017-07-07T09:49:46.177-07:00BECOMING FEARLESS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmT2PySYKZSBS4KwdYHbv1Lnv0ckgJN-DCYAvqxKVp8gBuBcDbN4P47-iQWoAXeTJYSX_FtrXnkfxX_HUA6FftGyusVsVr40Bvk-WW2XE20Wp3nW-YyW7MAnYT6R7yPX7GGjeyp-5RePx/s1600/2K7A5255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmT2PySYKZSBS4KwdYHbv1Lnv0ckgJN-DCYAvqxKVp8gBuBcDbN4P47-iQWoAXeTJYSX_FtrXnkfxX_HUA6FftGyusVsVr40Bvk-WW2XE20Wp3nW-YyW7MAnYT6R7yPX7GGjeyp-5RePx/s640/2K7A5255.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's easy to forget how good we have it... until life throws us a wake-up call. My sweet Scott is Type 1 Diabetic (insulin dependent for life). His highs and lows are controlled by what he eats and how much insulin he takes, but things like stress, hormonal imbalances, happiness/sadness, illness, and any other normal body changes also affect his bloodsugar. This means that even if he's doing everything right and taking the correct amount of insulin, there will randomly be nights when he goes extremely high or low. <span style="font-size: x-small;">For those who don't know much about T1D, going too high means hyperglycemia or ketoacidosis, which causes kidney failure, loss in eye sight, nerve damage and amputation. Going too low means hypoglycemia, which causes blurred vision, confusion, immense hunger, seizures, and eventually loss of consciousness (a coma). Both are deadly if left untreated.</span></div>
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Two nights ago, I was about 5 seconds from dialing 911 for an ambulance as Scott fell into a near-comatose state. Unresponsive, thrashing, shaking, sweating. It's crazy to see someone you know like the back of your hand be completely controlled and overcome by a physical ailment. I woke up at 2:30am to him rocking his body into me the best he could. He had no control over his arms or legs. He made out the mumbled word, "bloodsugar" and I flew to the fridge for juice (the next best thing to glucagon). He guzzled a huge bottle. He was still out of it for a while. I tried to talk to him but he couldn't make out any words. I sat with my phone at the ready, watching him closely, until he finally started responding and asked for some food. </div>
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Even after he had control over his hands again and was feeding himself, I laid there trembling, wanting to make sure he was high enough before I dare fell back asleep. Scott hadn't dropped like that in over six months and I'd forgotten how scary it was. His diabetes has been a normal part of life for us since we were dating. He does an incredible job at keeping his levels within normal range and never ever complains, so although it is a life-altering illness, we don't focus on it more than we need to. Moments like these pull me out of my cocoon of safety and remind me how fragile my time is here.</div>
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The next day, all I could think about was how precious life is and how we should treat it better. Do we live each day in the moment to it's fullest, or do we live consumed by distractions? Do we prioritize our relationships to the highest degree or do we prioritize frivilous things that we cannot take with us into the next life? What are we doing right now with our fragile, sacred, incredible, blessed lives? I know that there are definitely goals I need to work on in these areas.</div>
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Living with the knowledge that you could lose your closest loved one day after day, it changes you. Knowing that Scott would slip away from me if we didn't have access to insulin is terrifying. I have been asked many times how we handle the stress, fear and despair that comes with this disease, and I have the answer: faith. Faith and fear cannot co-exist. Embrace uncertainty with acceptance and faith, and your perception will completely change. You will become fearless. You will know that no matter what happens in the future, everything is okay for the time-being. You move forward and go about your day without giving into the fear of what is to come. That is the only way that we can live life to it's fullest and seek happiness.<br />
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xoxo<br />
Brittany</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14385505657536658381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-14069910068691663572017-06-26T22:28:00.000-07:002017-06-27T10:06:15.984-07:00TIE DYE MAXI + UPDATE<div style="text-align: center;">
Good morning friends!</div>
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I had so many messages asking about this coffee tie dye maxi dress that I decided to write a post! In complete honesty, I got it for such a good deal that I almost want to keep the site a secret… but I can’t keep it to myself, I have to share the looove. The site is <a href="http://us.shein.com/fashion-blogger-a-475.html" target="_blank">SheIn</a>, and I've actually purchased a few items there before <span style="font-size: x-small;">(like <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/7nnsJiuU34/?taken-by=brittanyannedanger">this dress</a>--those of you who have followed me for ages will remember it)</span>. Just follow <a href="banner: http://us.shein.com/fashion-blogger-a-475.html" target="_blank">this link</a> and type "coffee tie dye maxi" to see for yourself. A few reasons why I'm obsessed with this amazing dress:</div>
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First: It's on sale and it's currently <b>under $20</b>! Quality over quantity is real but there's a line I just will not cross when it comes to spending. I find pride in shopping good deals--<i>actual</i> good deals. I chuckle to myself when I see bloggers post different outfit pieces with captions like, "this top is 'just' $65!" "These jeans are under $100!" as if they're such great deals. I'd rather not break the bank and save for other things like exploring the world around me. This dress allows for both quality and the peace of mind that comes with shopping smart.</div>
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Second: It has become one of my closet staples primarily because of its comfort. Those of you who follow me know that comfort is a MUST, especially since I became a momma. What I love about this coffee tie dye maxi is that it's so stretchy and soft that I wore it when I was <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BO_nRZvgEsv/?taken-by=brittanyannedanger">41 weeks pregnant </a>(recognize that Instagram post?), two weeks after having a baby, and I've been nursing in it & using it ever since. It's flattering on any body size, shape or stage--you can trust me on that.<br />
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Third: Pockets! Enough said.</div>
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Sit back, enjoy these pretty photos taken by <a href="http://caleagunther.com/about/">CaLea Gunther Photography</a> that really show you the nature of the dress, and order yourself something fun for the summer through <a href="http://us.shein.com/fashion-blogger-a-475.html">SheIn</a>! And feel free to scroll to the bottom if you want to read a little life update. :)</div>
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Life is funny sometimes. There are so many silver linings in the clouds. So many blessings intermixed with trials. So many ways that we can experience "growing pains" as our minds are opened to the depths of pain and joy all at once. Isn't it scary and wonderful all at the same time?</div>
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I've been through a lot--A LOT--in the past year, but especially the last six months. I have been struggling and fighting for what I know is right. I have been working on big projects and preparing to move mountains. I'm going to be open and raw about the struggles and triumphs of being new to motherhood (yes, ppa & ppd included). I'm going to share some secrets to success through Instagram and building a business so you can work from home with the kids. I can't wait to show you more and open up about my fears, trials, accomplishments, dreams and everything else I have learned. I created this blog to share "inspiration and healing through trials," and I'm going to do just that.</div>
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Stay tuned lovely people.</div>
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xoxo<br />
Brittany</div>
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Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-61522614666582834582017-06-05T12:37:00.000-07:002017-06-05T13:37:09.104-07:00I JUST KNEW<div style="text-align: center;">
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I never thought soul mates existed before I met Scott. I truly didn't. I had loved before, but I strongly believed that love was only built on years and years of memories deep layers of trust. I was fragile, afraid, and extremely cautious after everything I had <a href="http://www.wolfertssisters.blogspot.com/">experienced</a> in my childhood. When I would hear people say things like, "When you know, you know!" after a couple short months, I thought it was complete insanity. There was no way people just "knew"---how could they? How could they base such a vastly important decision on "knowing," and surrendering their heart to another so quickly??<br />
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When I met Scott, the universe proved me wrong. I found myself surrendering my heart and soul to him so effortlessly, because he already held the other half. He filled in all the cracks. I knew who he was. He knew who I was. My logical, cautious mind whispered, "don't fall so quickly" and so I fell to my knees for guidance... and each time, I received an answer so complete and strong that I could not deny it. Being with him was a steady river that coursed with peace and a deep assurance that I was where I needed to be. And so, despite my opinions, my beliefs, my stubbornness... I "knew."</div>
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In three months we were engaged, and in a little under a year, we were married. That is something I never thought would happen to me, but I am so grateful that I trusted myself and God and took that leap! Every day that has passed over the last two years of marriage, I have discovered something new about how Scott was made for me. There are all these tiny fragments of who I am that match up to who he is with perfection. I see with total clarity that as we each become the people we are meant to be, we will continue to fit. I thank the Lord every chance I get for such a blessing. We have conquered so much together and I know that we can accomplish anything we set our minds to, as long as we have each other.</div>
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HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to the man who holds my heart! :)</div>
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And thank you to everyone who has supported us in our journey.<br />
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xoxo<br />
Brittany</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All photography by <a href="http://emilymagers.com/">Emily Magers</a></td></tr>
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Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-28772704974439539982017-05-17T14:36:00.003-07:002017-06-05T13:34:48.309-07:00THE PERFECT JEGGINGS<div style="text-align: center;">
I couldn't believe that I was waking up to snow this morning... Really, Utah? It's supposed to be summer, haha! I had these pics taken a week ago & it was super warm. I have a fun post for you guys this week, & there's a goodie at the end for my followers, so read on!</div>
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As a woman, and especially as a new mom, it can be tough to find pants that fit flawlessly. Especially while shopping online (<i>amiright</i>?). BUT it's possible! I've found them--the unicorn of the pants world--and I can't help but share with you guys. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphens1-oXDC99E34mC4e530E9ixO1mLEHNyNGWbCVUpR-AaC1_I5vlxzP99Fm1Rmf64PKAsi0YqmRIJ4HJPK28AO7Nw2EYzCBUZETL5Ue37-zsf3x4dPBNsq5N1C3LpbVUqtmMMA6z5-gTK/s1600/2017-05-08+04.23.30+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphens1-oXDC99E34mC4e530E9ixO1mLEHNyNGWbCVUpR-AaC1_I5vlxzP99Fm1Rmf64PKAsi0YqmRIJ4HJPK28AO7Nw2EYzCBUZETL5Ue37-zsf3x4dPBNsq5N1C3LpbVUqtmMMA6z5-gTK/s640/2017-05-08+04.23.30+3.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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They're stretchy, comfy, sturdy, flattering, and the cuuutest color. I have LIVED in <a href="http://www.bellamoiboutique.com/Olive-Moto-Jeggings-p/op7019-ol.htm">t</a><a href="http://www.bellamoiboutique.com/Olive-Moto-Jeggings-p/op7019-ol.htm">hese Olive Moto Jeggings</a> since the day I opened my shipment. This boutique also sells them in midnight blue and dusty pink (I had a hard time choosing between the pink & olive!).<br />
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Soon I'm going to be chasing this lil' guy around, & it's suuuper important for me to have pants that stretch well, but also retain their shape. The <a href="http://www.bellamoiboutique.com/Olive-Moto-Jeggings-p/op7019-ol.htm">Moto Jeggings</a> are the perfect mix of comfort & class. They hug all the right places.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZexxHlX630GUji1bsQ_TBKSfHHAP3Z_dteppze9sRLFkh4rYV3NsOolQixj7MxzJFSg9MMVE1X2diyUgSoFkRFhCsmbajOdNSNPsM0vTnTvDft2l_F8V3oYmpIrRnxAlw5qKTWbtEKLlp/s1600/2017-05-08+04.23.34+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="596" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZexxHlX630GUji1bsQ_TBKSfHHAP3Z_dteppze9sRLFkh4rYV3NsOolQixj7MxzJFSg9MMVE1X2diyUgSoFkRFhCsmbajOdNSNPsM0vTnTvDft2l_F8V3oYmpIrRnxAlw5qKTWbtEKLlp/s640/2017-05-08+04.23.34+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I looove the zippers on the side. They're not fake & they add so much!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmcrGDHwvpZfMzr3uFiwuToiinLz_AhyphenhyphenJcUccX3v2smAXzSxMyC_4V-PGmWbDUqVymulIh4hfpmF36LRbdfnf0qk6PoyAJUAiTKf3NJHwhcS9PPlMeY0K1VNEWI-sNn8l8UEbD8eHWicl/s1600/2017-05-08+04.23.35+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmcrGDHwvpZfMzr3uFiwuToiinLz_AhyphenhyphenJcUccX3v2smAXzSxMyC_4V-PGmWbDUqVymulIh4hfpmF36LRbdfnf0qk6PoyAJUAiTKf3NJHwhcS9PPlMeY0K1VNEWI-sNn8l8UEbD8eHWicl/s640/2017-05-08+04.23.35+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1fugw3QPv5Lyh-1XoYE14wGGgUm02yox6CwIiZiZI3I8NXldrC8ANtjIDGb4xqlcYi7GzxNVkZoJBqcSE7xT2znJbaIXKhCLWNbH_yyC8mKv-2-SYtkWxNO9UVFmPktUXjYasvnlIC9Q1/s1600/2017-05-08+04.23.38+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1fugw3QPv5Lyh-1XoYE14wGGgUm02yox6CwIiZiZI3I8NXldrC8ANtjIDGb4xqlcYi7GzxNVkZoJBqcSE7xT2znJbaIXKhCLWNbH_yyC8mKv-2-SYtkWxNO9UVFmPktUXjYasvnlIC9Q1/s640/2017-05-08+04.23.38+2.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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& check out the chic pattern on the front! AH I can't get over them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4v8pTpQGd3SFVCXvkEgmVgpXOptwK91KUAVX55jkjvsARnx6coy-aM9Zt8YdyPFet2erQSt0CrVdxxx0EgqSRwOkPjAK55Umg6x4ai-f7FC8DbNKRKINdV4n6OA98-GmxA0_50VVryEo2/s1600/2017-05-08+04.23.35+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4v8pTpQGd3SFVCXvkEgmVgpXOptwK91KUAVX55jkjvsARnx6coy-aM9Zt8YdyPFet2erQSt0CrVdxxx0EgqSRwOkPjAK55Umg6x4ai-f7FC8DbNKRKINdV4n6OA98-GmxA0_50VVryEo2/s640/2017-05-08+04.23.35+4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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You all know that I only promote products that I truly believe in--things that I actually try out for you guys--because I care about authenticity. These pants are 100% worth every penny. I'm wearing them so much that I need a second pair! I'm totally buying the pink for my birthday. :)</div>
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If you follow me on Instagram or subscribe to my blog, use the code "brittany10" for 10% off your order from <a href="http://www.bellamoiboutique.com/">Bella Moi Boutique</a>. You're welcome! ;)</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Brittany</div>
Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-63816811057738873492017-05-14T23:46:00.002-07:002017-08-15T11:34:17.733-07:00DAGE'S BIRTH STORY<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">***Please feel free to leave any questions you may have in the comments, or send them to me on Facebook/Instagram***</span><br />
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On January 13<sup>th</sup>, 2017 at 1:40am, Dage Edgar Dangerfield came into this world after 25 hours of labor and an incredible birth I never would have dreamed of having. As I sit here in the room where he was born, remembering my birth affirmations which hung with lace and twine across the ceiling above me, I can't help but feel nostalgic. Holding my sleeping angel in my lap, I am full of so many emotions that I can scarcely express. This is the story of his birth, but it's also the story of how I conquered my biggest fear and was born into motherhood.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">all photography by CaLea Gunther Photography</td></tr>
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I want you to know that if you're terrified of childbirth, I was exactly where you are. My entire life, I was <i>petrified</i>. I would freeze up if I talked about birth. I planned to adopt children my entire life until I was about 16 years old and thought, "well, I want my kids to have my genetics, so I better have them myself. I'll just ask to be drugged up as much as possible." (I'm seriously not kidding!) I just want to get that out there to any of you who are scared. After nine months of prayer and filling my head with knowledge, I walked away from pregnancy a completely different person. The change was such a stark contrast. By the time Dage came, I was informed and took charge of my experience. I was a woman who would have been traumatized by birth, and now I have felt every beautiful moment and can't wait to do it again. I am overwhelmingly grateful for my experience, and I just want to share with every everyone who will read it in hopes that whoever you are and whatever stage of life you're in (and especially if you're fearful of birth), it will remind you that there is a way to have an empowering, healing, nearly painless experience.</div>
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My due date was January 1<sup>st</sup>,
2017, but Dage decided to come twelve days later. I had a strange feeling my entire pregnancy that Dage was going to come on a Thursday.<i> (Which is insane, because that's exactly what happened.)</i> Every day, I felt more and
more ready for him to come into the world. I had chosen not to be induced
so that Dage would come once his lungs were fully developed, and because of that I awoke every morning wondering if it was the day I
was going to finally meet him. It was such a beautiful feeling but I definitely
learned a lot about patience during that time. I tried my best to enjoy every single day
that I carried Dage, because despite the discomforts (and there were many), pregnancy<i> amazed me</i>. I passed the average 41 weeks + 5 days for FTM's and I honestly <i>never </i>thought that I would! I think every mom hopes to have their baby come early, haha. Holding on through the final trimester took <i>a lot </i>of mental strength! The last few weeks especially, I felt soooo ready to pop.</div>
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In my prenatal appointment three days before
his birth, my midwife Diane (reference at the bottom) had predicted that the pressure change of the Wolf full moon on Thursday morning would bring Dage earthside. <i>(I know what you might be thinking--the pressure of the moon affecting when babies come? What?? Yes, it's totally a thing, as long as the baby and cervix is ready. Crazy!)</i> On Wednesday I started feeling pressure in the air. It felt similar to how I would feel every day there was a snowstorm; I'd feel kinda tight and sometimes Braxton Hicks would follow. I kept
myself distracted like I had been doing throughout the final trimester by
cleaning, writing in my journal, painting and spending as much alone time with Scott as I could. I even cleared off a whiteboard on our wall and wrote, “We’re ready for you, Dage.” It's funny, other moms had told me countless times that the moment you accept you're going to be pregnant forever, the baby comes... Literally the moment I finally let go of all stress about getting him here, he came.<br />
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I walked into the bathroom at
11:54pm to wash my face and get ready for bed, and I lost a bunch of stuff.I figured I lost the mucus plug. I
went back to bed and as I tried to fall asleep, I started feeling a familiar
cramp sensation in my midsection; except this time, it felt different than BH. My stomach was tightening and my lower back ached simultaneously,
then it would all completely relax. It wasn’t painful;<i> it just felt like my
body was working</i>, which was a wonderful awareness to have as a mom
who had never experienced labor before. The moment was finally here! I erupted in a huge smile that wouldn't leave my face. I knew that if this was the real thing,
I needed to try to sleep through the contractions as long as possible to save
my energy. I rolled over and said, “Scott, we’re going to have a baby tomorrow!” and he hardly responded
and fell back asleep <i>(he later told me that we had been waiting so long that he didn’t believe it was the real thing haha!)</i>. I texted my
doula, Kamie, at 12:42am: “I’m going to sleep, I’ll keep you
updated.” I smiled to myself as I fell asleep. This was the moment I had been
preparing for, for what seemed like forever! <o:p></o:p></div>
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I had crazy dreams, and in my
dreams I was working through light contractions. At 6am, I woke to a wave that
was too intense to sleep through. I tried to go back to sleep, but they were
uncomfortable now, waking me up every time. They still felt pretty spaced out
but were becoming more rhythmic. I enjoyed laboring in the peace and quiet of
our bedroom. There was a sacred feeling that surrounded me, and I rubbed my
stomach and talked to Dage quietly in between contractions.<i> I love you, I love you. You're okay. I can't wait to see you. </i>I wanted to stay in
my own little world for as long as possible, but I had to breathe and focus
more intently through the waves. I downloaded a
contraction timing app and surprised myself with how laid-back I felt about the whole thing. By 6:30am it was apparent that they were occurring
every 2-3 minutes and lasting an average of 1 minute 15 seconds!! Fifteen minutes later, I began
notifying everyone, starting with Scott. “We’re having a baby today,” I whispered, and he turned to face me with a
smile and we watched the contraction times through my app. I called my mom a
few minutes later because I wanted to make sure she had enough notice. I told
her not to rush, that even though my waves were close, I had a feeling
that it would be a while before Dage arrived.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GXKcxQCx5jy0ThGIiopEt5k7c582ZymQ_JnBjS7gsSg1Uwl95bMZ9aHmaKHzPsbjHFYc4S28VtvyS9O5Ja1Xdx8Ny-jsH6G7rebtt3QSBmSrGEM2ahdj6H0NpUZ89Ex0y0Hl0Itiak9k/s1600/2K7A4694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GXKcxQCx5jy0ThGIiopEt5k7c582ZymQ_JnBjS7gsSg1Uwl95bMZ9aHmaKHzPsbjHFYc4S28VtvyS9O5Ja1Xdx8Ny-jsH6G7rebtt3QSBmSrGEM2ahdj6H0NpUZ89Ex0y0Hl0Itiak9k/s640/2K7A4694.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">his big, looong feet! (measured at 9 month feet the day he was born)</td></tr>
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Too giddy to fall back asleep,
Scott and I folded a load of laundry on our couch and watched an episode of
Parks and Rec (<i>my faaavorite</i>). After putting the laundry away, the initial surge of excitement wore off, and we both felt tired again and
moved back into bed. Scott, the baby and I were in our own little world for the
next while. Cozied up in bed, knowing that the entire journey of the
birth would be taking place at home, I was able to be completely relaxed and
not worry about going anywhere. <i>Everything we needed was right here.</i> When I would feel a contraction coming, my eyes
would close and my breathing would shift, which alerted Scott that a wave
was passing and he would rub my arms and whisper that I was
doing amazing until I would exhale. I loved his words of encouragement. The sun started to
rise and light leaked through our window and onto our bed. I was full of
complete bliss. I was so fascinated by the
incredible sensations of labor that I had studied and wondered about for months
but had never before experienced... the gentle build before a wave that would
give me enough time to prepare, the peak that would tighten my midsection and
remind me how hard my body was working for the baby, and the release that would
fill me with relief and prompt me to exhale. <b>I reminded myself to relax and
give in to each contraction rather than fight them.</b> <i>I would say that this is the single most important thing a mother going into labor should realize</i>. This allowed me to save my energy for the hard work<i> </i>that was to come.</div>
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By 8:20am, the contractions were
lasting about 1 minute 30 seconds consistently, some having multiple peaks that
extended the wave to about 3 minutes. Scott continued to do a great job helping
me get through them. I started feeling a little bit of nausea with the waves.
At 8:45am I finally texted Dianne. I told her that the contractions were
lasting about 90 seconds and coming every 3 minutes. Dianne
called me immediately. She sounded rushed and told me she was loading up her van to come
right away! “If you get the urge to push--” she started saying, and I laughed a
little. “I’m not going to have the urge to push, I feel like the waves aren’t
strong enough yet!” She said anything was possible with first time moms, and
instructed me on what to do if I started pushing before she arrived. <i>(Looking back, I can see why she was rushing! On paper, my contractions were reading like a mom in full-blown labor.)</i></div>
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At this point, the little world I
had labored in with Dage and Scott was about to expand. It was time to bring my
full birth team into the picture! We got out of bed and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/love_your_labor/">Kamie</a> (my amazing sister-in-law and
doula) came down to our apartment to check on me. I told her I was doing well
and didn’t need help yet; I was managing through the contractions by simply
putting my hand against the wall and breathing deep. I tidied a few things in
the living room where the birth tub was set up, and Scott started filling it
with hot water. Thick snowflakes were flurrying outside and coating the
rooftops and roads with white blankets. It was such a gorgeous day to have a baby!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dianne and her assistant
Christine arrived shortly and set up their equipment. After some admiring of
the room décor and small talk, the midwives prepared to check my dilation. It was my first cervical check in the entire
pregnancy, and I was so grateful for the hands-off approach. I needed that. I needed to not stress about the number I was (or was not) dilated to. I held Kamie’s hand as they checked me at 11am which was really comforting. After trying
for a few minutes, Christine said she couldn’t check my dilation because my
cervix was too high to reach! She said that if she made a guess, I was only about
1 cm dilated and not effaced. <b>Because my cervix was back and behind, it
eventually needed to be pulled down to check my dilation. That occurred every
check until I hit active labor. </b>(After that, they continued to stretch me out until delivery, over twelve hours later.)<b> </b>It was a little disappointing to hear that
after 11 hours of labor I was wasn't dilated, but I had done so much research
that I had immense faith in my body. I knew it was progressing exactly how it
needed to. :) Christine used three evening
primrose oil capsules to help soften my cervix and hopefully bring it lower.
They checked the baby with a Doppler and his heart rate was good and strong. Dianne said that due to the time
of the day, things wouldn’t pick up until the late afternoon. (<i>Apparently if a
woman is in the first stage of natural labor in the morning, labor can slow down or
even stall until night.</i>) Dianne and Christine started me on a labor boosting
tincture every 30 minutes until I had Dage to aid my body’s progression and keep the
contractions coming regularly. I know that it helped.</div>
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After the checkup we all headed
upstairs and Scott cooked everyone a big breakfast of eggs, sausage and
hashbrowns. It felt sooo good to draw energy from a big breakfast, and my husband
is an amazing cook so it was absolutely delicious! Dianne, Christine and Kamie
sat at the kitchen table while I sat at the bar. It felt good to get off of the
bar stool when I felt a wave coming, lean against the chair, and rock and
breathe. When it passed, I’d get back on my stool and keep eating. The mood was
carefree and light, I loved that everyone who was in the room with me just
continued their conversations when a contraction came. There was a mutual
respect in the air; they all knew what I was going through and let me do my
thing. I loved it! I took my first dose of the labor boost, finished eating and worked through the next few
contractions on the couch as I called my mom and told her it was probably time
to come. I remember looking out at the beautiful, thick snow while I talked to
her and feeling so happy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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12pm came and I wanted to get into
the tub. I went downstairs to change into my swimsuit and lost more mucus. Yay!! Progress! I climbed into the warm water
and instantly felt a huge relief of pressure. My next contraction came and felt ten
times easier than the last--no exaggeration. The water gave me an <u>enormous</u> boost of energy! Scott
hung out with me and held my hands as I worked through waves, and we talked in between. Kamie came down and we watched Once Upon a Time on Netflix. Even as
the contractions grew stronger, I was extremely aware of my surroundings. I could be
in the middle of a conversation, stop and breathe through a wave, and then
continue talking & smiling. It was the most comfortable thing, floating in hot water and
cushioned all around by soft pillows underneath the thick plastic that lined
the tub. I never wanted to get out. I ended up staying in that tub for most of
the labor, until I gave birth. My mom arrived to the house when it was time for my next checkup. She
held my hand as they checked me. Being in the water had done my body
good; Christine said that my cervix was still high but lower than before, and that
I was dilated to a 2 and 50% effaced. I didn’t let myself feel
discouraged at all; I was happy to hear that things were moving along, and confident in my body. She
inserted more evening primrose oil and I continued to take the labor boost. I
kept my eyes adverted from the clock during labor and I didn’t wonder about how
long it would be until I had the baby. Quite honestly I was so comfortable with all of my freedoms that
I felt like I could labor for days if I had to. :) Whatever I needed to do for my
sweet little baby! </div>
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Scott had left to get food for
the group and got back around 2pm with drinks, sandwiches and more food for
dinnertime. My mom went up to eat and I asked Scott to bring my food down to me
at about 3pm (<i>again, I was just so darn comfy I didn’t want to leave the tub
haha!</i>). He brought me a heaping platter of assorted sandwiches and snacks and set it on a longboard across the tub’s ridges so that I would hardly have to lift a finger. I
felt like watching a movie so we turned on Big Fish and Scott fed me delicious
bites of brownies for dessert after each contraction. It felt like a reward for each wave I
made it through. :) Some time passed and I felt like taking a break
from the tub. Immediately
after getting out of the water, the contractions felt muchhh more intense! Phew! I had
to stop and lean against my bed as they came, rocking my hips back and forth
and breathing deep. Kamie came with her rebozo wrap and joined my swaying
movements while pulling upwards on the wrap. This relieved a lot of pressure in
my midsection and made the contractions easier. I made my way into the living
room where I decided to lean forward against the birth ball. Kamie continued to
pull on the wrap when a contraction came, and followed my movements as I swayed
back and forth against the ball and breathed deeply. It helped SO MUCH. My mom was sitting on the
couch and I was having a good conversation with her about the importance of
free movement during labor, which was funny because I was experiencing
the benefits of it in that very moment! Kamie taught my mom how to use the
rebozo wrap around my belly and my mom took over for a while.</div>
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I can’t pinpoint exactly when, because it started so naturally, but I began to be vocal during contractions. This had been something else that I had been very
curious about: <i>how would I react vocally
during labor? Would I be a loud or silent laborer? </i>To be honest,
I never completely understood what are referred to as “labor
sounds." I had seen numerous natural/home birth videos and the sounds seemed interesting to me, but once the waves
continued to intensify, I GOT it. There’s something about your body tightening
that calls for an energy release of some kind—breathing through them wasn’t
enough anymore. I had read countless times about the importance of “low tones;" it is a major technique contributing to keeping completely relaxed through
contractions. Breathing out in low tones allows the body to relax and lessens
pain, while high tones (screaming or shouting) involuntarily tenses the body and intensifies pain. I would take a deep breath as a contraction came and breathed out in a long, deep moan. I found that the “O” vowel worked
best for me. It felt good to breathe out in a sound, and it truly did release
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Scott and I decided to labor
alone for a little while. We knew it was probably our last chance to be alone
until after the birth. At 5pm Scott and I went into the
bedroom and he helped me through waves by breathing with me and putting his arms around me. We cuddled on the bed for the next half hour, until 5:30pm when the waves were so strong
that I wanted to get back into the tub. The midwives checked me in the tub,
which I was grateful for. I was dilated to a 4!! <i>Finally</i>, it
seemed things were moving along towards active labor. I continued to labor in
the tub, still talking and smiling in between waves but going internal and
breathing out low as they came. Kamie supported me by putting cold washcloths
on my head and neck, which felt really good while laboring in the warm water.
She also gave me whatever essential oils I wanted to smell; I found that
dropping citrus oils in the water and on my chest, like orange and lemon, made
me feel invigorated and happy. :)</div>
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In previous checkups, Dianne and
Christine had commented how especially strong and tight my muscles were,
and in previous prenatal appointments Dianne informed me that my pubic bone was
tilted inward. Those things plus the
fact that my cervix was up and around prompted the midwives to stretch me
and pull my cervix down every hour until delivery. Every hour
after 6:00pm, I stepped out of the tub and went a few steps to the bedroom,
where I laid on the comfort of my bed and held Scott’s hand while they worked.
It wasn’t painful—it just felt like pressure in my midsection—but if a
contraction came at the same time, it was pretty overwhelming. Since my waves were
coming about every two minutes or closer and lasting over a minute long, this
began to happen more and more frequently. I had Scott kiss me
through a contraction, which helped give my mind a positive distraction. I reminded myself to breathe deep and utilize low tones. During each check, they also monitored Dage’s heart with a Doppler.
His heart rate was always in a great range, and it was fun for me to hear him.</div>
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I loved sinking back into the tub
after a checkup; it was sweet relief. Kamie would do things like play with my
hair, tickle my shoulders, and constantly spoke words of encouragement. She
brought me Hi-Chews and honey sticks for energy, which tasted amazing. One of
my favorite parts of labor was when she gave me a foot massage with a lemon
ginger scrub from our bathroom that I LOVE. It calmed me to have a familiar
smell fill the living room, not to mention having a massage while floating in a
cushioned tub. I felt so pampered! Doulas are <i>such </i>a necessity for labor. Kamie said she could tell I was reaching active
labor because the cold washcloths she had been placing on my neck and forehead
were becoming hot much quicker. She reminded me that my body was working hard, and
that made me excited. <b>The contractions weren’t scary, because they were 100% produced by my own self.
Though they were becoming increasingly intense, I was in a safe place mentally,
which worked wonders for my birthing attitude and strength.</b><br />
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At 7pm my videographer arrived. I
remember apologizing to her because although I was still interacting and
smiling in between my waves, I was in active labor and I was distracted during the waves.
She laughed and told me not to apologize. Though I hadn’t met my videographer in person until the
birth, I felt completely comfortable with her there. In fact, I
remember thinking, <i>“I am so glad there is a
professional here to capture these moments.”</i> At my 8pm checkup and stretch,
the midwives announced that I was definitely in active labor, with 85%
effacement. This was great progress! Everyone was telling me that the baby
would come soon, I was almost there, and he would be here before we knew it.
After 20 hours of laboring for my baby, I honestly didn’t care. Everyone was
just trying to be encouraging, but I was in this for the long haul and I was
going to do this however long it took! I wasn’t going to make the mistake of
putting a mental time stamp on when Dage would arrive, and become impatient or
frustrated if my labor lasted longer than I anticipated, and I'm grateful that my birth team <i>wasn't rushing me</i>. </div>
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At about 9pm, it was time for my
next check and cervix stretch. The contractions were so close that if I hopped
out of the tub immediately after one, I barely took four steps around the corner
before the next one hit. I reached the hallway and quickly propped myself
against the bedroom doorway with my arms, so I could rock my hips and bend my
knees as the wave passed. Suddenly, a new feeling came… a wave of nausea. I had
barely said, “I’m going to be sick” when someone grabbed a hospital bag in
perfect timing. I immediately felt a lot better and I was actually <i>so happy</i>! <b>I had been
waiting for this moment; I knew it was transition.</b> By 10pm, I wasn’t a 5 yet. Dianne
and Christine said that once I reached a 5, labor would progress much faster
(we had no idea how fast it would actually end up being!). Contractions were
getting stronger, every time I was getting more vocal and my face would scrunch
as I focused hard. Kamie kept reminding me to relax my shoulders, neck and jaw
as a wave would pass, which helped SO much. I needed those reminders. It's so vital to avoid fighting against the contractions. I reserved
my energy by giving into the waves, and
making myself as weightless as possible in between. I would hold my mom’s or
Scott’s hands and allow my body to drift effortlessly in the soothing water.</div>
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At my next check close to 11pm, I
was finally a 5! At this point, I noticed the midwives and my mom were checking
the clock more frequently. I kept my eyes adverted. I knew that it was important to get through
one contraction at a time, and that came pretty natural to me. They were so
strong at this point that it took all my mental stamina to work through each
one. Dianne strapped magnets around my
ankles (like ankle weights) to help the baby descend and went to take a quick rest in the
other room. She asked Kamie to wake her at the hour mark for my next check, and I heard her say she would break my water in an hour. <i>Oh yeah, my water! </i>My focus was so zoned in on having the baby
that I had totally forgot about that. Literally a couple contractions later, I
felt a little <i>pop</i>! “My water just broke,” I said sleepily to Scott, my mom
and Kamie, who were surrounding the tub. I felt relieved, and suddenly time sped up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Kamie quickly woke Dianne and she
immediately checked me. Her next words were one of the best moments of my life;
“The baby’s head is very low. He’s right here!” Christine also checked me and
confirmed that I had reached complete effacement and his head was right
there. I was now dilated to a 6! At this point it, I began to feel slightly
disconnected from reality as if I were in a dream-like state, and not because
it was “painful” but rather because my mind was helping me cope with the
intensity and pressure (<i>yes; there is a huge difference between “pain”
and “pressure”! It was not a stabbing pain, but a powerful force emanating from
within</i>). Dianne gave me capsules of Vitamin E oil for energy. My contractions
were coming so close that I had to take the pills as fast as I could in between the
waves before the next one would peak. My mom was repeating some of my
favorite birth affirmations, which were strung across the room on a banner. It
gave me so much strength to hear her say, “My body is in control, my baby can
feel my confidence,” and many others. She was feeding me
pebbled ice and holding my hands, stroking my arms, etc. I continued to be as
weightless as possible through the waves and I went completely limp after they
passed, falling into a sleep-like state. Whether it was a conscious decision or
my body taking control, I was reserving my energy for what was to come.<br />
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The final chapter of this story contains
some of the most unforgettable moments in my entire life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The waves had become
progressively, rapidly stronger. I started asking Scott to breathe in synch
with me and breathe out in the same tone as my “O”. For some reason, that was
incredibly soothing. Kamie and my mom would join in occasionally, and it made
me feel more powerful and less alone. I kept focusing on one wave at a time. <i>How ironic it is that I'm not using any Hypnobabies or
much of what I had prepared for actual labor,</i> I thought. <b>I found that the simplest things
made the biggest impact in my birth; breathing, relaxing my jaw, and knowing
that each contraction was bringing my baby closer.</b> Somehow, the waves became even
stronger. I was told that this last stretch lasted
about an hour but to me it was only a few moments... I was lost in labor time! As one would come,
I would adjust myself so that Scott could suspend my arms, then I would fall
completely limp and let my head hang. Scott became my entire world. I told him to keep breathing with me. When a wave came, I no longer shut my eyes but
opened them wide open and searched for his. All I could see was the sea of
piercing blue within his eyes, and all else faded into oblivion. I stared
deep into them and allowed myself to be as vocal as I needed to (always low
tones). I felt that my life depended on my husband breathing in and out with
me.</div>
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I vaguely heard my mom ask
Dianne, “when will we know when it’s time for her to push?” and Dianne
answered, “her breathing will shift” and something about how my breaths would
become shorter. I wondered how in the world that would happen, but suddently, my breathing did change. I felt
an indescribable feeling… it was the baby descending, but it wasn’t what I
expected at all! It wasn’t painful in the slightest, but rather a release. I felt a relief of pressure and suddenly he was ready. I
knew he was coming, and he was coming <b>now</b>. “He wants to come,” I muttered
quietly. “What, honey?” My mom asked, and I responded louder, “He wants to come—now!!”
My mom went to grab Dianne’s attention, but she and Christine were already
ready. They had the birth stool set up next to the tub. “I want to push, I want
to push” I started saying, and I was escorted out of the tub. It was 1:00am. I was
still dilated to a 6. At this point, I said a prayer to Heavenly Father. <i>Help me do this</i>, I asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I had read so many birth stories
that I knew that in comparison to contractions, the pushing stage was easier
for some mothers and more difficult for others. To me, the pushing was the most
intense part of the birth because it was a different kind of feeling than the
contractions. I loved it, though! It was the most fascinating part of the
entire process. A wave would come, and at the peak there would be an innate
desire to push. It would subside shortly, and then the contraction would be
over. I loved that my body gave me a break in between and allowed me to gather
my strength, just as it had the rest of labor. When I first started pushing, I
would try in short bursts and it wasn’t strong enough to move the baby. Dianne instructed
me perfectly. “You need to take a deeper breath and push longer,” she said,
“Push into the pain.” Once I took a deeper breath and
gave more energy, I understood exactly what she meant. There was a stretchy, somewhat painful sensation, but there
was also an amazing feeling that followed (the endorphins and other
‘feel good’ hormones that come with natural birth). It felt good to push, it
really did! It also felt like an impossible feat of strength, an immovable
mountain. <b>I never once said to myself, “I can’t do this” but I did wonder, “<i>how</i> am I going to do this?”</b> I kept
thinking about Dage and how close he was to being in my arms. My love for him kept me going. At 1:30am, his
head was crowning. Christine stretched my perineum with frankincense and
helichrysm oils; something we had discussed earlier because I reallyyy did not want to tear. The midwives asked Scott if he wanted to feel our baby’s head.
He did, and his eyes got super wide and he said, “His head is so soft!”<br />
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Within just a couple hard pushes,
Dage’s head was out. I felt some relief and wanted to take a break through a
couple of waves. The chord was wrapped around his neck a couple times, but knowing how common nuchal chord, it wasn’t a concern. However, Dage’s shoulders were stuck and the chord was too tight for the midwives to easily unwrap as they usually can. “You need to keep pushing,” Christine and Dianne said calmly but with
urgency. I was tired and really didn't feel like it, but I heard
the gravity in their voices and knew I needed to keep going. Dianne coached me
through the next couple of pushes while Christine wriggled out his shoulders. <i>(I
was disappointed that his body didn’t just slip out after the head like it did
for so many other moms, but we later learned that his head and upper body
were the same circumference.)</i> <o:p></o:p>When I pushed him out it was 1:40am. I felt a rush of warmth leave my body and suddenly he was being held up to my chest. The moment he was placed on me for skin-to-skin, all I could say was “My baby, my baby! My sweet baby!” He took a moment to cry, but Dianne gently suctioned him and told Scott to give him some good rubs on his back. I knew the delay was a perfectly natural part of babies' lungs opening for the first time and I wasn’t concerned at all. He let out a beautiful cry, and I couldn’t stop staring at him. I made him!! I created him!! I could hardly fathom the magnificence of that moment.<br />
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I was escorted to the bedroom a
few steps away, and laid down on my own comfortable bed. I was wrapped in a heated blanket, propped up with pillows and waited on hand and foot. Dianne
came in to stitch me and found that I didn’t tear. I was so happy!! I know that
it was because of all of the prep work they had done (stretching, essential oils, etc). Christine cleaned me up and Scott came in with Dage in his
arms. Dage latched and nursed perfectly, a moment that was blissful for me as a
new mother. They weighed him and checked him right next to me on the bed, then returned him to my arms. I turned to my mom and said, "Birth has always been my biggest fear. I just conquered my biggest fear of all time. I feel like I can do anything in life!" I was ecstatic!! All I wanted to do was talk to everyone, but it was time for me to sleep as much as possible. The midwives cleaned up and left. All I wanted to do was stare at my miraculous baby. I forced myself to sleep, despite adrenaline and excitement pumping through my veins.<br />
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I slept about six hours and woke on Friday morning in my own bed with our sleeping angel at our bedside. I smiled because Dianne had told me that the full moon would bring Dage, and we would have our baby in our arms by Friday morning. She was 100% right! We had our baby in our arms, and I had accomplished the most amazing birth that I would never had dreamed of having. Our mothers stayed through the night and brought us a huge, delicious breakfast of sweet cream waffles, sausage and eggs in the morning.<br />
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I am <i>so</i> grateful that I chose to labor in the comfort of home, surrounded by good food, freedoms, and people who served me nonstop. To me, one of the most amazing parts of the birth was when I dilated from a 6 to a 10 in the 40 minutes that I was pushing.<b> It took my body <i>24 hours</i> of labor to progress from a 1 to a 6, then in <i>40 minutes</i> I was fully dilated.</b> <b>That is an absolute testament of the strength, capability and endurance of a woman’s body.</b> My body knew exactly how it needed to progress, and I am so grateful that I spent nine months building faith in myself. I'm so grateful that I didn't have anyone pressuring me or telling me that my body wasn't progressing fast enough. I never second guessed or doubted the process for a moment. This entire experience built my testimony that God knows each of us and what we are capable of. If my birth would have gone an hour longer, I feel that I would have been too tired. He heard my prayer and made sure that everything I experienced was within the realms of what I could handle. I was taken by His hand and shown that I could do this, and I could emerge triumphantly. Dage's home birth was empowering, fearless, difficult, remarkable, exhilirating, intense, peaceful, and incredibly healing. I cannot wait for the next birth.<br />
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Thank you for reading!<br />
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xoxo<br />
Brittany<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">To follow my story on Instagram, click <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brittanyannedanger/">here</a>.</span><br />
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The Birth Team</div>
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I will forever be grateful to my
incredible birth team. For an exhausting 25 hour labor, I felt extremely invigorated the
entire journey. I wouldn’t have been able to make it so easily without all of
their support. I knew that I was in extremely capable hands with Dianne
Bjarnson, and I felt comfortable with her handling any potential complications
(breech presentation, etc.) that she had handled before. She brought such a
light and cheerful mood to the house, and I loved that she could crack jokes the entire labor. Her assistant Christine was an absolute angel. I know that because of her help, I didn't tear. She went over the top and did so much to make everything as comfortable as possible. My darling sister-in-law, Kamie, is the most amazing doula I could have ever hired. She spent every second watching over me. She is extremely hard working and intuitive to mothers' needs--she read my mind the entire labor.<br />
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<b>To contact Dianne Bjarnson and view Sunstone Formulas products, click <a href="https://sunstoneformulas.com/en/60-traditional-midwife">here</a>.</b><br />
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<b>To contact Kamie Dangerfield for doula services, click <a href="https://www.instagram.com/love_your_labor/">here</a> or email her at kamie@loveyourlabor.net</b><br />
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Finally, I need to say a few words about my husband. Dianne turned to him after the birth and said, "You did an amazing job. Most first time fathers would have had a hard time seeing their wife go through that. You did <i>so </i>well." Scott was my rock throughout the entire experience. I knew I could get through it because he was with me. During the early stages of labor, he spent all his energy making sure everyone was fed and happy, and when it got tougher and I needed him, he was with me every moment, intently staying with me, breathing with me, and holding me. I cannot believe how supportive he was, he was incredible. (Thank you hunny, I love you.)<br />
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Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-75481741837359619932017-01-07T11:58:00.000-08:002017-01-07T11:58:22.559-08:00DECLUTTER YOUR LIFE<div style="text-align: center;">
If you're anything like me, you have a hard time letting go of some stuff. I'm not a hoarder, but after watching the documentary "Minimalism" on Netflix, I've gone on a major cleaning and de-cluttering spree! Okay, maaaybe it's the nesting, too. ;)</div>
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There's a lot of information thrown at you when it comes to tips on cleaning & organizing your space. Sometimes I get stressed just <i>reading </i>about all the methods I can use. I've found that the easiest way to declutter your life & get rid of junk is to ask yourself these ten questions.<br />
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I love them so much, in fact, that I've made a free downloadable image just for you to try. Enjoy!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Brittany</div>
Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-66690105388389917812016-12-06T14:30:00.000-08:002016-12-06T14:34:00.490-08:00JORD GIVEAWAY<div style="text-align: center;">
Have you had a hard time finding the perfect gift for your significant other? Well this girl's not stressing anymore cause I just got the best early Christmas gift for my Scott... </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.woodwatches.com/%23brittanyannedanger&source=gmail&ust=1481149845739000&usg=AFQjCNHtovL4owfsKhlp7L-DLXZjIVOBBA" href="http://www.woodwatches.com/#brittanyannedanger" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: start;" target="_blank">http://www.woodwatches.com/#<wbr></wbr>brittanyannedanger</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIbH225TC_hC6BRRZT_zxS5BerLbDyVskQV0CR3IuLKf2XVZ63RaQADKnJpy12zVU6Epib4iNdooemVkQEEH8n-6rjaQ2ftjTD01cdGA6fdNkplrpqGEp2ioM1jWNhyphenhyphenTOOlXi2POPpimLW/s1600/2016-12-03+03.28.22+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIbH225TC_hC6BRRZT_zxS5BerLbDyVskQV0CR3IuLKf2XVZ63RaQADKnJpy12zVU6Epib4iNdooemVkQEEH8n-6rjaQ2ftjTD01cdGA6fdNkplrpqGEp2ioM1jWNhyphenhyphenTOOlXi2POPpimLW/s640/2016-12-03+03.28.22+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.woodwatches.com/%23brittanyannedanger&source=gmail&ust=1481149845739000&usg=AFQjCNHtovL4owfsKhlp7L-DLXZjIVOBBA" href="http://www.woodwatches.com/#brittanyannedanger" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: start;" target="_blank">http://www.woodwatches.com/#<wbr></wbr>brittanyannedanger</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></td></tr>
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I chose the <a href="http://www.woodwatches.com/series/conway/kosso-and-midnight-blue/#brittanyannedanger"><b>Kosso and Midnight Blue</b></a> watch for Scott from the Conway series. It totally suits him, and matches so well with ALL of his outfits. I looove this watch because while all of their watches are unique and built to perfection, the midnight blue shines and pops perfectly against the contrast of the Redwood. It's eye-catching and he recieves compliments literally <i>everywhere</i> we go.<br />
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I'm so pleased with it that I've partnered with <a href="https://www.woodwatches.com/"><b>JORD Wood Watches</b></a> to offer you a giveaway to their site! With Christmas being right around the corner, you won't want to miss this chance to get your husband or wife (or dad, mom, cousin, bestie, etc...) a gorgeous watch. The recieves a $75 voucher to use on their site. And hey--even just for entering you get a $20 gift card! I love giveaways where you win either way. :)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.woodwatches.com/g/brittanyannedanger"><b>click here to enter the giveaway</b></a></span><br />
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The giveaway will run until 12/18/16 and the e-voucher and e-gift cards are valid until 2/28/17. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's something so sexy about your man wearing a good watch, am I right ladies?</td></tr>
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Those of you who know me personally know that I love getting deals and saving money. Watches in general can be a lot of money, so it's important to make a selection like this carefully. Scott has worn his old waterproof watch forever and I have been talking about getting him a nice one for years. I love that JORD's watches are hand-crafted and tell a story. It's so much more than just a nice watch to him--it's personalized and authentic.<br />
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Of course, it's super important for such nice watches to have a custom fit. They has a special wrist-sizer on their site to help you make your selection. It made it super easy for me to find the perfect measurement for my husband's wrist, so when it arrived in the mail it was already customized to him! Overall, I highly recommend JORD Wood Watches and I'm excited to see who wins.</div>
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Wishing you luck!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Brittany</div>
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This post is sponsored by <b>J<a href="https://www.woodwatches.com/">ORD Wood Watches</a></b>. All opinions are 100% my own.<br />
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Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-72485370261872013302016-12-03T18:48:00.002-08:002016-12-06T21:43:22.122-08:00EYEBUYDIRECT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've felt especially grateful this holiday season. Despite catching sick bugs more than I ever have, this pregnancy has been healthy and I'm so glad for that! As of last week, baby boy has dropped and I'm really starting to hit the "nesting stage." I'm obsessively cleaning and my mind is fixated on every tiny thing I want to complete before he gets here, to the point where it keeps me awake at night! I've been pushing myself to work harder than ever, and yet my energy is cut in half... I keep thinking, "where in the world has the time gone?" 4 weeks and this little guy will be in our arms!</div>
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I am so blessed with a healthy baby, healthy body and healthy mind. That alone, coupled with the fact that I have an amazing and supportive husband is almost too much to handle. I can hardly even think of all of my friends and family without exploding with tender joy. Thank you all for your connection, you mean more than you know!</div>
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I'm sure you've all seen EyeBuyDirect's glasses taking the world by storm. I have dreamed of promoting them for years and I'm so excited to be working with them! I'm wearing Aura in Frosted Vanilla from the <a href="https://www.eyebuydirect.com/search?q=rflkt&Trigger=ac"><b>RFLKT line</b></a>.</div>
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EyeBuyDirect's glasses are simple, trendy and sophisticated. They're also affordable--their frame styles start as low as $6. Right now you can recieve $15 off your order plus free shipping if you sign up with your email (just go to <a href="https://www.eyebuydirect.com/"><b>their site</b></a> and the prompt will appear!)</div>
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You don't need to have bad eyes to sport a pair from EyeBuyDirect. In fact, it'll be much cheaper if you don't have a perscription and just want to order them for fun. So get shoppin! :)</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Brittany</div>
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This post is sponsored by <a href="https://www.eyebuydirect.com/"><b>EyeBuyDirect</b></a>. All opinions are 100% my own.</div>
Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-80897457815364460522016-11-28T13:32:00.002-08:002016-11-28T13:49:51.114-08:00Q+A<div style="text-align: center;">
I've never done a q&a before. I am absolutely flattered with how many questions I recieved! I had to narrow it down a lot, so I'm sorry if any of yours got cut. Curl up with a soft blanket, enjoy all this snow + get to know me a little more! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqULsYAqCIi4F18WugqlsdsiGDyIf2TNu11JQjvOITUPihxCdIBv-B1O-z46uQ2DkrHhQo6jLSYQuR-jgaprjAlm25RIooz_bSf2BTHyQxyiRuap46HYEGKGKqWxV89-MFG-hKYLghirpx/s1600/bigcottonwoodcanyons-73.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqULsYAqCIi4F18WugqlsdsiGDyIf2TNu11JQjvOITUPihxCdIBv-B1O-z46uQ2DkrHhQo6jLSYQuR-jgaprjAlm25RIooz_bSf2BTHyQxyiRuap46HYEGKGKqWxV89-MFG-hKYLghirpx/s400/bigcottonwoodcanyons-73.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Favorite past time/favorite thing to do in your down time?</b> A few favorites include: cuddling the hubs and our fur baby, painting/drawing freely, listening to Conference talks, skimming Pinterest for future home project ideas, or settling down with a classic movie and hot chocolate, mmm.<br />
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<b>Are you high maintenance?</b> I don't feel like I am... but this is a tricky question! I know some women who don't leave the house without makeup, extensions, gel nails, etc. and consider themselves low-maintenance. I just think it's more of a question of <i>how </i>ready a woman likes to be every day. I will spend quite a while getting ready for a big photoshoot or event a few times a month, however I don't do that on a daily basis--it would totally drain me. I definitely don't feel the need to constantly have my nails manicured, I style my hair with heat once per week tops, and I spend at least 2 days per week completely makeup-free. Oh, and I never spend more than $20 on any kind of makeup or hair product! That's just where I'm comfortable. But bottom line, I feel that the most important thing about self-care is to feel beautiful and feminine, whatever that means to you and whatever routine you like to follow in order to feel that way! :)<br />
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<b>What are you most excited about being a first-time mommy?</b> It's soo hard to narrow down what I'm "most" excited for, but I definitely can't wait to kiss/cuddle/squeeze and feed little ones. :) There's a special feeling associated with being so heavily relied on, and filling the needs of your babies. I feel like I've experienced a small portion of what it'll really be like with this little guy in my tummy. I can't wait for the full experience in a few weeks.</div>
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<b>Ideal number of kids? </b>I've always wanted 3-5, and Scott has always wanted 4, so we're on the same page on where we think the "perfect" number is for us. We will see where we end up!</div>
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<b>Big parties or intimate dinners?</b> This reminds me of a quote from <i>The Great Gatsby</i>: "I like large parties, they are so intimate. At small parites there isn't any privacy." That's exactly why I would have to say big parties. :)</div>
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<b>Date night or girls night?</b> Date night, because I can't get enough of my husband and he is literally my best friend. <3 But a girls night is MUCH needed every once in a while.<br />
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<b>Favorite destination?</b> I LOVE to travel so this one is really hard to narrow down! I'd have to say that Carmel/Monterey, California is up there because of the memories I made while living there a few summers ago. There is a cozy little town in Montana that Scott and I also love.</div>
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<b>Best DIY project yet?</b> Guys, this is totally hilarious and makes no sense--though I am a full-time artist, I am not skilled at DIY projects! I am very proud of our newly painted and re-finished kitchen chairs. We took them from a shiny black to light cream, and sanded down the reddish finish on the seats to leave them light and gorgeous.</div>
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<b>Favorite bible story and why?</b> I'd have to say that one of my top favorites is the bible story of Jesus and the little children. He taught the disciples that simple, childlike faith is crucial to entering the kingdom of God. Likewise, in <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/17?lang=eng">3 Nephi chapter 17</a> (in the Book of Mormon), Christ gathers the little children around him and offers a prayer that is so marvelous that the words of it could not be written. He blessed them one by one, and they are surrounded and ministered to by angels of heaven. There is nothing sweeter to me than that story.</div>
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<b>Ever used essential oils?</b> Yes! I love them.</div>
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<b>Worst fear?</b> I go back and forth on this all the time, but I've got to say that since becoming pregnant my worst fear has become car accidents. I see so many people on their phones distracted, it drives me nuts!</div>
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<b>Favorite exercises while pregnant?</b> A couple months ago I wrote a post about<a href="http://brittanyannedanger.blogspot.com/2016/09/4-tips-to-staying-fit-during-pregnancy_21.html"> tips to staying healthy during pregnancy</a> that talks about my routine. I have been taking it pretty easy since week 30. My current favorites include lunges, squats and deep stretches with the birth ball I've been using. :)</div>
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<b>How do you curl your hair?</b> Click <a href="http://brittanyannedanger.blogspot.com/2016/09/how-to-achieve-thick-wavy-curls.html">here</a> to read my post on how I achieve wavy curls!<br />
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<b>What do you do if you can't sleep at night?</b> Most of the time if I can't sleep it's because my mind is racing a million miles a minute. I spend some time trying to quiet the noise by thinking of something calm, and if it doesn't work for more than 30 minutes or so then I get up and do something productive until I'm exhausted!<br />
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<b>What was the best news you ever recieved?</b> The first thing that popped into my mind when reading this question took me back to when I was dating Scott. It was a snowy day a lot like today, and I was really missing him. He was working in North Dakota and wasn't scheduled to come home for another month (he'd typically be gone for 3 months, home for a couple weeks, repeat). I remember recieving a call from him and his voice was full of excitement. He told me that he was being sent home Friday and had just bought his plane ticket home! I was beside myself with happiness. We actually ended up getting engaged that weekend. <3<br />
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<b>Best piece of life advice for us ladies?</b> Life is rough. I'd have to say that if I could give one piece of advice, it would be this: learn to enjoy life during the rocky patches. During the hard times, keep memories of peace and joy engrained in your memory to give you strength, find your connection to God and hold to it, be kind to yourself, and most importantly--stay true to yourself. Doing these things will not only build your faith and understanding through trials, but shape you and unlock your potential to become more than you could even imagine.<br />
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Hope you guys enjoyed this! I seriously cherish each of you who have followed along in my life journey. If YOU ever do a q&a, please tag me! I'd love to know more about you.</div>
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Brittany</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14385505657536658381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-60728689016678067402016-11-16T20:08:00.002-08:002016-11-16T20:08:18.773-08:00bumpdate + life<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="3eo8t-0-0" style="color: #1d2129; direction: ltr; position: relative; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14px;">I have been FILLED with this overwhelming sense of gratitude today, more than most days. Life isn't perfect by any means and there are plenty of things to stress about, but I can't get over how immensely blessed I am to even breathe, walk and eat. I cannot stop giving thanks to Heavenly Father, both on my knees and in my heart. I have a testimony that He really does care about every tiny detail in our lives. He sees our hearts and knows our intentions.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We all experience highs and lows as we cycle through trials and moments of relief. Soak in every moment, every emotion and allow it to wash over you. Allow yourself to change into who you're meant to become. God never leaves us, even (and especially) when we feel alone. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Don't ever doubt this! He is there for you.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span data-offset-key="3eo8t-0-0" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Baby update:</i> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I can't believe there's only 6 more weeks until we meet our baby boy! </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">He's super healthy, sitting in a great position (which is awesome because I am doing a natural birth), and gets the hiccups at least 2xs per day. He looooooves to stretch from head to toe, which is the cutest thing ever but is also very uncomfortable for me (he's doing it right now haha)! He wiggles around whenever Scott talks to him. P.S. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We chose his name years ago but we're keeping it quiet until the birth. :)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span data-offset-key="3eo8t-0-0" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Mommy update:</i> Despite struggling to put my shoes on, coming down with colds every month and fighting the urge to rest and do nothing all day, I'm doing very well! From the time I was little, I had an image of pregnancy being miserable and I am so happy that it hasn't been that way for me. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I hit 34 weeks and am preparing myself emotionally, spiritually and physically to bring Baby into the world. I haven't been working out every day but I have been focusing on exercises that will help with the birth and try to stay active. Last week, I spent every day walking around while we were on vacation and was super proud... It's crazy how much joint stress comes from my body doubling it's blood count and growing a full human. Pregnancy is seriously a miracle, it amazes me every second!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">xoxo</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14px;">Brittany</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Lavender Belle Photography</td></tr>
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Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-51517898109331785372016-09-27T10:11:00.000-07:002016-12-06T10:32:33.326-08:00how to achieve thick, wavy curls<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>How to achieve texturized waves with thin & fine hair:</b> </div>
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When gathering questions for my first Q&A on the blog, I was asked how I style/curl my hair. I decided to dedicate a post to my general hair routine. I'm a huge believer in keeping hair healthy, fresh, and finding products that aren't going to break the bank (All the products I use are under $10), so if that's something you're interested in, read on!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pinterest inspiration</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyYY_0Paq8CIVbi06VgpqNawzpYFGnds0OfGq_97l_U0OZT2gpNkjcyeFNf-D3QRAg3QkoNJ7K2-pWOvsOwswsmAWai7I8ZhSDX-zGv2Df1wrobeD6BOO7x5xqmvzvQ2Mjg4M4MYT8hqP/s1600/2016-09-20+01.00.08+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyYY_0Paq8CIVbi06VgpqNawzpYFGnds0OfGq_97l_U0OZT2gpNkjcyeFNf-D3QRAg3QkoNJ7K2-pWOvsOwswsmAWai7I8ZhSDX-zGv2Df1wrobeD6BOO7x5xqmvzvQ2Mjg4M4MYT8hqP/s640/2016-09-20+01.00.08+2.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>
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In high school, I hardly ever used a heat protectant, and used the blow dryer and straightener almost daily. I thought I had the most oily hair and skin in existence--I didn't understand that my hair was overproducing oil because I was washing it too much. I have trained my hair to work with only washing it every 3 days. It was torture for the first couple months while my hair adjusted, but this has worked wonders! I have less split ends and I have natural waves that I <i>never </i>thought I had. Creating some texturized, natural waves makes a great base for the look I'm about to show you.</div>
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I'm a huge fan of the free, beachy-wave look, as well as keeping my hair as healthy as possible. My hair grows reeeeeally slow and it's super fine, so in order to achieve volume and texture (while protecting it from heat) I follow these steps:</div>
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1) When I step out of the shower, I immediately spray with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Its-10-Miracle-Product-Keratin/dp/B0081U9OMG/ref=sr_1_16_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1474352808&sr=1-16&keywords=its+a+10+miracle+leave+in+product" target="_blank"><b>this</b></a> miracle leave-in conditioner spray. I get too greasy to use conditioner all over my hair in the shower (I only focus on the ends), so when I use this stuff I spray about 4x's around my entire head to distribute shine and protect against heat. It's the most expensive hair product I own, but that's because it is worth every penny!!</div>
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2) Next I put about a nickel-sized drop of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Organix-Renewing-Moroccan-Argan-Penetrating/dp/B006B6SE6E/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1474352893&sr=1-1&keywords=organix%2Brenewing%2Bmoroccan%2Bargan%2Boil%2Bpenetrating%2Boil&th=1" target="_blank"><b>this</b></a> argan oil on the palm of my hand and with both of my hands I apply it to the very ends of my hair by bunching in a gentle upwards motion. I have had this same bottle for literally 3 years, it lasts forever and it helps my ends stay nourished.</div>
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3) I don't blow-dry. I maybe use the blow-dryer once per month, on low heat. This is what has encouraged my hair to produce natural waves the most!<br />
In case you haven't heard this before--<b>do not</b> towel-dry your hair! It encourages frizziness and breakage. Get a big soft T-shirt and designate it specifically for hair care. I have a certain way of turban-wrapping my hair with one of my hubby's soft T-shirts that I leave hanging with the towels. I leave it on for 15-20 minutes while I get dressed, cook breakfast, etc--then I unwrap my hair and use the towel to bunch my hair in an upwards motion (while squeezing carefully with each bunch) to dry it a little more. I let it air dry the rest of the way. I've been using a T-shirt for almost a year and my hair has way less breakage!</div>
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4) Once my hair is totally dry--and sometimes I even wait to do this the next day--I'll brush it with a wide-toothed comb like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Conair-Anti-static-Detangling-Comb-Colors/dp/B002QF4UYY/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1474353211&sr=1-3&keywords=wide+tooth+comb" target="_blank"><b>this</b></a> one in downward motions. Then, starting with my part, I spray <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Not-Your-Mothers-Refreshing-Shampoo/dp/B0057NE7NQ/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1474352948&sr=1-1&keywords=not%2Byour%2Bmothers%2Bclean%2Bfreak%2Bdry%2Bshampoo&th=1" target="_blank"><b>this</b></a> dry shampoo into my roots, sectioning farther down on each side of my head as I go (about 1" each time). I spray the roots on the back of my head by flipping my hair upside-down and sectioning accordingly. YES, I use dry shampoo on clean hair! I find that this prevents my hair from feeling dirty as quick. I'd much rather use it on day 1 then wait until it feels greasy. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHjfgfsJLag7cs3bmBPV-WPW1jhJXsY-K1jrXC9lEoaGl_cEngmvXb3m_Nb__Z74eqR0fv51GPCBcUXp0XrfvE8wKTqs-zCFvCjyHcEztEA054M_xPLLn5syftVmfCEtMG8cfq-JWu11sY/s1600/2016-09-20+01.00.07+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHjfgfsJLag7cs3bmBPV-WPW1jhJXsY-K1jrXC9lEoaGl_cEngmvXb3m_Nb__Z74eqR0fv51GPCBcUXp0XrfvE8wKTqs-zCFvCjyHcEztEA054M_xPLLn5syftVmfCEtMG8cfq-JWu11sY/s400/2016-09-20+01.00.07+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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5) Lastly, I use <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Conair-Instant-Heat-Curling-Iron/dp/B00006WNL8/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1474353436&sr=8-1&keywords=conair+1+1+2+inch+curling+iron" target="_blank"><b>this</b></a> curling wand to throw in some beachy waves. Remember, following the other steps should help you achieve some natural curl--even if you have fine, thin, straight hair like I do--and should give you a base so you don't have to use as much heat on your hair! As a rule for curls, I take fairly large sections of hair (over 1") and I don't leave my hair on the barrel longer than 10 seconds. As a final finishing touch, I go through with a mirror and pull smaller sections that need some extra curl--because there will inevitably be spots that need a little more heat when you're curling so quickly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpvkrTQle2ghZbQlimGT8xG-RC_vff1yIu3DTheG8yZtcCRCpQIRVXtOmgu9LdAjBeZqpZwQp2QtAXjNi6PVKrLuY5bDTghFV3DrQjX_Yk95LC3JmcPxCzWUYqCrcsXlzPrSt2FFbjzKb/s1600/Screenshot+%252876%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpvkrTQle2ghZbQlimGT8xG-RC_vff1yIu3DTheG8yZtcCRCpQIRVXtOmgu9LdAjBeZqpZwQp2QtAXjNi6PVKrLuY5bDTghFV3DrQjX_Yk95LC3JmcPxCzWUYqCrcsXlzPrSt2FFbjzKb/s400/Screenshot+%252876%2529.png" width="316" /></a></div>
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I hope this gave you a good visual on how to style texturized wavy curls! As a side note for hair care--generally be aware of ingredients in hair products. (Even higher-end products like Chi have ingredients like alcohol, which is why I stopped using their heat protectant that I used to love.) <span style="text-align: center;">If anyone wants me to do a video tutorial, leave a comment. I'd be happy to make one. I'm always up for trying new things. :)</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">Thanks so much for supporting my blog! I was blown away with the number of views on my last post. You are all amazing!</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">xoxo</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Brittany</span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14385505657536658381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-91048691356969712892016-09-21T09:53:00.006-07:002016-12-06T21:45:03.794-08:004 tips to staying fit during pregnancy<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey everyone! </div>
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I was sent some great questions about my favorite pregnancy workouts and eating habits. I decided that this was important enough for it's own post! Today I'll be dividing this into 4 tips to staying fit during pregnancy. However, this also applies if you're trying to get pregnant, nursing, a first-time mom to toddlers, or a mom of 7 teenagers. I'm by no means an expert, but whatever stage of life you are in, I guarantee that the following information will help you stay fit, energized, and happy!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">25 weeks pregnant</td></tr>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Tip 1: Get into a good exercise/workout routine.</span></h4>
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Monday through Friday I have recently been doing IdealFit's new <a href="https://idealfit.com/mommy-trainer/"><b>15 Day Mommy Fit Challenge</b></a>.<br />
Their workouts are safely modified if you're pregnant or nursing. They're only about 20 minutes<br />
long, so it's easy to throw my hair in a pony tail, step into my workout clothes, and blast<br />
through it! With how short they are, I was surprised both with how difficult it is and how great I feel.<br />
All of the videos are public on YouTube, but I recommend going to the link because they'll<br />
send you a 100% free invite to the Mommy Fit Challenge Facebook group and custom<br />
meal plans. It's a wonderful way to connect to other mamas and get on track!</div>
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I like to go to the Crossfit gym that my hubby trains at once every weekend with him.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">For those of you who aren't familiar with Crossfit, it is a very functional form of strength building. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">They implement both weight training and cardio. </span>I modify according to what I can do and what<br />
is safe for my growing baby. I don't do any workouts that selectively target my abs, I choose<br />
much lighter weights than I used to use, and generally listen to my body. :)</div>
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Another great place to go for pregnancy workouts is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/alexajeanfitness/"><b>@alexajeanfitness</b></a> on Instagram! </div>
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She posts short video clips in her feed that are easy to follow and she is a major inspiration</div>
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to me <span style="font-size: x-small;">(she's pregnant right now and we are actually due around the same time!)</span>. However,</div>
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keep in mind her meal plans and workout routines are not free, which</div>
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is why I have preferred IdealFit's amazing mommy plan.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Tip 2: Prep simple and healthy snacks that you can grab on the go.</span></h4>
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Especially since being pregnant--since May to be exact--I've been suuuper snacky. During the beginning months while I dealt with sickness, I craved tons of simple carbs (think pizza, mac & cheese, white breads, etc... <u>not</u> healthy carbs!!). However, all new mamas understand that you do what you gotta do to get past those difficult months (amiright?) and as soon as I could hold food down, I threw all the junk out of my diet and stuck to these basic, healthy snack foods:<br />
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FOR SWEET CRAVINGS</div>
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-Cottage cheese topped with peaches, pears, pineapple slices, or anything that makes </div>
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your heart happy (I recommend the Daisy brand of cottage cheese--only like 2 ingredients).<br />
You can also get fancy and add sliced almonds or nuts on top.</div>
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-Oatmeal (raw oats, not sugary packages) with a scoop of raw honey or agave to </div>
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sweeten, topped with whatever fruit you have in the kitchen.</div>
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-Fruit!! From someone who has a major sweet tooth, fruit has saved my eating habits. </div>
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Keep apples, oranges, pineapple, strawberries, kiwi, peaches, blackberries, any fruit that you enjoy sliced up in tupperware in your fridge so you can hurry and grab some when the</div>
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dreaded sweet tooth comes around.<br />
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-Protein shakes, mmmm. (I crave my protein shakes like I used to crave candy, it's a miracle.) If you're growing babies or nusring for them, you need to be consuming your weight in protein<br />
(135lbs=135g) EVERY DAY. I love adding a heaping scoop of peanut butter, almond milk, a<br />
banana, ice cubes, and 3 scoops of <a href="http://www.idealfit.com/Brittany"><b>IdealFit's chocolate protein</b></a>. I have seriously never fallen<br />
so in love with chocolate in my entire life before trying theirs! </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">PS if you're looking for a really great protein brand, their new flavor Chocolate Coconut is 30% off for the week!</span><br />
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FOR SALTY CRAVINGS</div>
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-Whole grain toast with avacado and 2 grilled eggs (make sure to double check the ingredients</div>
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on the bread you buy. Many brands have high fructose corn syrup in even their "healthier" breads). Add a dash of salt and pepper to satisfy salty cravings. :)</div>
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-Veggies in their most pure form. :) Keep fresh bell peppers, baby carrots, avacados, etc. </div>
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cut and at the ready in plastic baggies in your fridge. I grab mine as I head out the door</div>
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to run errands so that I will be prepared when hunger strikes!</div>
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-Boiled eggs. My husband and I have to get our eggs at Costco, we go through them soo fast!</div>
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This is partly because we will immediately boil a dozen eggs and section them into baggies, </div>
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2 eggs each. They make for a filling snack! We like to top them with salt & pepper.</div>
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-Egg salad on whole grain bread. I slice up boiled eggs, a little mustard, spicy mayo,</div>
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and a dash of salt and pepper in mine. It's not the healthiest snack in the world but</div>
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it's way better than other food choices and it's sooo delicious!</div>
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-Meats! If you can, try to limit the majority of your meat choices to lean meats </div>
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(chicken and fish). Whether you prefer to bake in the oven or grill on the stove--season it with</div>
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delicious spices that help give you that "salty" fix! I looove to use lots of garlic when </div>
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baking my chicken.</div>
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-Tuna on whole grain bread. If you want to make it a tuna sandwich on steroids,<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman";">toast your bread and immediately top it with cheese so it melts, then throw on a juicy tomato!</span></div>
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Lastly, and most importantly, I drink lots of water packed with BCAA's. <span style="font-size: x-small;">BCAA's--branched-chain amino acids-- stimulate protein synthesis, and do so to a greater extent than a normal protein on it's own. They build immune system support, protect against amino acid deficiency, and prevent lean muscle mass loss. </span>They are a MUST HAVE if you are planning on building muscle during pregnancy, as well as digesting your protein intake. There are many good brands out there, but I'm going to stick with IdealFit's forever because they are truly delicious. I feel like I'm chugging a cold raspberry lemonade soda, it makes water taste so good!</div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Tip 3: Break out of the standard "3 square meals per day" mindset</span></h4>
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In conjunction with the last question, I've adopted the idea that it's healthier and better to </div>
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listen to my body's cues and eat when I feel prompted, rather than wait for the standard 3 meals of the day. In addition to tons of studies that have shown that eating smaller meals more freqently helps control appetites and increase metabolism, my growing baby boy zaps all my energy! </div>
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Nowadays if I'm not eating SOMETHING every 3 hours or so, I get super light-headed. </div>
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Whether that will stay or leave after pregnancy, I'm content with eating less, more often--and<br />
I've seen amazing results from doing this.</div>
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I still fall into the standard "3 meals" and find myself wondering what to make for breakfast, lunch and dinner (especially because my hubby works the standard 8-5 hours and I like to have a hot meal for him to come home to). However, I try to fill gaps of time between meals with snacks, </div>
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then eat a little less during mealtime. :)</div>
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<h4>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Tip 4: Find your happy place by achieving balance!</span></h4>
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MAMAS.</div>
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Last month, as I was struggling to get back on track after some "cheat days" and feeling a little discouraged in myself, I realized how long our bodies go through the process of bringing children into this world. Not only does pregnancy take 9 months (which is only 3 months short of an entire year), but we then spend years breastfeeding and catering to our new babies' schedules. If Scott and I were to have 4 children, I realized could spend roughly 10 years being pregnant and getting through the breastfeeding years. So the question came to my mind,</div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">"Do I want to be unhappy with where I am for the next 10 years?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Or do I want to form stable habits NOW that will make the next 10 years the happiest of my life?"</span></div>
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Um, I'd prefer to be at my happiest!! So how is this achieved?</div>
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First of all, forget about the "ONE thing to drop baby weight."</div>
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I believe that there isn't "one" thing that you can do to stay fit while you're making & raising babies. <span style="font-size: x-small; font-style: normal;">Most products that advertise immediate and total weight loss are either false advertisements or flat-out dangerous to your body</span>. Having a healthy mind and body takes <i>multiple decisions every day</i>; sometimes decisions you reallyyy don't feel like making in the moment.</div>
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I've found that the key to achieving health goals is BALANCE. You don't want to push yourself so far past your limits that you fall into the trecherous cycle of restriction & heavy exercise followed by breaking and binging. I've been there, and it's an awful place where you feel like you will never reach your goals. Instead, sticking to a simple daily routine and adding in new goals one week at a time has taught me to really <i>enjoy </i>practicing a healthy lifestyle. That is the ultimate goal! You want to be a fit, happy mama that can keep up with her energetic kids--while loving every moment of the journey! :)</div>
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xoxo</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Brittany<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">PS Huge thank you to IdealFit for having me model for them and sponsor their Mommy Challenge!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">You guys are amazing and your products have changed my life.</span></div>
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Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-31541908605729999372016-08-28T18:30:00.003-07:002016-08-28T19:13:12.805-07:00cool blue + comfort<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Everyone is raving about <a href="https://www.cleomadison.com/collections/dresses/products/blue-kendall-free-dress" target="_blank">this dress</a>! I've seen so many fellow Utah bloggers styling theirs, and I feel so lucky to be wearing the Blue Kendall Free Dress. I've partnered with <a href="https://www.cleomadison.com/" target="_blank">Cleo Madison</a> to offer you 15% off your order with them, so make sure you're following me on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/brittanyannedanger" target="_blank">Instagram</a> (@brittanyannedanger) and get the code brittany15!</div>
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Being a first-time mommy-to-be, I tend to grab two different kinds of outfits to style my 22 week bump: something tight and fitted for pregnancy, or something super loose and comfy... most of the time I go for the comfort. The problem with comfortable clothes is, its hard to find something comfy and still stylish. (Don't you agree?)</div>
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All my problems are solved with this dress. I get so many compliments on its gorgeous royal blue shade, its relaxed fit & the sophisticated yet subtle pleats along the back.</div>
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Cleo Madison truly is your new destination for modest outifts!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Brittany</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image w/ back details from www.cleomadison.com</td></tr>
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<b>SHOP BRITT'S LOOK</b></div>
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royal blue dress | <a href="https://www.cleomadison.com/collections/dresses/products/blue-kendall-free-dress" target="_blank">cleo madison</a></div>
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leather heels | <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=55150&vid=1&pid=218274002" target="_blank">old navy</a></div>
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metal necklace | <a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=25059551&zmam=39923003&zmas=1&zmac=1&zmap=25059585&cm_mmc=Performics-_-Affiliates-_-rewardStyle-_-Primary&clickid=0004d80ef1a7c61a0a2a794cb6003aa1" target="_blank">urban outfitters</a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14385505657536658381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-67189762469527239222016-08-23T10:15:00.002-07:002016-08-23T11:14:49.597-07:00gender reveal<div style="text-align: center;">
We're having a BOY!! Scott and I are SO surprised and compeltely excited! We can't wait to welcome our little man into the world January 1st. I know he's going to be big and strong like his daddy! The doctor kept commenting how big his lips are, haha. He's going to be so handsome.</div>
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We feel immensely blessed to have such a healthy baby and pregnancy!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Showing off his "piano fingers"! He was wiggling his index finger at us during the ultrasound :)</td></tr>
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We had "let slip" to some close family and friends that we were having a girl... haha. To those of you who are gawking at the news: we are just as shocked as you are! From the moment we found out about our pregnancy, we felt it was a girl. The doctor hinted it was a girl starting at our 12 week checkup. Even throughout the 20 week ultrasound, he was making jokes about "her" ("daddy's going to have to buy a shotgun to keep all the boys away, her lips are so big, she's so pretty like mommy, etc.) then at the very end we did one last check and OOPS!</div>
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There was a stem on the apple!</div>
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Scott and I were SO sure it was a girl, that we had even chosen her name (really neat story behind it), started buying girl clothes, and the whole shabang! I never thought I'd be one of those moms who was completely surprised by the gender of her baby. This just goes to show me that nothing in life is certain, but everything happens as it's meant to. We know now that we were just feeling the sweet spirit of his sister, looking out for her older brother as he transitions into this world. </div>
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We couldn't be more excited to have a boy first--I know he's going to be extremely talented and the protector of his younger siblings. We've actually known our first boy name since we got engaged, so now I have to decide if we want to reveal it or wait... :)</div>
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I'm finally past the sick stages and super grateful to be working out, eating right and growing a healthy baby boy while continuing to pursue other things in life. Pregnancy is so amazing. I can't believe that ANY woman is able to create an entire human being within 9 months, let alone an estimated 200 million women per year. Creating a baby is such a blessing! </div>
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xoxo</div>
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Brittany</div>
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<br />Brittany Dangerfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13300047058105251298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-87533788618668975332016-08-11T21:18:00.000-07:002016-08-12T08:36:50.668-07:00summertime floral + KICKS<div style="text-align: center;">
Okay lovelies, </div>
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I promised you a week full of goodies, and I haven't forgotten!</div>
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I can't say enough about this dress from <a href="http://www.spreesy.com/Indigoandsage" target="_blank">Indigo & Sage</a>; it's the perfect combination of modest and breathable material. It's silky smooth and doesn't ever wrinkle! It's formal enough to wear to church or even a wedding event, yet casual enough that I can throw it on pretty much any day when I'm not sure what to wear. It's so stretchy that it falls perfectly over my 20 week baby bump, but it's still form fitting.</div>
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I love this dress so much that I partnered with Indigo & Sage and we're offering a giveaway over on my Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/brittanyannedanger" target="_blank">@brittanyannedanger</a>. Check it out! I'd <i>love</i> to give you a chance to win $50 to their site! They have everything from cute, comfy dresses to trendy tees and incoming fall outfits. </div>
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Almost 20 weeks and baby has officially begun moving!!<br />
And it's the coolest experience I've ever had! On Wednesday, I was laying on my back working on the computer after I'd had breakfast, and I started to feel something. Something BIG. Baby totally skipped the flutter-movement stage and went straight to kicks! I mean, relative to how they're going to feel in the weeks to come, I know they're "small". But it's such a crazy feeling to have a little body inside of me, flipping & kicking around! :)<br />
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Scott and I were resting last night before bedtime, just talking about life, and Baby started going crazy ninja again. I told him that they were probably still too small for him to feel, but I asked him to rest his hand on my tummy while we talked--just in case. He made a joke (calling the baby by name) and said, "You're going to be a kickboxer, aren't you?"<br />
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WHOOSH. Baby gave the BIGGEST kick yet! Right on the spot where his hand rested! Scott's eyes got really wide and he said, "I definitely felt that!" We laughed so hard. Babe made another couple kicks before settling down for the night.<br />
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I'm so excited for this adventure of motherhood. Yesterday for the first time in this pregnancy, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace wash over me that everything is going to be fine. I haven't been extremely stressed all the time, but since this baby was totally unplanned for, we have been trying to do all that we can to set ourselves up for the future. Life is expensive and it can be really hard at times. But I felt a calmness, as if Heavenly Father was telling me, "You're going to be fine. People have babies in much more difficult situations. Your baby is going to be just fine."<br />
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I'm so grateful for this gospel & the knowledge that families can be forever. Also for the knowledge that we are meant to form families and my body was perfectly built for this. <3</div>
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I know we've left you all hanging on the gender. We were supposed to go in for our final gender ultrasound the week before the 8th but it got pushed. I promise I'll have it all put together and announced by next week! :) Hang in there!<br />
I'm so grateful to all of you who support my blogging. Good luck & enjoy!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Brittany</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My BFF :)</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14385505657536658381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-27816431272305408502016-08-08T21:13:00.001-07:002016-08-08T21:15:12.601-07:00deliciously organic<div style="text-align: center;">
I have some incredible collaborations this week to share with you all, including some giveaways and other goodies. Tonight's post is something I've been <i>super</i> excited for, for over a month. Follow along to read about my latest obsession!</div>
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I came across <a href="https://sweetpoppyboutique.patternbyetsy.com/" target="_blank">Sweet Poppy Boutique</a> through Instagram (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/sweetpoppyboutique/" target="_blank">@sweetpoppyboutique</a>) and instantly knew that I hit GOLD. The shop owner, Cornelia, is the sweetest and hand-makes everything from organic bath and body essentials to knitted baby blankets. ALL of the items on her website are Gluten-Free! My sister has Celiac Disease so it's awesome to know that she can use these products too! Her work is professional and every item is uniquely made with all-natural ingredients--which is super important to me, knowing that everything I'm putting on and in my body is affecting the baby!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTJpx7Wh_o3KgplrOqbYCpQ9_UeIG0NZ2Amyuiba7JHVpFPmEOB5vFlDVgyeq5c4eRbkA_51tFRPhriDcJn5iaBAUC6ziv7w9O2Gy7TrvUt0dGGkLA4NhKW2PhWY6G_XGeINpjvYBjnqb/s1600/IMG_7177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTJpx7Wh_o3KgplrOqbYCpQ9_UeIG0NZ2Amyuiba7JHVpFPmEOB5vFlDVgyeq5c4eRbkA_51tFRPhriDcJn5iaBAUC6ziv7w9O2Gy7TrvUt0dGGkLA4NhKW2PhWY6G_XGeINpjvYBjnqb/s1600/IMG_7177.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">top: <b>snickerdoodle body butter</b>, bottom left: <b>raspberry sugar scrub</b>, bottom right: <b>coffee&coco sugar scrub</b></td></tr>
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<a href="https://sweetpoppyboutique.patternbyetsy.com/listing/464810235/sugar-scrubs" target="_blank">Coffee&CoCo Sugar Scrub</a>:</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V8MZC5Ry6Rqgw0tcXiW5QLWf6Ewa2Y8xtLBIo07sHOXjWTaV25bae5f3Q76b6fevLyEGtw7T-hTMgU0YeMa5Vp0MEQ26vLSaeS5xx82N0VIqQ9UkK4gSQl5Yz7VsIvR3HD1l2kByDNWv/s1600/IMG_7167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V8MZC5Ry6Rqgw0tcXiW5QLWf6Ewa2Y8xtLBIo07sHOXjWTaV25bae5f3Q76b6fevLyEGtw7T-hTMgU0YeMa5Vp0MEQ26vLSaeS5xx82N0VIqQ9UkK4gSQl5Yz7VsIvR3HD1l2kByDNWv/s640/IMG_7167.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Where's my coffee lovers? When I found out that Sweet Poppy Boutique carried a coffee sugar scrub, I knew I <i>had </i>to have it. I don't drink coffee but </span>I'm totally a coffee smelling junkie (just ask my husband, haha)<span style="text-align: start;">. So if you're like me, I </span><i style="text-align: start;">promise </i><span style="text-align: start;">that you need this in your life! It smells divine and it's the perfect combination of a moisturizing yet cleansing scrub. It leaves my skin feeling super soft and I get to smell like coffee, so it's a win-win. ;) Also guys, prepared to be blown away... you can have 4 fl oz worth of a sugar scrub for only $6! </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTyk9eOS6bc-HgPk5E5CNJ3tkZPnV6xxhhu_IbXPzIDVus4d1ZcHDJzmXDuyqmf1cJzyDhJjxdnA_zqwUAs8-v6YNCimy8OmF34mCx1n6F22OJBBdj0hyphenhyphenEocXF5oTnYYHd0wHGz3LXT9M5/s1600/IMG_7169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTyk9eOS6bc-HgPk5E5CNJ3tkZPnV6xxhhu_IbXPzIDVus4d1ZcHDJzmXDuyqmf1cJzyDhJjxdnA_zqwUAs8-v6YNCimy8OmF34mCx1n6F22OJBBdj0hyphenhyphenEocXF5oTnYYHd0wHGz3LXT9M5/s640/IMG_7169.JPG" width="506" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">attempting to show the incredible, moisturizing properties and texture of this scrub</td></tr>
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<a href="https://sweetpoppyboutique.patternbyetsy.com/listing/464810235/sugar-scrubs" target="_blank">Raspberry Sugar Scrub</a>:</h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWEZTRnlAyLN4HVxRewHHQYIsUHfrf44cStMLC0MHomIYLflYknUlQl_5I4DD074z1E55HYdFg6MwQBnlB50KJEx3XqHi_04WWCPzvc6YaojkerWZs3AJtj3fVBUOM1OCXefPh4t9FNy8e/s1600/IMG_7159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWEZTRnlAyLN4HVxRewHHQYIsUHfrf44cStMLC0MHomIYLflYknUlQl_5I4DD074z1E55HYdFg6MwQBnlB50KJEx3XqHi_04WWCPzvc6YaojkerWZs3AJtj3fVBUOM1OCXefPh4t9FNy8e/s640/IMG_7159.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">texture</td></tr>
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The Raspberry Sugar Scrub is not only the most heavenly-smelling bath essential I've EVER owned, but all of Cornelia's fruit sugar scrubs have raw honey, pure sugar cane, vinatmin E oil, organic coconut oil, and ground dried raspberries (or mango, which is also a choice on <a href="https://sweetpoppyboutique.patternbyetsy.com/" target="_blank">her site</a>)! It's <i>such </i>a good feeling to know that I know every single ingredient of this natural product that is being put on my body. This scent goes out of stock the quickest, so be sure to watch the website closely and snag as many as you can!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvEvvm0Pt4Kc-WaXyglHHSKcQ4P_pAWRqRNL0MxgfKSkiM85qvWVxgYDtjjRT-f_ocQ6T34bDEll-lbT2N7tsvPF6TO0gYye-mU3JPJxShhp4HJGUrds9jUN0fvChQwx4L-Df1geU2wM3/s1600/IMG_7180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvEvvm0Pt4Kc-WaXyglHHSKcQ4P_pAWRqRNL0MxgfKSkiM85qvWVxgYDtjjRT-f_ocQ6T34bDEll-lbT2N7tsvPF6TO0gYye-mU3JPJxShhp4HJGUrds9jUN0fvChQwx4L-Df1geU2wM3/s640/IMG_7180.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how large the 4 fl oz cans are. I can't believe they're only $6!</td></tr>
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The thing that I love the most about these scrubs is that they are the perfect combination of moisturizing and cleansing. I've tried many (many, many, many) exfoliators in my lifetime due to sensitive skin, and my skin has reacted wonderfully with these. I can't get enough of them, I'm going to have to re-order before I run out so I don't have to go through withdrawals!</div>
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://sweetpoppyboutique.patternbyetsy.com/listing/449908666/body-butter" target="_blank">Snickerdoodle Body Butter:</a></h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingKrLrd_xXW7o2ZUnof5OTm2BBfb5lz7_cQxDE-5m0ErqZrgOBLFl22n64Dp2NShARBM9bY9cnlEDFBMylFxom9hci2HmIXGU7paSl5hTDQoxBSYIinG3mqcAoQhVaomjgSD4t9_ifOoy/s1600/IMG_7171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingKrLrd_xXW7o2ZUnof5OTm2BBfb5lz7_cQxDE-5m0ErqZrgOBLFl22n64Dp2NShARBM9bY9cnlEDFBMylFxom9hci2HmIXGU7paSl5hTDQoxBSYIinG3mqcAoQhVaomjgSD4t9_ifOoy/s640/IMG_7171.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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As you can see, although I shot these photos not even a few days after recieving my package I had already dug into this body butter. Guys, Snickerdoodle is seriously my favorite cookie on earth. And even if it's not your fave, you have to give this body butter a try--because it's the bomb! When you first open it up, it feels a little hard but doesn't take much pressure to yield to your finger tips. As you rub it on your skin, it melts into perfection and leaves you feeling SO soft. </div>
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I'm sooo excited to try the Baby's Bum Butter for my little one, because the adult body butter makes my skin feel like a baby's!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_JSy6ZmayB3wttgqU9ZdKxfb03Cn-f34J0Qk40ELFiFYtKIkPIXFFU68GF9d2Nu4YHdT3P6uf7AdXqdgqjT4bxrIzhaMPsPSujrllPRPHgCdj4fS7Gro7pQIJGTVbg5YA4NYP_hekzfU/s1600/IMG_7172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_JSy6ZmayB3wttgqU9ZdKxfb03Cn-f34J0Qk40ELFiFYtKIkPIXFFU68GF9d2Nu4YHdT3P6uf7AdXqdgqjT4bxrIzhaMPsPSujrllPRPHgCdj4fS7Gro7pQIJGTVbg5YA4NYP_hekzfU/s640/IMG_7172.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://sweetpoppyboutique.patternbyetsy.com/listing/276691024/relaxing-bath-bombs" target="_blank">Orange Dreamsicle Relaxing Bath Bomb:</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqexr4CBKNQTKZcJXEh8WATuArDQVRZM16NgC3EYATyS8fLucRWCJfti7Dh7WTRFSUWyc_QL73ANYb_HPM3i3Wx9C37nf271mw8MKsqboLBwnUS5I6gAB2Wqy1gh5I8uRSISmavGTD4-Z/s1600/IMG_7173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqexr4CBKNQTKZcJXEh8WATuArDQVRZM16NgC3EYATyS8fLucRWCJfti7Dh7WTRFSUWyc_QL73ANYb_HPM3i3Wx9C37nf271mw8MKsqboLBwnUS5I6gAB2Wqy1gh5I8uRSISmavGTD4-Z/s640/IMG_7173.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Last but not least, Cornelia sent me an Orange Dreamsicle Bath Bomb. Before I got pregnant, baths honestly weren't my thing. I think I just got used to the repetitive motions of showering and never went back to baths. But now, I looooove them! They soothe my skin and calm any worries I'm having, and bath bombs make the bathing experience 100x's better. I haven't tried the Orange Dreamsicle Bath Bomb yet, but I plan to soak with it tomorrow and I will update you then!</div>
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I love how her bath bombs are packaged with adorable twine, and I also love that it's organic like all of her other products.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytYHExwA5kEDSj4Hg2nWgrAiI9zTabdx19uChq-BXx7yhUvk9knSYXscljJTLes7-KWb85ml8VpG1I1TjAY3DvaVxr1lut5zeQ6P-d6DL5rGujI1WI_9uOd9d_ErwpuKzDwo1i8deYUKs/s1600/IMG_7175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytYHExwA5kEDSj4Hg2nWgrAiI9zTabdx19uChq-BXx7yhUvk9knSYXscljJTLes7-KWb85ml8VpG1I1TjAY3DvaVxr1lut5zeQ6P-d6DL5rGujI1WI_9uOd9d_ErwpuKzDwo1i8deYUKs/s640/IMG_7175.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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What I loved most about Sweet Poppy Boutique's products (other than their smells, SERIOUSLY guys) is that you recieve hand-crafted, organic products for a super low cost. Cornelia is the most caring shop owner I've ever met. If you're a fan of supporting small family businesses please give Sweet Poppy Boutique a try! You will be just as hooked as I am!</div>
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I know everyone's been saying this, but this summer has flown by! For me, I think it's because I've stayed indoors more than past summers due to the added heat that my babe's producing. Also, the hubs has been on-call a lot for work, and that prevents us from taking spontaneous trips (which we definitely miss!) but I'm sooo grateful to Scott for all of his hard work. I'm so excited for the adventures we have coming our way and I'm super grateful for all of YOU!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Brittany</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14385505657536658381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-41911559079896902742016-05-22T11:38:00.003-07:002016-05-22T11:40:14.979-07:00baby announcement!<img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBbY9HrYCsckxzHXmXEXnlEm1yFHzseGhQ_9i9HaT8XbfDczspQsYfqXwgSPkWvFxjNrMVB2iyPR1m57vcw6heoexEsqbGzYJsCG99zxPxWJjuRy5IY3K6jyI980hb2iiR2nTBe4M3LYQc/s640/JPEG_20160511_204845_-1780586920.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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We're so excited to announce our first baby!!</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;">♡</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;">♡</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;">♡</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There has been a wonderful mix of emotions since confirming our pregnancy. We hadn't planned on having our first for at least another year--yet despite measures I had taken, this baby obviously needed and wanted to come to us now! We are extremely blessed and grateful to welcome this little one into the world and become parents.<br />
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We love them SO much already!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14385505657536658381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732028564043586547.post-74420042371817539232016-05-21T09:56:00.004-07:002016-05-21T10:00:41.829-07:00family pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Scott and I have been married about a year and the time is f l y i n g by. </div>
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I suddenly realized that we hadn't done a shoot since our engagements (not counting bridals since those are kinda different)! I feel that we've changed so much in a year--and who knows how much longer it will just be the two of us and our fur baby? Luckily, my girl <a href="https://www.facebook.com/alexisfoustphotography/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Alexis Foust Photography</a> saved our bacon and we scheduled a family shoot up in the mountains. She did an incredible job, we <i>highly</i> recommend her for any shoots you're thinking of.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sorry in advance for all the kissing. I'm kinda in love with my husband. ;)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KL_UEQgEvJTWqGCL_pfj-q15t4B-Rt2ngk4TsWPcBwbWH55uNkJlg2efZ2oyCbRxAAHZ1smOUyjVMh9sQgXKYzPGJxtVp9pFVxMSi4RNNb4UhpJNxOQ3fkzHx9-_spW3K9OBoVKg9ju6/s1600/bigcottonwoodcanyon-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KL_UEQgEvJTWqGCL_pfj-q15t4B-Rt2ngk4TsWPcBwbWH55uNkJlg2efZ2oyCbRxAAHZ1smOUyjVMh9sQgXKYzPGJxtVp9pFVxMSi4RNNb4UhpJNxOQ3fkzHx9-_spW3K9OBoVKg9ju6/s640/bigcottonwoodcanyon-7.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCiVCoUCIV066IgSercSQsNZZAC9f5O083TR5OBEeVevpudhn1g61nM_76WI5pZAptZojsPawWncyN1Lf0mGVvIwpxNPNIgeZ2eaeuFwGDEvRJEgnLw7IuNWLOJaO4KA78fbYwoJVuPYS/s1600/bigcottonwoodcanyon-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCiVCoUCIV066IgSercSQsNZZAC9f5O083TR5OBEeVevpudhn1g61nM_76WI5pZAptZojsPawWncyN1Lf0mGVvIwpxNPNIgeZ2eaeuFwGDEvRJEgnLw7IuNWLOJaO4KA78fbYwoJVuPYS/s640/bigcottonwoodcanyon-9.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVGTgFlEN5ojxS-akSkt5SnLVUITmRsfRUfSfyK9im3dB6bb0b3LxeiZrPA8OEAwqK2lve_i4-lx1s8m71wF9DL4clUwqO-xsxml0pww5QNjKRtNTQaXwMA_6UdkooYdRT8K6sRYhYAt92/s1600/bigcottonwoodcanyons-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVGTgFlEN5ojxS-akSkt5SnLVUITmRsfRUfSfyK9im3dB6bb0b3LxeiZrPA8OEAwqK2lve_i4-lx1s8m71wF9DL4clUwqO-xsxml0pww5QNjKRtNTQaXwMA_6UdkooYdRT8K6sRYhYAt92/s640/bigcottonwoodcanyons-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And that's a wrap! Thank you for visiting my blog! Let know if anyone is interested in hearing about the story of how we met. :) I've been wanting to write it for some time.</div>
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Have a great weekend!</div>
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xoxo</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Brittany</div>
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