Just Finished Barbie - It Was So Much Fun And Everything I Hoped

 

Barbie 

The highest grossing film of the year, as well as in Warner Bros. history from writer/director Greta Gerwig will be available this holiday season. 

Synopsis:

To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place. Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken.

The Review:

• Greta’s take on Barbie was so much fun. I couldn’t have imagined a better world. It was colorful, girly and everything my inner child would have wanted if she had all the Barbie things when she was a child. We got mostly off brand things but I longed for the car, plane, pooping dog, and all the fantastic Barbies and Kens. I did however have Growing Up Skipper and was so excited to see her in the movie.

Now that I have seen it I could not imagine a more perfect Barbie than Margot. She and Ryan were amazing and I loved all the familiar faces. America Ferrera, Will Farrel, John Cena, Rhea Perlman and so many more. It was amazing. 

If you loved Barbie growing up watch this movie that was fun but had a feminist message that my 18 year old daughter seemed to enjoy. We don’t need Kens to be successful, to run the world and we both loved Gloria’s (America Ferrera monologue about what woman are expected to be and do and all without complaining. 

It is literally impossible to be a woman. You are so beautiful and so smart, and it kills me that you don't think you're good enough. Like, we always have to be extraordinary, but somehow we're always doing it wrong.

We have to be thin, but not too thin. And you can never say you want to be thin — you have to say you want to be healthy, but also you have to be thin. You have to have money, but you can't ask for money because that's crass. You have to be a boss, but you can't be mean. You have to lead, but you can't squash other people's ideas.

You're supposed to love being a mother, but don't talk about your kids all the damn time. You have to be a career woman, but also always be looking out for other people. You have to answer for men's bad behavior, which is insane, but if you point that out, you're accused of complaining.

You're supposed to stay pretty for men, but not so pretty that you tempt them too much or that you threaten other women because you're supposed to be a part of the sisterhood. But always stand out and always be grateful. But never forget that the system is rigged, so find a way to acknowledge that — but also always be grateful.

You have to never get old, never be rude, never show off, never be selfish, never fall down, never fail, never show fear, never get out of line. It's too hard! It's too contradictory and nobody gives you a medal or says thank you! And it turns out in fact that not only are you doing everything wrong, but also everything is your fault.

I'm just so tired of watching myself and every single other woman tie herself into knots so that people will like us. And if all of that is also true for a doll just representing a woman, then I don't even know." 

There was so much eye candy. The set design, the outfits, the hair, makeup, OMG the jewelry, dance scenes. The details were incredible. I cannot wait to watch again and see what I missed. 

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• Cast: Margot Robbie , Ryan Gosling , America Ferrera , Will Ferrell
• Director: Greta Gerwig
• Studio: Warner Bros.
• Genre: Comedy
• Run time: 114 minutes
• MPAA rating: PG-13

DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED A DVD FOR MY HONEST OPINION. NO MONETARY COMPENSATION WAS OFFERED

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Choosing the Best Depression Psychiatrist: Factors to Consider

Finding the best psychiatrist is a highly personal decision. While all psychiatrists have specialized training and are licensed to conduct medical exams, they also differ in their approach to treatment.

Start by asking for referrals from trusted healthcare professionals or therapists. Search online psychiatrist near me depression that allows you to filter providers by gender, location, and experience.

Credentials

Depression is a mental health condition that can have serious consequences. Fortunately, it is highly treatable with therapy and antidepressant medication. However, choosing the best psychiatrist to manage your symptoms can be challenging. You should find someone with extensive training and experience in treating depression.

In addition to assessing a patient’s symptoms, a psychiatrist should also look for any physical pain or discomfort related to the depression. The doctor should also review the patient’s medical history to ensure no physical conditions could contribute to depression, such as thyroid issues or vitamin deficiencies.

Psychiatrists often offer psychotherapy services in addition to prescribing medications. To teach patients how to recognize damaging thought and emotion patterns and swap them out for more uplifting ones, they employ various therapy techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Unlike psychologists, some psychiatrists are also qualified to administer ECT treatments, which have traditionally been reserved as a last resort treatment for severe cases of depression that don’t respond to other therapies.

Experience

When people seek treatment for depression, they typically start by visiting a standard healthcare provider such as a family doctor or internal medicine physician. These physicians are well-versed in screening for depression and may prescribe antidepressants. However, suppose someone feels their medication isn’t working or needs a change in dosage or a different type of antidepressant. In that case, they might need a psychiatrist to help them find a more effective solution.

Psychiatrists are highly specialized and know mental health and psychiatric medications inside out. They can tell a patient exactly how long it will take for their symptoms to improve or which meds might cause specific side effects, for example.

While a psychiatrist’s credentials are necessary, patients should also consider their comfort level with the doctor. It’s a good idea to share your preferences early on, such as whether you prefer a female or male psychiatrist or are more comfortable with virtual appointments. This information will help narrow your options and make finding the proper care provider more accessible.

Medication management

Psychiatrists are trained to recognize depression symptoms and often prescribe antidepressants. They are also familiar with other mental health disorders that can co-occur with depression, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and anxiety. In some cases, it may be possible to treat these other conditions with psychotherapy or lifestyle changes.

A good psychiatrist will take the time to listen and get a complete picture of your medical history before making any diagnosis. They will take a physical exam and ask questions about your mood. 

Some doctors prefer to start with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) such as citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), or fluoxetine (Prozac). Other psychiatrists will try a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) or venlafaxine (Effexor XR), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine or paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva). Finally, some doctors may prescribe monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as marplan, nefazodone, or trazodone.

Telemedicine

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health and can prescribe medications. Many people start with a counselor or psychologist, but this isn’t enough for those with severe depression or other mental illnesses. A psychiatrist can provide a complete assessment and address medication and talk therapy.

When choosing a psychiatrist, consider their credentials and areas of focus. Checking their websites and contacting the doctor for more information is helpful. You can also ask friends and family for recommendations or look at online directories.

When you choose a telemedicine psychiatrist, ensure your Wi-Fi connection is strong, and you have everything you need for the session, including water and tissue. Reviewing your records and listing questions, you can also prepare for a video session. Some online psychiatrists offer a free trial, and others charge for each appointment. Make sure you’re aware of these costs before you schedule a visit.

Lash Lift Aftercare - How to Maintain Your Gorgeous Lashes

Whether your client has just left your salon with a beautiful lash lift or tint, these little-known lash care rules will help their treatment last longer!

For the first 48 hours, avoid anything that might cause your client to get their lashes wet. Moisture can relax the lash lift and change its results!

Brush Daily

A lash lift is a beauty treatment that curls and lifts your natural eyelashes for an elegant, fluttery look without extensions or falsies. It’s a relatively low-maintenance procedure that can last several weeks, but you should be careful about how you treat your eyes after getting one.

To get the most out of your lash lift near me, brush daily with a cleanser and a moisturizer. Avoid any products that are too oily or have exfoliating ingredients that could irritate your eye area, and don’t use a conditioner on your lashes, as this will cause the curl to weaken.

Taking special care of your lashes for the first 48 hours after your appointment is also necessary. Touching them, rubbing them, and oil-based products are all major no-nos, and you should sleep on your back to prevent lash loss. Also, it would help if you avoided saunas and steam treatments, which can dry out your lashes.

Oil Your Lashes

The best thing you can do for your lashes is to nourish them daily. Especially if your treatment included tinting, you’d want to keep those colors vibrant by avoiding sunlight and reapplying the paint when it wears off.

Using a cleanser and moisturizer formulated explicitly for eyelashes is also a good idea. These can be found online or in stores. These products are made without harsh ingredients and prepared to protect lashes. Ensure you choose an oil-free option to avoid contaminating the adhesive bonding agent used during your lash lift and tint appointment.

Finally, avoiding getting your lashes wet for the first 24-48 hours following your lash lift and tint appointment is essential. This prevents a potential stinging sensation and can weaken the lift results. That means no showers, no swimming, and avoiding steamy or sweaty environments like spin classes and saunas. It’s better to go barefaced and product-free for two days to give your lash lift the most extended lifespan possible.

Avoid Water

During a lash lift, the esthetician will apply silicone pads to your lower lid and a solution that makes your eyelashes curl upwards. Your eyelashes will look droopy for the first few hours afterward, but they’ll eventually recover.

The most important thing to do is avoid getting your lashes wet for the first 24-48 hours. This means showering and using makeup carefully to avoid getting water near your eyes or lashes. It’s also essential to prevent steamy environments, hot showers, saunas, and prolonged exposure to sunlight, as this can degrade your lashes’ shape and tint.

Additionally, avoiding oily skin products can help your new lashes look their best. Try blotting papers, and use an oil-fighting cleanser or moisturizer to keep your complexion as matte as possible. This will also help to prevent clumping of your lashes.

Avoid Sunlight

Sunlight and heat can affect lash glue. If you are in the sun, ensure you are covered with a stylish hat or sunglasses to avoid direct sunlight on your lashes. This can weaken the glue bond and cause lash loss.

You can also apply a moisturizer with ingredients that promote healthy eyelashes and hair growth. Some good options are cucumber, coconut oil, and coffee beans. Just use a gentle formula that contains no oils or perfumes, as these can irritate the delicate eye.

Another way to keep your lashes looking good is to avoid smoking and BBQs as they emit smoke, which can singe your lashes. Also, try not to rub your eyes, which can cause lash loss.

My Class Is Obsessed With 5 Little Pumpkins Sitting On A Gate #halloween

This is the second year I am doing 5 Little Pumpkins and I love when my class learns the song, starts to request it and sings it.

It only took 3 days before they were singing along but doing the hand gestures immediately. They love any song that has them using their fingers to count. 

If you don’t know it enjoy!

 

I found this fun art project on Making Learning Fun for the class and they love it. 

All Kids Network has this one https://www.allkidsnetwork.com/crafts/halloween/5-little-pumpkins-craft.asp

But really all you need are 5 pumpkin stickers and 5 popsicle sticks. It is a really cute poem.

Unique Christmas Gifts To Give

Christmas is not just a season of giving; it’s a time to express love and appreciation for your dear ones. When it comes to choosing gifts, opting for something unique and meaningful can make the holiday season even more special, but it is easy to find yourself at a loss as to how you can do this. Fortunately, this guide has some thoughtful and distinctive Christmas gift ideas that go beyond the ordinary, ensuring your presents leave a lasting impression.

Customized Gifts

Personalized gifts add a touch of uniqueness and thoughtfulness. Consider custom-made items such as engraved jewelry, monogrammed leather goods, or personalized photo albums. These gifts carry sentimental value, making the recipient feel cherished and appreciated.

Experience Gifts

Instead of physical objects, consider gifting experiences. This could be anything from gourmet cooking classes to hot air balloon rides and concert tickets. Experiences create memories that last a lifetime, offering the joy of anticipation and the thrill of new adventures. Even giving a beauty treatment appointment as a Christmas gift is a thoughtful gesture that offers both indulgence and relaxation to your loved one. 

It’s not just a present; it’s an experience tailored to enhance their well-being and boost their confidence. Whether it’s a soothing massage, a rejuvenating facial, or a number of sessions booked for laser hair removal treatment that you know they’ve always wanted to get, this gift allows them to unwind, escape the daily hustle, and indulge in self-care. You can easily book Skyrah Beauty Laser Hair Removal in Epsom ready for the giving season, starting before or straight after. 

Handcrafted and Artisanal Gifts

Support local artisans and craftsmen by gifting handcrafted items. This could include handmade pottery, artisanal chocolates, or intricately crafted textiles. Not only do these gifts showcase creativity and skill, but they also add a touch of uniqueness to the holiday season.

Memory-Making Kits

Create unique DIY kits that encourage creativity and bonding. For example, put together a scrapbooking kit with materials or assemble a DIY terrarium set. These kits provide an opportunity for the recipient to engage in a fulfilling activity, creating something beautiful and meaningful.

Subscription Services

Subscription services tailored to the recipient’s interests make for delightful gifts. Whether it’s a book subscription because they are a fast-avid reader, a gourmet coffee delivery, or a streaming service for movies and music, these subscriptions provide ongoing enjoyment, allowing your loved ones to indulge in their passions throughout the year.

 

Unique Books

If you don’t love the idea of a subscription for the book lovers in your life, why not consider gifting unique editions of their favorite novels or books signed by the authors? Alternatively, explore niche book genres, such as vintage cookbooks, graphic novels, or beautifully illustrated coffee table books tailored to their interests.

Personalized Artwork

Commissioning a piece of personalized artwork, such as a portrait, a custom illustration, or a family tree, adds a touch of elegance and sentimentality to your gift. Artwork that captures cherished memories or significant moments in the recipient’s life becomes a cherished keepsake.

Mindful Wellness Gifts

Consider gifts that promote well-being and mindfulness, such as aromatherapy diffusers, meditation journals, or high-quality teas. These items encourage relaxation and self-care, making them perfect for the holiday season.

Choosing unique Christmas gifts demonstrates your thoughtfulness and consideration for the recipient’s interests and passions. By exploring distinctive gift ideas, you bring delight to your loved ones and add a touch of creativity and warmth to your celebrations, making Christmas truly memorable for everyone involved.

A Comprehensive Guide to Engagement Gemstones

The options are nearly endless when choosing the perfect gemstone for an engagement ring. Engagement gemstones offer a unique and personal touch to your proposal, allowing you to select a stone that reflects your partner's style, personality, and preferences. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the various options available for engagement gemstones to help you make an informed decision.

 

Diamonds: The Classic Choice

Diamonds have long been the traditional gemstone for engagement rings, symbolizing everlasting love and purity. They are renowned for their exceptional durability, brilliance, and timeless elegance. The 4Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—determine a diamond's quality. Remember that diamonds can be expensive, so setting a budget is essential.Regal jewellers in Hatton Garden can help you find gems such as these.

 

Sapphires: A Symbol of Loyalty

Sapphires are known for their deep blue color but come in various hues, making them an excellent alternative to diamonds. These gemstones symbolize loyalty and fidelity, essential elements of a successful marriage. Sapphires are also highly durable and come in various colors, including pink, yellow, and green.

 

Rubies: A Token of Passion

Rubies are often associated with love and passion due to their rich red color. These gemstones are stunning and durable, making them a unique and meaningful choice for engagement rings. Quality rubies should have a deep red hue and excellent clarity.

 

Emeralds: A Symbol of Rebirth

Emeralds are prized for their lush green color, symbolizing renewal and rebirth. While they are not as hard as diamonds, they can be suitable in a protective setting. Their vibrant colorand unique appearance make them a distinctive option for engagement rings.

 

Moissanite: The Budget-Friendly Alternative

Moissanite is an excellent choice if you're looking for a more affordable option that still offers exceptional brilliance and durability. This lab-created gemstone resembles diamonds and is often used as a diamond alternative for engagement rings. Moissanite provides an attractive option for those on a budget.

 

Aquamarine: The Stone of Tranquility

Aquamarine's pale blue color invokes feelings of tranquilityand serenity. This gemstone is a beautiful and unique choice for engagement rings, representing peaceful and harmonious love. Its light color complements various metal settings.

 

Amethyst: A Stone of Wisdom

Amethyst, with its purple hue, is associated with wisdom and clarity. This gemstone is a unique choice for those who appreciate its distinct color and spiritual symbolism. While not as hard as diamonds, amethyst can be used in engagement rings if protected properly.

 

Morganite: A Gem of Romance

Morganite's delicate pink or peach hues make it a symbol of romance and love. This gemstone's pastel shades add a touch of femininity and grace to engagement rings and pair beautifully with rose gold settings.

 

Topaz: Versatile and Vibrant

Topaz comes in various colors, including blue, yellow, and pink. Its versatility and vibrancy make it a unique choice for engagement rings, allowing you to pick a color that resonates with your partner's personality.

 

Pearls: Timeless Elegance

Pearls have been a symbol of beauty and elegance for centuries. While not as durable as other gemstones, they can be incorporated into unique, vintage-style engagement rings for a touch of timeless charm.

 

In conclusion, selecting an engagement gemstone is a deeply personal decision. Consider your partner's preferences, budget, and the symbolism you want the rock to convey. Each gem has its unique charm and significance, ensuring your engagement ring will truly reflect your love story. Take your time to explore the options and find the gemstone that speaks to you and your partner's hearts.

The Barbie Effect! Which Toy Is Next?

The Ultimate Checklist for a Memorable Office Party

 

There's an art to throwing an unforgettable office party. It's the careful balance of creativity, anticipation, and meticulous planning. In an era where 'office culture' has become a buzzword, the humble office party can be a golden ticket to fun and fostering camaraderie. If you aim for a bash that will be discussed for months, here's the ultimate checklist sprinkled with unique twists.

Understand the 'Why' Behind the Occasion 

It's not just about having a party; it's about celebrating milestones, bonding over shared experiences, or simply letting off steam. Ask yourself: What's the core reason for this gathering? Understanding the 'why' will guide your 'how.' You may be marking a company milestone, celebrating team achievements, or simply trying to boost morale after a challenging quarter. Align every party element with this purpose for a memorable experience.

 

Unique Themes: Make it an Affair to Remember 

A theme can transform an ordinary office party into an unforgettable extravaganza.

• Mystery Night: A thrilling evening where everyone becomes a character in a whodunnit tale. Create suspense and intrigue throughout the night with clues and challenges.

• Decade Dance: Whether it's the swingin' '60s or the rockin' '80s, immerse your colleagues in the sounds, styles, and dances of a particular era.

• Around the World: Transform your office or venue into a global food festival. Different sections could represent diverse cuisines, with décor, dishes, and even music.

 

Smart Budgeting: Maximize Fun, Minimize Expenditure 

Remember, a fantastic party doesn't equate to lavish spending. Decide on priority areas. You may invest in live entertainment rather than an expensive venue. Or perhaps gourmet catering is more your focus than elaborate décor. You can allocate funds effectively by identifying these priorities, ensuring every dollar spent enhances the party experience.

 

Choosing the Right Date, Time, and Place 

Selecting the optimal date ensures maximum attendance. Avoid industry-specific busy times or public holidays. For venues, think beyond the traditional. A local botanical garden, the rooftop of your office building, or even a nearby beach could provide a fresh environment that excites attendees.

 

Elevate the Culinary Experience

• Theme-aligned Potluck: Everyone contributes a dish, but the catch? It must be in tune with the party theme.

• Interactive Food Stations: Think DIY pizza corners or build-your-own-burger stands. It's interactive, fun, and caters to varied tastes.

• Ethical Eats: Showcase sustainability—partner with local organic farms or artisanal producers for a fresh, ethically sourced menu.

 

Unique Entertainment that Engages 

• DIY Karaoke with a Twist: Participants sing but with lyrics tailored to office anecdotes or memorable moments.

• Improv Workshops: These aren't just entertaining but also build team dynamics.

• Office Olympics: A series of fun, light-hearted challenges or games tailored to your workspace. Think chair races or wastepaper basketball.

 

The Icebreakers

• Office Bingo Reloaded: Fill cards with fun office references or coworker quirks.

• Company Trivia Night: A test of how well employees know their workplace, peppered with fun facts and hilarious anecdotes.

• Role Reversal Role-play: An amusing session where team members swap roles, acting out light-hearted scenarios.

 

Atmosphere is Everything

• Journey Down Memory Lane: Dedicate walls or sections to different company eras.

• Interactive Décor: Set up boards where attendees pin memories, future goals, or doodle and express.

 

The Charm of Unique Invitations 

Instead of the standard digital invite, send out mini puzzles or riddles, which, when solved, reveal party details. It's an invitation and an icebreaker all in one.

 

Curating the Perfect Playlist 

Involve everyone in this fun task. Create a collaborative playlist where every department contributes tracks. It ensures a vibrant mix of tunes that will have everyone grooving.

 

Safety First 

Beyond ensuring dietary preferences and accessibility, consider safety, especially if alcohol is involved. Pre-arranged transportation or partnering with local cab services can ensure everyone gets home safely.

 

The Heartfelt Moments

Pause the revelry. Showcase significant achievements, appreciate standout performers, and share a nostalgic look-back video capturing the company's journey.

 

Recognizing Achievements

Amidst the party's fun and frolic, acknowledging your team's hard work and milestones is essential. Trophies and awards serve as tangible symbols of recognition, leaving a lasting impact on the recipients.

 

Capture & Cherish

• Pop-up Photo Booth with Props: Set up themed props aligned with the party's vibe.

• Digital Memory Book: Create an online scrapbook where attendees can upload photos, videos, and messages post-event.

 

The Thoughtful Goodbye

• DIY Goodie Bags: These could be small DIY kits or recipe sets related to the party theme.

• Personal Touch: Consider adding handwritten thank-you notes or little keepsakes capturing the essence of the evening.

 

Embrace Feedback 

Once the party wraps up and normalcy resumes, send out fun, illustrated feedback forms. Encourage candid responses. This feedback will help refine future parties and foster a culture of open communication.

 

Dollar Tree Sensory Bins For Preschool #preschool #autumn

The class is loving these sensory bins. I got the container, beans, and bones from Dollar Tree. The Skeleton arm tweezers are from Monster High that my daughter had years ago. In the second bind all of it is Dollar Tree. The bin, hay, leaves, acorns, insects are all from Dollar Tree.

 

October Is Here! #october #autumn

October is by far my favorite month. I love the crisp mornings filled with dew and bright sun streaming through the colorful leaves that are preparing for their slow descent to the ground. My backyard creek is full and the waterfall sounds amazing. Currently the morning temps have been in the 50s and I am loving it. The highest expected today is 74. Where do I have to go to have that my every day temperature?

There is something about the sounds of the crickets, the breeze blowing my curtains open,  the quiet of the workday where everyone else seems to be working on the block except my family who are all at home today. Joe took the day to do some yard and house work. I am taking a test and bringing my son to a meeting. My son is walking while he gets ready for his next class, and my daughter is in her online class. 

I should take more time to just sit and enjoy the sounds I am hearing right now. To be in the moment and allow myself to just be! No guilt. No feelings of get this or the other thing done because you have so much to do you cannot be sitting right now. It is okay to sit. I do know this but my personality doesn’t allow me to relax especially if others are moving around and seem to be working. Why do I feel like sitting down and breathing, existing equals laziness?

If you are reading this, I hope you take time for yourself today. I hope you just relax for even 15 minutes reminding yourself that it is okay to just exist for a moment. Everything can and will wait until you are ready to get to it.

Have a blessed day.

Eye Ball Drop #Dollartree #halloweenactivity #preschool

I grabbed two skeleton hands, a bucket and two packs of eye balls from Dollartree to make my class an Eye Ball Drop Game. Using a paper towel roll and showing them how to use the two hands they loved dropping the eyes into the toilet paper roll. It is so good for their hand eye coordination and gross motor skills. 

The plastic bucket around the little mummy bucket is because at first all I heard was eye balls hitting the floor. This was much easier for me to ensure we didn't lose all our eye balls and they were ready for the next child to try it out.