Author: Nikki J.

Grateful I have at least one friend in the world with whom I can commiserate about constipation and unsatisfactory bowel movements.

And yes, when we say “poop”, we actually mean rainbows and sparkles – obviously.

Today was gorgeous and warm, so of course I donned a bikini top and went for a walk on the beach. I found this perfect little nook up on a dune and just soaked in the sun and the serenity.

I think the barefoot walk in the uneven, sandy turf did a number on my ankles though. They are so sore! My ligaments feel strained. Maybe I should avoid high heels this week…

So worth it!

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My Latest Obsession

… is finding cruelty-free make-up, hair, and general hygiene products. I recently found a great list of all brands that do and do not test on animals (and no, the list does not come from an extreme source like PETA.) 

Some of my products got an A+ on the Animal Testing Report Card, but quite a few got a big fat F, the most disappointing of which were pretty much ALL of my mascaras. Seriously, my top 3 faves of the moment – Lancome Hypnose Star, Maybelline Full n’ Soft, and L’Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes – are all on the no-no list. WTF?

As I’m sure just about any girl knows, it’s hard to find a mascara you love. But I’m determined to try and find a new one! And with the wide variety out there, I’m sure I can find one I like..

The harder things will be the more “unique” items I’m currently in love with… like my new Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate (part of my new interest in skincare.) I was kinda surprised a supposedly more “organic” and natural brand like Kiehl’s would test on animals… but inshallah… what can ya do.

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Life is Beautiful

I found out this week that a girl I know was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at 28 years young. She is more than a mere acquaintance, but not quite a close friend. Aside from my mother’s mental illness, this is the closest I’ve been to anyone receiving devastating news about one’s health.  I hear of things – but they never (thankfully) hit close to home…

It puts life into rather harsh perspective. I remind myself to thank God for a healthy body and a healthy mind – every single day. Neither is guarenteed, and not everyone is so blessed to have both. You can lose either literally overnight.

This girl is an inspiration with the way she is dealing with her diagnosis. There is no cure for MS, and she knows she has a long road ahead, but her spirits remain high and she’s focusing on the positives. It makes me feel so bad for all the complaining I do. Because life is pretty wonderful – and even she knows it.

And, according to my currently deployed Marine spouse and friends, may be used synonymously with “whatever”, “that’s life”, or “if I can.” Apparently the Afghans use it for everything.

“Meeting at 0700? Inshallah!” In other words: Meh. Maybe.

Anyway, it’s my new favorite woosah expression, for when I get stressed or anxious.

Inshallah…if Allah wills it.

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Yesterday I served as a judge for some local entrepreneurship awards, which was led by a relatively prominent member of the community. I’ve been mingling with those types quite a bit lately, and I can’t help but wonder sometimes how they got to where they’re at. I’m sure they must be smart and accomplished, but their speaking/leadership skills leave me baffled. I’m not one to self-promote, but it’s kind of sad that I was one of the most articulate and thoughtfully confident participants in the session…especially since I was also among the youngest.

Makes me feel like I could take over the world though, if I really wanted to!