tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56754785599533304842024-02-19T08:41:57.791-08:00 Positively BriPositively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-65354160023176737962014-07-22T17:25:00.000-07:002014-07-22T17:25:00.220-07:00Gratitude. Having been in the fashion industry in the Midwest for a good five years now, I've been awarded many different types of friendships that have blossomed because of this mutual interest or hobby. Some of those friendships have been fleeting, some long lasting, and some incredibly toxic. By far one of the most important and fulfilling types however, are the friendships that I've gained with my clients.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVn4bXD086sLrGzqv62pWiULfEJYW3lSX56VyUxDAGmxrQ7O3y3QO6AbrN3vCvEpzposSORp8yufM5oWvmwcTYLtoSCWCEjyLJtHqCVfKjq21q7TQgo3UNCDx99qDlDl86ScjpA0Dyqc/s1600/client.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVn4bXD086sLrGzqv62pWiULfEJYW3lSX56VyUxDAGmxrQ7O3y3QO6AbrN3vCvEpzposSORp8yufM5oWvmwcTYLtoSCWCEjyLJtHqCVfKjq21q7TQgo3UNCDx99qDlDl86ScjpA0Dyqc/s1600/client.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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(Image courtesy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/brittany.powers.549?fref=ts">Brittany Powers</a>)</div>
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Now for those of you just tuning in, I own a hair artistry company here in Ohio called <a href="http://www.syntheticrebellion.com/">Synthetic Rebellion</a>, and I style hair for all sorts of things: Photo shoots, weddings, proms, runway shows, films, hot dates- you name it, I style for it. Every Sunday I work at <a href="http://lauradark.net/">Laura Dark's</a> studio styling hair for her many, many clients, and it's there that I have been able to gain the aforementioned friends. Not only do I get to work alongside my best friends who also work at the studio (i.e: Team Dark!), but I get to hang out with and pamper women of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds for their photo shoots with Laura. It really is a dream, because nearly everyone who walks through our doors is just amazing. Their attitudes are amazing, their humor and perspective is amazing, and their investment in us as a company and as individuals is amazing!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3OXZc4LtTvqB1iAA9cA8HTc2drXVtgyil64ABnZTPy4Xkhr4BbbBLzBAYtPD8abYwc9DinWH34xDiNIyq3zQUYzE5KuUC5EFH8DkAaJEo-kKnmkBUm0N6O_qYywisDjOuPaN595v_P48/s1600/client2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3OXZc4LtTvqB1iAA9cA8HTc2drXVtgyil64ABnZTPy4Xkhr4BbbBLzBAYtPD8abYwc9DinWH34xDiNIyq3zQUYzE5KuUC5EFH8DkAaJEo-kKnmkBUm0N6O_qYywisDjOuPaN595v_P48/s1600/client2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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(Image courtesy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/joan.nakamoto?fref=ts">Joan Nakamoto</a>)</div>
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We're really fortunate to have so many repeat clients who come back to us non-stop, and who after every visit becomes more and more of a friend. It's refreshing how many people come in as strangers, and in just a few short hours leave us feeling as though our studio family just got a little bit bigger.<br />
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(Team Dark Pose Coach, Jackie Steinert, with model Anastasia Corpus)</div>
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For us, our Sundays at the studio are a chance to really exercise our creative muscles and think of new ways to bring someone else's vision to life. More than that though, our Sundays are a chance to build up our client's self-esteem, smother them with compliments, give them all of our attention and praise, and help them to realize that they are beautiful. They're beautiful without the makeup and the hair, and they're beautiful without the costumes, and the allure of Photoshop. To us, our clients are stunning from top to bottom, and we get the privilege of helping them see that for themselves.<br />
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(One of our regulars, Tracy Gantt and myself in Chicago!)</div>
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It's that part of our job that makes a blossoming friendship with our clients so special. We become bonded and supportive almost right off the bat, and there's a strong sense of genuine admiration for each other, be it for our creative talents, our personalities, or for our inner and outer beauty. It's a really wonderful thing to have!<br />
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(Me and my prom girl, Josie right before she got dressed for her big night!)</div>
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Some of our clients drive two or more hours one way just to see a show we're in, or to go to an event we're hosting. Some fly in from out of the country and hang out with us outside of the studio, and bring thoughtful gifts for our birthdays and/or holidays. Some clients show up to the studio when they're not shooting just to sit and chill for a few hours and catch up with everyone. It's just incredible. I feel so honored and lucky to have such a large group of people who have become really good friends, all because of the studio and what we do there.<br />
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(My best friend and partner in art, Jackie Steinert and myself during a studio day)</div>
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This whole experience has really taught me to invest even more in new faces, and to put myself out there as a friend from the get-go. Sometimes it doesn't work out, but I still have a lovely time getting to know someone I didn't know all that well before, and we still have a fun time working together. Other times it works out REALLY well, and we all gain another person we just can't seem to live without! This experience has also given me the chance to grow stronger bonds with those that I'm already friends with, and share my passions with them on a more one on one level. I could never be grateful enough to have so much opportunity to meet so many incredible people!<br />
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With that said, to all of those clients turned friends out there (and friends turned clients!), thank you. Thank you for making me feel so full and wealthy with your friendships. Thank you for supporting everything that I do, and for recommending me to your friends and family. More than anything though, thank you for the chance to get to know you! You really are amazing, and I hope that we remind you of that every single day.Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-74800014902581295112014-07-12T16:33:00.002-07:002014-07-12T16:40:40.596-07:00On Being A Slacker...February? I haven't updated this blog since FEBRUARY? Oh my god, I really have fallen off the blogging deep end. So much has happened in the last five months, way more than I could ever try to shove into one entry, buuut for the sake of all of the cool things that I've got going on now, I'll try anyway.<br />
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My most recent entry was about my <a href="http://positivelybri.blogspot.com/2014/02/behind-scenes-label-yourself.html">behind the scenes shoot</a> with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/crysdarling?fref=ts">Crys Darling</a> of Label Yourself, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theartcat?fref=ts">Art Cat</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TrulieScrumptious?fref=ts">Trulie Scrumptious</a>, and of course the hair structures from my hair company, <a href="http://syntheticrebellion.com/">Synthetic Rebellion</a>. Just a few short months after that shoot had taken place, we debuted the entire sweets collection during a massive runway show at <a href="http://www.draumacolumbus.com/">Drauma</a>. It was spectacular!<br />
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(Image by Shadow Services.)</div>
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You can view the full collection <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.713972058669859.1073741830.105608739506197&type=3">here</a>.</div>
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I was then interviewed in the <a href="http://www.columbusalive.com/content/stories/2014/05/22/qa-hair-sculptor-and-designer-brianne-jeanette.html">Columbus Alive</a> featuring the hair pieces at Drauma, and it was an amazing experience. If you click on the link above, you can read the full interview on their website! </div>
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(Image credit: <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Tony Bentivegna Photography)</span></div>
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In April I debuted an entire collection of clothing made entirely out of synthetic hair at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.717291265004605.1073741831.105608739506197&type=3">The Alternative Fashion Week 2014</a>, with the help from my assistants Kaylen Jackson, and Jackie Steinert. I had <a href="http://positivelybri.blogspot.com/2014/01/synthetic-rebellion-2014.html">announced</a> that we were doing this on the blog in January, but nothing really prepared us for what we eventually created for the show. You can see the full gallery of looks by clicking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.717291265004605.1073741831.105608739506197&type=3">here</a>. The event was an amazing experience that really pushed my creativity to an extreme that I hadn't known I was capable of achieving. My models were amazing, and the amount of support that we got from the community left me in awe for weeks after the whole thing ended. To be truthful, I'm still riding that high a little bit! </div>
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After <a href="https://www.facebook.com/alternativefashionweek?fref=ts">Alternative Fashion Week</a> ended, I started up my next massive project, which was <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Theboyfriendproject?fref=ts">The Boyfriend Project</a>- an interactive, original comedy set to become a YouTube mini-series about modern dating. Our cast and crew is comprised of talented, hard working people, who have really embraced the script and the characters to their fullest ability. It's been SO MUCH FUN filming each episode, which takes place all around Columbus, Ohio. It's a very ambitious project, totaling a hundred pages of script, dozens of locations, a cast and crew of over twenty people, and twelve episodes total. The amount of support and excitement we've gotten from the local film community has kind of been out of this world. Every time we shoot, I'm left with this overwhelming sense of gratitude that this idea that we created almost two years ago is finally coming to life- bit by bit. It's been totally awesome! </div>
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In the middle of all of this, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EquinePartnersUnlimited?fref=ts">Equine Partners</a> moved to a new <a href="http://instagram.com/p/mjIiN_M_L0/?modal=true">facility</a> just fifteen minutes away from the old one, and we had about two days to move over forty-two horses and start over fresh... In the middle of winter. It was CRAZY. But, through the move we gained a wonderful and happy new home that has perked everyone's spirits sky high. The actual farm itself is stunning, with a swimming pool for the horses, an indoor and outdoor racetrack, open and bright stalls... It's really quite a sight to see. <a href="http://positivelybri.blogspot.com/2013/07/may.html">May</a> now has her own stall, and is busy being a silly little diva. She's been getting handled so much now that we've moved, and I can tell that she's improving and learning every time I go out and visit her. Truth be told, I haven't been able to go to the farm as often as I'd like to, and working with May (beyond general grooming time) has been minimal. And that's something I'd really like to change in the next few months once things slow down a tick. I very much miss my beautiful girl. </div>
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Now, there are TONS of other things that have happened, too. I started a brand new job at a private practice, my sister had her first baby, and I got to spend four whole days loving on my brand new nephew, Corbin (aka, the cutest baby ever). Dan and I got to see Eddie Izzard perform at the Palace Theater, and in just a little over 48 hours, we sign the lease to our brand new apartment together. </div>
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Life has been GRAND! </div>
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I'm sure that there are things that I'm forgetting, but for now I just leave you with what's above. I've carved out time in my crazy busy schedule to write more often, as I'm still the lead blogger for <a href="http://alternativefashionmob.blogspot.com/">The Alternative Fashion Blog</a>, and I've been a total slacker there, too. Luckily, there are a handful of amazingly talented writers who have been great at contributing solid content. Still, it's time to commit to both blogs, and write more often. </div>
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Hope you all have been well! I've missed you!</div>
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Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-56576136123407010212014-02-08T18:27:00.002-08:002014-02-08T18:30:05.436-08:00Behind the Scenes- Label Yourself<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, this is the top secret hair piece in the works that I was busy creating last weekend for Crys Darling's clothing line, Label Yourself. We had spent months designing wigs and hair pieces for her Sweets collection, and it's finally all come together! Crys gathered an amazing team of individuals to capture her sweet treat fantasy, and these are some of the behind the scenes images from that shoot! I was so excited to see everything come into place, and to see Trulie finally try on her hair piece. It. Was. Magical. </div>
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(Pictured from left to right: Quiana Tenise, Crys Darling, and Trulie Scrumptious) </div>
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We are thrilled to put together the other 4 pieces for her collection, which will be debuted to the public on April 19th at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DRAUMAcolumbus">Drauma Columbus</a>! I will have the distinct honor of designing her pieces (with the incredible help of Kaylen!) AND wearing one of the pieces down the runway. I'm thrilled! Let me know what you think of Trulie's cupcake hairpiece! </div>
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You can see all of the images from behind the scenes that day <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theartcat/media_set?set=a.10201653398276593.1073741842.1228308642&type=1">here</a>. All images courtesy of Art Cat. </div>
<br />Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-56045508992871872062014-01-15T18:45:00.001-08:002014-01-15T18:46:01.939-08:00Synthetic Rebellion 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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(Image by <a href="http://lauradark.net/">Laura Dark</a>)</div>
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Okay, okay. So I've been pretty silent these days here on the blog. I've been so ungodly busy for the last few months trying to get what feels like a billion projects up and running at once, and I've put the blog on the back burner. Again. But NO MORE! Seriously. </div>
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Instead of trying to recap everything that's been going on, I figured that I'd just jump into talking about a major project that I'm working on right this very second: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SyntheticRebellion">Synthetic Rebellion</a>'s next venture into this years <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.535375996529467.1073741826.105608739506197&type=3">Alternative Fashion Week</a> as designers AND hair stylists. That's right! We're submitting our own collection of costume wear in addition to elaborate and extreme hair art structures. It's like we've absolutely gone insane or something.... Which I often argue that we have.</div>
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Regardless! It's official and we're excited about it. If you're interested in what we did last year, just click on the links above. They have all of the awesome work that we put into the finale runway show as hair artists, and now we're contributing even more. It's honestly a complete dream come true to be able to tackle such a large goal in such a short amount of time. Alternative Fashion Week is coming up in just a few short months (April 19th-26th to be exact) here in Columbus, and we've got TWO collections that we're debuting. That's a HUGE leap from our <a href="http://positivelybri.blogspot.com/2013/05/synthetic-rebellion-hair-show.html">First Runway Show Ever</a> last April. It's amazing what a year can bring.</div>
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Speaking of, that beautiful girl on the right in the picture above? That's my hair partner in crime, Kaylen. Without her I would never have had the confidence to do anything beyond studio work. She is an amazing addition to <a href="http://positivelybri.blogspot.com/2013/02/synthetic-rebellion.html">Synthetic Rebellion</a> and I'm very lucky to have her by my side in all of this. </div>
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Anyway, to give you some confidence that I am in fact going to be writing more often, check out the <a href="http://alternativefashionmob.blogspot.com/">Alternative Fashion Blog</a> that I am a contributing writer for (lead in fact!), which will have a TON of updates on AFW 2014, the designers, fashions, and events that surround it. You won't be disappointed! </div>
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Oh! And check out some of our recent work on our<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SyntheticRebellion"> Facebook Page</a> and tell us what you think! </div>
Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-65104023299522465952013-11-26T18:46:00.003-08:002013-11-26T18:47:10.339-08:00Amy Koller Anderson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The coolest part about doing photoshoots and being a part of the industry is when things like this happen. This is a painting by <a href="http://www.kollaranderson.com/">Amy Kollar Anderson</a> that was inspired by an image I had shot a few years ago with Photographer James Hayden. </div>
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It was amazing to watch the transformation from inspiration to a solid piece of art, and after months and months of waiting, she put out a time lapse lapse video. I can't count how many times I've sat and watched this, each time being more impressed with her skill and imagination. It was an unbelievable honor to be part of her collection!<br />
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Now she has limited edition prints and jewelry with my face on them! You can check out her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AmyKollarAnderson?ref=l2-shopheader-name">etsy store</a> for those and for dozens of other pieces of exceptional art!</div>
<br />Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-65469543895852052472013-10-31T07:42:00.001-07:002013-10-31T07:42:29.245-07:00Picking Up Your Feet.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'd like to apologize for the exceptionally grainy images for this post. I had decided to bring my new camera to the farm to document May and I, and the settings were never adjusted to the arena's light, or to May's movement. I'm working on getting a photographer to come out and take images specifically for the blog, but these will have to work for now. </div>
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Anyway, onto the training session! Mandy was kind enough to pull May from the pasture and place her in a stall until I could get out of work. Once I was there, I guided May around the arena for a few minutes, walking a relaxed path and exercising some basic commands until we came to a complete stop. I was touching her all over, running my hands over her feet and lifting them a little (which I've done every time I'm around her) when she decided to bite the top of my head. Mandy took that as a good indicator that we should start working on getting May comfortable with letting someone lift up her feet.</div>
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Now, it is incredibly important that horses learn not only this but to also learn to be comfortable standing on 3 legs at a time. Farriers need to tend to horses hooves, vets need to be able to work on an injury, and an owner needs to be able to pick up the foot of a calm horse to see if there's a need for a vet or farrier in the first place. May hasn't had much success with the farrier in the past, so it was time to finally nip this uneasiness in the bud.</div>
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We chose to use a lead rope to pick up her feet so that it was less dangerous to us, and began just by gently rubbing the rope against her legs. Once she was relaxed and accepting of the rope, Mandy then put it around the back of each leg, one at a time, until she was comfortable with that, too. She was less than happy to comply with this, and she paced in circles while we made ourselves pivots and slowed her down with "woah" commands.</div>
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It's at this point that I feel like it should be said that I am still terrified of May. My trust in her has grown exponentially, but I still question everything that I do and everything that she could do, and that uneasiness spurs a lot of hiccups in her attitude to happen. Every time I'm with her, I see how much improvement she's made with being handled, and being well mannered, and it makes me feel instantly better. Still, I dwell on previous experiences and I put expectations out there when we're together that something bad is going to happen. Those things make her great improvements seem like tiny little spurts of luck to me, instead of the moved mountains and huge victories that they actually are.<br />
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This fear is really prohibiting me from becoming a strong leader and companion to May, and I realize that every time that we're together. Since Mandy and I have talked at length about this (and she knows the signs of me panicking), she will often switch from teaching May something, to teaching me instead.<br />
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Now, I have a fear of standing in front of May to get her to stop when she won't stop otherwise. It's not that she's ever hurt me when we've worked together, or that she's temperamental when I'm standing there, but I still get excessively nervous. Often when I throw my hands out and shout a booming 'WOAH', I'm shaking. Being that this is something that I need to work through, Mandy makes it a point to consistently teach me how to confidently stop any horse that might be moving towards me. It always takes a few dozen tries to get over my nerves, but I eventually get there. By mid-session I was throwing my hands out to stop her, and my hands were as still as ever.<br />
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The other form of stopping May is using the 'traffic sign'. This makes me equally as nervous, but again, by the time we had reached mid-session I was doing it and May was listening.<br />
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Now, I'm going to make another post about this that goes more into detail, but I have learned to back May up with just my finger. Mandy reminded me to use this in addition to the other methods if May is trying to walk into me. Every time she listens to this command and backs up, I nearly fall over in pride and excitement. I cannot believe, even for a second, that we mastered this trick. <br />
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Anyway, after about 30 minutes of getting May used to the lead rope on her legs, Mandy and I were finally able to lift up each of her legs, one by one. She fought it a little, as any horse would at first, and then she slowly started to get used to one of her legs being off of the ground. She did so well that we didn't push her to do anything else, and just enjoyed the moment of victory. <br />
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After our training session, we walked May into an open stall and Dan and I spent a chunk of time grooming her. I was so grateful to have him at the farm to witness a training session in person, and to allow him some time to get to know May a bit more. He hadn't been to the farm since I first adopted her, and seeing them together made me extremely happy. <br />
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Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-43724584159246096412013-10-24T19:04:00.001-07:002014-07-12T16:51:35.661-07:00My Birthday!<div>
Holy Hannah, have I been a terrible blogger lately! It's been two whole months since my last update, and I feel like such a slacker. So much has happened since September, and it's crazy that I've neglected giving any updates! So first let me say that I'm sorry, and THEN let me say that I already have a ton of updates written to publish over the next week... So you'll be all caught up! More or less.</span></div>
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At any rate, let's start with my birthday! This past Monday I celebrated turning 26, and I had an amazing day. Actually if you want to get technical, we celebrated my birthday the whole week beforehand, too. One night Dan made me a gigantic meal and cleaned the entire apartment (top to bottom!), and the next day he took me to a concert (or two), then the next he had beautiful flowers delivered, and nearly every night we'd go out for fanciful dinners with friends... I was exceptionally spoiled. For the actual night of my birthday we got a group of friends together and went to <a href="http://www.levelcolumbus.com/">Level Dining Lounge</a> to eat like kings and party the night away. It was amazing.</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Two very sweet friends (Heather and Colleen) handmade my birthday cake, which was this awesome steampunk floral delight that made everyone super excited. It tasted fantastic, and the pictures just really fail to do it any justice. </span></div>
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I was really touched by everyone's gifts, and kind words during the party. I had honestly felt like everyone's presence was a huge gift to me, because every single person that sat at that table was just as busy as I usually am, and have just as much going on as I do, and they all made the effort. Plus, they are all so freaking talented! I spent about an hour talking about each person's abilities, whether it be with singing, or dancing, or sculpting, or styling, or acting... I mean, it went on, and on, and on. My friends are all incredible, and I'm super lucky to get to spend big moments of my life with them. </div>
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This birthday might have been the best one yet. I was so thankful for not only my party, but to those that wrote huge posts about our friendships, and sent cards, and letters, made videos, and wrote songs, and sent me a bazillion messages online. My phone exploded all day, and I loved it! </div>
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It was so effortless for those around me to stop for a second and celebrate with me, and I think that that was just the coolest thing ever. You know? </div>
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Happy 26th! </div>Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-9021459673629131382013-08-23T18:04:00.000-07:002013-11-26T18:33:18.381-08:00Manitoulin Island<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was able to visit Dan's family cabin on Manitoulin Island in Canada for the summer, and I brought Tuesday along for the ride. The island is located in Lake Huron, and is the largest lake island in the world. It also has the largest lake on an island in a lake, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manitoulin_Island">Lake Manitou</a>, which has two islands itself. Therefore, "<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">each is thus an island in a lake on an island in a lake." Anyway, t</span></span>he family cabin was built by Dan's great grandfather, and was just incredible. It sits on a peninsula where one side is home to an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikwemikong_Unceded_Indian_Reserve">unceded indian reserve</a>, and the other has similar cabin properties like this one. Here are some snapshots of our great Canadian adventure.</div>
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<br />Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-49422345583087220912013-08-21T18:30:00.001-07:002013-08-21T18:31:35.156-07:00Summertime Happiness. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqEQCpIMC-BRnSq1cBhflRzjU5nMi39Uv9q_9RWdhVlMNo0qk6O5Lqe_3Vap89kQboBZjzw5CgQk6Jnzqlrl576VByLxNJbs79mjZfxh-onfQX1CVUplP5uSEnj0tF6N7CI7985diw6O4/s640/blogger-image--1314514018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqEQCpIMC-BRnSq1cBhflRzjU5nMi39Uv9q_9RWdhVlMNo0qk6O5Lqe_3Vap89kQboBZjzw5CgQk6Jnzqlrl576VByLxNJbs79mjZfxh-onfQX1CVUplP5uSEnj0tF6N7CI7985diw6O4/s640/blogger-image--1314514018.jpg" width="632" /></a></div>
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I'm having a really hard time adjusting to the fact that summer is almost over. It feels like January was just a few weeks ago, and Christmas seems like it should still be eons away. And no matter how many hot, sweaty days go by where I get sunburned, I just don't feel like I'm ready to say goodbye yet. With that said, we've been spending a lot of time on summer activities as of late, and it has been amazing. </div>
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We've gone on summer vacation (update on that soon), we've gone camping, swimming, we've laid out on beaches, grilled a billion things on the new grill, lounged around pools, ate enough ice cream to fill a whale, and utilized splash pads whenever available. Our dinner parties, and patio dining in the Short North has absolutely spoiled me rotten, and I've eaten better than I ever remember eating before. Miraculously, I haven't gained any weight from all of the food and the cider (and the Wakefruit drinks!). Yet. </div>
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And I may love the fall, and the spring for that matter, but this summer was special. I fell in love every day, I had a wealth of opportunity find me, and I evolved into someone I'm proud of. Things might not be perfect, and things might fall apart sometimes, but I'm still grateful for the few months that granted me this amount of happiness. I can only hope that the rest of year continues on this merry little path, and we can be ushered into a new year that is better than this one. For now, I'm just going to focus on the remaining days in August, and embrace them as much as I can. Even if it means that I'll be overheating, and forced to wear my hair in a bun for the foreseeable future.</div>
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xoxo.</div>
Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-67518095282445616562013-08-20T06:46:00.003-07:002013-08-20T10:17:36.173-07:00My First Shoot with May.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1XG5c5HSJnJ2-vACSovdnqALL5hLl4czc47iT05ThkgFHrsnbXE_igX7w9GAmcpkqRKg6r32_KUv9T612AoNRB1kZY0o_T5Vgm0nHxjK4N5rl7D3q1TyZuUppBj_iGjALnPv1ulqrw1o/s640/blogger-image--1248469135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1XG5c5HSJnJ2-vACSovdnqALL5hLl4czc47iT05ThkgFHrsnbXE_igX7w9GAmcpkqRKg6r32_KUv9T612AoNRB1kZY0o_T5Vgm0nHxjK4N5rl7D3q1TyZuUppBj_iGjALnPv1ulqrw1o/s640/blogger-image--1248469135.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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A few weeks ago I joined forces with the ever talented <a href="http://staleydesigns.com/">Staley Cook</a> to capture May and I in the pasture. Staley has a history of making me look better than anyone else can, and so I knew that once May and I were ready to be photographed, she would be the one to do it. All in all it was a blast! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAhM_EZi4UbwjAmwZKzL8094HIPlc3hsccKGJ1JI2buqHDf_CgdxgYma5rS8wrKnlJyYsBZa44SjWHZ_2XD0AANLWQuD23ogwDkIiVOzdS6ry9dqekysYldtAdboTauXbmM5mCvavbiXw/s640/blogger-image--324864158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAhM_EZi4UbwjAmwZKzL8094HIPlc3hsccKGJ1JI2buqHDf_CgdxgYma5rS8wrKnlJyYsBZa44SjWHZ_2XD0AANLWQuD23ogwDkIiVOzdS6ry9dqekysYldtAdboTauXbmM5mCvavbiXw/s640/blogger-image--324864158.jpg" /></a></div>
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We spent the first half hour or so just hanging out with the horses, which prompted lots of curious licks and sniffs. At several points we were just calming ourselves down to be as relaxed as possible, and because of that, the overall experience turned into a mini therapy session. I think that because we took the time to really embrace our moment, the horses were easier to work with, and more fun to pose around. We were all (photographer, trainer/manager, and myself) able to morph into a mood and atmosphere that was just beautiful, and the afternoon drifted slowly into an evening that I won't ever forget.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEoudOmgZ7zL7P86IIatS8hFt7sqR4NkZw6ILJjGgwOF4uR0WKFw1hx5yN1LSZufjwOeh8mUvYMJeDxYiXH5GjXiRDjVTpOMJU5Sk8Bha14eh6xjVYfHrplpKIrhHsyv44oK_NGQJR4_A/s640/blogger-image--755323913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEoudOmgZ7zL7P86IIatS8hFt7sqR4NkZw6ILJjGgwOF4uR0WKFw1hx5yN1LSZufjwOeh8mUvYMJeDxYiXH5GjXiRDjVTpOMJU5Sk8Bha14eh6xjVYfHrplpKIrhHsyv44oK_NGQJR4_A/s640/blogger-image--755323913.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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And you know, I was really proud of my girl. She stayed in place longer than I ever thought she could or would. She posed, took treats, and allowed me to be in her personal space despite her being wildly confused by my hair and dress. Seeing how much we've progressed and how comfortable we're becoming around each other fills me with a kind of joy that I really can't explain. These images remind me that while we've come so far, we have so much further to go, and through it all we are going together.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-sOOxqMwi0atA1-48H2YdthMEEIU9kvi-pqpV_0Fpsc_72MoNvgsB8gTG-lv97G7rBrzTc6jSkIf__B-mfqHeJafIfEXEr7CNaETW1fMLHNG1Mp-8T1TQ8kELhyK2gYiaqVSIC8ASJw/s640/blogger-image-1825171234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-sOOxqMwi0atA1-48H2YdthMEEIU9kvi-pqpV_0Fpsc_72MoNvgsB8gTG-lv97G7rBrzTc6jSkIf__B-mfqHeJafIfEXEr7CNaETW1fMLHNG1Mp-8T1TQ8kELhyK2gYiaqVSIC8ASJw/s640/blogger-image-1825171234.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This shoot stands as one of my all time favorites, and every time I look at them I just get overwhelmed with happiness. There's so much evolution that I can see within these images. I can see comfort, and familiarity, trust, and understanding. May behaved herself so well, and never showed any signs of discomfort or anxiety. That was a HUGE deal to me, as I spent weeks worrying over how she would react.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia4wl6ULCQ3WaQMcMukwMOVjV-R1-4_1q0WwA6tZVjrJGqR7Xt_Tbs7CWecZHQKM9B-8T-ar0mQ-Y_Zbtp66G3dGs3L1sb3M4BcxU8nsY7YqV6YN3kigcV_v-2j88QqGBxCUHgr8dNsJ0/s640/blogger-image-521136393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia4wl6ULCQ3WaQMcMukwMOVjV-R1-4_1q0WwA6tZVjrJGqR7Xt_Tbs7CWecZHQKM9B-8T-ar0mQ-Y_Zbtp66G3dGs3L1sb3M4BcxU8nsY7YqV6YN3kigcV_v-2j88QqGBxCUHgr8dNsJ0/s640/blogger-image-521136393.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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And as I saw myself through Staley's eyes, I became more comfortable with each click of the camera, which further eased everyone involved. My worry shifted into excitement, and I found my confidence once more, which gave May more confidence, too. There's nothing more unnerving than being a beacon in the middle of a field, surrounded by dozens of horses that want to play and investigate and could potentially hurt you. With the amazing help of Mandy (who was once more to the rescue), everything went off without a hitch, and we were able to capture the magic of the moment. These images reflect the relaxed environment perfectly!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiUjEa9eWZYooWe3LNC6eJtuht3f152t_rI7rLuYVYKKbQ3Wq7yk-XWVCytRm0blSHASjXmt_H8XL5JxQcPcIbYQgMlu0vyYRM348t8NE1so0IzPQwGYzIczeDzfol33rNl8NDQeBzvgo/s640/blogger-image--945470701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiUjEa9eWZYooWe3LNC6eJtuht3f152t_rI7rLuYVYKKbQ3Wq7yk-XWVCytRm0blSHASjXmt_H8XL5JxQcPcIbYQgMlu0vyYRM348t8NE1so0IzPQwGYzIczeDzfol33rNl8NDQeBzvgo/s640/blogger-image--945470701.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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My collaborations with others, be it in the modeling industry or in the equine world really mean more to me than I could ever articulate. There's something amazing about the general comfort and understanding that exists between us as we try to reach our goals. At the end of the day, I feel like we all walked out of the farm standing just a little taller, and happier, too. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgle33Zf0ia_ozNkZUAeoNZACjr74WuEt6dBl06854gCoH7HTg0SK4dD4VDQnJR_aWGpPBJCBKtnAymo6-mET4Qh8DhGIq1ssRrpWUsBj_7uUfcVTRfcV5ut2xyoq0eZDwKTuV1FqcaD-s/s640/blogger-image--1872262960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgle33Zf0ia_ozNkZUAeoNZACjr74WuEt6dBl06854gCoH7HTg0SK4dD4VDQnJR_aWGpPBJCBKtnAymo6-mET4Qh8DhGIq1ssRrpWUsBj_7uUfcVTRfcV5ut2xyoq0eZDwKTuV1FqcaD-s/s640/blogger-image--1872262960.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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And I am incredibly thankful for that.<br />
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<3</div>
Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-59499382444426416152013-07-26T09:04:00.000-07:002013-07-26T09:46:26.082-07:00The Ohio State Fair! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOXanA9WcWrCM7YvAKBaHSGKM29Z-YY1Wt8m4g3mYnlgAxZJq-vdBJ_nlkEHZTZ0ZlG8jvn4obQuaRLsaencmDaT2BZax1uBEOtWsoCzBdWmQPGj0QN_nS-ONwvxJEoa475yvHayS0ri0/s640/blogger-image--769880213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOXanA9WcWrCM7YvAKBaHSGKM29Z-YY1Wt8m4g3mYnlgAxZJq-vdBJ_nlkEHZTZ0ZlG8jvn4obQuaRLsaencmDaT2BZax1uBEOtWsoCzBdWmQPGj0QN_nS-ONwvxJEoa475yvHayS0ri0/s640/blogger-image--769880213.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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We visited the Ohio State Fair on opening night this year, and we had such a blast. Normally I'm not all about being around so many people, but the weather was just incredible and Dan and I were a little too wrapped up in each other to really notice anyone else (except for the people who naturally walk like zombies whenever they're outside). We were so busy last year that we didn't make it to the fair until the last day that it was open, and we enjoyed the total solitude and emptiness of the fairgrounds. While that was an entirely different experience, I don't think either of us really had a preference between our visits. </div>
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This year the attractions were infinitely better than any other year that I've been, as there were camel rides, and extremely entertaining sea lion shows that left me beaming like an idiot. We got to take our picture with two 8 year old sea lions that plopped their awesome heads and fins on our shoulders to pose, and as soon as they touched me, my face contorted into this weird smile thing that was so impossibly creepy. I kind of look drunk on happy in the image. It's one that is getting buried in my scrapbook, and never shown to another human being ever =D </div>
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At any rate, we both agreed that the sea lions were our favorite part of the fair. There were four total, and their routines were hilarious, sweet, and impressive. I wish we had gotten slightly better seats, but it was still an overall awesome experience. Before the show, I hung out by their swim tank and giggled manically as they bobbed in and out of the water, talking to me. I've never been so close to a sea lion before, and I've never really watched what they can do. It was awesome.<br />
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Immediately after we were done having the sea lions win us over, we headed over for a camel ride. I'm a huge, huge, huge animal lover, and I pretty much want to touch every animal on the planet, so the camels were a large pull for me. In fact, I talked about the camels so much during the week leading up to the fair that all of my friends were finally just like, "You got your camel ride! Talk about something else now!" Naturally that just meant that I'd spend every opportunity talking about the sea lions instead ;]<br />
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Anyway! I've ridden an elephant before, and that was one of the coolest things I think I've ever done in my entire life. Elephants are my favorite animals, and even though I was a kid when I rode her, I still remember it fondly. Camels are an equine that I've wanted to ride for years, and I just never had the chance to. It was a rather strange experience, as their bodies move in a way that I can't explain and definitely did not anticipate. I managed to make a passable face while I was riding her/him, thankfully, so I have photographic proof of at least one animal adventure.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOrL4fKfKBHOpVvXIq4D9kILO0ohoO5MnN0l4kMAjPF5QzE3ttxP2NMB3Ry-Lprv3i7_qaxvmrPOzov_SuDOKr7f-PrDg2-i40Bi12BT2-hMlVJRzOK1RG3eoABPEUqjfnXO7z7tl9rs/s640/blogger-image--661219383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOrL4fKfKBHOpVvXIq4D9kILO0ohoO5MnN0l4kMAjPF5QzE3ttxP2NMB3Ry-Lprv3i7_qaxvmrPOzov_SuDOKr7f-PrDg2-i40Bi12BT2-hMlVJRzOK1RG3eoABPEUqjfnXO7z7tl9rs/s640/blogger-image--661219383.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After dinner, and the animals, and the photobooths (it's a tradition now to use every photobooth that we encounter anywhere), it was time for Dan to ride rides. I've always been a humongous chicken, and I haven't ridden any amusement park rides since I was a kid. I get that no one really understands it, but I have so much fun watching others ride coasters and crazy swing things. The faces people make are priceless, I feel all of the anticipation of the ride, I get to hold on to belongings, and I get to not be scared to death. It's a win, win for everyone! Dan hammed it up on the Pharaoh, and I loved every second of it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrF1GdNFZnSCWdY7XxUKFFyfLXW7HcUCECZKeSEGSE4q1v-S83oUCU32feMyYM_qtDuxgnY3ORxKDHhfqTH9RpK1SXTXBT1b3x9-5M7HdQVqWlFGlZgSktoAXdLcVxOX_eM_G_QB97fQ8/s640/blogger-image-962340496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrF1GdNFZnSCWdY7XxUKFFyfLXW7HcUCECZKeSEGSE4q1v-S83oUCU32feMyYM_qtDuxgnY3ORxKDHhfqTH9RpK1SXTXBT1b3x9-5M7HdQVqWlFGlZgSktoAXdLcVxOX_eM_G_QB97fQ8/s640/blogger-image-962340496.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After the rides we visited the petting zoo, where I promptly made a scene with my high pitched squealing and animal baby talk. I petted miniature cows (which might be the cutest thing ever), goats, lambs, oxen, bunnies, and sheep, and fought the urge to pet the animals that I wasn't supposed to pet. It was so excessively hard for me to keep my hands away from cages and enclosures, you have no idea.<br />
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Eventually we made our way to the horse competitions, and Dan amazed me by getting into the show. Granted, we were acting like a pair of Mean Girls, but there was a good amount of horse admiration going on. I know that Dan respects the fact that I have May, but he's not really animal crazy. The fact that he sat for an extended period of time and listened to my limited knowledge of horses, and commented on their stature, and training, and anything else horse related really made me happy.<br />
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At the end of the show we headed back out to the food lane for dinner, and watched the fireworks above us. It was weirdly romantic. We've spent so much time around fireworks over the last month, and each time has been great, but this time it was just surreal. We were surrounded by carnival lights and music, where we had space away from people, and the fireworks captivated everything. Everyone around us stopped to admire the show, and I think the comparison of that to when they were bustling around like madmen was just beautiful to me.<br />
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Anyway, this was the best year at the fair yet. It was so good that we've talked about going back for seconds (if not to get a better, less derp-faced image with the sea lions :). All of our time together, by the way, just keeps getting better and better. I'm always amazed at how everything we do seems to be the greatest thing in existence, even if we've done it a hundred times before. I'm very happy that life led me here, to this place, with these people and these adventures, as I am having the best time of my life.<br />
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Happy Summer! </div>
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Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-51645895994216347372013-07-25T10:33:00.001-07:002013-07-25T10:50:40.761-07:00May. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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May officially turned a year old in June, and since then she's hit a bit of a growth spurt. Actually, every day for her is a day where she seems to have grown bigger, and bigger, and even taller, too. Along with this height has come a very comical adolescent attitude, making our time together both hilarious and incredibly frustrating. While I'm still overcoming my issues in leadership, she's overcoming her kicked in instincts as a mare. Her personality is practically bursting at the seams, and even when I've about had it with her stubbornness, she always manages to crack me up.<br />
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Anyway, I'll be writing more about our new dynamic, and all of the victories and challenges it's brought to the table a little later. For now I just thought that I'd share some images that were taken by a friend a few months ago while I was working with May. Amanda managed to capture her goofy spirit and our growing bond, as well as an action shot that left me beaming.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0dzvRX3EGA38WNW6TdIN_oDz0mBos1lmD3sfZGtkmh5zG7qEmqcgT45won6JrWJA3l1zpoCz2lEXsJCzEUs0k7ivtOw2Vh-3WJqxHY3LHypDS6YpTyDn3JmyErvTkfR5P4ax_rY9sKY/s640/blogger-image--1156189100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0dzvRX3EGA38WNW6TdIN_oDz0mBos1lmD3sfZGtkmh5zG7qEmqcgT45won6JrWJA3l1zpoCz2lEXsJCzEUs0k7ivtOw2Vh-3WJqxHY3LHypDS6YpTyDn3JmyErvTkfR5P4ax_rY9sKY/s640/blogger-image--1156189100.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Note: During this particular session, May and I were syncing our foot steps so that we were walking at the same pace, matching our feet to the other. After a few dozen laps, she started to slow when I slowed, speed up whenever I quickened our pace, and she stopped whenever I did. The coolest part of this was when she started to match her breathing to mine, and would sigh when I sighed, yawn when I yawned, and relaxed when I relaxed. That took much longer to get to, but when it finally happened I was ecstatic. Ecstatic and amazed, and bewildered, and humbled, and extremely happy.<br />
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And finally, a happy horse after a happy training session. I hope that you enjoyed Amanda's pictures. I'll be writing an actual update about May and I in a few days that sort of goes over all of our progress for the last few weeks. Until then, have a great week!<br />
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<br />Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-33803579670412927192013-07-05T07:38:00.002-07:002013-07-25T10:59:07.462-07:004th of July.<br />
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Happy belated birthday, America! Our celebration of you started out with a deliriously sweet trip to the<br />
Scioto Audubon, where we found a hillside full of flowers, away from people, and set up to watch the downtown fireworks in Columbus. We spent our waiting hours playing charades, making silly accents, making hair bobbles out of grass and flowers, and giggling like mad men.<br />
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Just before the sun went down, the sky lit up in pinks and purples, and everything was put under the most beautiful golden light. I'd never in my life seen anything like it. As I went to go take a hundred pictures of the sunset before it was over, I'd realized that my iPhone just didn't do it justice (naturally. I'm not sure I'll ever learn). This image doesn't really capture how brilliant it was, but it gives you some sort of idea. It was so romantic!<br />
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Anyway, the following night we headed out to the Clintonville fireworks show at the Park of Roses (an event I haven't missed since moving here), and watched the show with our friends from New York. We ate funnel cake, danced in the rain, talked about American history, and enjoyed each other's company. It was a great end to a two day celebration!<br />
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I hope that you all had a wonderful and relaxing Independents Day, and that you got to eat as many deep fried goodies you could get your hands on. 'Merica!Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0Columbus, OH, USA39.9611755 -82.9987942000000239.571838500000005 -83.644241200000025 40.3505125 -82.353347200000016tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-55175877612401258352013-07-01T19:56:00.000-07:002013-07-01T19:56:12.285-07:00Kelley's Island<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I can't believe that it's already July, and that it's been over a month since my last update. In the time between then and now life has gone from bad, to good, to great- and it's just kept going. Every day has felt like a gift, and the people that I've been able to share those days with have made me feel more loved and excited about life than I've ever felt before.</div>
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I'll take some time in the next week to recap some of the things that have been going on since I last posted, but for now I wanted to share some of the images from our first camping trip of the year. Initially we were supposed to go during the first week of June, but an unexpected surgery left us pushing the dates to the end of the month instead. What started out as a 12 person expedition shifted to a couple's retreat with two of our very best (and very engaged) friends, who also happen to be my favorite adventure partners on the planet.</div>
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We had decided to go out to Kelley's Island and camp for the weekend. We hopped onto a privately owned boat and charted across Lake Eerie at nine in the morning with one too many bags in tow. Once we got there we spent nearly every second exploring, sight-seeing, and going on mini double dates. I'll leave you with my favorite images of the island, all of which seem to scream summer. Enjoy! </div>
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Skipping rocks has become one of Dan and I's favorite things to do together. Being able to skip perfect rocks with our best friends was just the best thing ever.</div>
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We had such a blast throughout our entire stay. Between the delicious food, our courteous camp neighbors, the extreme bonding and cathartic company, and the glorious scenery, it definitely made itself into one of my favorite trips ever. I can't wait to go back. </div>
Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-70235378360796112672013-05-17T14:25:00.003-07:002013-05-17T14:25:39.560-07:00Nay on Negativity.<div>
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Whenever I'm gifted with an opportunity to talk about <a href="http://positivelybri.blogspot.com/2013/03/adopting-may.html">May</a> (at any length and at any time), my entire personality shifts and I become furiously, unapologetically happy. It doesn't matter if I'm talking about something successful that happened or something that happened to fail between us, I am as giddy and energetic as humanly possible. When I find myself upset, or if I decide that life is just too much for me to handle in that moment, I rush out to her pasture. While I scratch at her itches and I play little games, I watch her personality bloom in front of me. Every heartache, every looming fear and personal issue I might have fades away.<br />
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When I walk out onto the field and watch as she stops everything that she's doing to look at me; when I take a few steps onto the grass and I see her walking towards me; when she places herself at my side and waits for me to show her what I'd like her to do... I feel like a million dollars. When she chooses to stay beside me even when she's nervous, I feel tall. When she walks with me all over the pasture, past her herd and her hay, without a halter, I feel as though there is nothing that life could ever throw at me that might top that moment; that victory of trust and love and friendship. Absolutely nothing.<br />
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For people who have been raised around horses, or have several of their own horses, there should be an instant recognition of how incredible all of those things are. Every tiny step we make with our horse is a celebration. It doesn't matter what methods or tools were used, how experienced you are, or how experienced your horse is. What matters is not only having those little victories, but also having the ability to recognize when they happen, even on a microscopic level. Even beyond all of that, there should also be acceptance and recognition of the battles waged in order to reach those victories, and how every challenge is handled in different ways.<br />
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There seems to be this attitude that some seasoned horse owners have (or those that have been around horses for blank amount of time) where they are so concrete in the right and wrong way of training, that if you ever mention doing anything outside of that, they slam you. They call you an idiot. They call you and your horse dangerous. They try so hard to tell you all of the things that you're doing wrong that they don't even wait for an invite to do so. It's bullying disguised as helping, and it is rampant.<br />
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I've been called many things for adopting May, and stupid has been a favorite among those that are knowledgeable in horsemanship. I am stupid for taking on a yearling with no experience. I am stupid for refusing to use whips and chains to make her <b>obey me</b>. I am an idiot for wanting to wait a little before lunging, or that I am stupid for not knowing her breed, how big she'll be, or if I'll ride one way or another. There's never even a pause in attack, it's just, "that's the way to do it. If you're not going to do it our way, you're going to fail."<br />
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As May's owner, I have made all of my decisions about her care, training, and general life based on my gut instinct, and I feel pretty good about all of the choices that I've made. I always do my research. I seek help from our certified trainers when I need it. I listen to what May tells me with her body language when we're together, and I never <b>force</b> her to do anything. Looking back at all of our moments, there's not a single thing that I regret doing or not doing to get where we are today.<br />
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People will do their very best to make you do something their way, with anything. They will tell you that you're doing something wrong- not because you're getting different outcomes, but because you aren't doing it the way that they do it. This can be applied to our daily routines, our dating habits, or the things that we're trying to learn. There is always someone there to tell you that you're an idiot, or irresponsible in the things that you're doing. T<i>rust your instincts. </i>Trust that you're going to figure it out on your own, at your own pace, and that it'll work for you just fine. Never let anyone bully you into thinking otherwise.<br />
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And while we're at it, don't be so afraid to fail that you go against what your gut tells you. Every single failure we have has some hidden victory, a treasure waiting for us to find so that we can do it better and better with every attempt we make. Do whatever you feel is the best choice for you, and if it ended up not being the best option, you'll learn and you'll adjust and you'll fix whatever it is that wasn't perfect yet.<br />
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Don't let people bring you down. You are doing just fine with whatever it is that you're doing, and just for that, you are successful. <br />
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Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-38401577761028069002013-05-08T09:16:00.002-07:002013-05-08T09:16:30.220-07:00Lazy May<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjdtMfMZ9a9NfW6n_-zwsIMs-Os6wYDGzRsp0jPibkv7U6szElZlUkjvKfw7WJb5NZXpdc5Jeo-JyGNueEb-ouoYAfjsdFGfozz3wyeNiFneMI9-7gKOlYEw48g97ajMuz6gP-okFnac/s640/blogger-image-1559264207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjdtMfMZ9a9NfW6n_-zwsIMs-Os6wYDGzRsp0jPibkv7U6szElZlUkjvKfw7WJb5NZXpdc5Jeo-JyGNueEb-ouoYAfjsdFGfozz3wyeNiFneMI9-7gKOlYEw48g97ajMuz6gP-okFnac/s640/blogger-image-1559264207.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/yvwall?directed_target_id=0">Yvonne</a> was kind enough to post a handful of images of May out in the field today, and within minutes I had saved them, shared them, and commented on them a dozen times over. Yvonne's got such an eye for capturing horses, and they trust her completely. Here are the images of May being lazy on this absolutely beautiful day. Thanks again, Yvonne!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-o21kxEAKloiFha5_5gPoYwJVr7ONy_SwnpMyWVftxnhMWrntnbKuG0ImCvXPHipiX9F0mavp4EPUbCnHR3uHKG4StRzX2IjTrZWAvPHJKepWkbPnIXxte3guId9IG4ClW_SPCc_zyEg/s640/blogger-image--1394328686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-o21kxEAKloiFha5_5gPoYwJVr7ONy_SwnpMyWVftxnhMWrntnbKuG0ImCvXPHipiX9F0mavp4EPUbCnHR3uHKG4StRzX2IjTrZWAvPHJKepWkbPnIXxte3guId9IG4ClW_SPCc_zyEg/s640/blogger-image--1394328686.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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They had brought grooming kits for kids to come out during their session and brush the babies. May didn't want to get up!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8JJxnmnDUKIL5Oplk45hQ8yjWfH_uanSfishWr5SWkHQj9jao_8e-pug8XEV2ZRwGErH-x2rNG9dwr3Qk6OF_MdASCeEO3Xz9D9pvVBOQ9MFl7Lno9uNMWqa1R_zFFs_FhyphenhyphenFVWxuOacI/s640/blogger-image-349085303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8JJxnmnDUKIL5Oplk45hQ8yjWfH_uanSfishWr5SWkHQj9jao_8e-pug8XEV2ZRwGErH-x2rNG9dwr3Qk6OF_MdASCeEO3Xz9D9pvVBOQ9MFl7Lno9uNMWqa1R_zFFs_FhyphenhyphenFVWxuOacI/s640/blogger-image-349085303.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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She's slowly getting sleepy...</div>
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She's starting to doze off... </div>
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Annd she's out.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKG1htY1ogNYcy9iKz3rVtKpkCm2-GlxO27ScO54TPwR3buhbgehoamRwRLDqSLe0wkgOVkZFs3ahb7agCFGLSqIKZ6LNPHiBJ0CJPBELNsP-jM4FBoMxkfe_BejFV-zzL8Ey0U9A4ARE/s640/blogger-image-797902984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKG1htY1ogNYcy9iKz3rVtKpkCm2-GlxO27ScO54TPwR3buhbgehoamRwRLDqSLe0wkgOVkZFs3ahb7agCFGLSqIKZ6LNPHiBJ0CJPBELNsP-jM4FBoMxkfe_BejFV-zzL8Ey0U9A4ARE/s640/blogger-image-797902984.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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^--- LOOK AT THAT SLEEPING FACE! </div>
<br />Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-34594946310772501932013-05-07T09:29:00.001-07:002013-05-07T09:39:30.274-07:00Synthetic Rebellion: A Hair Show.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf_oMxlRmcSaSntxrfK9A4vLCP9Ah1nEl931kB1AX-gUc2ychz_S-UgFgda93q85pYO21CNbRaXbj5mmOvWvypLbMe6tof41Z7cPHBq8Fp8i1ryCC0iDj5i5MBr0nRnlWPCREG0R_hncE/s640/blogger-image--1496424552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf_oMxlRmcSaSntxrfK9A4vLCP9Ah1nEl931kB1AX-gUc2ychz_S-UgFgda93q85pYO21CNbRaXbj5mmOvWvypLbMe6tof41Z7cPHBq8Fp8i1ryCC0iDj5i5MBr0nRnlWPCREG0R_hncE/s640/blogger-image--1496424552.jpg" /></a></div>
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I am finally, finally able to share images from my first hair show that took place in April, and I couldn't be more excited. This entire process, from conception to debut has been a wild adventure, and I was lucky enough to choose just the right people to share it with. My models were not only close friends, but some of the most creative and talented people in Columbus, and having them cheer me on was just... Otherworldly. These are women I look up to, find inspiration from, and adore, and their support was just the most amazing thing.<br />
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Anyway, this post is coming after having my first meeting with <a href="http://highballcbus.blogspot.com/2011/10/designer-q-aaron-james.html">Aaron James of Ruby Hill</a>, a Columbus designer who has booked me to do hairpieces for his finale show for <a href="http://www.alternativefashionmob.org/">Alternative Fashion Mob</a> in June. Aaron is another artist that I admire, and having this chance to work side by side with him has been one of the coolest things I've been able to be a part of. Our meeting last night left me feeling electrified with ideas and daydreams of creations that we get to display for Columbus. I am so excited.<br />
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I digress! Here are the images of each of my lovely ladies and their hair pieces. In the flurry of getting ready we missed many chances for more images, but I have that moment tucked away internally to think back on, and honestly, that's just enough for me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBf7EzDp7DxjQ1dXsOsu_3niTzfKLle00HfNJMIdlOiSaFuv8wuVo30gxkWQ9IoyF69sE4koQsyCRRkPQWAjJ8kxV5bMy4e7QD6loFSe7f0i4nHMIrv0iWlyyYrvPRXeXyRuPUnHjxXq4/s640/blogger-image-1982842415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBf7EzDp7DxjQ1dXsOsu_3niTzfKLle00HfNJMIdlOiSaFuv8wuVo30gxkWQ9IoyF69sE4koQsyCRRkPQWAjJ8kxV5bMy4e7QD6loFSe7f0i4nHMIrv0iWlyyYrvPRXeXyRuPUnHjxXq4/s640/blogger-image-1982842415.jpg" /></a></div>
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(Image courtesy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Haute-Stuff-Studio/193471477351300?fref=ts">Haute Stuff Studio</a>)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDTSiSumJdZyN-ll4VDaAHr12M5M776o9TDFIuhc4F_zFFLSH57oPEtAjJs0_MSe39U8EL6lSmA_u_zNJfglTQCiys0m4ceQXXlxUcA-ZrZOxPCPrIkxmlX8hKuG2sOIHLbV_8SB1XuQM/s640/blogger-image-77232996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDTSiSumJdZyN-ll4VDaAHr12M5M776o9TDFIuhc4F_zFFLSH57oPEtAjJs0_MSe39U8EL6lSmA_u_zNJfglTQCiys0m4ceQXXlxUcA-ZrZOxPCPrIkxmlX8hKuG2sOIHLbV_8SB1XuQM/s640/blogger-image-77232996.jpg" /></a></div>
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(Image courtesy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Haute-Stuff-Studio/193471477351300?fref=ts">Haute Stuff Studio</a>)</div>
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(Courtesy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Haute-Stuff-Studio/193471477351300?fref=ts">Haute Stuff Studio</a>)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieuXt2QxwuxtZHd3oi6D-NDIJmxyjCTrdOfTzzJ_hDq76ji14tT_1nVnzU8PxE6k1pA_XHdGtkzList3m-hbErJRwNL0YSsmNu8kDfFxBk7-OgJfGjkz6ro5uim-HhcGmvL5TBeQjY1ak/s640/blogger-image-1648425220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieuXt2QxwuxtZHd3oi6D-NDIJmxyjCTrdOfTzzJ_hDq76ji14tT_1nVnzU8PxE6k1pA_XHdGtkzList3m-hbErJRwNL0YSsmNu8kDfFxBk7-OgJfGjkz6ro5uim-HhcGmvL5TBeQjY1ak/s640/blogger-image-1648425220.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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(Image courtesy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Haute-Stuff-Studio/193471477351300?fref=ts">Haute Stuff Studio</a>)</div>
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I couldn't thank my girls enough, or the hoards of people who came out to cheer everyone on. This show was worth the long nights, tears, blood, and frustrations. I can't wait to do it again!<br />
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(<i>Models used were: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jackie.steinert?fref=ts">Jackie Steinert</a>, resident model extraordinaire for <a href="http://lauradark.net/">Laura Dark</a>. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AshleyElaine85/about">Ashley Arend</a> of Alt Fashion Mob and Bloggess at <a href="http://endinguphere.wordpress.com/">Ending up Here</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/anita.mcfarrenrhynes?fref=ts">Anita Rhynes</a>, metaperformer for <a href="http://www.shadowboxlive.org/">Shadowbox Live</a>. Model and cat rescue goddess, Jamie L. Burlesque wonders, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Jinxmama?fref=ts">Holly Hahn</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/betty.leroux.9?fref=ts">Berry LeRoux</a>, and theater actresses <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sarah.gehring.52?fref=ts">Sarah Gehring</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lindseydrewfisher?fref=ts">Lindsey Fisher</a>.)</i><br />
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Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-45137663066389793082013-05-01T13:09:00.000-07:002013-05-01T13:09:02.237-07:00Spring!<br />
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Here are a few lovely spring images I've taken over the last few days while adventuring. This season is quickly becoming my favorite, especially since it's offered up so many great snap shots. I don't think I've sat on my porch more, or walked further, or stopped to smell the flowers so much in my life. </div>
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Columbus, you sure have been beautiful lately! </div>
Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-81124501238629705712013-04-18T06:35:00.003-07:002013-04-18T06:35:40.118-07:00Adventures in Life, and the Benefits of May-therhood<br />
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To say that I've been emotionally drained, tested, and battered over the last month is an understatement. In the past 30 days I have experienced an onslaught of personal loss to the point where I've become either manic or detached from everything. There comes a point where you can only say goodbye to something so many times before you're completely lost, and that time has been now for me.<br />
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Through friends passing away, other's attempted suicides, friends narrowly escaping death, newborn horses having to be put down, having to say emotional goodbyes to loved ones, and the stresses of everyday life and work and relationships.... It's just been overwhelming lately.<br />
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Despite all of this, I've been trying to make my heavy heart a little lighter wherever possible, and naturally that means time with May.<br />
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I was extremely fortunate to have had the chance to spend most of Sunday at the <a href="http://www.equineaffaire.com/">Equine Affair</a> with two seasoned volunteers/trainers for <a href="http://mandyschreiber.wix.com/equineparnters01">Equine Partners Unlimited</a>, where May is boarded. These two exceptionally helpful women, Hannah and Yvonne (who I might add, I owe all thanks to the images for this entry), spent hours humoring my questions, concerns, confusions, and ideas in regards to May. Getting to bond with them while also getting to attend seminars, clinics, and demonstrations was an excellent treat, even if I didn't understand half of whatever they were saying.<br />
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At the end of the Affair, I had the opportunity to get one on one training with our farm's manager, Mandy Schreiber, who also happens to be May's <a href="http://positivelybri.blogspot.com/2013/03/adopting-may.html">Knight in Shining Armor</a>. During our training session we focused on my fear and confidence, which has been a huge issue in nearly every facet of my life over the past several weeks. I have, due to many emotional pit-falls, lost almost all of my self-confidence, which has led to me being fearful of trust, fearful of myself and my actions, and fearful of the situations around me.</div>
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Anyone who has ever been around horses can tell you how incredibly in tune they are with those around them, be it another animal or a person. My difficulties with fear and confidence outside of the farm has only made my training while at the farm escalate into incredibly stressful situations. May fails to see my confidence, and therefore refuses to agree to what I suggest for her to do (being led on the lead, following me, etc). Being that she is a wild pray animal, this has led to some scary, defeating situations. Even with breakthroughs, where she and I are obviously overcoming a moment of doubt against the other, the majority of our interactions are ones that are full of fear.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcfIMebtelu4L2iPzLIyIuiz_6bOiCb36KPtwK6UhvZvgqXLFSm59SSM-2tyEOmWHrCJoemXAtYV-Xs2rt0S_0RCSERCOYaJ21FIcpkDgYIbZw8erY7Ylr4J200B10SyrsLQjxYLwEd4/s640/blogger-image--472124948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcfIMebtelu4L2iPzLIyIuiz_6bOiCb36KPtwK6UhvZvgqXLFSm59SSM-2tyEOmWHrCJoemXAtYV-Xs2rt0S_0RCSERCOYaJ21FIcpkDgYIbZw8erY7Ylr4J200B10SyrsLQjxYLwEd4/s640/blogger-image--472124948.jpg" /></a></div>
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At the start of our training May behaved defiantly to my lead, refusing to walk more than a step forward, or walk smoothly at my side. She pulled her body backwards, she tried to push me out of the way, or she just sat there staring at me. With Mandy's gentle suggestions and quick response time, I was able to keep May from throwing too much of a fit, however, my stress levels never seemed to lower. It took Mandy four hours to get me to stand up straight, to not shake while holding the lead rope, and to establish boundary space with May. Inside of those four hours, I was a nervous wreck trying to get May to follow without fighting, thrashing, or biting at me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IZZVtWVaG2yPElL-zj3bR3LeCv3-bhtI_3x3vk1EAbnH32foKPX8A164F0R411hc0E93U9dQ-31eTbCqScmtKl2a0Hij96KwcDUfOfY75jLruU-XdMpnGNQ7MnmTXSQnDWYchyphenhyphenR06dQ/s640/blogger-image--1695121686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IZZVtWVaG2yPElL-zj3bR3LeCv3-bhtI_3x3vk1EAbnH32foKPX8A164F0R411hc0E93U9dQ-31eTbCqScmtKl2a0Hij96KwcDUfOfY75jLruU-XdMpnGNQ7MnmTXSQnDWYchyphenhyphenR06dQ/s640/blogger-image--1695121686.jpg" /></a></div>
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I was a mess while trying to get her to walk from the pasture to the arena, where her every other step was rebellious and irritable. I was full of panic and unease when I would try and walk her in circles while being slumped over in defeat and fear. I was, in short, a pathetic looking sight.<br />
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But I persisted, and with Mandy at my side reminding me to self-check my attitude, I was slowly becoming more sure of myself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyDjCELTbGrkS5pVQsbHJ4FsfYPWAThhTnyKiTSEs7dieEoNz-S23FOz1IkULuHl2vCZElKHOugnkOXZJbtyPiMVxFtv5YXBdN8pgrdAUNo5mz21u_vAZFVd0014a4PLZLYg27uUUL6ew/s640/blogger-image-1868854244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyDjCELTbGrkS5pVQsbHJ4FsfYPWAThhTnyKiTSEs7dieEoNz-S23FOz1IkULuHl2vCZElKHOugnkOXZJbtyPiMVxFtv5YXBdN8pgrdAUNo5mz21u_vAZFVd0014a4PLZLYg27uUUL6ew/s640/blogger-image-1868854244.jpg" /></a></div>
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It took us time to get me to the place where I could stand tall, breathe deeply, and look straight ahead at my end goal. I had to fight to not look back on past failures and experiences, be it with May or someone/thing else, and to not look forward into the future onto possible fearful outcomes, be it with May or someone/thing else. Since I've been consumed with thoughts of the past and pained with the dread of my future, having to change that for our safety and for the opportunity to accurately establish myself with May was spirit breaking.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifATJy1wrbat0gawPHja3xDN0jgyPMm74G9_5jhX4rbEdb1uvdSgziy3qrFoDjDmFXaYjKYMvVKsuN12fgEfiWr7IukdHO4JS-E4tcPb4bKCXfhG1lTn5AuFnUHl3vg1WcM5cqvvMX4JA/s640/blogger-image--108876131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifATJy1wrbat0gawPHja3xDN0jgyPMm74G9_5jhX4rbEdb1uvdSgziy3qrFoDjDmFXaYjKYMvVKsuN12fgEfiWr7IukdHO4JS-E4tcPb4bKCXfhG1lTn5AuFnUHl3vg1WcM5cqvvMX4JA/s640/blogger-image--108876131.jpg" /></a></div>
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Eventually though, I got it. I stood taller, asserted myself as the head mare (with lots of exercises and training methods to get there), and I got May and I to a place of mutual respect and understanding. It took everything in me to be able to let go of that paralyzing paranoia that something bad was going to happen, and that I was going to fail. After what felt like hours and hours and hours, I was finally able to have my moment with May that said so clearly, "I am capable".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxkkCkoAfFX_cgFQgBNgn22rBgRSkhjIOKnZCExwIH4B56jf6VAekS2Wp9Fd3FBDQvKM40ncb_LxGlHrKC3csuJ11hDMdUhpNKhvgy3yY5VPyl8VVrppPJAO5Kxs8K72W_w_yKHfow_x0/s640/blogger-image--336678598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxkkCkoAfFX_cgFQgBNgn22rBgRSkhjIOKnZCExwIH4B56jf6VAekS2Wp9Fd3FBDQvKM40ncb_LxGlHrKC3csuJ11hDMdUhpNKhvgy3yY5VPyl8VVrppPJAO5Kxs8K72W_w_yKHfow_x0/s640/blogger-image--336678598.jpg" /></a></div>
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Within a blink of an eye an obvious shift between us had snapped into place and her behavior towards me was incredible. By the end of the night, she had started to follow me just by being called, with no need to pull or pressure her. She would stand beside me, would stop when I stopped, and would keep her attention towards me at all times. I couldn't have imagined how beautiful that moment would have ever been, to be in the place of letting go and becoming more because of it.<br />
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All of this, every second of training that I got to have with May is so easily applicable to life. It is so important to not hold onto our fears, or to let them control us. It is so important not to concentrate on the past and all of the bad from it. Most of all though, it is so, so, so important to not beat yourself up so badly, to the point where you are incapable of growing past and beyond something, some roadblock. Nothing is impassable. Nothing was worth missing out on this.<br />
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As I think back on Sunday and I think over all of the things that have been happening in my life, I find myself acknowledging more and more that I made the right choice when I chose May. I never would have guessed that I would experience what I have with her in such a short time, or that I'd be her first therapy patient. But honestly, I couldn't be more honored to be here on this journey.<br />
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Until next time.<br />
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Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-66271370581912301932013-04-11T09:30:00.000-07:002013-04-11T09:47:19.968-07:00Hello, Spring Weather! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlNLuAo_Azcv_o81hzA7XU1GV_b-v9AO5PF9PBH1jAShsobNrmgTd7trzWycj1YpOv65zWuALsOwHu42RCo6NhOfPz6uHrVx0kBYclwTN_K3sT1KLN-YyxJK61XcWbS8vCj9JO8BFKnDo/s640/blogger-image--1610901234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlNLuAo_Azcv_o81hzA7XU1GV_b-v9AO5PF9PBH1jAShsobNrmgTd7trzWycj1YpOv65zWuALsOwHu42RCo6NhOfPz6uHrVx0kBYclwTN_K3sT1KLN-YyxJK61XcWbS8vCj9JO8BFKnDo/s640/blogger-image--1610901234.jpg" width="469" /></a></div>
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The weather in Ohio this week has been amazing! I haven't been able to get enough of our 70 degree days, the cool, soft breezes, and the blooming flowers that are shooting up everywhere I turn. Spring has finally (truly!) found us, and it is glorious. Even our thunderstorms and rainy afternoons are making me happy, as it's just as wonderful and calming as the bright days. </div>
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This has all left me feeling massively inspired to build myself a sanctuary, and I've been able to do just that by gutting out my room and doing a little remodeling. I took my overcrowded walls and stripped them bare, moved my furniture around, purged a good amount of my belongings, and filled my space with flowers, plants, and bright white window treatments. I made it so that my open windows are the focal point of my room, and the natural light that spills in is just magical. To say that I feel instantly refreshed and happy just walking into my bedroom now is a total understatement. The only thing left to do is to build my library space, and fill my room with a few more plants. Until that's done I'm holding off on any pictures, but for now I'll leave you with a teaser of my new Venus fly trap. It's name is Rachel. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYqkdv9mSlZ_sXpxrngJXK42LyBoHYDT2bnDHDg00oq_cRsxbWYeO8AHVjC8f9-F-TJ0mcarSK6pZMgZ-85vjldfyuwYx9c2e_V53N8EeX5PIcTkAAEi1zMNPPoIOc4MGE7kNjlJvrbfI/s640/blogger-image--693938146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYqkdv9mSlZ_sXpxrngJXK42LyBoHYDT2bnDHDg00oq_cRsxbWYeO8AHVjC8f9-F-TJ0mcarSK6pZMgZ-85vjldfyuwYx9c2e_V53N8EeX5PIcTkAAEi1zMNPPoIOc4MGE7kNjlJvrbfI/s640/blogger-image--693938146.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hi, Rachel!</div>
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Aside from all of that, I've been putting effort towards finding a balance with everything that I'm doing, and everything that I want to be doing. Over the last year I've discovered the importance of not doing too much at once, and giving yourself time to just <i>be</i>. I try to balance what's currently on my plate as much as I can, and I've found so much fulfillment in just doing that. Lately I've been dividing my time between farm, home, work, and quality time with Tuesday. If I spend two nights at the farm volunteering or working with May, then I spend two days of quality time with Tuesday. If I clean the farm, I spend a night cleaning or organizing, or crafting at home, and then I take two days to just be lazy and do whatever I feel like. It leaves everything in my life dealt with, and gives me a sense of calm. So far it's worked wonders!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbNtLzjmOZeIF0WiqkJwbegSgeQUwzhYwwGLy2sTU2tXKUprEGo332kW_rATxkjwc9JprXgJqhzjgmQPGe9HR_JSrl5Q_YgBC5bUmUUbwkE61LA7ggX3OoBs4R8Ad0XlKqmaz4NkR2zbE/s640/blogger-image--1461733050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbNtLzjmOZeIF0WiqkJwbegSgeQUwzhYwwGLy2sTU2tXKUprEGo332kW_rATxkjwc9JprXgJqhzjgmQPGe9HR_JSrl5Q_YgBC5bUmUUbwkE61LA7ggX3OoBs4R8Ad0XlKqmaz4NkR2zbE/s640/blogger-image--1461733050.jpg" /></a></div>
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Of course, I'm not the only one that's been getting spoiled by spring. I've been taking Tuesday on impossibly long walks all around the neighborhood, to dog parks, and to parks around my house where we can just explore. We've also been going on picnics and car rides, and oh god, does he love them. </div>
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I hope you're enjoying the season as much as we are!</div>
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Until next time. <3</div>
Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-48428971752829920132013-04-05T19:45:00.001-07:002013-04-05T19:46:31.039-07:00Time to Relax.<br />
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There are days, or weeks, where there seems like a never ending string of bad days, stressful moments, or singeing memories that threaten to swallow you alive. When you're caught in the middle of it, it seems like you can never get out in one piece, and you're tormented by everything. Every song, every conversation, every step up your staircase. </div>
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On those days, I take a drive out to the farm. I spend over 30 minutes on the road, with the sound off, thinking. I think about everything, from why I'm feeling upset, to why I'm letting something get to me, to what I might be having for dinner in a few hours. I sit and I simmer in my car, until I reach the farm. I then put on my pasture boots, and I immediately take off to find May. The second my eyes are on her, everything, all of my outside thoughts, my feelings, my memories, my emotions restart, and I'm left to dance around in a silent mind, at peace. </div>
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In all honesty, it's part peace and part frustration, as I usually have to chase her down and then deal with leading her in, but you know, it's a recharge all the same. When I'm out there in the pastures or in the arena, spending whatever time I'm spending with her, everything else is irrelevant. </div>
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I've spent the better part of two and a half years searching for something or someone who could wipe away my hard days, and all along it was out in the middle of nowhere. All along it was a horse. </div>
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Go figure.</div>
Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-67597297959986691242013-04-01T08:48:00.000-07:002014-01-15T19:36:25.532-08:00Surprise! It's A Birthday Party.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihoQp62Tn_ASKkg4cgZapgVKntV5V76S5zTnlgtbLZpkW9L8iiFnuLcyuVz8Mg-Gf650pQfIJkgQE8xy3XnUykUzBGINmjqw2a2IbwDQJ8NZvHbJMNiDmUC6DQ4d1m0llbLjfKqT4xQKc/s640/blogger-image-813938789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihoQp62Tn_ASKkg4cgZapgVKntV5V76S5zTnlgtbLZpkW9L8iiFnuLcyuVz8Mg-Gf650pQfIJkgQE8xy3XnUykUzBGINmjqw2a2IbwDQJ8NZvHbJMNiDmUC6DQ4d1m0llbLjfKqT4xQKc/s640/blogger-image-813938789.jpg" /></a></div>
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Last Saturday I took some time out of my crazy hair sculpting to throw Dan a surprise birthday party, and it was a blast! I'd been planning it since the end of January, and despite all of the insanity of the last few months (friends passing away, getting bronchitis, getting ready for the show, and adopting May), I somehow managed to throw a very smooth affair (with the help of our beautiful friends of course).</div>
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Since Dan makes every day feel incredibly special for me, it was only fitting that I did my best to give him at least one day where he felt extra special, too. After days of searching, I found an online seller who would custom make an edible <a href="http://backtothefuture.wikia.com/wiki/DeLorean_time_machine">Delorean</a> cake topper, and 2 dozen hand painted <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Back_to_the_Future">Back to the Future</a> cupcake toppers, since that's one of Dan's favorite movies ever. The seller, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TutuCuteCakes">Tutu Cute Cakes</a>, went all out on making my order as detailed as possible. The <a href="http://files.doobybrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/delorean-back-to-the-future-USB-drive.jpg">Delorean</a> was made of Rice Krispy treats and fondant, and weighed a good 3 pounds. The topper was placed on a custom gluten-free fudge cake, with chocolate fudge icing in between a double layer of deliciousness. </div>
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The appetizer spread was pretty basic, but ended up being a crowd pleaser. I ordered two of Dan's favorite <a href="http://www.chipotle.com/en-US/Default.aspx?type=default">Chipotle</a> bowls and made it into a dip, which was eaten up so fast I didn't even see it go! This paired with a never ending veggie and cheese tray did well to tide everyone over.</div>
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But, because I like to spoil Dan and all of his incredibly awesome friends, we also made steak and chicken kabob appetizers. Victoria did a special marinade for both meats, and then she sauteed peppers and onions and we made little bites for everyone to enjoy. I had purchased these lovely <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/92625487/24-bright-balloon-party-picks-cupcake?ref=shop_home_active">party picks</a> from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ThePrettyPaperShop?ref=seller_info">The Pretty Paper Shop</a> and used those to skewer the kabobs. They were such a hit that I didn't even get to take pictures of them before they were inhaled!</div>
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We spent a good chunk of Saturday morning decorating the downstairs area of my apartment. In my rush to make sure everything was perfect, I neglected to get pictures in the front room, but it ended up being ridiculously festive. By the start of the evening (before guests arrived), Victoria and I finished the hanging of the 100th balloon, took a step back, and just started squealing. It was almost time! It was almost happening! </div>
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I was so proud of our secret keeping and hard work (obviously, I mean, look at the mom face I'm making in that picture.) In all seriousness though, we have such a great group of friends that it was impossible to not be elated all night by the abundance of good company. My face never once stopped making a goofy smile, and by the end of the night, my cheeks were sore from the amount of laughing done. I feel stupidly blessed to have had all of these faces under my roof!</div>
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^^^ Look at that face!<br />
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Annnnd like a silly person, I also neglected to get pictures of the actual surprise portion of the party. I was just too excited to even think about it. Initially, I had told Dan that I had a shoot at the Wilds with zebras and that I wanted him to come with me. He agreed and took the night off of work, having absolutely no idea that I was scheming to throw him a 27th birthday party. There were times when his best friend and I thought he was onto us, but then I'd play it cool and change the subject off of birthday parties, and eventually he'd forget about it. When he walked in the door to be greeted by 16 of his good friends, he turned bright red and laughed louder than I've ever heard him laugh before. The highlight of my night, from start to end, was that moment right there.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Happy birthday, Dan! </i></span></div>
Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-88000625416514098862013-03-27T19:36:00.004-07:002013-03-27T19:49:57.930-07:00Life Lately, According to my iPhone.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For the last few weeks I've been busy battling bronchitis and mountains of fake hair, all while trying to get ready for my upcoming show on Monday. With my every night dedicated to getting eight different pieces completed, I've been forced to embrace my random free time during the day. An hour here to drive around aimlessly, three hours to read on the roof during a good-weather-day. It's been nice to have little breathers throughout the day.<br />
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My drives to the country to visit May have quickly become one of my favorite things to do ever. It's alone time that I get to savor, with the windows down, my music blaring, my hair blowing everywhere. Even when it's cold outside, I'll open the sunroof, pop a window open, and just drive. </div>
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And of course, there's the random few hours where I get blessed with gorgeous weather and have to make the most of it. Just last Saturday we were gifted with a 60 degree day, and so I opened every single window in the house and then crawled onto my roof to read. That was just pure, simplistic magic for me. </div>
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Even the days were it's snowed have been full of beauty, and the brief time that I get to play around in the fluffy snowflakes, or walk around fresh snow has been fantastic. Our last snow storm this week was seriously one of the prettiest of the season, and I couldn't get enough. </div>
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And then I snuck in time to see <a href="http://www.americanidiotthemusical.com/">American Idiot</a> at the <a href="http://www.capa.com/venues/palace-theatre">Palace Theatre</a> during their Columbus tour. We had such a blast! I have yet to be in a more beautiful venue than the Palace Theatre. I spent almost an hour after the show taking a self-guided tour, creepily staring at every single inch of the interior. The show was great, and I loved every single singer involved in it (those ladies have pipes for days), but the venue... I want to live there. If you ever get the chance to see a show there, do it. Even if it's not a show you want to see, just go. It is sososo worth it (plus a portion of tickets go towards renovation costs).</div>
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I look forward to more little windows of free time, be it during play time with Tuesday, or having dinner with friends while I paint dresses for the show. I'm also really looking forward to posting images of all of the hair pieces, which I've been keeping secret for the sake of the shock factor. It's killing me to not share pictures! Until then, have a great week! </div>
Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-37530488019438211152013-03-23T22:28:00.002-07:002013-03-23T22:31:18.862-07:00A Face Lift, Round II.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The wonderful and incredibly talented Joy Cobler of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/MoxieINK-Design/137766756330869">MoxieINK Design</a> has created a new banner for the blog, and it is absolutely perfect! I love the fine detail and all of the small touches (like some my favorite book titles in the bindings), and I love what she's done with Tuesday. She really went above and beyond to make something personal for Positively Bri, and I am so honored to post it up for everyone to see. </div>
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To top it all off, Joy had sent me this to go along with the new banner:</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">"</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I read your most recent blog post. What a beautiful thing -- adopting a horse. I am a horse girl and had several when I was in my teens. That horse chose you -- I have no doubt. Please take the amount that you were to pay me and put it towards caring for May. That makes you and I square -- and leaves me feeling warm and fuzzy this morning."</span></blockquote>
The amount of support I've received from everyone regarding <a href="http://positivelybri.blogspot.com/2013/03/adopting-may.html">May</a> has left me touched on a daily basis. It's amazing to me that this little horse is already so loved by strangers through this blog, and through our stories, and that she has friends, too! It means the world to me that people care about her as much as I do, and even more when people reach out as Joy has to express their support. I am floored and honored at her gesture, and am currently singing from the rooftops in thanks.<br />
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So! If you're looking for any sort of graphic, you should definitely check out her Facebook site and contact her immediately. When you do, be sure to add a thank you note from me, Tuesday, and May! </div>
<br />Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5675478559953330484.post-57049775134459277112013-03-23T18:34:00.000-07:002013-03-23T20:48:43.562-07:00Adventures in May-therhood<br />
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Today was an exceptionally trying day for May and I. I hadn't been able to make it out to the farm for the entire week, so I planned on having the majority of today set aside to devote to her. Our normal routine has been for me to come out, chase her around her pasture, attach her halter and lead rope and then work on training her with them. Jessica, a volunteer (who I completely adore and couldn't do any of this without), usually helps me lead her to the indoor arena, where we also work on herd separation, grooming, bonding, and more lead training. It needs to be said now that I am not familiar with horses, especially foals, so the training is mostly comprised of whatever I think might be best for her to learn. Everything is sort of on the fly with her, as we're both beginners.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLuS-IYCeS_MCrKQriUmMHhDo4oj1W5D9JjT8vLEWNtbAU1-nh2ZWlq-3DkHVfRWwF2_qb8DNc9NS4R2uk8h7XRGNzZEXK952frApot7sUDJADitULl7kCWYWM3xpcv4HKrOTBtoFaOJE/s640/blogger-image-1555308981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLuS-IYCeS_MCrKQriUmMHhDo4oj1W5D9JjT8vLEWNtbAU1-nh2ZWlq-3DkHVfRWwF2_qb8DNc9NS4R2uk8h7XRGNzZEXK952frApot7sUDJADitULl7kCWYWM3xpcv4HKrOTBtoFaOJE/s640/blogger-image-1555308981.jpg" /></a></div>
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Anyway, as I made my way onto the pasture today with Jessica to continue our routine, May decided it was the day to be a perfect angel. She didn't move when I approached her, or while she was grazing. She let us put on her new blanket, and she let me groom her without any movement or motion, or resistance, or anything. She played it cool while I hugged on her, and snuggled her, and baby-talked her, never moving away, or putting up much of a fight. It was crazy. Like, I didn't know if she was sick, or if she was just happy to see us, or if she just really didn't care about whatever we were doing to her. So what I initially thought would take us two hours to do, took maybe 30 minutes, and before I knew it I was making my way out of the pasture to work on the farm for a while before coming back to get her.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr2mxAXXy4jtj7gBw_pWtyvyaEBnzDhEmsoKCAljNU_AR4aCNZb_H1ywAl7cPrkfgvfCPQpn7TTT8DM34yJeGY-FcQJDl3AFkYP3LtElKoPh0ms8p1u81c8NIrn-OAhZml2bGba4yIcLo/s640/blogger-image--1876831075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr2mxAXXy4jtj7gBw_pWtyvyaEBnzDhEmsoKCAljNU_AR4aCNZb_H1ywAl7cPrkfgvfCPQpn7TTT8DM34yJeGY-FcQJDl3AFkYP3LtElKoPh0ms8p1u81c8NIrn-OAhZml2bGba4yIcLo/s640/blogger-image--1876831075.jpg" /></a><br />
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We worked on fixing broken fences in the pastures and paddocks for a while before finally going back to grab May. I had a gut feeling that she was acting too good to be true, but she surprised me when she leisurely walked on lead from the back pasture to the barn, only needing to be nudged from Jessica here and there. It was when we got to the barn though that May started to act up, resisting us with heavy thrashing, pushing, and jumping, which was terrifying to watch. There was nothing that we could do to ease her down from her panic attack, and every foot forward was met with a retaliation. At one point we had four people trying to control her, and when it became clear that she was on the verge of hurting herself, we decided to take a time out. We stayed where she wanted to stay and gathered around her, petting her into a calm.<br />
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At that point, I realized that I was scared of her. I had no idea how to react to her movement or her attitude, I had no idea how to control her, and I had no idea how to move her in either direction, be it to the pasture or to the arena. I was so worried that she'd hurt herself, or one of us. The resulting feeling of total failure sunk in, and I started to doubt everything. I couldn't do this, I thought. I am not able to do this.<br />
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It was then that I looked over at May, who was panting frantically with wide, scared eyes, and I snapped back into reality. I could do this because I WANTED to do this. I WANTED to be a part of her experiences, good or bad, and I wanted to be the one who made her feel safe. Made her feel easy, and calm. This moment, this temper-tantrum (or any other temper tantrum) wasn't going to throw me off and scare me away. I could do this. I was willing.<br />
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I got up enough courage to try it again. With a little smooth talking we were able to slowly bring her into the arena. I decided to let her run around and get all of her many frustrations out. She yelled as loudly as she could and she threw her fantastically dusty fit. She ran at me and headbutted me (smacking both Jessica and I in the head), and then she yelled some more. I stayed with my commitment, and took her headbutts and her tantrums, and I waited them out. After a lengthy amount of time later, she slowly started to wind down enough to where I could put my arm around her for hugs, which calmed her down even more.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xxUMOUicoeXskSOJJm7w7fUUpbZZfmXdHqsOieIeX4MXFVKcEpUasnXyphVLhgK0El8Nv-4R77RX4EL9Rq26BIG6djw7Q6WR0A_neL0aRLdiVMJLYm-DgW9my0R_cfqMnRH0Wb8nuEY/s640/blogger-image--993096729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xxUMOUicoeXskSOJJm7w7fUUpbZZfmXdHqsOieIeX4MXFVKcEpUasnXyphVLhgK0El8Nv-4R77RX4EL9Rq26BIG6djw7Q6WR0A_neL0aRLdiVMJLYm-DgW9my0R_cfqMnRH0Wb8nuEY/s640/blogger-image--993096729.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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And then magic happened. Despite being dangerously upset with me twenty minutes beforehand, May decided she loved me again. She let me groom her without being held in place, and without moving an inch for almost half an hour. She nuzzled her head into my brush. She turned her head to lick my hand as I brushed her sides. She leaned her body into mine for support. She posed for the camera and accepted kisses on her nose like she was never mad at me for a second. It was just incredible.She followed on lead like a champ, and she got the point where she was walking me in circles instead of the other way around. As the sun shone in and the breeze swept through, I looked over again at May who was calm and content, and I felt whole.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIyoRyvgjrcIT_gNAYzjyp_5R1dX0fhLMidSxglcxVnENwy7KwTTubb9Sl_5J_4fSoM4t_NHXyL-D-4Y2majz1ZebIj4MHjf2QUobJ26mwS9zcA2L0ddC2xdjKmshKf-kV4RdwPMbctms/s640/blogger-image-2038155984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIyoRyvgjrcIT_gNAYzjyp_5R1dX0fhLMidSxglcxVnENwy7KwTTubb9Sl_5J_4fSoM4t_NHXyL-D-4Y2majz1ZebIj4MHjf2QUobJ26mwS9zcA2L0ddC2xdjKmshKf-kV4RdwPMbctms/s640/blogger-image-2038155984.jpg" /></a></div>
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There might be those moments where I feel lost and over my head in this, but those other moments, the ones where she is so totally mine, surpass everything else. They make the tough, scary moments and the glimpses of doubt go away. She is a living, breathing reminder that every second of work that goes into her will be worth it. She is so totally worth it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigF_F9kySP7j1QozHRQHHgeSdQ385NTjHvoxqxWXQWkqK6SDeyc42Mp6atV1QeBXjjBWX8TJc8oDHz_WkauKYuybJ8z3AKgg031GAjNsfQjw2jypGVKqIqOc8NslV0QL4viosRvvteskc/s640/blogger-image-519276198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigF_F9kySP7j1QozHRQHHgeSdQ385NTjHvoxqxWXQWkqK6SDeyc42Mp6atV1QeBXjjBWX8TJc8oDHz_WkauKYuybJ8z3AKgg031GAjNsfQjw2jypGVKqIqOc8NslV0QL4viosRvvteskc/s640/blogger-image-519276198.jpg" /></a><br />
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If it weren't for all of the incredible, helpful people at the farm, I wouldn't have the confidence I have with May. They make such an effort to be as involved as I need them to be, and they help me on a level that I can never express enough thanks for. Without them, this journey wouldn't be as sweet or rewarding as it is right now.<br />
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Until next time.Positively Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10003476765384377541noreply@blogger.com3