Thursday, December 20, 2012

It's My Birthday


Go, Shawty, It's Your Birthday!!


Well, ladies and gents, it's official. Today marks the one year birthday of Because Shanna Said So. I stuck with this little blog of mine for 365 days and 247 posts. I think when any blogger hits the one year mark, they say the same thing, "I never in a million years thought I could do it, actually stick with it and that it would be so rewarding."

When I first started, I had absolutely zero clue what I was doing. I never even followed another blog. I just knew I wanted to have my very own. And here I am today, loving every second, minute and hour that I put into my little space. It's mine. Pretty much the ONLY thing in this world that is ALL mine.

Blogging hasn't stopped me even though I....

am older than most bloggers, 34 years young and not ashamed one bit.
may not have the most expensive camera or highest quality of photos.
don't have a bottomless wallet to buy expensive clothes.
am not the best writer and my grammar sucks.
may not have the cleverest of ideas.
don't know how to be truly funny or witty.
know some people don't like me, have unfollowed me or never respond to my comments.

I have discovered through this experience that I've...

grown in so many ways; thicker skin, self confidence, personal style, courage and appreciation.
been inspired more this year than any other time in my life. 
met some of the most amazing women and call so many my good friends.(Best part!!)
hopefully helped inspire women of all ages and been some sort of role model.
stayed 100% true to myself and have written, posted and shared genuine experiences.
not given up. I wanted to throw in the towel a million times, but knew if I did, it would be one of my biggest regrets.

I smile, cringe, laugh and even get a little weepy looking back at all the things that I have posted over the year. It will be something my children will cherish and hopefully treasure when I am long gone. My blog means more to me than you may think. It helped me tremendously during a not so fabulous time in my life and has played a huge role in why I am the woman I am today...a happier, stronger, humbled and more thankful one.

To think that this post started it all. Lord, I really had no clue what I was doing. We all have to start somewhere, right?

And my very first outfit post here.  I remember being so nervous about posting pictures of myself on the blog.

And if you are curious about what some of my favorite posts are, well, just search the word "weekend" at the bottom right. These are the moments that I shared with all the people that mean the most to me in life, my family and friends. Without them, I would never be where I am today.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, commenting, keeping me going and being my sidekicks.
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I love each and every smiling face that visits me on a daily, weekly or even monthly basis.

And to all the new bloggers out there...work hard, stay committed, remain genuine and don't let anything or anyone stop you!

Cheers to another year!
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Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Random Wednesday #12 - Favorites Edition

Blazer | Top (similar) | Jeans | Shoes | Scarf | Bracelet | Bracelet | Bracelet (similar) | Bag (similar)
Since this year is coming to a close, I thought, why not share 20 of my favorite things from 2012. I think that's random, don't you? I had a tough little time picking my 20 categories. I could have easily posted 100 things, but we all know that wouldn't have gotten read. So, I hope you stick around and peruse the ones that I thought would tickle your fancy most.

We will start with things from this outfit if that's okay with you.

Shall we begin?

1. Shoes: The ones in these pictures. Thank you Sole Society for bringing t-strap, heels and studs together. What a brilliant combination.

2. Jewelry: I am always down for a good party, so I have to go with arm parties. Spikes, bangles, leather, studs and paves...oh, my!

3. Accessory: Scarves, duh? This fur one is my new BFF.

4. Clothing Item: This Lauren Conrad top I am wearing. I have worn it more than anything in my closet.

5. FashionTrend: Pattern mixing, chambray and plaid. I couldn't just pick one. Gotta include my least faves too...Wedge Sneakers and Peplum. Go away!!!!!

6. Home Decor Trend: Antlers. Finally, after all these years deer horns are the shizz. Ross is one happy fella!

7. Place to shop: Forever 21, Old Navy and Target. Does this surprise you?

8. Cosmetic(s): Bare Minerals Foundation, Cover Girl Lash Blast 24 Hr., Urban Decay Naked Palettes, Sexy Mother Plucker Lip Gloss and all the "CHEAP-A" e.l.f. products at Tar-jay!!!!

9. Album: Florence and the Machine - Ceremonials

10. Concert: Taylor Swift

11. Trip: It was more like a stay-cation for Ross and I's anniversary. See what we did here.

12. Movie: Hunger Games and Brave

13. T.V. Show: X Factor and Wheel of Fortune. Being on the "Wheel" is my DREAM!!!!

14. Social Media: Instagram. Pictures say a 1,000 words.

15. iPhone App: Picfx because I love dazzlin' and sparklin' up my Instagram pics

16. Way to unwind: Pedicures, wine, hot baths, wine, shopping, wine, listening to music, wine and reading blogs.

17. Blog Outfit: This one here, here and here.

18. Blog Post: This one here and here.

19. Blog Faux Pas: WTH was I thinking???? Check this out.

20. Blog Memory: Watching Dusty open her Hunter Boots from the Evil 7. I have watched it two dozen times and cried every time.

So, there ya go. Anyone agree with me? Disagree? I would love to see a post of your 20 favorite things from 2012. I challenge you because, well, I am Nosy Nelly.

**If you are linking up today, please use good manners. I kindly ask that you follow my blog and link back to it in your post. It's called blogging etiquette. 
Oh, and go meet some new friends! 

And this is the VERY last day to enter the December Group Giveaway.
Nine prizes. Winner takes ALLLLLLLLL!!! Holla!


Linking up with the Pleated Poppy. 

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Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Day of Silence and Quote

Today, many bloggers around the country are joining hands and hearts for a day of silence to pay respects and show condolences for the Newtown tragedy.

 

In the wake of this horrific incident, I did want to remind you that love is apparent in our country, in our lives and in our homes. We mustn't let the evil that lurks among us to strip away our happiness, our joys, our hearts and our beliefs. Love is everywhere and God is everywhere...they just don't get the recognition they deserve. 


My good friend, Lindsay, posted this quote on Facebook from the movie, Love Actually. I wanted to share it with you before I pause for my own moment of silence. It's a wonderful reminder of all that is still good in our world.

"Whenever I get gloomy with the state of the world, I think about the arrivals gate at Heathrow Airport. General opinion's starting to make out that we live in a world of hatred and greed, but I don't see that. It seems to me that love is everywhere. Often, it's not particularly dignified or newsworthy, but it's always there - fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, husbands and wives, boyfriends, girlfriends, old friends. When the planes hit the Twin Towers, as far as I know, none of the phone calls from the people on board were messages of hate or revenge - they were all messages of love. If you look for it, I've got a sneaking suspicion... love actually is all around."

May God continue to give us strength, courage, hope and healing. Not just today, tomorrow or next week, but every day. You have to let Him in. We must let Him in.

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