tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19822080153001175512024-03-14T06:16:34.966-07:00Life as A Future WifeLauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-8354097685866130202013-11-01T18:52:00.001-07:002013-11-01T18:52:50.289-07:00All Good Things Must Come To An End...This is not a happy post. But I don't find it all that distressing either. It is most definitely a sad post, but I feel that it's time to let the world know. <br />
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Yuta and I have ended our 4 year relationship. While differences attract, I now feel that we were too different. <br />
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I'm not going to get into many details, because when you hear one side of the story, it's only half of the truth. <br />
I really liked doing this blog while he was here, and I am going to start a new blog about all my new plans and travel decisions I'm going to make or at least explore those options!<br />
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I look forward to growing as a person with everyone and I hope you continue on with me and my journey!Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-10357815981685489042013-07-06T10:31:00.005-07:002013-07-06T10:31:54.162-07:00Zoo Adventure!Hey everyone!<br />
So about once every leap year, Yuta and I miraculously have the same day off! So how do we spend such treasured days with each other? Well, this time, we went to the Zoo! <br />
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I was a little skeptical about going to the Detroit Zoo, because one of my friends at work had just went and she said while she had a good time, the place was really small...As in no Elephants small. But I disagree. I mean, yes, there were no elephants, but that doesn't mean we didn't have an AMAZING time looking around ALL DAY. Did I say all day? Yes, I did because that place was still HUGE! There were so many exhibits of animals from all over the world! <br />
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So starting from the entrance and going clockwise around the park map, they had: Penguins, Amphibiville (frogs, lizards, etc), Holden Reptile Conservation Center (crocodiles, snakes, turtles, etc), the adventure zone with the 4-d and other rides, South American Animals (Rhea, Guanaco, Flamingo, Vulture) prairie dogs, elk, bison, bald eagle, kangaroos, ostrich, white rhinos, meerkats, snow monkeys, tigers, lions, red pandas, gorillas *pause for huge breath* polar bears, seals, artic fox, giraffe, zebra, ant eaters, chimps, porcupine, and SO many more I don't have the patience to type out! Here's some photos instead!<br />
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After going and experiencing the Detroit Zoo, I just want to tell you to GO! Go right now! Get in your car and go! It's a cheap(er) day out idea (only $14 general admission with $5 parking)</div>
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GO HAVE FUN!</div>
Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-13628732455982646102013-06-24T08:19:00.000-07:002013-07-02T19:18:58.047-07:00Awesome Photography Skills<span style="background-color: white;">This just in! The July Photo-A-Day list has been uploaded to the FatMumSlim.au website and I will be partaking in it! "But Roren, you NEVER finish!" So? I've already got all the topics programmed into my phone, AND it's SUMMER! It's so much easier to go outside and snap a few than in the blistering winter. I don't know about you, but I hate getting frostbite...</span><br />
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What is the Photo-A-Day? It's a photography challenge that a woman in Australia comes up with every month and you can use instagram or whatever to post your amazing photo's of that days topic. If you are going to use Instagram or Twitter, you can use the #FMSPHOTOADAY or @FMSPHOTOADAY tags.</div>
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Are you interested in doing this challenge? Let's do it together! My Instagram and Twitter name is @Roren11 so don't be afraid to tag me to check out your photos! I really encourage you to try your hand at taking some pictures during this month and seeing where they take you in life!</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Here is the topic list for July:</span></div>
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I will be posting my photo's on here every now and again, but the right side of my blog has a direct Instagram feed, so if I don't post them here, you can still see them on this site!</div>
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Day 1. Happiness Is...Talking with friends on Skype who don't live near you</div>
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Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-53083534074891393882013-06-20T16:26:00.001-07:002013-06-20T16:26:38.567-07:00The Next Youtube Sensation?Yuta and I have been on pretty opposite shifts lately, and that has left me with a lot of free time. So what's a girl to do? Go to the gym? Pfft, no. Do some Japanese homework? Eventually....Watch videos on Youtube? DING DING DING! We have a winner! Youtube has become my new anti-boredom gig and I have been doing a lot of thinking. I really want to make my own Youtube channel when I go to England and vlog about all my adventures, just like my current idol Micaela Braithwaite. <br />
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Micaela is a Canadian who went to school for 2 years in Japan and since she arrived, she has been vlogging about her adventures, mishaps, and local culture differences/things that others find interesting. When she finished her schooling, she can now speak fluent Japanese and the school has given her a visa to continue to live and work there. She has been in very high demand lately with her latest series, "Made In Canada" comissioned by the Canadian Tourism Board. Micaela gets to travel across Canada from Vancouver to Toronto on the Via Rail and she has been updating the series regularly. They are short videos, usually no more than 10 minutes per vid, give or take 5 minutes. She always has so many interesting things to say, and the way she shoots her videos MAKES you want to watch! Her topics for her viedos are so fun like different types of sho-chu (alcohol), or what she bought in the fashion district of Harajuku that day for an upcoming trip! She is currently employed with Nestle Japan, so in all the beginnings of her newest Japanese videos, you'll see her making a cappucino or a coffee. When I grow up, I want to be just like her (minus the coffee!). Haha!<br />
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Another video channel I have begun frequenting is a girl called Rachael and her husband Jun. Her name on Youtube is Myhusbandisjapanese. She is an adorable little redhead who is married to a Japanese man, just like I will be one day! She makes a lot of informative videos about what to do/not to do, manners and etiquette, what to wear/pack, and how to do a lot of things. I just watched a video she and her husband did on some slang words from Japan, and I learned a new word for impossible! Her videos I find are very basic, but so informative. There are no special effects but just straight honest truth, with some quirkiness thrown in with her absolutely adorable personality! <br />
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These wonderful women have inspired me to do something adventurous too, when I go to England. Over the next few months, I will be pondering channel/Youtube account names, as I want to do this in Japan too! And anywhere else I may end up! I want to share my experiences with all my friends and family, and the world as well! Any suggestions would be welcome!<br />
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Here are the links to Micaela and Rachael's accounts!<br />
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Micaela --> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLi8qtd3QLvXCZLyobiodiw">http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLi8qtd3QLvXCZLyobiodiw</a><br />
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Rachael --> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4yqcgz49APdbgj0OMv7jpA">http://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4yqcgz49APdbgj0OMv7jpA</a><br />
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I hope you enjoyed them as much as I do!Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-82945049842180877252013-05-09T18:31:00.003-07:002013-05-09T18:31:53.862-07:00The First Shop Of Coffee PrinceSo about a week ago my bestest friend from Japan came to visit me in Canada after 3 long years of being apart and chatting over skype and facebook, with and empty suitcase and a full wallet. <br />
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She is currently living in Ireland and she told me that the fashions there go from one end of the spectrum to the other with no inbetween. Either you are dressing like a nun or a streetwalker who belongs on droullard. So I told her that she should come here because she knows how I dress and the fashions here are a lot more diverse than over there. So one night, while searching online, she found a cheap flight and booked. She was coming in April. I was so excited that I could finally see my best friend again. There is something to be said for modern technology, but it just doesn't beat having a person in the same room as you.<br />
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Since her main goal was shopping, I had it all planned out. She was flying into Toronto, so we would obviously make a stop at the Eaton Centre. Our friend Robbi lives in Peterborough and I asked her if she wanted to come to Toronto and meet us there, and she was all over that idea. She also came with a few ideas of her own but that can wait a bit.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">BIRDS<i><u> IN</u></i> THE AIRPORT!</span></div>
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We met Cesca in the airport 2 HOURS after her plane was set to land because there was a weather delay due to the rainstorms we had been having that week. But it was worth it when we saw her come out of the arrival bay. It already felt like we had never been apart. We were going to meet Robbi later at the hotel, so we got into the car and made our harrowing journey into the heart of Downtown Toronto. A very scary place for someone who hates city driving. I almost got hit 3 times in the same intersection, but don't worry mom! All your airbags are still intact! Once we got there and parked in the underground garage we went to check-in where I was greeted with a not so nice surprise. <br />
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We booked the Delta Chelsea on Hotwire.com and I have never had a problem with them. But with the Delta Chelsea I do. I booked for 3 (count them THREE!) adults and when we went to check in, they said they had given us a room with ONE queen bed. That's not enough to sleep 3 adults comfortably. When the front deskman asked if we would like to upgrade to a room with 2 beds, well I thought that was the logical choice. Until he said it would be a $35 fee. That <u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">I</u> would have to pay for. But since it was technically their mistake, he would knock off $10. WHOOPEE......I was not happy, but I wasn't about to let Cesca's first night in Canada be all snuggled up with me and Yuta in one bed. So I paid (and wrote a scathing review when I got home) and we went up to our room. Tiny is one word to describe it. Mediocre is another. But I honestly don't believe that staying in that hotel was worth even the discounted price I paid on Hotwire. But enough of that rant, let's get back on track.<br />
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Knowing Toronto has a diverse population, I began researching ramen joints and came across one that was right downtown called Kenzo's Ramen. Halle-freaking-lujah! I have not had real ramen since being back in Japan and I was oh so excited to try this place. So Robbi met us at the hotel and played tour guide on the way to the ramen joint. It was actually quite simple to get to as it was just down Dundas street not far from our hotel. We sat down and since all of us had lived and met while in Japan, we all knew what we wanted and ordered very quickly. Cesca and I ordered Sho-yu ramen and Yuta had miso. <br />
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We all took one bite and then didn't stop except to drink and have a quick chat. Oishii desu! So delicious! I strongly recommend going there if you are in the area as it was superb!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">JUST LIKE IN JAPAN</span></div>
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When we finished eating, Robbi took us around the area of our hotel showing us an underground Market in the College Park (?) area. while in there, I have never seen one person get so excited as Cesca did when she stumbled upon some of her favourite items she knew from living in the states as a child. Lucky Charms, Goldfish crackers, and many more, but she settled on the first 2. </div>
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Once settled back in our hotel room, Robbi stayed for a bit and we all caught up on each others lives and talked about nonsense in general. It felt so good to be back with old friends! We ate oreos and goldfish crackers and feasted like kings. But alas it grew late and Robbi had to go home to her boyfriend. We told Robbi as she was leaving our plans for the next day was the eaton centre and then home and she had a suggestion of going to kensington market as well. Since nobody but her knew what that was, we decided to give it a try and we would call her in the morning.</div>
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We woke up on Sunday wide eyed and bushy tailed and after a shower, we were ready to begin Cesca's shopping spree. We got Tim Hortons breakfast panini's as our morning fuel and I think I created a Tim Horton's monster! Once we were done chowing down, we made our way over to the eaton centre just on the other block from our hotel! It pays to pay for the hotel right downtown. We started in H&M and Cesca's bought about 4-5 shirts and a dress. I know what you're thinking if you know my friend. A DRESS?!?! But I did it! I made her buy more than one! And I hope she wears them more than once....But I have a feeling she will ;) We didn't look around too much because we were anxious to meet Robbi but we did do some damage in H&M and also Aerie where Cesca FINALLY got measured properly and bought some fabulous new bras that a super comfy and also stylish.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Our lunch at Mr Green Jeans</span></div>
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Once we were done in the Eaton Centre, Robbi joined us to become our downtown Toronto tour guide and take us to the neighbourhood her boyfriend lives in called Kensington Market. It's so funny how it is so close to downtown Toronto, but that's not the feeling you get from being there! It's located on the other side of Chinatown on Dundas.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The street in Kensington Market we did our shopping on</span></div>
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This is the street where Robbi took us. It was the coolest neighbourhood I've ever seen! All the shops were in the first floor of the houses you see in the photo above. Robbi took us to a couple of shops where her friends worked and once again our bank accounts took a hit. Cesca and I each bought a dress at the first shop we checked out. Mine a deep burgundy and hers a bright purple. We went into a couple of shops where we didn't seem to find anything that fit, and also explored Robbi's friend's shop called The Fairies Pajamas. We didn't end up buying anything, but I strongly recommend checking out that shop because of all the interesting items they carry. Around the corner we went into this one dress shop where I ended up buying 2 new dresses, one blue and black mod inspired and the other a reversible dress. We finished in the street quickly after that because it was Sunday and everything was closing up before 6PM.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This shop is for you Angel! It's got some loli/cosplay goodness!</span></div>
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So as Robbi was bid goodbye, tears were shed, and we made our way back to downtown Toronto to head back home. We stopped for a quick bite just over halfway home before reaching my charming little home in the quaint town of Emeryville.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Yuta's meal of champions: Wendy's burger, Tim Horton's Iced capp, and New York Fries french fries</span></div>
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After a night of rest and dropping Yuta off at work because he got called in, me and Cesca went out for a whole other day of shopping in my local mall, Devonshire. This was an excellent idea because of all the great stuff we bought, but at the same time a bad idea because of all the stuff we bought! While here in Devonshire, the stores we shopped at were Maurices (a size 0-24 store that I am in LOVE with), Old Navy, Payless, Bath and Body Works, Ricki's and some more that I can't even remember now! OH TARGET! We bought things from target too! And Ardene's! After wiping out our daily allowance for that day, we hit the hay at my house. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cesca's big splurge: a $200 amethyst necklace for everyday fabulousness!</span></div>
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On Tuesday, once again after dropping Yuta off at work, we just had a nice relaxing day. Shopping so much for a non-shopper like Cesca is an exhausting feat. Taking it easy seemed like just the right medicine. We took the dogs for a walk, watched TV, ate our faces off....It was perfect!</div>
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Wednesday, once again after Yuta went to work, but this time joined by Renee, we made our way across the border into Michigan. Our destination: Birch Run Outlets. It's about an hour and half over the border, straight shot on the I-75N. I was actually disappointed with the outlets but maybe that's because I didn't really have any money left by this point....maybe $200 dollars but that included travel fees back to Toronto! So I didn't go crazy. We went into Yankee Candle where I bought a big apple scented candle and a small lemon one! It was then Cesca told me that we used to sell Yankee Candle's stuff in the shop! I never bought one for fear I would burn the staff house down, but I also never noticed that they were Yankee Candle. I also, while in Japan, didn't know what Yankee Candle was! We went into Sketchers and the Nike outlet and I had a super hard time deciding between a new pair of mint running shoes. But I didn't get either because I ran out of money by the time I made my decision. We hit the Bath and Body Works outlet where they have all my favourite Apple scented things! Body wash, body cream, and body lotion! Plus some Plumeria scented lotions and a White Tea and Ginger body wash. I'm going to smell so yummy all summer!</div>
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From there, we went to a couple of other places including Dress Barn but didn't find all that much (although if I had unlimited funds, I would have DESTROYED Dress Barn! So much cute stuff!). The Old Navy outlet was a different story! I ended up getting a coral cardigan, a new pair of skinny jeans, and some new tank tops. Plus I found a big Hello Kitty metal lunch box that Renee graciously bought me for my birthday coming up in June. And Cesca bought me a fab water bottle with a filter built right in! AND she was kind enough to buy a replacement filter as well! I have the bestest friends!</div>
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When we were done in Old Navy, we were shopped out. We made our way home but not before stopping for dinner at OLIVE GARDEN! Yum! I ordered fettuccine alfredo and we all split a risotto ball order. We were all stuffed by the time we finished! So full and broke, we made our way home.</div>
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Thursday was another relax day. Now broke and exhausted, we crashed here for the day and just had fun! I thought I would introduce her into the Korean drama world, and decided that Coffee Prince was perfect. It's a KDrama where a girl who looks like a boy to get work in South Korea, meets a guy who is super rich and handsome, and mistakes her for a boy and asks her to be his gay lover so that he doesn't have to go on any more parent-set-up blind dates. Well long story short, chaos ensues, lots of romance and confusion. But it's super adorable and one of my go to dramas for when I'm feeling blue. This day we had to just relax together meant that we could pretend we were back in Japan, just goofing around. But it also meant we had to start packing. And with only 1 suitcase, it became a little tricky. We packed as hard as we could but we still ran out of room and weight limit. So what could we do? She was only allowed ONE piece of checked luggage...That's right. We went and bought a super awesome carry-on with wheels from the Air Canada brand to fit all her lovely North American snacks Cesca wanted to bring home. Bright orange. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">All packed up and ready to go home! :(</span></div>
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Here are some photos of the almost brand new wardrobe Cesca bought!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Her everyday clothes: pants, shirts, sweaters, jackets, accessories, etc</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Her 6 stunning dresses!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">6 new pairs of shoes? YES PLEASE!</span></div>
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Friday meant heading back to Toronto to go to the airport. Destination: Departures. A heavy feeling hung in the air between us the whole way. Even though we sang at the top of our lungs (horribly out of tune). Not even the Pussycat Dolls could lift the sadness in the air. We were super early for the check-in and waited nearly an hour for Cathay Pacific to switch to British Airways. But after all her bags were checked, the shops in the airport thoroughly browsed, and our stomachs full, the clock looked at us and laughed. It was time for her to go through security. It was time to say see you later (goodbyes are so final). We hugged. She cried. I told her she was amazing and to embrace her fabulousness. I was so sad to see her go. Even though 3 years had gone by, it felt as if nothing had changed. And I hope it stays that way forever. </div>
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Though we might not get to see each other every day, I know that we will always have each others back and be there for each other. You don't meet a lot of people and have the friendship that Cesca and I have. I can honestly say I have maybe 5 other friends I would put into this category. And I can say I am blessed to have her and my other friends in my life. So here's to friendship's that last a lifetime, the people you'll never forget, and the memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.</div>
Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-3450149646161420962013-04-11T08:49:00.001-07:002013-04-11T08:49:19.422-07:00Shed Those Layers!<br />
I know in my last post, I mentioned that spring had sprung. Well I lied. It's only just beginning now! And that means that we can start losing those heavy winter coats, scarves, and gloves! Let's lighten up with mint coloured heels, a flowy dress, and super cute jean jacket! Mint seems to be all the rage this season as spring fashions hit the stores and I am super excited! Mint is a pastel-y colour of a mostly green blue colour. I've already bought those mint heels I mentioned above and a plaid shirt in the colour as well. Embrace the mint!<br />
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It also means that my best friend that I met while I was in Japan is coming to visit me! She will be here in a couple of weeks and we are definitely going to go big or go home. Mostly, we are going to single handedly help the Canadian fashion market because of all the things we will be buying!! I know I've got about $400 to spend while she's here and she's got quite the little fortune saved herself!<br />
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I can't wait to see her an how much she has changed and grown into herself! This is going to be such a fabulous adventure!<br />
Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-4072083455037403712013-03-10T09:40:00.002-07:002013-03-10T09:40:41.579-07:00Spring Has Sprung....Finally!Can you smell that in the air? The aroma of fresh dirt and greenery? How about the sounds of hope coming from the trees, like a concert waiting to be heard? Spring is here! And it's about damn time! I have waited all winter for you dear Spring! Through the snow, and cold, and wind. Just to hear your sweet sounds and smell your fresh air. And to not have to wear a coat of course!<br />
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Over the winter, as I sat in my freezing car after work, waiting for it to heat up, and all I could think about was spring. Spring, where are you? Spring, why aren't you here yet? God dammit Spring, hurry up! And now that you are here, I never want you to leave! Unless it's to go get your friend Summer. Because she is MORE than welcome to come join this party!<br />
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This coming warm season, I plan on doing a whole bunch of new/old things. I want to go bike riding with Yuta down to the river and have a picnic, Bike ride to go get ice cream, go swimming, go up to our property and have a nice vacation, do LOTS of shopping, and mostly, just make some guidelines for my life. Where I want to be, where I want to go and what I want to do. These are all things that I want to accomplish this coming spring/summer!<br />
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And with Spring comes spring cleaning! So I decided to spruce up my blog layout with some nice new gadgets and a fun spring colour, just in time. I can practically hear the birds chirping on my my pages!<br />
<br />Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-14952641513479936912013-03-05T10:26:00.001-08:002013-03-05T10:36:42.969-08:00Back In The HabitHello, hello! well, I know how much I have been slacking on my blog recently, but it's time to bring it back to the front lines and let out what's on my mind! <br />
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First things first, everyone is probably wondering if I finished february's photo-a-day.....Nope, sure didn't! I did pretty well, until I was moved stores at my job, and from there, learning how to work in said store, with their own routines and rituals, took precedence over my challenge.<br />
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And speaking of challenges, my gym going has been pumped into over-drive! Me and a friend have decided to run a 5k! After looking at multiple races (my favourite being a tinkerbell themed half-marathon in Disney!) we decided on one quite close to home and unique to anything I've ever seen! The race itself is called Colour Me Rad and it is a 5K taking place in a whole wackload or cities all over the US (I live in a border city). The unique part is that you run past stations where people throw coloured cornstarch at you, with different colours at each station. You are your own work of art!<br />
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I've also bought some new gym clothes to keep that spark alive! My theory is that if I have cute gym clothes, I will want to go show them off. My Workout Tips jar is also steadily growing due to the frequency of my gym going now, and that makes me feel soooo good!<br />
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Life at my new store is slowly getting better, now that I've fallen into their routine. Although it can still be challenging at times. The day ladies all work so well together, don't get me wrong. They all have a routine that they all follow, and that can be hard and challenging for a new manager. There are a lot of things that I see that don't work in the most positive way, and I would like to tweak them, but I would also get my head ripped off, or the silent treatment. <br />
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I have decided to do another photo-a-day, but this time, I will be only updating on Instagram, so follow me on there (Roren11) or you can use your computer if you don't have instagram<br />
http://instagram.com/roren11<br />
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How is the new year treating you?Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-37128082107841168782013-02-07T18:30:00.000-08:002013-02-07T18:30:22.560-08:00Welcome BackI know it's been a while since I've posted. January brought on a whole bunch of new things! We all know that my photo-a-day challenges for the past 2 To start, a whole new ball game at work has appeared in front of me. We'd gotten a new manager at work, who changed a lot of things. While I agree with a lot of the changes, it made a big difference on the way our store runs, and it did take some getting used to! Another blip on the work note, is that I have switched stores. I am now back at the store I was rehired at after I came back from Japan. I've been there for a few days now, and nothing has really changed. I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing. I'm glad to see a few people I got on with before hand, but I'm really worried about the people that aren't so excited to have me back. I've already been warned about a few people with this mentality, so it's hard to feel excited about going to a place where you KNOW people don't like you. I'm trying to continue to be a ray of sunshine, but this heavy rain is starting to take it's toll. <br />
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Yuta, on the other hand, has been having a good time at work! He's recently been promoted to a supervisor position, and is beginning to learn how to manage everything that a supervisor does! It's been only 5 months, and I'm so proud of him and his accomplishments!<br />
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England plans have been pushed back just a tiny bit, in case Yuta can't apply for his visa while out of his home country. And because Japan only gets about 500 spots, so we might even have to wait until the new year for him to even apply! So it's most likely looking like January 2014 now for England. But at least that gives us plenty of time to save our support funds!<br />
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That's all for now everyone! Another post will be coming soon!Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-30342345117086625552013-01-21T08:31:00.000-08:002013-01-21T08:31:01.051-08:00A New Year, But An Old MeOk, ok, so I know I haven't been keeping up to date with my January photo-a-day, in fact, I've only done what, one or two days? So I'm scrapping January and looking forward to February, where I WILL DO IT. I'll be printing out multiple copies of the topics list and putting them in my car, in my house, and in my purse so I have no more excuses as to why I am not keeping up. <br />
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On another note, my gym going has been steady! I've been trying to go as many times a week as I can, but a minimum of 2 times is mandatory! I've fallen in love with running and I've been trying to get my stamina up. My friend Gina, told me she was running a half marathon and that really inspired me to get into running. Maybe not a half marathon, but a smaller 5K benchmark to start! I've been cruising Pinterest looking for different ways to do this and I've come across a couple that are intriguing. One is the Couch-To-5K program which is essentially what I thought I wanted, but this program is for straight up beginners! Another one I've found is a Beginner-To-5k plan, which is actually shorter than the Couch-To-5k at 5 weeks as opposed to 8. I think I'll be attempting the beginner plan because it incorporates other exercise as well as running, so it's working ALL over.<br />
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So even though it's a brand new year, I have decided to go back to the old me. I have chopped off my hair and have gone back to my short angled bob style. This have been the ultimate refresher for me. I feel like myself again, and I feel so much more confident about my appearance. This look is one I had for 3 years and I always felt super pretty wearing it, so I'm happy to be home.<br />
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How have you been doing with your resolutions?Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-72010529706549417372013-01-02T10:09:00.000-08:002013-01-02T10:09:43.539-08:00January Photo-A-DayOk, so we all know December's photo-a-day challened was a complete bust on my part. It didn't get done due to 3 reasons. 1) I was super busy this christmas season with work and shopping and whatnot 2) I didn't have a printout of the days topics like I have had before 3) just plain laziness! So here I am in the new year, attempting to once again complete a photo challenge, and have that sense of accomplishment early in the year, to keep the ball rolling! If you wanna do this too, here is the topic list!<br />
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I'll try and update once a week, so as not to overwhelm everyone on my FB with constant "Blog update" posts!</div>
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But I'll give you the 1st as a treat!</div>
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Day 1. Today</div>
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Me and Yuta spent our day snuggled up together before work.</div>
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<br />Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-3461160923226788242012-12-28T12:53:00.001-08:002012-12-28T12:53:40.081-08:00New Obsessions and a New YearI know it's been a while, but I hope everyone has had a Merry Christmas indeed! And I hope Santa was very kind to everyone! I know he was to me! My big gift from a certain loveable Asian boy, was a 3 hour mani/pedi/facial treatment at a local spa. I also got 4 movies (X-men trilogy and the Hunger Games!), a book I have been waiting FOREVER to come out, and my parents are angels in disguise. They are buying me and Yuta 1 night in a Toronto hotel when my friend, Francesca, comes to visit in April. I also got some smaller gifts like winter gloves and other such things. And as well as Christmas coming and going this holiday season, I have found yet another new obsession. Pinterest. At first, I was like, what's all the hype about? And then I joined. And it has created a monster. <br />
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I joined probably about 2 weeks ago now, and I can say I've been on everyday since! It's a wonderful site that has everything you could ever want to look up, but it's so organized! You create theme specific boards under your own profile, like fitness or DIY, and you search things pertaining to those boards. You from there, re-pin things from other people's boards to your own. It keeps track of everything you've repinned to yourself, for future or immediate gratification. What a site for a super dis-organized person like me! (They even have an organization section!)<br />
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Something else coming this holiday season is the new year. 2012, you've been kind to me, allowing my love from halfway across the world to be reunited together with me, but 2013, I'm looking even more forward to you. 2013 brings on a new year, a new workout promise (I hope I can keep!), and a new continent hopefully! Yuta and I will be attempting a Working Holiday in England in the fall of 2013 (I've already been asking friends that live there to give me a few pointers on where the cheaper areas are, and what type of work is available. You can never start planning to early!).<br />
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My new year's resolution is to save money and work out more. I have joined a gym that's right across the street from where I work and now there is really no excuse not to go. I've been scheduled a lot more morning shifts, and I find it easier to go after work then before. So let's shed some pounds and save some dough!<br />
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What are your new year's resolutions?<br />
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<br />Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-16997441739373661552012-12-01T12:31:00.000-08:002012-12-11T18:28:41.226-08:00Photo-A-Day DecemberSo earlier this year, I decided to do a photo a day challenge. It's where you get a set list with a different theme/topic everyday and you take a photo with your interpretation of said theme/topic. I've decided I will now do another one for December! So please enjoy the daily updates of photos!<br />
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Here's the topic list in case you are feeling a little creative!<br />
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Day 1. 8 O'clock</div>
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I spent my evening watching a movie with a friend! Such wonderful times!</div>
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Day 2. Peace</div>
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An empty house, a childhood favourite, and some eggnog.<br />
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Day 3. Something you held</div>
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My yummy snack of fruit creme peak freans and egg nogg!</div>
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Day 4. Black and White</div>
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My beautiful Coach gloves I got from a friend last year!</div>
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Day 5. Looking Up</div>
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Oh hey there Ella!</div>
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Day 6. Something from where you live/your country</div>
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Canada Dry Ginger Ale! Ahhhhh......</div>
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Day 7. Stars</div>
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The weather has been kind of crappy for astronomy photos, so I made some of my own!</div>
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Day 8. Someone you love</div>
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And yes everyone, he is all mine!</div>
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Day 9. Out and About</div>
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Well, I'm ABOUT to go OUT</div>
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Day 10. Under</div>
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This is under my basement stairs. Creepy....</div>
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Day 11. Sweet</div>
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Some Christmas cupcakes I made!</div>
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Want more photos? Check out some of my friends blogs who are also doing this same challenge!<br />
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http://missfriendslittlesecrets.blogspot.ca/2012/12/december.html<br />
This is Miss Friend who lives in the UK<br />
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http://helenflewaway2nz.blogspot.co.nz/<br />
My other British friend living in New Zealand</div>
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Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-56019184422806558362012-11-30T09:59:00.000-08:002012-11-30T09:59:08.875-08:00You Call That Christmas Spirit?Is it just me or does it just not feel like Christmas as much as it did as a kid? The magic of the season is slowly disappearing for me, until actual Christmas day, when presents are ripped open, belts need to be undone from food consumption, and family gathers for the special holiday! I've been feeling like a real Grinch lately. Maybe it's because it will be December 1st tomorrow and I still don't have our Christmas tree. We have no decorations up at my house, and worst of all NO SNOW. Now, I normally am super psyched to have no snow until MUCH closer to Christmas, but there is something about snow that adds that touch of magic. The first snow fall that actually sticks, I watch as it transforms peoples moods from surly to pleasant. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwfllUAXPKLS4QEGotrkzmXNVLXfofvXw-ocAw1_gSzZFf0dJBdy_P35IXZZiitOplaXcURs3y5c8JoCEvZRkjsuY3i3KAbDGA4IS3zPWaa51dv1_vbcAFeRGdOcoY1fkeX96-PDVq5dI/s1600/Christnmas+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwfllUAXPKLS4QEGotrkzmXNVLXfofvXw-ocAw1_gSzZFf0dJBdy_P35IXZZiitOplaXcURs3y5c8JoCEvZRkjsuY3i3KAbDGA4IS3zPWaa51dv1_vbcAFeRGdOcoY1fkeX96-PDVq5dI/s200/Christnmas+cookies.jpg" width="133" /></a>So in order to cheer myself up, I decided to do a few things this season that I normally wouldn't do. I have decided that I will watch as many Christmas movies as I can, because they almost always have Happy Endings. I watched Elf the other day and that was such a good life decision. It made me want to listen to Christmas music and make a snow angel. I have also decided to do a BUNCH of Christmas baking! Mostly to eat myself, but also to give away as gifts to people at work. I also really want a nice Christmas photo of Yuta and I. In the almost 3 months he has been here, we still have yet to take even 1 photo of us together. So this Christmas, that's really all I want. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhw3Nsr6krmCy1eP9Etu-hn81Bf2vfxlOmwZ7rJq63uHhGUjxvdPHLspUgUnnRDntDo0IQ1SB0eF9BYwt53JS-qFo7uY0kgi9mZZuWqUVBdfqZ74TBTN4AIA98hEJxGw5B1bYym9fICI/s1600/girl+boarder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhw3Nsr6krmCy1eP9Etu-hn81Bf2vfxlOmwZ7rJq63uHhGUjxvdPHLspUgUnnRDntDo0IQ1SB0eF9BYwt53JS-qFo7uY0kgi9mZZuWqUVBdfqZ74TBTN4AIA98hEJxGw5B1bYym9fICI/s200/girl+boarder.jpg" width="200" /></a>One more thing to get me in the winter spirit is to go snowboarding and sledding. I finally have my OWN snowboard back from Japan and I can't wait to hit the slopes! My friend also told me about a place just past London that offers winter tubing. You know those big tubes that you tie to the back of a boat? Yep, those ones. Except down a giant hill instead of on a big bed of water. <br />
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What do you do to raise your Christmas spirit?Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-57726585037368131782012-11-27T07:25:00.000-08:002012-11-27T07:25:01.270-08:00One Of Those Days....Have you ever had one of those days? You know the one where everything just goes wrong and you just want it to be over? It doesn't matter what day of the week it is, you just wish it was friday....or maybe saturday, cause on saturday there is no work (for most people) and you can lay in bed and not move except to eat and go to the bathroom.<br />
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I had one of these days yesterday. It was not pretty. It started with me having some bad dreams about being late for work, and then when I got to work it was pure chaos. Me and my team just couldn't get it together. We were dropping everything, everything out front was running out, and people through drive thru just didn't want to co-operate. I also had a verbal altercation with a "special" man who usually comes to Tims Hortons. I just wanted yesterday to be over. And I'm glad it is now! <br />
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I'm a pretty optimistic person, so I'm going to look on the bright side of yesterday. We were only $1.06 short for the day, I went home to pizza in the fridge and my fiancée on the couch, and the possibility to just go to bed and forget today ever happened. The bright side of today is that yesterday is over.<br />
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So here's hoping all of you have a better day today than yesterday, and a better day tomorrow than today!<br /><br />Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-77934514653063364752012-11-19T07:37:00.003-08:002012-11-19T07:37:33.384-08:00Frugal Femme FatalSo I'm sitting here, drinking my candy cane hot chocolate, thinking, DAMN...I'm really early for work! Today was a day where I decided to be a bit frugal after driving Yuta to work. He worked at 10 and I worked at 11, so I thought I would look all cool and go sit with my laptop and my drink my faux coffee. All I needed was a croissant and a tiara, and I would be the modern twist Audrey Hepburn via Breakfast at Tiffany's. But I'm getting off on quite a tangent! Today, I wanted to talk about Christmas on a budget. I personally don't see the need to spend $700 on Christmas when I can make something that will mean a lot more to someone than something store bought. Also, if you're like me, and want to feel like a money saving superhero, then listen up!<br />
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I've been on a really big "homemade fabulous" kick. I've been scouring all the websites looking for cheap home/handmade gifts for people that don't necessarily look homemade or that basically don't look cheap or like a cop-out. I've found a couple of really great things, like an adorable felt key chain, or easy DIY necklaces with some glitter, pendants, and sealant. the possibilities are seemingly endless for what to make! Now, a lot of stuff I've seen require at least some knowledge of a sewing machine, of which I have none. So if you're like me, and want some no-sew ideas, check out Craftgawker.com. I just did a review of FoodGawker, which has the same idea of shared food-related items vs the homemade universe of craftgawker, which is why this name might sound so familiar to you. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbWrUU_0jpCoiYCS1leGVHEaEBJGc8zK-wk2iGx3VGJjIROwwjm5oqYBHWjR2PNXyFfrh7EvXC8vLyHnWlA6PFCYK-LtS5nlWx8yJMErT7_nIZty4J51YC8lTuBEcqpo7bMSTsiMFs9w/s1600/DIY+hearts.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbWrUU_0jpCoiYCS1leGVHEaEBJGc8zK-wk2iGx3VGJjIROwwjm5oqYBHWjR2PNXyFfrh7EvXC8vLyHnWlA6PFCYK-LtS5nlWx8yJMErT7_nIZty4J51YC8lTuBEcqpo7bMSTsiMFs9w/s320/DIY+hearts.jpeg" width="320" /></a>I have found quite a few things that are homemade that could go into an awesome "winter survival kit", since I have feeling with it being so warm now, we are gonna get one hell of a winter. One of the items is a Handmade Hand Warmer, found here at http://www.henryhappened.com/diy-heart-hand-warmers.html#<br />
Another thing is this big chunky scarf, http://blog.bloomspot.com/2012/10/diy-circle-scarves/, cause maybe knitting or crocheting is your thing! Most of these designs on the site come with a free pattern, so free not if you're artistic ability is minimal. There is also a recipe for handmande soap! This site has everything you could possibly want to make someone for Christmas! So head on over now and look for yourself!Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-67976854045524345592012-11-09T15:31:00.001-08:002012-11-09T15:31:17.383-08:00Jingle All The WayWith Halloween officially over, it seems only appropriate to get a jump start on the next holiday that will surely creep up faster than we want it too. That's right, I'm talking about CHRISTMAS! A time for spending way to much money on toys for kids, when they are only going to break in an hour. A time of waiting in maddening lines, as long as the north pole itself, and a time for wondering what the hell you are going to get your friend/mother/significant other for that special day. Yuta and I decided to get a head start on shopping for this wonderful season, since we have to ship some packages to Japan, so we packed up our bags (and our wallets) and hit the nearest Toys R Us and local mall. <br />
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We hit up Toys R Us first, in an attempt to get the shopping for his little brothers out of the way first. But once we were inside that damned store, the pretty colours and noisy sounds took over our brains, and I think we spent more time looking at all the different things they had, rather than looking for presents for his family. But once the shiny ball syndrome wound itself down, we were able to focus on finding gifts. Yuta told me that his brothers really liked some Marvel heroes, like Iron Man and Thor, so we headed for the avengers section! Holy crap was there a lot of stuff crammed into 1 Avengers aisle! Is it bad that I wanted to play with half of the stuff more than his little brothers did probably? The hard part here, is finding something that doesn't have any English words coming from it, but they obviously speak Japanese. Yuta found some Annoying Orange items that are popular in Japan, as well as an Iron Man light-up-with-sounds helmet for them. Done and Done.<br />
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Next stop, Devonshire Mall for his sister and mother. His sister, Kaoru, apparently loves Phineas and Ferb, and the show is really popular over there right now. The last time we were in the mall, we looked in Spencers and saw that they had some Perry the Platypus shirts and a plush backpack, so we headed there first, and bought her stuff quite quickly. Unfortunately, we didn't find anything for his mother yet. Hopefully inspiration strikes soon.<br />
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With a quick pit stop in HMV, I decided to get another special gift for one of my friends whose main present she already knows about and will be receiving soon, because you can't NOT open a gift on Christmas.<br />
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With our purchases in hand, we decided that we had spent enough money and we headed home. Here's to finishing our shopping early, and being able to enjoy this holiday season in peace and harmony!<br />
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<br />Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-82402842582530729632012-11-01T19:08:00.000-07:002012-11-01T19:08:18.542-07:00Nihongo wo hanasemasu?Do you speak Japanese? No? Don't worry about it! Neither do I. But I'm learning. <br />
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I was having writers block so I posted on facebook for my friends to offer suggestions. Responses that came back are: Write about learning a new language, and to do a WHOLE post in Japanese!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidC_h9mTkBoMQUb0sUsmDjGrEfzeZCQWSuQuamt5ZC2pZ4GKgbxuLdRT8zLxifZAnBG-wdAUoL8mNlcm6XS40d8FlDke88reW_0SPMioeQ0oiU4ge6Y4meX71-uGiL2S0p8JxaxNSoQmc/s1600/Words.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidC_h9mTkBoMQUb0sUsmDjGrEfzeZCQWSuQuamt5ZC2pZ4GKgbxuLdRT8zLxifZAnBG-wdAUoL8mNlcm6XS40d8FlDke88reW_0SPMioeQ0oiU4ge6Y4meX71-uGiL2S0p8JxaxNSoQmc/s400/Words.jpg" width="300" /></a>While I really don't think that writing a post in Japanese 20 minutes before work starts is such a good idea, I will have to go with writing about learning a new language. Maybe next time Tim!<br />
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So a lot of people are probably wondering why I picked Japanese in the first place. Well it's simple really. I've always loved Japan, I lived there for a year and developed an interest in it, and my fiancee and all his family are Japanese, so it's really a tool of convenience. <br />
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I've been in a class with a great teacher named Tim for about a year and a half now, and I've learned so much! We've made it through an entire beginners book and will start on the 2nd book in a few weeks. I'm not gonna lie when I say that I am terrified and excited all at the same time. A new books means more knowledge, but it also means more things that I could possibly forget, plus more grammar and vocabulary! Yikes!<br />
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Some are wondering if Japanese is anything like English. Here's the thing.......yes and no. It's sometimes similar, and sometimes way off in left field to my brain. The writing system is one of those way off into left field things.......The Japanese have 3 (yes 3!) different writing systems. Hiragana is loopy and the writing system learned first (ひらがな), Katakana is used for foreign words and looks a little more harsh (カタカナ), and then there is Kanji (愛), which you can see on the lamp post just above. It's quite complicated and was adapted from the Chinese characters. These are the hardest for me to learn and it's quite a slow process. While Yuta says I don't really need them, and can just ask what things say, I personally, still want to learn, so that I can write letters to my friends or whatever, but do it properly. You can't half ass learn a language. <br />
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I've been trying to speak Japanese more with Yuta around, but I still find I am very nervous when I speak it, even with someone I know so well. I guess this just means that I need to study more and learn more vocabulary! Anyone wanna give me a few good study tips?<br />
<br />Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-68950368733830955142012-10-20T14:27:00.000-07:002012-10-20T14:27:00.189-07:00You Lazy Ass!Working out. Most people I know DREAD working out, myself included. But ever since Yuta's arrival, I've noticed the few pounds I had lost before, starting to creep their way back into my life. I just want to post a big sign that says GO AWAY FAT! LEAVE ME ALONE! UNWELCOME! Or, something along those lines. I guess all those restaurants and eating out in general are starting to catch up with us. And when you are a woman with the curves I have, I really should be watching what I'm eating...or at least go to the gym and try and burn it off.<br />
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So as many of you know I recently joined the gym across the street from my work. And while my motivation has been lacking of late, I'm really inspired by my friend Michelle. She never fails to miss a day at the gym! Even on the weekends! Now that's dedication! So I decided to buck up, get off my lazy ass and get to the gym......After my 8 hour shift at work of course! Go hard or go home right? <br />
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I didn't do anything too strenuous because I was already really tired and didn't want to hurt myself, but I attempted. I did a total of about 25 minutes on the treadmill, going back and forth between running and walking (mostly walking, thanks ankle....), I went over to the sit down bench press and did 3 sets of 10 at 45lbs, and then over to the ab area, as that is where I think I need the MOST work. I literally have a food baby. I did the sitting crunch machine, 3 sets of 10 at 50lbs, and man did I feel that area it worked out after the first set! I then went and did sit ups, 3 sets of 10 again, on the vertical bench. By this point, I was feeling tired and in all honesty, just wanted to go home. So I did. But I still felt a sense of accomplishment. And now I'm hoping to add going to the gym into my daily, or almost daily, routine. No more excuses. Winter is here, soccer is over, and I need to stay active and healthy. The time is now!Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-41162373319361429472012-10-15T10:26:00.000-07:002012-10-15T10:26:25.209-07:00Lauren And Yuta Go On An Adventure!So yesterday, Yuta and I went on a date. That's right, a full getting-dressed-up date! Where we stayed in seperate rooms to get ready and did a big reveal! Mind you, we stayed a bit casual cause we were doing lunch, shopping, and a movie. Nothing fancy! But it was still nice to be under the stigma of the "date" mentality!<br />
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We started our date off at Starbucks in the Chapters at Devonshire Mall. I think every date should start there! Yuta ordered a Caramal Machiatto, while I ordered a Caramel Apple Spice, since I hate coffee. He didn't want to go into the book store, so we went into the mall and began our search for a few key items each of us wanted. We hit up American Eagle, but nothing there suited either of us (I find I love a lot of their items, but it's so damn expensive), so we wandered into a few shoe stores, but still was just window shopping. Sears was another shop that didn't appeal to us. We were getting discouraged, but as we passed by Ben Moss, I hit my first success.<br />
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The chain on the Inukshuk necklace that I wear daily had broken. So I put the chain and pendant in my wallet and was on a mission to get a new one. We stopped in at Ben Moss and found what was essentially the exact same chain, but with a lobster claw type clasp instead of the old one which the sales lady said would be a more durable clasp. $20? Done and Done!<br />
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La Senza was another disappointment for me. I went in for some new undergarments during their 7 for $28 sale, but unfortunately found only 1 cute pair in my size. I wear the biggest size in the store, which is of course the size that sells out first. Such a disappointment.<br />
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We ended up leaving the mall almost empty handed (my chain and Yuta bought The Vow and a CD) and headed over to Wal-Mart. A much better success rate awaited us at Wal-Mart, but I still didn't find what I expected to. I ended up buying some new make-up (Almay foundation and a new Lip Butter from Revlon) and some snacks for later, while Yuta got the PJ bottoms he was searching for. And a big Thank You to miss Jessie N for posting that photo of the new pokemon game, which I will be buying on Wednesday after work.<br />
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So after shopping, we ate lunch at the McDonald's in the Wal-Mart and then headed over to the movie theatre to hit up Pitch Perfect. Holy Hell that movie was funny! I was expecting it to be a lot like Glee, and while yes it did have the Racheal-Type-A-personality character running the Acapella group, and yes it was still a bit cheesy, I found myself REALLY enjoying it. Fat Amy (excuse me Fat Patricia) to be so entertaining! She was blessed to be a character with a lot of sarcasm and witty quips, pulled out at every turn!<br />
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We ended off our date at Tim Hortons, where we both just sat and relaxed. What a perfect day!Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-7699101050128136852012-10-13T08:04:00.003-07:002012-10-13T08:04:36.027-07:00The Pros And Cons<span style="color: #0b5394;">Well that time of year is here again. The leaves start changing and the temperature starts dropping. The shorts and swimsuits are stashed away, not to be seen until next year or next vacation. We pull out our comfiest sweaters and cuddle up with a steaming cup of whatever you drink. That's right everyone, fall, and soon, winter, is here. A time of bitter winds and wonderful activities. A time for walks under the changing leaves and wearing those cute new fall/winter accessories. A time of digging out your car from the latest snowstorm, and a time of impromptu snowball fights. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Me? Winter is kind of bitter-sweet for me. I personally hate being cold. I would rather be in 150º heat than be in any type of cold! So here's my list of pros and cons for winter.</span><br />
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<u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Cons:</span></u><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The Length~ Winter seems to last forever doesn't it?</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The Weather~ Unpredictability at its finest. Not to mention those fierce winds!</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The Warm up~ Having to go outside to start your car and let it warm up....And for those of you with car starters, consider yourself LUCKY.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The Shovelling~ I HATE shovelling snow!</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The Roads~ They can put a man on the moon, but can't keep snow off the roads</span><br />
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<u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Pros:</span></u><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The Sports~ Snowboarding, tobogganing, snowball fights</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The Magic~ That first snowfall has a way of making everything feel like a fairytale</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The Snow~ You know the one, where it falls in giant chunks, with no wind. Beautiful</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The Warmth~ Curling up with a book and a hot chocolate on a day off! </span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The Shopping~ Ok, Winter accessories are cute!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">So, I guess Winter isn't all bad. But I still prefer summer to winter. Who knows, maybe this one will be different now that I have somebody to keep warm with.</span></div>
Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-84883799818359121672012-10-05T08:10:00.002-07:002012-10-05T08:10:43.912-07:00The Lost ArtToday I want to talk about something that I am very sad to see disappearing from our world and culture. The lost art of letter writing. Everything, by today's standard, is done quickly, to coincide with our busy lifestyles. But to me it all just feels so impersonal. Cold. Uncaring. Don't get me wrong, I love Facebook. It's one of the easiest ways for me to keep in touch with my friends from all over the world and Canada. But there is nothing like opening the mailbox to find something other than a bill! I love how personal writing a letter is. I really feel like I can tell the person I am writing to, anything that's going on in my life. I feel like letter writing, has a certain "care factor" that emails just don't.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvqtF9YyHpYdiVd9hciF9NCqP5hIDJnflY722UQDc-0hl1qqkBS5PeBhlyMkmeJ0hyphenhyphenz56_VyqHkMtE9LMjP7lp7GNEX5bzj3SOC3_H4wdHywYVd8sHb-i9qKrmeIRjlk8i380aPy1N8I/s1600/IMG_0862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvqtF9YyHpYdiVd9hciF9NCqP5hIDJnflY722UQDc-0hl1qqkBS5PeBhlyMkmeJ0hyphenhyphenz56_VyqHkMtE9LMjP7lp7GNEX5bzj3SOC3_H4wdHywYVd8sHb-i9qKrmeIRjlk8i380aPy1N8I/s320/IMG_0862.JPG" width="320" /></a>I really came into letter writing when I was living in Japan. A lot of the students that visited wrote letters to me while I was still there, explaining what a good time they had. I often wrote back to them, and still keep in contact with a lot of them.<br />
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This is a letter from my friend Helen, who is currently living in New Zealand. Also, I've got a package to send to my friend in Cork, Ireland, another letter for a friend in Japan, and a package for my friend in England. Me and all of my letter writing friends have been sending back and forth for 1-2 years now. <br />
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Since I have amassed a FABULOUS collection of adorable letter sets, I have a need to go through them all so I can buy more! And I urge you to take time out of your busy schedule to sit down and write to somebody. It could even be me! Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-4727082582463787802012-10-04T08:21:00.001-07:002012-10-04T08:21:07.873-07:00In For A World Of Hurt...Last Monday, I decided I was going to join a gym and hopefully stick to it. I was really excited about this decision, because it is right across the street from where I work, and a lot of people from my work, go there as well. So, my friend convinced me to join and go to a cardio dance class with her, her sister and mother, and another one of our friends from work. <br />
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I went in to the gym, and went through all the bells and whistles with a wonderful girl named Carly. She was excellent. Because I was a new member, I got to spin the wheel of fortune that they have, and the friend that I referred got to spin as well. I ended up spinning an extra free month....I hope someone else can use that for when I leave! My friend spun a personal training session.....that sounds much better!<br />
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Another girl, a friend I've known since JK, showed me and Yuta (he was on a 1 day free pass) around the gym and explained different areas and busy times and so forth. I'd forgotten how much I loved being in a gym atmosphere. Seeing other people push themselves, makes me want to do the same!<br />
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Our class started at 6:30 pm, and I'd heard nothing but good things about it! Yuta didn't join, but went off into the main area and did his own thing. I was surprised to learn that it was a male teacher. I think his name was Roger? I dunno, but he was cute! The nerves and excitement were starting to kick in as he started some music, and I thought how awesome this was gonna be! Our first move was a jumping jack and crossing our legs when our hands were at our sides. Awesome so far. The next move we tried was high knees. My left leg went up and down, followed by my right, but I landed on the side of my foot, rather than the flat, and BOOM! down I went. I heard a snap so loud I thought I had broken my ankle. Everyone thought I had just fallen at first, until I didn't get up. I stayed down and held my ankle, and then everyone was like, oh crap she's really hurt! <br />
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Roger, our instructor, came over and checked out my ankle. Oh yea, I sprained it. Almost as bad as I did in grade 10, where I would have been better off to break it. He ran to get me some ice for it and I laid on the floor, with my foot on a giant exercise ball. And didn't move for the rest of the class. Damn the ice was cold and my ankle hurt like a mother! <br />
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I stayed there for the rest of class, just resting it, and attempted to hobble out when it ended. Thank God I had Yuta there that night, cause I dunno if I would have been able to make to my car even! He played such a supporting role that night and the following day. I'm really lucky to have him.<br />
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So, it has been over a week and a half and I am starting to feel better and stronger everyday, while trying not to push it, or over exert myself. But, I think it's OK to start going back to the gym for some soft core exercises! Here's to strength and leaving the world of hurt behind!Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-91694100398078505502012-09-26T08:11:00.005-07:002012-09-26T08:11:32.891-07:00In Other News...In other news, a lot has happened in the past 2 weeks! Yuta has officially been registered with the government to work (in the for of a SIN number), he has gotten a cell phone, found a job, and is really coming into his own in Canada!<br />
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We went to apply for a bank account a couple of weeks back, but they said he needed a sin number and some Canadian ID. So off to city hall in downtown Windsor we went! Getting the SIN number was a snap! Literally took us 10 minutes to complete all the paperwork, and he received it in the mail today! We also decided not to switch over his driver's licence just yet, but instead went with a new standard photo ID card, which also came in the mail today! After we applied for all of these things, about a week later we went back to the bank and tried to reapply for the account. Which he now has. Hooray for money in the bank!<br />
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The cell phone was a bit more difficult. Since at the time he didn't have a bank account, he's under my account. But him having a cell phone has been a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. I don't have to worry about him as much because I can always call him.<br />
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The job hunt was really easy actually. We made him a resumè, and mom helped make him a cover letter, and away we went! We handed resumès out at Kelsey's, Swiss Chalet, Starlight Diner in Belle River, and Mongolian Grill. Our lucky break actually came at Mongolian. He asked for a manager, introduced himself, handed her his resumè, and she took him for an interview right away. He was gone for about 20 minutes. When they came back, the manager, Jodi, asked if I was with him and told me that he would be starting off in the back kitchen, with opportunities, once he gains more confidence in his English, to bump out to the grill area and after that to waiting or bartending!<br />
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He's only on his second day of work now, but I can really see that he is happy to be working again. He's no longer stuck within these 4 walls, watching tv or movies all day. He can now go to work, meet some new friends, and talk with people who aren't me. I'm so thankful to the manager there for giving him a chance!<br />
Here's to a whole new future!Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982208015300117551.post-45784133952256467422012-09-26T07:31:00.002-07:002012-09-26T07:31:41.153-07:00Mother Knows Best...I've been really lucky in my life. No, I've never won the lottery, my parents aren't swimming in money, and my car is pretty much on its last leg. But I have some of the greatest parents in the world. And that makes me luckier than most. <br />
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All through my life, I have made more than my fair share of mistakes and trouble making, but I knew that at the end of the day, I still had my parents support. Like the time of my car accident. They came practically running when I called each of them, and really just tried to reassure me that even though it was my fault, everyone involved was OK and that something a lot worse could have happened.<br />
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My dad is one of my greatest hero's. He can (most of the time) fix a car like nobody's business. He has a real knack for handy work, and whenever I have a problem with our house or my car, he's the first one I call. He's somebody that I have always looked up to, mostly because he is quite a tall man! While we are not very close in nature, I know that the father-daughter bond we have will always be there and I will always be his little girl. I know he's gonna miss me when I move away again, but I really can't wait for him to come visit and show him all the reasons why I love being abroad. Even if he will never understands why, I know he will always support me in whatever way he can.<br />
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My mom on the other hand is just my best friend in the entire world. I got REALLY lucky in the mom department. She's one of those mom's who was always a little more lenient, but put her foot down when the time came. She was the one that struck fear into our hearts as children, probably because she was more prone to yelling and spanking! Haha! At my house, it was never "wait until your father gets home!", it was always "wait until your mother gets home!"<br />
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But my mom has been great, especially over the last couple of years. When I went away to Japan and came home engaged, she was a little shell shocked, but I remember her telling me that long distance relationships aren't easy, and that I had better be prepared for the work that went into one. She has always been really good at giving advice, even if I didn't always follow it. She knows that sometimes, I have to make my own mistakes.<br />
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I still to this day to go her for advice on things like work, my relationship, and even fashion advice, because I know she will tell me straight like it is. After all, Mother Knows Best.<br />
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<br />Lauren Laportehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16451102585997984188noreply@blogger.com0