I'm Outta Here!

I have made the decision to leave Blogger.

But don't be sad. Turn that frown upside down. I may be leaving Blogger, but I am not leaving the blogging world.

I am simply heading on over to Wordpress.

Blogger was great for a while, but I have to move on, grow up, expand my blogging skills. This means that things are only looking up from here. It was nice working with you Blogger, but I am outta here!!

Here is the link where you can find me: http://becomingagirlygirl.wordpress.com/2011/10/27/hello-world/

If You Need Me, You Know Where to Find Me

If you need me this weekend, you can find me in one place and one place only...Salisbury, North Carolina.

I'm heading back to good ole Cat-U.

It's homecoming ya'll!

It is time for my first Catawba College homecoming as an alumni. I have been looking forward to this day since graduation, and it has finally arrived. 

Past homecomings have been some of the best weekends of my life.

I am hoping that this weekend will be even better! I have missed all of my Catawba lovers so badly, and cannot wait for a whole weekend of fun with them.

Not to mention that this lovely lady will be in town :) 

That's right. Erin and Emily will finally be reunited. I have not seen her since last year's homecoming. It has been WAY too long. Catawba's campus better watch out, because when we get together, you never know what is going to happen.

Now don't worry girly girls, I wouldn't write this post without giving you something wonderfully girly to be excited about. So here it is---> I have two new dresses to wear this weekend! One of them is one shoulder (oh yeah Aly Halter, I found one!).  I have been searching for the perfect one-shoulder dress, and I managed to find one just in time.

Exciting right??

AND there is more good news! Remember Zandi Watts from my older posts? You know, my suite mate that always did my hair and makeup. She will be there to help me look beautiful all weekend long. It is like a dream come true.

Anyway, I hope that all of you have a lovely weekend. If you need me, I will be at Catawba College wearing one of my new dresses and looking ridiculously girly. If you are lucky, I just might come back with some pictures for you! 

Television Tuesdays: Hart of Dixie

I love television. I honestly do not know what I would do without it to keep me entertained on rainy days like today. There are so many shows that I want to watch lately, it is almost stressful to try to get them all recorded. My weeknights are full of dramas, comedies, and reality shows. I am thrown into a land of fantasy, where problems can be solved in an hour and everyone is attractive.

I have decided I will set aside a day to blog about some of my favorite television shows. From now on, Tuesdays will be strictly for blog posts about shows that I love. Welcome to your very first Television Tuesdays post...I know you are just as excited as I am.

For my first Television Tuesday, I want to talk about one of my new favorite shows, Hart of Dixie.

The show revolves around Dr. Zoe Hart, played by Rachel Bilson, who you might recognize from The OC.  Zoe graduated at the top of her class in medical school and dreams of following in her father's footsteps to become a cardio-thoracic surgeon in New York. However, through a series of unfortunate events (which is also a good movie by the way) Zoe accepts an offer from a stranger, Dr. Harley Wilkes, to work at his practice and finds herself in Bluebell, Alabama.

Upon arriving in Bluebell, Zoe realizes that this southern town is a far cry from the big city where she grew up. To her surprise, Dr. Wilkes has passed away and left his half of the medical practice to Zoe.  This medical professional soon realizes that she is up against some big odds when she meets the other doctor in town, Dr. Breeland. He is not very enthusiastic about having to share his practice, and wants to do anything possible to make her give up and go back to where she came from. His daughter, Lemon Breeland, makes Zoe's life even more unbearable with her jealousy and conniving ways.

Through a couple of emergencies and bad judgements, Zoe decides the only way that the citizens of Bluebell will trust her is if she associates with them and tries to learn about their southern roots and traditions.

Not only does the show keep you rooting for Zoe, it also gives you girly girls out there a little eye candy. Scott Porter, who you may have seen in the television series Friday Night Lights, plays George Tucker. He is Dr. Breeland's lawyer and Lemon Breeland's fiance. He is constantly being scrutinized for being nice to the new lady doctor in town, but for some reason he is continuously drawn to her.

Then there is Wade Kinsella, played by Wilson Bethel. He is Zoe's neighbor and has that bad, southern boy charm. That charm has Zoe spending some quality time with him in his car during the first episode.

The shows airs every Monday at 9:00 pm on the CW. Tune in for some laughs, alligators, gumbo, snakes, hunting, and some good ole southern hospitality. I have uploaded the trailer below, check it out.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October.

The month of leaves falling, football, fall festivals, pumpkins and Halloween. When most people think of October they think of candy, costumes, and tailgating. However, it is also a month to think about breasts.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, "Each year it is estimated that nearly 200,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 will die." 

Every October, cancer charities hold a health campaign to increase awareness of this disease and to raise money for research on finding a cure. If you are wanting to get involved, then this is definitely the month to do it. 

Today I wanted to share with you some of the ways that all of you girly girls, and you manly men, can get involved in the fight for the cure. We have to help protect our breasts. Like I said in a previous blog post...The world would be a much sadder place without them.

First of all, there is always the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure events. These are a series of 5k runs and walks that raise huge amounts of money, provide awareness, and honor survivors and those that lost their battles with the disease. In 2010, the St. Louis race had over 71,800 participants making it the largest race ever. For information on races near you, check out their website. 

I also found this delightful website called The Pink Ribbon Shop. They have almost any kind of pink ribbon wear that you could imagine and have donated over $27,000 to different breast cancer charities. They also have some pretty cute work out gear, for all of you that enjoy your time at the gym. Perfect to gear up for your race for the cure.

The last thing that I found is very cool. This organization is called Bikers Battling Breast Cancer. They have events like Boobapalooza and Bikers for Boobs. It was founded in an effort to gain the support of the motorcycle community and raise funds for the cause. They have raised $350,000 for local breast health programs. Please take a look at their website. 

Students can also get their schools involved in the search for a cure. Last year, the Catawba College SGA raised money by selling these super cute shirts designed by Zandi Watts at a basketball game.

If you are unable to participate in any of these events, or you don't have the money to buy any breast cancer merchandise, then you can always just wear pink. Girly girls love pink. I know it is one of my favorite colors. I also have to admit, one of my favorite things about this time of year is seeing those giant football players rocking the pink socks. That brings a smile to my face.

Real Women Have Curves

I have one goal.

Well actually, I have quite a few goals. They include finding a job, moving out of my parent's house, and everything that goes with becoming a grown up. However, the goal that I am writing about today is a goal that girly girls have been trying to meet since the beginning of time.

I want to get skinny. More importantly, I want to get in shape.

This is obviously not me.

In an attempt to work off some extra poundage, and to feel better about ourselves, my momma and I joined Curves. This is a huge move for me, because I have never been a member of a gym before. My momma was a member many years ago and lost 20 pounds working out there after she had my little brother. So one day in August we jumped in the car and headed over to Curves in Siler City to sign up.

Curves is unique because it is only for women. It is for this reason that I enjoy working out there. I have no need to feel paranoid about huge muscle men thinking I am weak, or about creepy men that stare. I feel so much more comfortable during my work out because I don't have to worry about any members of the opposite sex.

This gym is the world's leader in women's fitness. The program is specifically designed for women. The machines target those problem areas that plague us females, like our thighs and stomachs.

Another perk is that the workout program offered easily fits into a busy schedule. It only takes 30 minutes to complete the circuit of machines. This is perfect since I work in tobacco with my family all day, and have little time to exercise.

The Curves Smart workout is also designed to keep women motivated to continue working out. When you join the gym, they take your measurements and your weight. Your measurements are then plugged into a computer system and you get your own key. There is a place in each of the machines to place your key. The machine computes how hard you are working and determines if you are meeting your goals. You are told to "Go for Green" because if the screen on the machine turns yellow, that means you are not working hard enough. I always try to keep the screen green, but sometimes I have a little yellow show up.

You weigh in and get measured once a month to track your progress. At my last weigh in, I had lost 3 pounds and 3 inches in my stomach. I was very excited. I am hoping that the next weigh in will have even better results.

Curves prides itself on motivating women. One of my favorite things about the gym, besides the lack of testosterone, is that I feel like the employees really care about me and want to see me succeed with my goals. There is always a smiling face there to greet me when I walk through the door. My name is even on the tree.

I really enjoy going to Curves. There is just something about women helping to motivate other women that makes me want to work harder. There is no yelling drill sergeant or someone standing there telling you that you are fat. It is just women that are there to support you and your fitness. I can finally say that I enjoy going to the gym. BELIEVE ME, these words have never come out of my mouth before.

I would like all of you girly girls to check out Curves if you are trying to get in shape. They have a facebook and a website. There are gym locations all over the world. If you have always wanted to work out, but have been putting it off, this is the place to start.

Now, I will leave you with two signs that are hanging up in the Curves I attend. They were so cute, I just had to share.

Rain Looks Good on You

If you have looked outside the past few days, you have seen one thing and one thing only: RAIN

It was pouring.

It was raining cats and dogs.

Or in the words of my sophomore year roommate Lisa Easter "It's a monsoon!"

This week Mother Nature decided to change it up a little as she let the rain fall. It certainly was a change from the hot, dry weather that we have been experiencing all summer. It was a very nice change, and it gave girly girls everywhere the chance to break out some adorable rain gear. Gone are the days where a giant umbrella that you borrowed from your mom and a pair of tennis shoes are your only rain attire options. Rain gear has reached new levels of cute, classy, and girly.

My favorite rain gear accessory is rain boots. The first person that I ever saw wearing rain boots was my good friend Hannah Thomas. They were green with floral designs. As soon as I saw them, I knew that I had to have a pair. 

Hannah and her rain boots.

Rain boots are the thing to have in women's rain fashion. They keep your feet warm and dry. They also come in handy in the snow and winter is right around the corner. 

Making a snow angel

My boots came from Target. If you are searching for rain boots, this is the store that you need. They have a huge selection of  boots online. I love all of the patterns and colors that they offer. I have my eye on these babies now. 

A small umbrella is another must have rain accessory. An umbrella with a beautiful design that fits in your purse...what girly girl would turn that down?

Finally, the accessory that brings the whole outfit together is the rain jacket. The jacket can be whatever color or style you want, depending on your personality. Hannah has an adorably cute yellow rain jacket that I just love, and my momma has a blue one that I borrow whenever possible. I had a purple rain jacket that my Nana gave me for Christmas. It was perfect for rain or snow. Unfortunately, somewhere between graduating and moving home, it disappeared from my closet.

Luckily, I am a great online window shopper and I have already picked out what rain jacket needs to be added to my wardrobe. Check it out here. I am not sure what color I want, but I am leaning towards purple or blue. I think that this jacket would be a great addition to my rain attire, I just have to save up some money to buy it.

The sun came back out today. It has been hiding and letting the rain do its thing. However, next time the rain comes back out to play, it will not ruin any of you girly girls' day. (yeah, I just rhymed). I know that you will all be prepared with your boots, umbrellas, and jackets. Come on now, I can't be the only one who enjoys playing in the rain. 

Body By Vi

There is some buzz going around about a new weight loss solution. I heard the buzz and I had to investigate, so I went straight to the source of the information. His name is Eric Foust and he is an Independent Contractor of Body By Vi milkshakes.

That's right! I said milkshakes.

What is Body by Vi? According to the website, Body by Vi is "an innovative solution to getting into better shape, no matter if you want to slim down, tone up or build muscle."

If you are like every other girly girl out there, you are always looking for new and easy ways to slim down. I know that I am. This is also the perfect chance to get your main man involved. Whether your guy is already buff or needing a little work, this is a product that you can enjoy together. All of you manly men can get buff, and you girly girls can meet your weight loss goals. There are different Balance kits that cater to your personal body needs. There are many different flavors of milkshakes. So if you are worried about the taste, chances are they have the perfect flavor to please your taste buds.

You can also join the Community Challenge. This allows you to donate meals to families that are not able to provide nutritional meals for themselves. Getting fit and helping a good cause...now that is exciting!

See, he is very excited :)

I personally have not signed up to join Body By Vi...yet. Obviously, you have to pay for the program, and I cannot pay for ANYTHING at the moment. However, my aunt Lisa and cousin Katelyn have purchased some milkshakes and they are raving about how yummy they are. If you can't trust family, who can you trust right?

My advice to you, is to find out what it is all about by attending a Body By Vi challenge party. If you live around here, you should contact Eric Foust. Eric hosts these information parties. You can reach him by email at foust.eric@gmail.com or by phone at 336-215-8368. As I understand, when you attend a party you get to sample the shakes. It's like a "try before you buy." I don't know about you, but I have never been one to turn down some free milkshake...

Be sure to check out all that the Body By Vi has to provide and learn about the process at ewf519.myvi.net. 

If you do call Eric, be sure to tell him that Erin Kidd sent you ;)

Super Yummy Bean Dip

Who is ready for a new, easy recipe? If you like delicious and simple recipes, this one is for you.

My momma got the recipe from her coworker Paige Davis. I am not sure if the dish has a formal name, therefore I am choosing to call it Super Yummy Bean Dip. Paige must know what she is doing in the kitchen because this bean dip recipe was a hit.

Ingredients you will need:
1 red onion
Black beans
Dark Kidney Beans
Diced Tomatoes
Green chilies (These are optional, depending on how much spice you want in your life. You can purchase diced tomatoes without the green chilies.)
Sugar

Step 1: Drain the beans.

Step 2: Put the diced tomatoes into a separate bowl.

Step 3: Chop up onion.....It was on this step that my eyes began to hurt and water so much that my momma had to finish chopping up the onion for me. I know, I am a wuss.

Step 4: Mix the beans, diced tomatoes, and chopped up onion together in a bowl.

Step 5: Sprinkle in some sugar. The amount of sugar added depends on your taste buds. I have a serious sweet tooth, so I added quite a lot.

Step 5: Place the dip in the refrigerator over night.

The finished project should look like this:

 
At this point, you should break out your nacho chips (I prefer Tostitos Scoops) and enjoy this Super Yummy Bean Dip for yourself.

ps- I am now the owner of gold glittery Crackle Nail Polish. All of you girly girls need to stay tuned because I will be testing it out soon!

Start Your Engines

Boogity, Boogity, Boogity...

LET'S GO RACING!

Bristol Motor Speedway

Can you guess what I have been up to? That's right! I have been watching some racing. How did you know?! :)

If you knew me growing up, you will be shocked at this post. I admit, I was never a big race fan. My family was always all about baseball, and I just didn't see what could be fun about watching cars drive around in circles. The only exciting part about it was when they wrecked. Then, I met Brandon Coble, a very dedicated race fan. He convinced me to go to a few races with him and I slowly began to understand the appeal of the sport.

Allstar race 2010

Now, don't get too excited. I have yet to figure out all the rules and I have not picked a favorite driver (I just always cheer for who Brandon wants to win). However, I have grown to like the race atmosphere. Hundreds of people gathering to support their favorite driver and celebrate a sport that was born in the South...what could be better than that?

However, I always have the same problem whenever I attend a race. What am I going to wear? I have sweated to death at Bowman Gray Stadium and I have been crying for a jacket in Richmond, Virginia. I never seem to wear the right attire.

I recently headed over to Bristol, Tennessee with Brandon to enjoy some modified cars and truck races. This time, I googled what to wear to a race, and came more prepared than ever before. Today, I am going to share with you what I believe every girly girl needs when they attend any type of race.

1. Sunglasses or a hat

  

It is very sunny. You will need these. You might even need to wear both at the same time.

2. A poncho or jacket.

Unexpected rain at Bowman Gray Stadium

It can and will rain or become chilly unexpectedly. You are not allowed to bring umbrellas into the race track. I learned this the hard way when the man searching bags at the gate in Bristol told me that I was not supposed to have an umbrella. Luckily, he didn't make me walk all the way back to the car to put it away :)

3. Comfortable shoes.

You will be doing a lot of walking. There is no point in wearing those cute new flats that rub your toes. Skip the pain and throw on your Rainbows or your tennis shoes.

4. A light shirt.

All of the websites I read recommended that you stick to the t-shirt. The material is lighter and it will keep you cooler. On the Bristol trip, I decided to make my white shirt a little more girly by adding an orange scarf that I borrowed from my cousin Katelyn.

Pit stop to check out the mountains

4. A bag.

I chose to use a Catawba bag that I had available in my jeep. This was much easier than digging around for my wallet or sunglasses in my huge purse.

5. Water.

You will get thirsty. You will need this. Coolers are usually allowed inside, so you can stock up and bring some in with you.


6. The final and most important thing that you need to remember before you head out on your racing adventure is MONEY.

You will need some extra cash. There are all kinds of vendors and many different concession stands. Once you smell those hotdogs and pizzas cooking, you will not be able to resist. Or, a cute hat or shirt may catch your eye. I saw some girly pink hats that I wouldn't mind purchasing. I just have to find a favorite driver first...

I hope that this post has been helpful. Now all of you readers can enjoy a day at the race track, while remaining girly and classy. AND if any of you girly girl race fans out there has an idea of who I should root for when I attend my next race, I am open to your suggestions. 

Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!