YES!! I MOVED!

Hey,Hey! I decided to moved the site...the new site is www.therealgurl.com. There is still a lot of work to be done, but so worth the fresh start. I might NOT switch posts over to the new site because of the time consumption so if there is any old posts that you want to read, this site will still be up. Thank you, and come join me!

therealgurl.com

@therealgurl

Vocab. Let's Build Together! #2

Ready for this week's new word? Or am I the only one that's excited? Well, here it is:

Caprice -A sudden unpredictable change, as of a person's mind or the whether.

*It's a noun.

Words similar to Caprice: impulsive, whimsy, inconsistency

Words opposite to Caprice: constant, dependability

Use in everyday life: "Because he walked so fast, his caprice decision to leave the room resulted in him jamming his finger on the hinge of the door."

Quote Of The Week

"Face whatever it is you FEAR until it is no longer a worry." -Anonymous

So Exactly How Much Water Should I Be Drinking ?

photo source: stockfresh.com --> this picture looks yummy :)

In the past couple of weeks, I have dragged my lazy butt back into fitness mode. It has been a long time since I've started back working out, and I've noticed the only time I have been guzzling down water is when I hop off elliptical machine drenched in sweat. I normally drink maybe a cup while I am at work, then juice. There has to be something wrong here.

Recently, I learned that the average 18-30 year old is lacking their water intake. Sure, with soda and now the energy drink market being at an all time high (actually, the energy drink market is surpassing soda sales!) people seemed to be more focused on staying awake to get through the day than to stay hydrated to stay alive. The average 18-30 year old is dehydrated and they don't even know it!! That's unbelievable. Now I am no doctor, but being dehydrated does no bueno for your skin, brain, digestive system, and overall energy. There is a difference when drinking your proper intake of water as oppose to gulping down a Pepsi (no shade).

So here's what I've learned:

In order to stay hydrated, the average human needs to drink half of their body weight in fluid ounces daily!

For example----> My weight- 127 [I'm a skinny mini]

127/2 = 63.5 or 64oz of water!

*64 ounces of water is about four 16 oz water bottles!

Your water intake will vary depending on your weight. But realize that it is incredibly important to take care of yourself. We all have those 'I need sugar and caffeine in my life NOW' days, but by drinking the proper intake of water that you should daily will do all the work for you!

@therealgurl

Vocab. Let's Build Together!

I am a HUGE word geek. I love learning a new words everyday. I look up words of the day on Dictionary.com and try to figure out how I can use that word in everyday life. Most of the time I can't because most fancy words just sound great on their own...like the word PROSSY. Anyway, I wanted to share some fun words with you all weekly. I think it's very important that we expand our intellect in the literal aspect in this text/social network savvy world we're living in. Like I said, I am a proud word geek, so maybe it's just me that finds joy in reading the dictionary still.

This week's word is: METTLE (pronounced MET-EL, sounds like METAL)

It's a Noun.

Definition: boldness, strength of character, courage

Words similar to METTLE: bravery, backbone, heroism

Words opposite to METTLE: timid, weakness

Example of use in "real" life:

"You can stand up to your boss with your mettle personality and creative ideas."

@therealgurl

*special thanks to Thesaurus.com for the word of the day today :)

Whoa...How Did I End Up Here?

Photo Source: http://lifeinspiringquotes.ce.ms

We've all had experiences in life when it's taken a turn for the worse. Say you had a great job, and lost it out of the blue. Or maybe you were attending college, but the funds to complete your degree went low and you couldn't finish. Maybe you were in a sweet loving relationship that went sour. Well gurls, I'm here to tell you that whatever your going through at this moment mentioned above or worse, ITS ALL FOR A REASON! Trust me. We tend to view "bad" events happening in our lives as a setback, or being punished. Every challenge that we face is always meant to happen for the better. For example...

This is a story all about how, my life got flipped turned upside down:

I wanted to attend a university that I've been trying my darnest to get into since I was in 12th grade. It seemed that every time I was close to getting my foot on that campus, I was blocked. On my first attempt, I didn't get accepted. I decided to enhance my GPA and try again. I attended a community college for 2 years, in which I received my A.A with an increased GPA. I knew for sure this time around, I was getting into that school. When I received that acceptance letter in the mail last April, I was elated. All I had to do in the summer was get my finances in order to pay tuition... **BIG SIGHS**. Long story short, I took a look at my bank account balance, then the invoice for the 2011/2012 year. I'm still living at home.

I went through every possible lane to get to that school. Loans, Grants, figuring out ways to commute, off campus living, etc. I still would have been in a rut. After the stress, the summer heat, back and forth, getting turned down by student loan companies, I cried. I cried hysterically because I felt as if God was punishing me. I ask Him, "What did I do to deserve this?"

Fast forward from Summer 2011 to now: I had to evaluate my situation. I had to figure out what my pursuits were. I thought about my dreams and visions and the things I wanted in my life at this point. Now, my life has been shifted into a completely different direction. So many incredible opportunities, ideas, heightened visions and dreams have came my way since that roadblock hit me last summer. I realized, maybe It was best that I'd never step foot on that campus. I cannot even picture being on that campus right now with the things I've been doing now. I am truly blessed and very happy that I decided to remind myself of my vision instead of dwelling on the shoulda, coulda, woulda's.

This story wasn't life threatening to say the least, but I'm sharing this personal event with you just to let you know that your setbacks don't mean "It's over!", it just means that "There's something better!"God never punishes, He only rewards. Although you may think you desire something, that doesn't necessarily mean it's going to come to fruition. Sometimes, your way isn't His way.

We should always look at the possible outcomes when we face mishaps. There is ALWAYS a valuable lesson in the end! Just Be Strong. Open your mind, and PAY ATTENTION.

3 POSITIVE thoughts to have when overcoming challenges:

• "What can I learned from this? "
• " This is only temporary. Something better is coming my way!"
• "I am STRONG. Nothing and No one can keep me down!"

I know it might sounds silly now, but when faced with a burden those thoughts are so powerful. Start rising above your challenges in life, instead of burying yourself in them.

**DISCLAIMER** These tips are just here to help you become a powerful thinker, not a Power Ranger. That is all.

@therealgurl

Quote Of The Week

" God allows things to LOOK like they're falling to pieces. It confuses the enemy so he won't know what God is building." -Marshawn Evans

M.Kay<3

Twitter: @mkay4love

What's With All the 'Tude?

Photo Source: Google Images

People never cease to stun me. In the midst of this beautiful summer, I would assume they would be chipper, merry, or at least smiling. I work in retail, so the primary mission (or at least corporate's) in my job description is to put the customer first. We employers in retail expect our consumers to leave with a highly satisfying experience shopping in our store. Some of them meet our expectations...I'll say about 10%. Now the other 90%, a whole other story.

When I see a customer walk into the store, I impulsively greet them with a "Hello, how are you doing today?" The 90% respond by irately saying "OK", or rudely walk past me without a response.

Now this leaves me puzzled because at all times, I'm smiling, and try to be as optimistic as ever despite the fact that I' m not to fond of my job. This is also how I am in general. It is in my nature to smile and greet people who walk past me. I've seen so many beautiful people walking around with stone cold faces, and a offer such an unwelcoming vibe that makes you wonder "Who/What the hell F'd your day up".

Going back to that 90% of unfriendly people I encounter with at work leaves me curious as to wonder if 90% of people in general walk around with such a negative spirit. Now there is such thing as " having a bad day", but do you think it is appropriate to display that to world? Believe it or not, A bad attitude says a lot about you as a person.

A Negative Attitude Shows:

--->that your on defense mode at all times. With that defense wall up, people would have a hard time getting to know you. It also shows that your not willing to to do likewise.

--->your ungrateful (yes, I said it). If your one of those people who love to complain and rant about the things that are not going right or what you do not have, it shows that you are unappreciative of the things relevant in your life.

--->your close minded. An open mind often leads to positive thoughts which then leads to a better view of your life. Words like "can't, don't ,tired, won't, or never" lives in a mind that does not seek for change.

There are so many other traits that negativity in a person could display. But instead of prolonging the problem, I decided to share 3 tips I use that can create a start to a better attitude.

*DISCLAIMER:* I'm not a psychologist, so don't fact check me (lol). This is what I live by.

TIP #1 ---> SMILE. Whether you feel like it or not. Smiling boosts your self-esteem, decreases stress, and makes your overall mood so much better. Now I'm not saying to smile 24/7 (would be kind of creepy). But when greeted or complimented, a smile can shows that your appreciative. Most importantly, SMILE=CONFIDENCE! To walk into room, store, wherever with a confident smile shows that your approachable and shows that your full of personality.

TIP#2-->Increase your OPTIMISM! Change negative events in your life into positive outcomes.

For example: "I didn't get the job at the bank. They choose someone better than me. I wasn't good enough." <---Instead of that try this --->" I didn't get the job at the bank. They choose someone with more experience. If I gain at least 6 months of customer service at the clothing store I work at right now, I'll re-apply again with a better chance of earning the position."

It is not easy to do this, but shifting your thoughts changes to way you see yourself which builds you up. You will always receive something better as an award ;)

TIP #3---> STOP COMPLAINING! So what your not making enough money, or hate your job, or the dinky car your driving? Complaining is not going to change it. When people do complain, it is mostly about things that can be altered. If your not willing to change, then be grateful for what you have and move on.

For example: " I hate my job, I only make enough to pay all my bills." <---STOP that! Try saying this ---> " Without this job, I wouldn't be able to pay my bills on time. However, I would love to make some extra money to spend on myself. I'll ask the boss if they're any promotional opportunities for me."

It sounds so much better if you have a formulated plan to change what you do not like.

So, there you have it. I would hope that the 90% of people I witness with terrible, negative attitudes are really working on themselves for the better. All I can do is SMILE and go along about my business because at the end of the day, I reflect on my day being wonderful , fulfilling, and blessed to live it.

-M.Kay

www.twitter.com/mkay4love FOLLOW ME:)

Quote Of The Week

"Once you allow pessimistic thoughts to bully a vulnerable open mind, You are no longer in control of optimistic capabilities."

-Me <--no, seriously (created May 15, 2011)

-M.Kay<3

**Drooling**

TOMS 'Cultural Anthropology' Recycled Twill Slip-On $53.95 (Nordstrom)

Sperry Topsider Boat Shoe $78.00 (Urban Outfitters)

Sperry Tritone Docksider Shoe $88.00 (Urban Outfitters)

I think I want to start saving my money for all three. I'm really feeling the TOMS because of the unique print. It has such a tribal feel. However, The Sperry's are more versatile and the neutral colors can go with almost any outfit. Hmmm, What do you think?

-M.Kay<3

I'M BACKKKK!

I know, I know....it's been a while and despite the fact that I promised myself that I was going to keep this going , I left everyone hanging. It would sound great if I can conjure up a good excuse as to why I've been slacking, but I cannot. I guess you can call it LAZINESS or just blame the Arian in me (we Aries tend to get sidetracked a lot).

Okay so whats been new with me:

1. I recieved my Associates degree in December

2. I've been working full time since I took this semester off

3. I got accepted to UMD College Park in which I will be attending in the fall

4. I turned 21 <--If anyone cared

5. I've been trying to get my mind and money together for the summer and all the other moves ahead.

Doesn't sound like much, but it is. Anyway keep checking in with me...I feel like I'm going be on here a lot.

-M.Kay <3

Quote Of The Week:

It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not. ~Author Unknown

Could I Be Any More Broke?

photo source: emmagem.com

This summer has been quite been quite a challenge financially. I made a huge accomplishment by purchasing my first used car in April (yayy me!) . However, it made a huge setback in the comfortability of my finances.Of course, I thought purchasing the car was all I had to get done. Haha, yeah right! After paying those inspection fees, temporary and permanent tags, car insurance, and minor car repairs, I was drained.

Here's the thing. I decided to pay for school this semester. So when I took the monthly school payments, plus all the car expenses, in addition to my cell phone bill and other personal expenses, I felt as if I was stuck in a corner.

This is when I had to put myself in check. I was so used to only one bill [cell phone] that once I started tackling more bills, I was clueless. I went into research mode for the past two months, trying to create a plan that would keep me on track and in control of my finances.

Budgeting: This is immensely important for us college students. Unfortunately, very little of us know how to. The fact that my school payment is only temporary [two more to go!], I drew out a financial plan until then. If your income arrives Bi-weekly like mine, then give this a try:

• The total amount of your monthly bills divided by 2 = the amount taken out the bi-weekly paycheck

For Example---> $500 [monthly bill amount] / 2 = $250

If you make $400 bi-weekly, then you subtract $250 from it. [$400-$250=$150]

• The remaining amount can be used for personal expenses [i.e. savings,gas, food, etc.]

Saving: One of the biggest challenges for us college students is the art of saving [ there will be a series of that later ;) ] . There are so many ways of saving the money that you make. However, being on this budget plan has helped me save in the easiest way:

• With the remaining amount of your paycheck, subtract 10% of it and place it in your savings account [if you have one].

For Example---> If you have $150 left over, subtract 0.10 = $15

...So that means $150-$15= $135!

Can you imagine that?! Just saving $15 every paycheck for 6 months can give you $180 dollars in your savings account. Of course the more money you make, the more you can save. Which is actually very exciting!

I know that my finances may not seem like a lot, compared to others. I still live at home. Therefore, I felt that it was necessary to learn the concepts of basic budgeting and saving. I am still learning [far from an expert] and this technique takes time as more and more responsibilities will come my way [loans, rent, etc.] in the future. What's important is that I am "prepping" myself for one reason; Being financially independent! <---Don't we all :)

-M.Kay<33

It's been a while. Oh, the joy of Growing!

Nope . That's Not me. Just thought this pic was funky.photo source: nihcy.org (courtesy of Google)

So, I took a hiatus from my blog for a few months for many reasons. Most of my reasons turned out to be excuses.

• Excuse #1: I didn't know what to blog about.
• Excuse#2:I didn't have the time to sit and think about what to blog about.
• Excuse#3: I didn't like what i was Blogging about anymore.
• Excuse#4: I am not getting any followers. I don't know what to blog about.

Wow. It sounds ridiculous now that I think about it. I've been reading the past posts from my blog only to discover a lot that was missing from it. As excited I was to start writing this blog, I lost sight of the things that were important. I guess the writer in me is starting to bloom.

I've been doing a lot of reading this summer. (there is going to be a long review coming up for that) about different topics such as Finance, Writing, and other drama-filled novels that really put me back on track. I've also have been reading other great blogs (check them out on your right) about self-improvement and goal reaching motivation. I've learned that I myself had made excuses over the past year. I've been too lets say, "comfortable" (or lazy) in doing what I love best; Write.

It is obvious that you can't be good at something your born to do without working harder to be great at it ( OMG! did I just create a quote?). In the beginning, this blog was the foundation for my passion for writing. However, I was too worried about the number of followers I had everyday (IF ANY), and how many people were interested in my blog. I didn't put persistence and consistency in order to make those things happen. Moreover, I didn't put enough of ME to begin with. Sure, there is book reviews and fashion to watch out for the new season, but was that REALLY what I was all about? Of course not. I was so caught up on my reader's participation and appreciation to be over the work that I did not put heart into (isn't that what writing is all about?).

With this epiphany, I've decided to put my self check to the test. And what did I do to fix my screw-up (not cry and ball up under my covers in bed..)? I initiated a new beginning. I decided to give this blog a brand new makeover. I changed the name a little bit, and decided to give this blog some purpose. Focusing on sharing life's great bits of self-discovery, personal control and growth, food, travel, health, hair, relationships, and of course clothing. so NO MORE making excuses, I've made reasons instead:

• Reason #1: I love to write.
• Reason#2: I aspire to inspire, so why not.
• Reason#3: I'm going through the same journey as everyone else: life. And I want to share it with you.
• Reason#4: Private Journals (the ones tucked under your pillow with a lock on it) are so played out :]

Just by changing my excuses into REASONS, I feel increasingly motivated to keep trying new things, reading more, learning more, kind of similar to life's journey; as opposed to altering them all into EXCUSES.

-M.Kay<33

My Latest Real Girl Creation lol :

So, I've been feeling very "crafty" during my spring break. I decided to head over to my local Michael's and make homemade flower hair clips. I always refused buying these at the stores because I knew I can D.I.M. [do it myself]. Any who, here are my results:

Materials: glue gun, scissors, felt paper, decorative flowers, and a little creativity :)

What do you think???

-M.Kay<3

Nails,Nails,Nails!!

I don't know about you all...but I've have seriously been on my nail game these past few months. I'm mean, I've been somewhat building a collection of nail polishes and all of the products to do the best manicure. How did this all come about? I guess from me NOT wanting to go to a nail salon every week to pay $12-15 dollars to do my nails...now I can D.I.M.(do it myself lol). I'll post more pics in another post...STAY TUNED!!!

-M.Kay

A Real Read!!

Oh my! This is a great book for all of you girls that are getting prepared for college and those that are currently in college. It was written by a University of Maryland alumni, Sheryl Walker. She graduated with high honors and was a member of numerous clubs and organization on campus. In addition, Walker also had numerous internships and now is an accountant working at a firm in New York.

This guide will provide the proper do's and dont's in college and also touches on subjects such as, relationships, how to survive financially in college, maintaining a high GPA, and in my opinion a very important subject, TIME MANAGEMENT. As a sophomore college student, I'm trying to get rid a horrible habit that is called procrastination. With this guide, Walker breakdown great overviews of how time should be used while in college. With this college guide, I promise you all will benefit from it.

*For more information go to http://www.theblackgirlsguide.com/

-M.Kay<3>

Have A REAL Heart<3:

As we all know, Haiti has went through a disastrous event a few days ago. The earthquakes in Haiti were at a 6-7.5 scale, which left Haitians with no FOOD,CLOTHING,CLEAN WATER, and more importantly, SHELTER. Now I was very sad about this tragedy, and being of West Indian background (My parents are Guyanese), I decided to do the right thing: I donated $10.00 to the American Red Cross for the Haiti Disaster Relief Fun which would provide these refugees with as much care as possible. With that said, I encourage all of you loves to donate at least $10.00 or whatever you can. Here are some websites and numbers to can reach.
*www.americanredcross.com
*TEXT 'Yele' to '501501' ($10 donation)
*TEXT 'Haiti' to '90999'

-Mkay<3

I Know I'm Late but....

<---- It's a new year, and I know we all make these resolutions that we never stick with...you know lose weight,eat right, get better grades in school, or the most common:EXERCISE. If these were any of your resolutions this year, the question is: How are you going stick to it? I think the best way to achieve your goals for the new year is to write a list of POSSIBLE things you can easily put effort into that can be achieved right now...kind of like short term goals.

As far as long term, or a resolution that might take all year to accomplish,like losing weight and adding fitness and healthy eating to your lifestyle. With a long term goal for the year, it will give you time to work on it and keep you motivated! As long as you separate the difference between your shorter goals and longer goals of the year...YOU will be better at achieving them:)

-M.Kay<3

Real Fun Read: L.A. Candy

<-----I just finished reading L.A. Candy and I surprisingly enjoyed it! If any of you are fans of The Hills (like me), then this will be a great guilty pleasure for you...just in written form. Now I don't want to give away to story, but it is ALOT similar to the author, "founding" star of the MTV reality show, Lauren Conrad. Now I could write a 10 paged essay how much respect and admiration I have for Lauren Conrad and how positive of a role model she is. L.A. Candy hit #1 on the NY Times Bestseller's list upon it's release date in summer '09. In addition, there is two more novels of the L.A. Candy series.

<-------Sweet Little Lies is available for pre-order on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Also, the book will release in bookstores in February of this year. For me, it's like getting ready to watch a new season of The Hills. Be on the lookout for Conrad's new book. If you have not already go to your local bookstore or library and read the first one!

-M.Kay<3