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	<title>Stories - #NoOrdinaryLiz</title>
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		<title>GIVEAWAY!!! No Ordinary Boat Show</title>
		<link>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2019/10/12/giveaway-no-ordinary-boat-show/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[noordinaryliz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 12 Oct 2019 21:59:45 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stories]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.noordinaryliz.com/?p=1479</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Looking for my boat fans out there. Do you love boats, looking for a boat or just enjoy a good boat show? If so, do you have any plans between October 25th &#8211; October 27th? If you need something to do, I have an amazing opportuinity for you to get out and enjoy some family [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2019/10/12/giveaway-no-ordinary-boat-show/">GIVEAWAY!!! No Ordinary Boat Show</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Looking for my boat fans out there.</p>
<p>Do you love boats, looking for a boat or just enjoy a good boat show? If so, do you have any plans between October 25th &#8211; October 27th? If you need something to do, I have an amazing opportuinity for you to get out and enjoy some family time while exploring some of Tampa&#8217;s best.</p>
<p><iframe title="Don&#039;t Miss the 2019 Progressive® Insurance Tampa Boat Show!" width="1080" height="608" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LXWuIar344c?feature=oembed"  allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>This year, <a href="https://www.tampaboatshow.com/">Progressive Tampa Boat</a> show presented by <a href="https://www.westmarine.com/">West Marine</a> will offer you two componets: in water, you&#8217;ll have the chance to see and explore over 150+ boats, while indoors over 350+. There will be over 100+ seminars occurring throughout the two days and bring your children to learn all the things about that boat life.<span id="more-1479"></span></p>
<p><strong>WHEN: October 25 &#8211; 27</strong></p>
<p><strong>WHERE: </strong>Tampa Convention Center, 333 South Franklin St., Tampa, FL 33602</p>
<p><a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15083/tampa-boat-show?cobrand=Tampa19">PURCHASE TICKETS HERE</a></p>
<p>For more information, be sure to follow <span style="color:#0000ff;"><strong>Tampa Boat Show</strong></span> on social media!<br />
On <span style="color:#ff0000;"><a style="color:#ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/TampaBoatShow">Facebook</a></span><b>.</b><br />
On <span style="color:#ff0000;"><a style="color:#ff0000;" href="https://twitter.com/TampaBoatShow">Twitter</a></span><b>.</b></p>
<p><strong>Want a chance to win a <span style="color:#00ccff;">FREE TICKETS</span> for a No Ordinary boat viewing experience?</strong><br />
Leave me a comment below telling me what&#8217;s your favorite boating adventure and I’ll choose a random comment on Sunday, October 20th (using Random.org) and announce the winner here on the blog and on social media! Stay tuned.</p>
<p><strong>Want to increase your chances of winning?</strong></p>
<p>Add additional comments below each time you do the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Follow <strong><span style="color:#ff00ff;">N</span><span style="color:#ff9900;">o</span> <span style="color:#99cc00;">O</span><span style="color:#800000;">r</span><span style="color:#0000ff;">d</span><span style="color:#ffff00;">i</span><span style="color:#cc99ff;">n</span><span style="color:#00ffff;">a</span><span style="color:#ff99cc;">r</span><span style="color:#339966;">y</span> <span style="color:#00ff00;">L</span><span style="color:#ff00ff;">i</span><span style="color:#ff6600;">z</span></strong> on <a href="https://twitter.com/noordinaryliz">Twitter</a>.</li>
<li>Like<strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/noordinaryliz" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a><span style="color:#ff00ff;">N</span><span style="color:#ff6600;">o</span> <span style="color:#99cc00;">O</span><span style="color:#800000;">r</span><span style="color:#0000ff;">d</span><span style="color:#ffff00;">i</span><span style="color:#cc99ff;">n</span><span style="color:#00ffff;">a</span><span style="color:#ff99cc;">r</span><span style="color:#339966;">y</span> <span style="color:#00ff00;">L</span><span style="color:#ff00ff;">i</span><span style="color:#ff6600;">z</span></strong> on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/noordinaryliz/">Facebook</a>.</li>
<li>Follow<span style="color:#3366ff;"><strong> Tampa Boat Show</strong></span> on <a href="https://twitter.com/TampaBoatShow">Twitter</a><strong>.</strong></li>
<li>Like <span style="color:#3366ff;"><strong>Tampa Boat Show</strong></span> on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TampaBoatShow">Facebook</a><b>.</b></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Disclaimer: This post is written on behalf of Progressive Tampa Boat Show to promote their upcoming event!  All video&#8217;s and content were provided by Progressive Tampa Boat Show.  </em></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2019/10/12/giveaway-no-ordinary-boat-show/">GIVEAWAY!!! No Ordinary Boat Show</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Expecting parents: What your pediatrician may not tell you</title>
		<link>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2019/08/26/expecting-parents-what-your-pediatrician-may-not-tell-you/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[noordinaryliz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 27 Aug 2019 01:48:53 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[babies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[caregiver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children's board of hillsborough county]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deaths]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[drowning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[expecting parents]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hazards]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kids safety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[safe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sleep]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stress relief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[water deaths]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.noordinaryliz.com/?p=1461</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Photo Credit: Prevent Needless Death Expecting a child can feel overwhelming: There’s a lot to learn in the months before your baby arrives. Your obstetrician and pediatrician are excellent resources for caring for your baby and keeping them healthy, but they may not tell you how to keep your child safe in your home. Parents [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2019/08/26/expecting-parents-what-your-pediatrician-may-not-tell-you/">Expecting parents: What your pediatrician may not tell you</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/thumbnail_head-trauma-prevention.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1463 size-full" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/thumbnail_head-trauma-prevention.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="1049" />Photo Credit: Prevent Needless Death</a></p>
<p>Expecting a child can feel overwhelming: There’s a lot to learn in the months before your baby arrives. Your obstetrician and pediatrician are excellent resources for caring for your baby and keeping them healthy, but they may not tell you how to keep your child safe in your home.</p>
<p>Parents and caregivers often think preventable tragedies won’t happen to their family, but sadly, accidents can happen to even the most attentive parents and caregivers. In 2018, 33 children in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties died from unsafe sleep, accidental drowning or abusive head trauma (also known as shaken baby syndrome).</p>
<p>These deaths are 100 percent preventable. Learn and share these life-saving tips for safe sleep, water safety and safe stress relief.<span id="more-1461"></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Safe sleep</strong></span></p>
<p>The safest way for infants to sleep is Alone, on their Backs, and in a Crib. Your infant’s crib mattress should be firm and fit snugly inside the crib’s frame, and a fitted sheet should fit tightly around the mattress. Crib bumpers, stuffed animals, toys, sleep positioners, pillows and blankets increase the risk for suffocation and should remain outside of the crib.</p>
<p>Place your baby’s crib or a bassinet in your room while they are an infant. It offers the same benefits of bonding without the risks.</p>
<p>More infants die in adult beds than anywhere else. Infants are 40 times more likely to die in an adult bed than in a crib. They can get stuck in blankets or pillows, and without control of their neck muscles, can lead to suffocation. Anyone sharing the bed with the infant can also accidentally roll over and suffocate the child – this includes adults, other siblings or even pets.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Safe stress relief</strong></span></p>
<p>Surprisingly, parents are most often responsible for causing injury or death from shaking a baby. As stress levels rise, parents and caregivers may shake their baby out of frustration, causing permanent injury or death.</p>
<p>The parent or caregiver does not mean to cause abusive head trauma, but they lack the knowledge or skills to cope with a stressful situation. Shaking an infant or young child – even once – can be fatal.</p>
<p>Crying is normal for babies – it’s how they communicate. A baby may cry because they are hungry, need a diaper change, are teething, are too hot or too cold, or because they’re simply over-tired. Prepare for and prevent situations that might cause your child to cry, and attempt to soothe your baby.</p>
<p>Know that it’s okay to take a time out. If a crying child becomes frustrating, leave the child safely on their back in the crib and step out of the room to regroup. Stepping away reduces the chance of stress leading to a dangerous situation. Check on the child every few minutes to ensure they’re still safe.</p>
<p>Make time for yourself by getting a trusted caregiver to watch your baby. Make sure your caregiver also understands it&#8217;s ok to put the baby down safely for a few moments if they need a break.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Water safety</strong></span></p>
<p>The best protection against an accidental drowning is supervision. Children can drown in as little as 20 seconds, and without splashing or calling out for help. Designate a “water watcher” who pays close attention while children are near water.</p>
<p>Install door alarms that alert you when your child goes outside your home. Most children who drown in a nearby pond or pool were last seen inside the house, and caregivers thought the children were napping or playing inside.</p>
<p>Add pool and yard fences with self-closing gates and locks, which can keep a crawling or walking child from reaching the water. Check pool fences for tears and damage – like a small tear that a child could fit through – that need to be repaired.</p>
<p>Understand that there are hidden hazards in the home too. Children can drown in as little as one inch of water, which means that a pet’s water bowl, toilets, buckets with water, and bath tubs all pose a threat.</p>
<p>Unsafe sleep, abusive head trauma and drowning are the top preventable deaths among babies and young children in the Tampa Bay area. For more information on how to keep kids safe, visit <a href="https://www.preventneedlessdeaths.com/">PreventNeedlessDeaths.com</a>.</p>
<p>(<em>The review is written by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, Florida Department of Children and Families and PreventNeedlessDeaths.com campaign and shared on my blog for awareness.)</em></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2019/08/26/expecting-parents-what-your-pediatrician-may-not-tell-you/">Expecting parents: What your pediatrician may not tell you</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>5 NO ORDINARY ways to make traveling with an infant less stressful</title>
		<link>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2018/01/11/5-no-ordinary-ways-to-make-traveling-with-an-infant-less-stressful/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[noordinaryliz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 2018 22:30:06 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[baby]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[drowning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[florida department children and families]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[foster care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[foster child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[foster children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hazard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holiday travel]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.noordinaryliz.com/?p=1420</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Traveling can seem overwhelming, but traveling with a baby can seem impossible especially when you want to create the safest environment for your little one.  (Photo Credit: Florida Department Children and Families and PreventNeedlessDeaths.com campaign ) In the Tampa Bay area, nearly 200 children have died from drowning, unsafe sleep and abusive head trauma in the [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2018/01/11/5-no-ordinary-ways-to-make-traveling-with-an-infant-less-stressful/">5 NO ORDINARY ways to make traveling with an infant less stressful</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Traveling can seem overwhelming, but traveling with a baby can seem impossible especially when you want to create the safest environment for your little one.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1424 size-large" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/shutterstock_17223697.jpeg?w=640" alt="" width="640" height="960" /> <em>(Photo Credit: Florida Department Children and Families and PreventNeedlessDeaths.com campaign )</em></p>
<p>In the Tampa Bay area, nearly 200 children have died from drowning, unsafe sleep and abusive head trauma in the last five years – causes that could have been prevented, and are also a concern while traveling.</p>
<p>Before you hit the road with your infant, consider these five tips to make traveling with your baby safer and less stressful: <span id="more-1420"></span></p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Have a crib or Pack ‘n Play prepared</strong></li>
</ol>
<p>Consider where you’ll be staying and make arrangements to have a crib in the room or bring a Pack ‘n Play. After you arrive, use a tight-fitting sheet to cover the crib mattress or Pack ‘n Play pad.</p>
<p>Infants should never be placed on an adult bed, couch or blow-up mattress, which can increase the chances of suffocation.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1425 size-large" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/babysleeping.jpeg?w=640" alt="" width="640" height="427" /> <em>(Photo Credit: Florida Department Children and Families and PreventNeedlessDeaths.com campaign )</em></p>
<ol start="2">
<li><strong>Make sure your family knows the safest way for your infant to sleep</strong></li>
</ol>
<p>Educate family members on the ABCs of safe sleep. The safest way for infants to sleep is <strong>A</strong>lone on their <strong>B</strong>acks in a <strong>C</strong>rib (or Pack ‘n Play). This provides the safest sleep environment for your infant since most babies are still developing neck muscle control and are at an increased risk of suffocation.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1426 size-large" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/unsafe-sleep-4.jpeg?w=640" alt="" width="640" height="537" /> <em>(Photo Credit: Florida Department Children and Families and PreventNeedlessDeaths.com campaign )</em></p>
<ol start="3">
<li><strong>Help caregivers deal with stress in a healthy way</strong></li>
</ol>
<p>Relatives, family friends or babysitters might help watch your infant while you’re traveling. Crying is normal and babies do it often, but this can be stressful for caregivers. Shaking an infant – even once – can be fatal, and in most cases, the individual does not mean to harm the child but lacks the knowledge or skills to cope with a stressful situation.</p>
<p>Take a moment to talk with your child’s caretaker about how they deal with stress. Understand how your child’s caregiver would cope with stress and look for signs that they may not be prepared, such as if they are easily angered or seem inattentive.</p>
<ol start="4">
<li><strong>Keep drowning hazards out of reach</strong></li>
</ol>
<p>Bathtubs, dog bowls and containers that hold an inch or more of water can be dangerous to your child, because children can drown in as little as 20 seconds and often silently. Be aware of your child’s surroundings, remove any dangerous items and talk to your family and friends about keeping doors locked when visiting their house, especially doors that lead to a pool or water area.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1427 size-large" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/drowning-3.jpeg?w=640" alt="" width="640" height="537" /> <em>(Photo Credit: Florida Department Children and Families and PreventNeedlessDeaths.com campaign )</em></p>
<ol start="5">
<li><strong>Designate a “water watcher”</strong></li>
</ol>
<p>Lack of adult supervision in and around the water leads to drowning, which is the No. 1 cause of preventable death in children ages 1 to 4. Designate a “water watcher” who will keep their eyes on children at all times and avoid distractions like texting.</p>
<p>Be sure to share this information with family members, babysitters and other caregivers, and keep it in mind while traveling. For more information about how to prevent the top three causes of preventable child deaths in Tampa Bay, visit <a href="http://www.preventneedlessdeaths.com">PreventNeedessDeaths.com</a>.</p>
<p>(<em>The review is written by the Florida Department Children and Families and PreventNeedlessDeaths.com campaign and shared on my blog for awareness.)</em></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2018/01/11/5-no-ordinary-ways-to-make-traveling-with-an-infant-less-stressful/">5 NO ORDINARY ways to make traveling with an infant less stressful</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Not So Ordinary: Unusual And Unique Wedding Themes (Guest Blog)</title>
		<link>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/10/10/not-so-ordinary-unusual-and-unique-wedding-themes-guest-blog/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[noordinaryliz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Oct 2017 05:24:58 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[destination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diydarlin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fairytale]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holiday wedding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[no ordinary weddings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nuptials]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[starry-eyed]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vintage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.noordinaryliz.com/?p=1393</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>I love when my readers reach out with an interest to write for No Ordinary Liz. I enjoy seeing how creative they get with their posts. This month, I have the pleasure of hosting Aimee Lyons, and her blog, DIYDarlin.  See what she suggests as adding unusual twists to your wedding themes! Photo via Pixabay by [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/10/10/not-so-ordinary-unusual-and-unique-wedding-themes-guest-blog/">Not So Ordinary: Unusual And Unique Wedding Themes (Guest Blog)</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I love when my readers reach out with an interest to write for No Ordinary Liz. I enjoy seeing how creative they get with their posts. This month, I have the pleasure of hosting Aimee Lyons, and her blog, <a href="http://diydarlin.com/">DIYDarlin</a>.  See what she suggests as adding unusual twists to your wedding themes!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wedding.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1394 size-full" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wedding.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="338" /></a>Photo via Pixabay by <a href="https://pixabay.com/en/bridal-son-in-law-marriage-wedding-636018/">NGDPhotoworks</a></p>
<p>These days, traditional weddings aren’t necessarily the norm for brides and grooms-to-be, especially younger ones. More and more people are finding that they want the option to make their wedding day as unique as their relationship, and the ideas are nearly limitless.</p>
<p>If you’re thinking about having an unusual wedding theme, push away those doubts. Don’t think about what your friends and family will think; it’s not their big day! Get creative and make a list of all the things you and your partner enjoy; it might be a day centered around your pets, or a holiday theme. Once you have a date set, think about the best ways to celebrate the things you love and what you’ll need to make it happen.</p>
<p>Here are some of the best, most unique ideas for <a href="http://offbeatbride.com/themes/">wedding themes</a>.</p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>A literal fairytale wedding</strong></span><br />
If you’re a fan of literature, think about creating a fairytale theme for your wedding. Alice In Wonderland is a particularly festive idea; you can set up each table to look like a different area in the story, such as the Mad Hatter’s tea party, the rose garden, and the house that Alice literally grows out of. Create quirky and fun centerpieces full of wildflowers with googly eyes stuck on to imitate the animated creatures from the movie.</p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>A holiday event</strong></span><br />
If you and your partner share a favorite <a href="http://www.bridesmagazine.co.uk/planning/receptions/reception-themes">holiday,</a> consider making it the theme of your wedding day. Halloween weddings are particularly fun, as you can have a candy buffet instead of a traditional layout, or have everyone dress in costume and “trick or treat” at different candy stations set up around the reception area.</p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>Starry-eyed nuptials</strong></span><br />
If you live in an area where the weather is nice year-round, consider having a wedding under the stars. Find a lovely outdoor venue and set the nuptials late, so that everyone can enjoy the starlight overhead. You can keep the decorations as simple as you want; let the night sky dictate your decor.</p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>Get nerdy</strong></span><br />
If you and your loved one have a particular passion about something geeky, make it the center of your day! Video games, horror movies, a favorite book or <a href="http://www.weddingpartyapp.com/blog/2015/06/05/unique-wedding-theme-ideas/">television show</a>&#8230;these all make a great basis for your wedding theme. Choose what you love the most and run with it.</p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>Vintage travel</strong></span><br />
If you and your loved one are planning a romantic destination honeymoon, consider focusing your wedding day on the theme of <a href="https://www.theknot.com/wedding-themes">travel</a>. You can find some vintage, well-loved suitcases at a thrift shop that can serve as the centerpieces for your tables, or just to use as decor around the reception. Old globes, vintage postcards so the guests can write advice or just a wish they have for the happy couple, and worn maps will round out this adorable theme.</p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>Have a destination wedding</strong></span><br />
Many couples choose to have a <a href="https://www.weddingpaperdivas.com/wedding-tips-and-ideas/themes.htm">destination wedding</a> in a beautiful location, such as on a beach or at the top of a cliff near the ocean. If it’s in the budget, consider having a simple ceremony with a gorgeous backdrop and let nature do most of the work.</p>
<p>It’s important to remember, however, that destination weddings take a lot of planning. Not only will you need to make sure the actual wedding ceremony and reception are taken care of, you’ll need to think about making sure everything back home is <a href="https://www.redfin.com/blog/2014/06/5-home-security-solutions.html">safe and secure</a>. Talk to your neighbors about your trip and let them know how long you’ll be gone; set up motion-sensor lights around the perimeter of your home and consider investing in a surveillance system that will transmit a live feed to your smartphone or device. That way, you can keep an eye on things from wherever you are.</p>
<p><i>Aimee fancies herself a DIY goddess. She loves crafting, refurbishing furniture, remodeling rooms, and landscaping. She runs <a href="http://diydarlin.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">DIYDarlin</a>, which provides DIY project resources and tutorials.</i></p>
<p><span style="color:#993366;"><strong>If you&#8217;re interested in being a guest blogger on No Ordinary Liz, feel free to contact me with your creative ideas!!</strong></span></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/10/10/not-so-ordinary-unusual-and-unique-wedding-themes-guest-blog/">Not So Ordinary: Unusual And Unique Wedding Themes (Guest Blog)</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>No Ordinary Bucket List</title>
		<link>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/07/08/no-ordinary-bucket-list/</link>
					<comments>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/07/08/no-ordinary-bucket-list/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[noordinaryliz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 09 Jul 2017 00:46:31 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[actors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[actresses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bucket List]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Carrie Underwood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[go somewhere]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Italy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[list]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[morgan freeman]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nicholas sparks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[no ordinary]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Road Trip]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[singer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[unique]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wilmington]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.noordinaryliz.com/?p=1315</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>We all love an adventure. I know I certainly do. I can&#8217;t get enough of it. So I just returned from my second leg of summer travels. With the celebration of America&#8217;s birthday behind me and celebrating the first few days of summer in the Great Smokies, it got me thinking. I want to do [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/07/08/no-ordinary-bucket-list/">No Ordinary Bucket List</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We all love an adventure. I know I certainly do. I can&#8217;t get enough of it.</p>
<p>So I just returned from my second leg of summer travels. With the celebration of America&#8217;s birthday behind me and celebrating the first few days of summer in the Great Smokies, it got me thinking. I want to do more! So I&#8217;ve decided to share with you what&#8217;s on my bucket list. It&#8217;s a big one!<span id="more-1315"></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline; color: #ff00ff;"><em><strong>My 120 No Ordinary bucket list.</strong></em></span><br />
1. Write a book<br />
2. Visit Wilmington, NC<br />
3. Meet Ellen Degeneres<br />
4. Sip coffee with Oprah<br />
5. Make pizza from scratch<br />
6. Master the guitar<br />
7. Ride in a helicopter over the Grand Canyons<br />
8. Master how to make the perfect guacamole<br />
9. Speak Spanish fluently<br />
10. Make homemade ice cream<br />
11. Sleep in an igloo in Finland under the Northern Lights<br />
12. Learn how to make the perfect biscuits~n~gravy<br />
13. Go on a cruise<br />
14. Swim with the sharks<br />
15. Deep sea fishing<br />
16. Go to Hawaii and master belly dancing<br />
17. Read the entire bible<br />
18. Meet Nicholas Sparks<br />
19. Airboat ride through the Everglades in alligator infested waters<br />
20. Drive over 150+ mph in a race car down Daytona Motor Speedway<br />
21. Fall in Love<br />
22. Get matching tattoos<br />
23. Run a half marathon without stopping to check out the views<br />
24. Hit 500 blog posts<br />
25. Hit over 10,000+ blog views<br />
26. Be able to touch my toes fully without bending my knees to stretch<br />
27. Take a ride on a seaplane<br />
28. Hold a parakeet<br />
29. Stand under the Sutherland Falls, in New Zealand<br />
30. Kiss in the rain, just like Noah kissed Allie in &#8220;The Notebook&#8221;<br />
31. Win the pie eating contest<br />
32. Watch an erupted volcano<br />
33. Meet Carrie Underwood<br />
34. Star in a commercial<br />
35. Dog sledding at Christmas<br />
36. Visit the White House<br />
37. Ride in a horse carriage<br />
38. Explore a cave<br />
39. Fly a kite<br />
40. Be on TV<br />
41. Give $100,000 to charity<br />
42. Start a fire<br />
43. Travel cross country in an RV<br />
44. Get Hollywood glammed and attend an expensive dinner in Singapore<br />
45. Visit the Eiffel Tower<br />
46. Have drinks with Morgan Freeman<br />
47. Visit Arlington Cemetery<br />
48. Go to Jade Mountain in St. Lucia<br />
49. Play a game of paintball<br />
50. Police ride along<br />
51.  Ride in a hot air balloon<br />
52. Swim with Dolphins<br />
53. Learn how to sail<br />
54. Visit Montana<br />
55. Go horseback riding in Wyoming<br />
56. Stay at a Dude Ranch<br />
57. Meet Clint Eastwood<br />
58. Attend a professional rodeo<br />
59. Chase a tornado<br />
60. Wash an elephant<br />
61. Ride a camel<br />
62. Hangout in Dubai<br />
63. Ride in a limo<br />
64. Officiate a wedding<br />
65. Drive through a dust storm in Arizona<br />
66. Explore every state park<br />
67. Go to Yosemite<br />
68. Horseback riding on the beach<br />
69. Stay in an expensive mansion<br />
70. Hug a Redwood<br />
71. Milk a cow<br />
72. Name a star after me<br />
73. Visit Space<br />
74. Be a mentor<br />
75. Start a nonprofit<br />
76. Have a house for orphaned children<br />
77. Help the homeless<br />
78. Write a children&#8217;s book<br />
79. Volunteer at a retirement home<br />
80. Play BINGO at the retirement home<br />
81. Master self-defense<br />
82. Visit a real-life Castle<br />
83. Meet Queen Elizabeth II<br />
84. Be hypnotized<br />
85. Visit all 50 states<br />
86. Answer a personal ad<br />
87. Meet a world leader<br />
88. Go to a High School reunion<br />
89. Have an awesome conversation with a complete stranger<br />
90. Meeting someone by chance<br />
91. Lay in a bed of rose petals<br />
92. Receive a fan letter<br />
93. Start a blog<br />
94. Shoot a bow and arrow<br />
95. Win a lottery ticket<br />
96. Master chicken~n~dumplings<br />
97. Visit Italy<br />
98. Squash grapes with my feet to make my own wine, in Italy<br />
99. To be loved<br />
100. Make someone&#8217;s day<br />
101. Be on a radio show<br />
102. Be on the cover of Glamour<br />
103. Be a guest for TED Talk<br />
104. Visit a Live TED Talk<br />
105. Be in a professional photo shoot<br />
106. Ride on an expensive Yacht<br />
107. Have no credit card debt<br />
108. Have no debt at all<br />
109. Order room service<br />
110. Eat fresh honey directly from a beehive<br />
111. Be on a jumbotron<br />
112. Meet the entire Walking Dead cast<br />
113. See the Hollywood sign<br />
114. Visit Vegas<br />
115. Send flowers to myself<br />
116. Be someone&#8217;s hero<br />
117. New York Times best seller<br />
118. See a lighthouse<br />
119. Celebrate a holiday in a different country<br />
120. Go on a spontaneous road trip</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/07/08/no-ordinary-bucket-list/">No Ordinary Bucket List</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>No Ordinary Resolutions</title>
		<link>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/01/17/no-ordinary-resolutions/</link>
					<comments>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/01/17/no-ordinary-resolutions/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[noordinaryliz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jan 2017 09:46:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[be you]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[benjamin franklin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dream]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[goals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[life life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[love life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[moments]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[new year]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[no ordinary]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[quotes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[resolutions]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.noordinaryliz.com/?p=1270</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Can you believe it? We are here. It has taken me about two weeks to try to digest that 2017 is really here! Ummm&#8230;where did 2016 go?  It seems like yesterday I was picking my jaw off the floor over Y2K.  I guess the feedback my teachers used to tell back then were true. &#8220;Never [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/01/17/no-ordinary-resolutions/">No Ordinary Resolutions</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Can you believe it? We are here. It has taken me about two weeks to try to digest that 2017 is really here! Ummm&#8230;where did 2016 go?  It seems like yesterday I was picking my jaw off the floor over Y2K.  I guess the feedback my teachers used to tell back then were true. &#8220;Never wish your life away&#8221; they&#8217;d always say. But it&#8217;s true. Do you ever wake up and say, &#8221; I wished it was summer already?&#8221; or &#8220;I wished it was 5:00pm?&#8221; GUILTY as charged. The &#8220;older&#8221; I get, the more I realize how I want those words back. If you think about it, the days &amp; years are soaring right by us like a plane taking off. From 0-180mph. Now that&#8217;s pretty darn fast.  <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/226482.Marjorie_Pay_Hinckley">Marjorie Pay Hinckley </a> provides the best solution on how we should live this thing called life! <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong><em>&#8220;The trick is to enjoy life. Don&#8217;t wish away your days, waiting for better ones ahead!&#8221; </em></strong></span><span id="more-1270"></span></p>
<p>So with that being said, after two weeks of thinking, planning, strategizing, going broke in Office Depot and maneuvering how I wanted to achieve these certain goals in 2017, it really comes down to this: <span style="color:#ff6600;"><em><strong>DO YOU!</strong></em></span></p>
<p>Well what do I mean by that, you say? It&#8217;s simple. If you do the things that make YOU happy, you have already succeeded and your original goals that you set for yourself will play out right before you. Even though life around you is running at maximum speed, doesn&#8217;t mean you can&#8217;t slow down to enjoy <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span>!</p>
<p>In no particular order, here&#8217;s a few <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> things I want to accomplish every day of the entire year!</p>
<p>&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> jamming<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> enjoying life<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> dreaming<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> sunsets<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> hugs<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> road trips<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> blogging<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> love<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> fun<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> sleep<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> coffee<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> friends<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> thinking<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> Netflix<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> creating<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> mentoring<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> sista time<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> discovering<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> mistakes<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong> </span>leading<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> smoky mountains<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong> </span>chicken pot pie<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> fierce<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> authentic<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong> </span>chances<br />
&#8211; <strong><span style="color:#ff00ff;">MORE</span></strong> inspiring<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> thankful<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> chicken &amp; dumplings<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> LaCroix<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> learning<br />
&#8211; <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> media</p>
<p>Hold on to each moment. Cherish it and <strong>REPEAT</strong>!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/quote.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1271" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/quote.jpg?w=214" alt="quote" width="214" height="300" /></a><em>(photo courtesy of Google)</em></p>
<p>Have a wonderful New Year being <span style="color:#ff9900;"><strong>YOU</strong></span>!</p>
<p>Do you have any things you want to do <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>MORE</strong></span> of this year? I would love to hear what those are!</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2017/01/17/no-ordinary-resolutions/">No Ordinary Resolutions</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>5 Tips To Living A No Ordinary Authentic LIFE</title>
		<link>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/07/28/5-tips-to-living-a-no-ordinary-authentic-life/</link>
					<comments>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/07/28/5-tips-to-living-a-no-ordinary-authentic-life/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[noordinaryliz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jul 2016 06:52:14 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[authentic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[be you]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[choose happiness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[find your purpose]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flaws]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[future]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[magic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[present]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relationships]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Self]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.noordinaryliz.com/?p=1200</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>What IF: I was to ask you to take a look in the mirror right now, what would you see in your reflection?  Answer honestly.  Do you like what you see?  Do you wish you were someone different?  Are you immediately pointing out all those flaws?  We all have been there, trust me.  I used [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/07/28/5-tips-to-living-a-no-ordinary-authentic-life/">5 Tips To Living A No Ordinary Authentic LIFE</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>What IF:</strong></p>
<p>I was to ask you to take a look in the mirror right now, what would you see in your reflection?  Answer honestly.  Do you like what you see?  Do you wish you were someone different?  Are you immediately pointing out all those flaws?  We all have been there, trust me.  I used to catch myself scoping out any object that would bounce off my reflection and sometimes, I couldn&#8217;t look at myself without doing just that&#8230;<span id="more-1200"></span></p>
<p>BUT, a while back, I was introduced to a friend who helped pave the way so that I could live the life I&#8217;m LOVING right about now.  <strong>AUTHENTIC</strong>.  (Yep, you&#8217;re reading this right.)</p>
<p>Authentic is a magical word!  A word that we don&#8217;t hear a lot about, but need it in our everyday lives. We tend to see it more in tangible things, but what about the intangible&#8230;YOU?</p>
<p>Here are 5 suggested tips on how you can live a <strong><span style="color:#ff00ff;">N</span><span style="color:#ff6600;">O</span> <span style="color:#33cccc;">O</span><span style="color:#cc99ff;">R</span><span style="color:#008080;">D</span><span style="color:#ffcc00;">I</span><span style="color:#0000ff;">N</span><span style="color:#993300;">A<span style="color:#ff00ff;">R</span></span><span style="color:#ff0000;">Y</span></strong> authentic life.</p>
<p>1.  <strong>Fall in LOVE with yourself, flaws and all</strong> &#8211; If you&#8217;re wondering why things in your life are not filling that void that you may be having, or relationships are not working out as they should, I think I know why&#8230; You need to be in love with who you are.  (I know this sounds crazy. Love yourself?) That means accepted who you are as an individual, flaws and all.  Learn what your flaws are and accept that no one is PERFECT.  If you don&#8217;t love yourself, how can you expect anyone to love you the way you want them to.  Your flaws make you unique just like fingerprints.  When you do this, you will be brushed with so much confidence that you will be able to accept all the joys that life sends your way.</p>
<p>2. <strong>Release the past, BE present and live for the future</strong> &#8211; Sometimes we all get stuck on something that occurred in our past that prevents us from living the life that we want.  Come join us in the moment.  Learn to accept the cards that were dealt to you and look for ways that you could make the greatest impact. Today.  Use your past as a stepping stone for the present and discover what your purpose is and set out to achieving it! Moments are what life is all about.  Don&#8217;t spend too much time there.</p>
<p>3. <strong>Choose happiness</strong> &#8211; In life, we have an abundant amount of choices and views on how you see yourself and the world.  When we start to think about those things, we may change our mindset to think in a negative way.  If you choose to do this, you may see a pattern in your life that forms in a negative manner. My solution to all of this: choose happiness over all. No one can give you happiness. It has to come from within, just like the quote, &#8220;Don&#8217;t ever let anyone dull your sparkle&#8221; once you switch that on, your outlook on life will be so much brighter. Leave a trail wherever you go!</p>
<p>4. <strong>Develop yourself</strong> &#8211; This is one area where we tend to brush away as life takes us full speed.  In order to achieve the most authentic life, you need to take the time to find out what drives you and chase it!  If it requires further development, go get the tools to achieve it.  Know that it&#8217;s OK to express yourself, trust yourself, teach yourself and above all else, surround yourself with the things that make you happy! I strongly encourage you to do one thing each day that scares you and stretches you outside your comfort zone.  You may be surprised at the things you discover!</p>
<p>5. <strong>Form new relationships</strong> &#8211; They say the key to a successful life is to surround yourself with good people.  Maya Angelou says it best, &#8220;<i>I&#8217;ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.&#8221;</i> Life is about connecting your personal and professional dots. Find people who are like-minded as yourself both personally and professionally. They will be instrumental in your self-development and vice versa. Building and maintaining relationships is so crucial in discovering who you really are as a person.  Go find your people!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/wa504_choose_to_be_your_authentic_self.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1201" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/wa504_choose_to_be_your_authentic_self.jpg?w=300" alt="WA504_Choose_to_be_your_authentic_self" width="300" height="151" /></a><em>(photo courtesy of Google)</em></p>
<p><em>**All opinions in this post are my own.** </em></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/07/28/5-tips-to-living-a-no-ordinary-authentic-life/">5 Tips To Living A No Ordinary Authentic LIFE</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>5 Ways To Boost Your Morale While Seeking Your Dream Job</title>
		<link>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/07/08/5-ways-to-boost-your-morale-while-seeking-your-dream-job/</link>
					<comments>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/07/08/5-ways-to-boost-your-morale-while-seeking-your-dream-job/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[noordinaryliz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 08 Jul 2016 07:51:41 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[be you]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[career]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dream job]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[job seekers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[morale]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[network]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[resilience]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[self confidence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[strive for excellence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[time]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.noordinaryliz.com/?p=1194</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Job searching can be grim! We all have been there at one point in our lives.  The amount of time, energy and research that we put into a single job application, only to receive the dreadful news that you were not selected for the position.  Hearing that news can make you feel like your whole world is [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/07/08/5-ways-to-boost-your-morale-while-seeking-your-dream-job/">5 Ways To Boost Your Morale While Seeking Your Dream Job</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Job searching can be grim! We all have been there at one point in our lives.  The amount of time, energy and research that we put into a single job application, only to receive the dreadful news that you were not selected for the position.  Hearing that news can make you feel like your whole world is crashing down around you and rightfully so.  After all, it&#8217;s your career that we&#8217;re talking about.  So how do we bounce back from that tidbit of news?<span id="more-1194"></span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/job.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1197" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/job.jpg?w=300" alt="job" width="300" height="187" /></a> <em>(photo courtesy of Google)</em></p>
<p>Here are five suggested morale boosters to help guide you through your job search.</p>
<p><b>1. Self Confidence &#8211; </b>As humans, we tend to forget ourselves in this process.  Any form of rejection makes us want to curl up in the corner.  At the end of the day, you can&#8217;t forget who you are as an individual, what skill sets that set you apart from another and what you&#8217;re able to bring to the table. Just because it didn&#8217;t work out for that particular company, doesn&#8217;t mean it won&#8217;t for another.  Trust in yourself to be able to walk away from a &#8220;no&#8221; and determined to get that &#8220;yes.&#8221;</p>
<p><b>2. Time &#8211; </b>The key to a successful job search is doing your part.  Try to dedicate a set amount of time each day to it.  Create yourself a job searching calendar and make sure you adhere to it.  Do your research and apply to as many opportunities as you deem fit.  Step outside the box.  The feeling of being involved or engaged in the process will help boost your self worth.</p>
<p><strong>3. Network &#8211; </strong>We tend to shy away from being around others during this time in our lives.  It&#8217;s really the opposite.  Going through this process, you should have as many people in your corner to help share experiences, resources and any guidance.  This will give you the best boost in your search.  I would suggest you join as many networking groups that you can.  Heavily rely on Linkedin for support.  I promise you will find many like-minded individuals who are just like you.  Building new networks will help you gain a new perspective on what the workforce is looking for.</p>
<p><strong>4. Be YOU &#8211; </strong> One of my favorite quotes that I&#8217;m always an advocate for is one by William E. Hickson, &#8220;If at first you don&#8217;t succeed, try, try, try again.&#8221; William is certainly right.  We normally are our own worst critics and tend to give up on ourselves very easily. We start putting self doubt into our minds and that makes us lose focus.  Don&#8217;t dwell on your limitations, but more on what you&#8217;re passionate about.  Let that be your driving force.  If I were to share any advice, it would be to not compare yourself to others.  Don&#8217;t be someone you&#8217;re not just to try and land that job.  Be your authentic self and the right position will find you.</p>
<p><strong>5. Resilience &#8211; </strong>Life can certainly try and knock you down, but it&#8217;s all about how you bounce back from it that matters.  If you see that you&#8217;ve applied to several opportunities and keep getting that &#8220;no&#8221; response, try to take a step back and review what you&#8217;re doing.  Being rejected doesn&#8217;t necessarily mean that your professional qualifications and personal characteristics aren&#8217;t good enough.  It just means, it wasn&#8217;t a great fit with that particular position.  At times, it may seem hard, but  don&#8217;t forget to keep a positive attitude.  It&#8217;s a big contributor to your success and it will show through your work.</p>
<p>Remember, you are your best salesperson.  No one knows you better than yourself.  Go sell yourself and don&#8217;t settle for anything but excellence!</p>
<p><em>**All opinions in this post are my own.** </em></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/07/08/5-ways-to-boost-your-morale-while-seeking-your-dream-job/">5 Ways To Boost Your Morale While Seeking Your Dream Job</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>No Ordinary Squad</title>
		<link>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/05/27/no-ordinary-squad/</link>
					<comments>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/05/27/no-ordinary-squad/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[noordinaryliz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 28 May 2016 00:08:31 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[friends]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[friendship]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[great smoky mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[inspiring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[motivational]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ordinary]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[squad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[squadgoals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.noordinaryliz.com/?p=1153</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>If I said, &#8220;Sex and the City&#8221; what&#8217;s the first thing that pops into your head?  For me, it&#8217;s the admiration of true friendship.  Your &#8220;ride or die&#8221; homies as one would say. It&#8217;s the kind of relationships that has lasted a lifetime. Ummm, Who doesn&#8217;t want that? Family is intangible for me.  As a teenager, growing [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/05/27/no-ordinary-squad/">No Ordinary Squad</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If I said, &#8220;<a href="http://www.hbo.com/sex-and-the-city">Sex and the City</a>&#8221; what&#8217;s the first thing that pops into your head?  For me, it&#8217;s the admiration of true friendship.  Your &#8220;ride or die&#8221; homies as one would say. It&#8217;s the kind of relationships that has lasted a lifetime.<span id="more-1153"></span></p>
<p>Ummm, Who doesn&#8217;t want that?</p>
<p>Family is intangible for me.  As a teenager, growing up in a different environment than most, made it hard to accept people into my circle.  As the years progressed, I started meeting people of all ages.  One by one, they came into my life for a particular reason.  Some stayed a day, some stayed for months and some for years.</p>
<p>Five years ago, I got the chance to meet a wonderful group of women at an event that I had attended. Little did I know, they would change my life for the better.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-19.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1172" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-19.jpg?w=264" alt="squad 19" width="264" height="300" /></a>  These women are truly one of kind.  I feel like they were hand-picked to fall into my life at the right time.  They are the most kindest, inspiring, motivating, humorous, encouraging, and determined group of peeps who I get to call my <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>SQUAD</strong></span>!</p>
<p>If I could give you any advice to a prosperous life, surround yourselves with people who:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-5.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1158" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-5.jpg?w=225" alt="squad 5" width="225" height="300" /></a> <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>HAVE </strong></span>the same vision and passion as you!  Community involvement is important to all of us and my <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>SQUAD</strong></span> and I are active in giving back.  We love being able to come together for the holidays at <a href="http://www.rmhc.org/">The Ronald McDonald House</a>.  Cooking meals as a group helps us stay humble while fueling our hearts!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-9.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1162" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-9.jpg?w=300" alt="squad 9" width="300" height="225" /></a>(photo courtesy of <a href="http://orangespoken.com/">orangespoken</a>)  <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>ARE</strong></span> your biggest cheerleader!  We compete in races to help spread the word, encourage and support each other, no matter the need. We cross that finish line as <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>ONE!</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-16.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1169" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-16.jpg?w=300" alt="squad 16" width="300" height="225" /></a> <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>SHOWS</strong></span> up to support your birthday, no matter the distance.  We all do our best to make sure we all feel special on <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>OUR</strong></span> day!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-13.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1166" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-13.jpg?w=300" alt="squad 13" width="300" height="245" /></a><span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>GOES</strong> </span>along for the ride, just because.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-7.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1160" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-7.jpg?w=300" alt="squad 7" width="300" height="225" /></a> <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>TRAVELS</strong></span> with you!  Each year we all escape to the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm">Great Smoky Mountains</a> to unwind, connect and be thankful for what life has to offer.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-8.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1161" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-8.jpg?w=300" alt="squad 8" width="300" height="225" /></a> <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>ENJOYS</strong></span> storytelling around an open campfire! It&#8217;s the simple things!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-4.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1157" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-4.jpg?w=300" alt="squad 4" width="300" height="225" /></a> <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>APPRECIATES</strong></span> your humor and accepts you for who you are! They aren&#8217;t afraid to be themselves around you!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-10.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1163" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-10.jpg?w=225" alt="squad 10" width="225" height="300" /></a> <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>WILL</strong></span> be your biggest advocate.  We always encourage each other to chase after our dreams/passion.  That&#8217;s important to me.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-6.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1159" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-6.jpg?w=300" alt="squad 6" width="300" height="225" /></a> <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>CELEBRATES</strong> </span>chica brunch!  No matter how hectic our schedules may be, we always are committed to each other once a month!  We may meet for dinner, play board games or actually cook a meal.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1156" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-3.jpg?w=300" alt="squad 3" width="300" height="225" /></a> <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>WILL</strong></span> always be there for you when you need help!  These two pictured above actually spent their entire Spring break with me while I was recovering from Achilles&#8217; tendon surgery.  We shared laughs, starbucks, meals and encouragement.</p>
<p>I believe people are placed in your life for a reason.  These empowering women all are unique and they all bring something different to our group.  I can&#8217;t picture my life without them and I certainly feel like I&#8217;ve found my &#8220;ride or die&#8221; peeps!</p>
<p>Surround yourself with people who will bring out the best in you, motivate you to chase your dreams and make you <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>LAUGH</strong></span> until you cry!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1155" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/squad-2.jpg?w=300" alt="squad 2" width="300" height="225" /></a>  I used to be &#8220;<span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>ORDINARY</strong></span>&#8221; until I met my <span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>SQUAD</strong></span>!!</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/05/27/no-ordinary-squad/">No Ordinary Squad</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>No Ordinary GIVING</title>
		<link>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/05/02/no-ordinary-giving/</link>
					<comments>https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/05/02/no-ordinary-giving/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[noordinaryliz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 May 2016 19:06:15 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[derrick brooks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eckerd kids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[foster care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Give]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Give day tampa bay]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Inspire]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kindness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nonprofit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[organization]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tampa bay buccaneers]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.noordinaryliz.com/?p=1134</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>In less than 24 hours, something amazing will be hitting the Tampa Bay area!  Give Day Tampa Bay!   On Tuesday, May 3rd, thousands will be opening their hearts to the local nonprofits around the Bay that help our communities find and maintain their purpose. The list of participating nonprofit organizations this year are over 595! WOW, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/05/02/no-ordinary-giving/">No Ordinary GIVING</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In less than <span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>24</strong></span> hours, something amazing will be hitting the Tampa Bay area!  <a href="https://giveday.org/">Give Day Tampa Bay! </a>  On <span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>Tuesday, May 3rd</strong>,</span> thousands will be opening their hearts to the local nonprofits around the Bay that help our communities find and maintain their purpose. The list of participating nonprofit organizations this year are over 595!<span id="more-1134"></span></p>
<p><strong>WOW</strong>, imagine the impact!</p>
<p>So what is Give Day Tampa Bay?</p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff;"><em>For those that don&#8217;t know, Give Day Tampa Bay is a community-wide, 24-hour online giving challenge hosted by The Community Foundation of Tampa Bay. This charitable event helps Tampa Bay area nonprofits raise much-needed dollars and bring awareness to the numerous challenges facing these organizations.</em></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff;"><em>Last year, Give Day Tampa Bay raised $1.75 million for 550 Tampa Bay area nonprofit organizations. This year, 595 nonprofits are participating. Let&#8217;s show our pride and support for nonprofits in our area on May 3!</em></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff;"><em><strong>How it works</strong></em></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff;"><em>It’s so simple to participate. Just visit this website on May 3, 2016 anytime between 12 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. and with a few simple clicks, you can make a donation to your favorite nonprofit organization. The minimum donation is $25. Nonprofits can also win monetary awards and additional prizes based on their day’s donations. The tallies for each organization are tracked in real time on the online leaderboard. <span style="color:#000000;"> (info pulled from Give Day Tampa Bay website)</span></em></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff;"><a style="color:#ff00ff;" href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/giving-back-quotes-mahatma-gandhi.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1135" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/giving-back-quotes-mahatma-gandhi.jpg?w=300" alt="Giving-Back-Quotes-Mahatma-Gandhi" width="300" height="175" /></a></span> <em>(photo courtesy of Google)</em></p>
<p>Give Day Tampa Bay happens to arrive at the perfect time for one of these amazing nonprofit organizations!  May is <a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/fostercaremonth/">National Foster Care Month</a> where we take a moment to honor, unite and celebrate the awesome families of our children in the Bay area.  <a href="https://giveday.org/npo/eckerd-kids">Eckerd Kids</a> does just that!  They are a powerful team who work impeccably to provide our Bay kids a second chance at the life they deserve!</p>
<p>This year as you consider which nonprofit organization you wish to <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>GIVE</strong></span> to, please note that with a donation of $25 or more given to Eckerd Kids, you will receive a special keepsake cookbook from their founder, Ruth Eckerd.  What a great way to make a difference in the lives of at-risk children in our community, including foster kids searching for their forever family as well as cooking up awesome meals!<span style="color:#000000;font-family:Georgia;font-size:medium;">  </span></p>
<p>595 participating nonprofit organizations are looking for you!  Wherever you decide to <strong><span style="color:#ff00ff;">GIVE</span></strong> this year, I hope you walk away full of happiness, inspiration and kindness that you spread it <span style="color:#ff00ff;"><strong>EVERYWHERE</strong></span> you go throughout or Tampa Bay communities.</p>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Give Day Tampa Bay 2016: Derrick Brooks" width="1080" height="608" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NywgRjKf_aU?feature=oembed"  allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p><a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/a433889676c3d6fe40ab416a6e000065.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1136" src="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/a433889676c3d6fe40ab416a6e000065.jpg?w=253" alt="a433889676c3d6fe40ab416a6e000065" width="253" height="300" /></a><i>(photo courtesy of Google)</i></p>
<p><em>This post is written by me and collaboration with Eckerd Kids.  The opinions expressed above are all mine.</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com/2016/05/02/no-ordinary-giving/">No Ordinary GIVING</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.noordinaryliz.com">#NoOrdinaryLiz</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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