5 Tips To Stay Motivated

Hey guys!  Today's post is something that can help us all.  We all struggle with staying motivated.  It could be with work, school, or even life.  I thought I would share some tips that I use when I feel in a slump.  If you have any tips to share I would love to hear them!  I hope I helped you in someway.

Take A Break:

Sometimes taking a step back can give you a whole new frame of mind.  You can take as long as you need.  I don't blog when I don't feel motivated because it reflects in my posts.  I wait about 3-4 days and I feel better about my content.  For school, you can use a reward system.  Set goals and you complete it you can do something you enjoy.  For example for every 30 pages you read you can watch 2 YouTube videos.

Set A Schedule:

Every Sunday night I plan out my week.  Writing down everything that you want to do makes you actually want to do it.  Figure out when you are most productive.  I work better at night so I write blogs, do homework, and read emails.  It really does help!

Get Inspired:

Sometimes we just run out of ideas.  There are a TON of ways to get inspired.  Go outside.  Listen to music.  Watch a movie.  Try something new.  Basically just get out and away from whatever you are working on.

Think Positively:

Don't be so hard on yourself.  Just do the best you can and look at it positively.  If you are negative then it will reflect on your work.  Look at every situation with an open mind and just enjoy it.

Be Yourself!:

This is the most important tip.  Being true to yourself is all that matters.  Don't worry about what other people want you to do or what you think they will like.  Do what feels right for you.  There is only one you so be the best you that you can be!




xo,
Jerica

People With Disabilities Matter

Today's post is something very personal to me.  I experienced something that was extremely rude a few days ago and I wanted to speak up.  If you want to know more about my disability then read this post.  I've been in a wheelchair my entire life but I don't see myself that way.  I never have and never will.  I feel like I need to stand up for people who can't do it themselves.

Let's talk about the situation that I mentioned.  In December I graduated from college with a Computer Science degree.  I decided to go back for Computer Programming this fall.  I was having trouble with my Financial Aid so I decided to call the office.  I obviously can't drive on my own or take care of myself.  The lady basically said if I'm that incapable how am I taking classes and I should sign my rights over to somebody else.  I was EXTREMELY hurt and offended.  I reported her as well.

I have a brain that works.  I have my own thoughts and opinions.  I am a human being.  So my legs don't work and I can't use my arms, who cares?  I am still a person and deserve to be treated like everybody else.  Some disabilities aren't as noticeable as mine but they still matter.  Next time you see somebody who is in a wheelchair, deaf, blind, or even have down syndrome say hello.  Trust me it will make them feel happy.  Don't pity us because we don't pity ourselves.



xo,
Jerica

My August Playlist!

OMG summer is pretty much over!  I can't believe how fast it went.  I'm ready for fall though.  My month was pretty much uneventful.  It was refreshing though because I have been busy every weekend since May.  I worked a lot on my blog so that was good.  I am very excited about this month's playlist.  It was pretty much full three days in to the month.  I'm still OBSESSED with last month's playlist which you can check out here.  What songs are you loving?


1. She's Kinda Hot by 5 Seconds of Summer
I am so glad they have new music out.  I feel like it has been awhile.  It reminds me of high school a lot because I went through a punk rock phase.  This song totally has that sound.  It's very catchy and ALWAYS in my head.  I can't wait to hear more!  Favorite lyric: They say we’re losers and we’re alright with that We are the leaders of the not-coming-back’s But we’re alright though Yeah, we’re alright though We are the kings and the queens of the new broken scene Yeah, we’re alright though

2. I Don't Like It, I Love It by Flo Rida feat. Robin Thicke
How does Flo Rida make every song a hit?  It works on me every time!  This song is no different because I just love it.  It instantly puts you in a good mood.  I was SO surprised that Robin Thicke was singing with him.  It sounds nothing like him!  I'm very impressed and maybe he'll make a comeback.  Favorite lyric: I don't like it, I love it, love it, love it, uh oh So good it hurts I don't want it, I gotta, gotta have it, uh oh When I can't find the words, I just go

3. My Love by Justin Timberlake
This song is total throwback!  This song was everywhere this month for some reason.  I heard it a lot on the radio pretty much every day.  I did not mind though because it is one of my favorite songs by him.  I played it every morning before I went to school.  Let's be honest I love everything that he does.  I wish he would but out more music soon!  Favorite lyric: Yeah, because I can see us holding hands Walking on the beach, our toes in the sand I can see us on the countryside Sitting on the grass, laying side by side You could be my baby, let me make you my lady Girl, you amaze me Ain't gotta do nothing crazy See, all I want you to do is be my love

4. Lean On by Major Lazer
I actually liked this song for awhile but I never knew who sang it.  I really just like the beat.  It reminds me of an outdoor festival for some reason.  The video is very weird but I just can't stop listening to the song.  I don't think I would like her other songs though.  Favorite lyric: Blow a kiss, fire a gun We need someone to lean on Blow a kiss, fire a gun All we need is somebody to lean on

5. Ex's & Oh's by Elle King
I discovered this song at 3 AM when I couldn't sleep.  She sounds VERY similar to Amy Winehouse who I love.  That is what caught my attention the most.  I'm always humming this song because it's very catchy.  I'm sure what her other music sounds like but I am a fan of this song for sure.  It does make me miss Amy Winehouse though.  Favorite lyric: One, two, three, they gonna run back to me 'Cause I'm the best baby that they never gotta keep One, two, three, they gonna run back to me They always wanna come, but they never wanna leave Ex's and the oh, oh, oh's they haunt me Like ghosts they want me to make 'em all They won't let go Ex's and oh's

6. First Time by Icona Pop
They opened up for One Direction when I saw them in concert last month.  They were promoting their new album and this song was one that they sang.  I loved it right away!  It is just one of those songs that make you want to dance and scream the lyrics.  I like to play it in the morning to help me wake up.  Favorite lyric: Come on and run, run, run with me through the alley Before we get old and all our friends start to panic The first time we got high The first time we got drunk The first time we fell in love And things will never be the same And that's okay

7. Drag Me Down by One Direction
OMG 1D shocked the world by dropping this single without any warning!  Usually they promote it but this time they just tweeted out the iTunes link.  I thought it was a joke at first but I'm glad it's not.  I am OBSESSED with this song!  I honestly like them better as a group of 4.  It gives Niall and Louis more chances to sing which I like.  It was weird to not see Zayn in the video though.  I'm SUPER pumped for the album!  Favorite lyric: If I didn't have you there would be nothing left The shell of a man who could never be his best If I didn't have you, I'd never see the sun You taught me how to be someone, yeah All my life You stood by me When no one else was ever behind me All these lights They can't blind me With your love, nobody can drag me down

8. House Party by Sam Hunt
I'm still loving country music!  I discovered this while I was driving to the One Direction.  All we could get on the radio was country.  This song came on and I bought it right away on iTunes.  It's just such a fun song!  I also just love his music.  Favorite lyric: Cause I'll be at your door in ten minutes Whatever you got on, girl, stay in it You ain't gotta leave the house to have a good time I'm a bring the good time home to you We'll have a house party, we don't need nobody Turn your TV off, break that boom-box out We'll wake up all the neighbors til the whole block hates us And the cops show up and try to shut us down If you're gonna be a homebody We're gonna have a house party

9. Do It Again by Pia Mia feat. Tyga and Chris Brown
This song is my current obsession!  I literally have it on repeat all day long.  I didn't even existed until I saw people talking about it on Twitter.  Finally I decided to check it out and I'm glad I did!  I haven't heard it on the radio yet but so I highly recommend it to you guys.  You'll be addicted like I am!  Favorite lyric: It was nice to, nice to know ya, let's do it again How we did it on a one night stand Boy, I wanna be more than a friend to ya Nice to, nice to know ya, let's do it again How we did it on a one night stand Boy, I wanna be more than a friend to ya Let's do it again

10. Love Myself by Hailee Steinfeld
I also discovered this song when I couldn't sleep.  This is the perfect anthem for all girls.  You all know that I love girl power and this fits perfectly!  I'm so glad she made this song because it could change a lot of lives.  I struggle with body issues so I really love the message.  She did an amazing job on this song!  Favorite lyric: I'm gonna put my body first And love me so hard 'til it hurts I know how to scream out the words Scream the words (I love me) Gonna love myself, no, I don't need anybody else (Hey) Gonna love myself, no, I don't need anybody else (I love me) Can't help myself, no, I don't need anybody else Anytime, day or night (I love me) Gonna love myself, no, I don't need anybody else (Hey) Gonna love myself, no, I don't need anybody else (I love me) Can't help myself, no, I don't need anybody else Anytime that I like (I love me)




xo,
Jerica

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You are probably wondering where my weekly obsession post is.  Don't worry it will be back next Wednesday.  Today is a special day though!  Today I am 26 years old!  It's crazy how fast time flies!  I remember when I thought being 10 was old.  Today I thought I would talk about what I've learned about me within this past year.  I really wanted to reflect on this point my life.  Also I want to be able to look back next year to see if I've changed.

Most people think 25 is a pretty boring age.  To be honest, I thought the same thing.  Looking back now I realize it's a pretty important time.  I really discovered who I was as a person.  My whole life I've been the shy quiet girl until you get to know me.  I never stood up for what I believe is right because I never felt heard.  I also never spoke my opinion because I was worried I'd hurt somebody's feelings.  That has all changed now.

I've realized that I really don't care what people think of me.  I wasted SO much time worrying about other people and now I'm just like who cares!  I really wish I could go back and tell my 15 year old self this information.  The only opinions that matter are yourself and God's.  That's it!  Be who YOU want to be!  That is what being 25 taught me.

It was also just I great year!  I met Aaron Carter which was SO cool.  I discovered that if you go to the movies on Tuesday it's only $5.  No matter what time which I took full advantage of for about a month straight!  I graduated college with a degree in Computer Science!  I wasn't even supposed to live past 3 due to my Muscular Dystrophy so it was a pretty big deal.  I started blogging more which I hope you guys enjoy.  Overall, I really just enjoyed time with my family and friends.

Now that I'm 26 I do have things I want to do as well.  I'd love to travel more to anywhere really.  I'm also going back to school to study Computer Programming.  I don't really want to make too many plans because life is supposed to be unexpected.  I do have some exciting things coming up so stay tuned!!  Now I'm going to enjoy my day.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



xo,
Jerica

Movie Review: The Imitation Game

It's been SOOO long since I've done a review!  Lately I've been watching a movie every night but this was by far my favorite.  It is called The Imitation Game.  To be honest I had no idea what it was about.  My grandma and I love history, especially anything WWII related, so when she told me a little bit about it I was intrigued.  It is based on a true story.  It's basically about a guy named Alan Turing who creates a machine to decode Nazi messages.  It's crazy how one man pretty much changed the world.  It was so fascinating to see how his brain worked.  This film made me become slightly obsessed with Benedict Cumberbatch.  He was just incredible!  There is a deeper storyline as well but I won't ruin it for you.  I'm not gonna lie there were tears shed but I cry easily.  I recommend this to everybody!  Even if you aren't a fan of history you will still enjoy it.  Let me know if you have seen this film!



xo,
Jerica

10 Things That Make Me Happy

Lately when you turn on the news all you see is sadness.  It can be very depressing and make you feel unhappy.  I was trying to decide what I should blog about when an idea came to me.  Why don't I share things that make me happy?  We should be spreading love and happiness.  I want to know what makes you happy!  Also be sure to check out my new series idea and send me some topics!

1. Cupcakes

I mean do I really need an explanation?  I just can't ever say no!

2. One Tree Hill

This is honestly my favorite series of ALL TIME.  I've watched it over 50 times and I can't get enough.

3. Summer

I love being outside.  As a kid, I would be outside from 8 AM until 8 PM.  Life was so simple back then.  Now I have things to do but I get outside at least once a day.

4. Elephants

They are my spirit animal.  I just love them SO much!

5. Donuts

If I'm having a bad day this solves everything.  Especially if my grandma makes her homemade recipe.  I'm in heaven!

6. Glitter

This is very random I know.  I just love everything about it!

7. Concerts

This just takes music to a whole different level.  There's just something so thrilling about being in the same room as somebody you idolize.

8. Peace Signs

This has always been my thing for some reason.  I can't resist buying something if it has a peace sign.  Even my shower curtain is peace sign.

9. My Nieces

Being an Aunt is the best.  Even though they drive me crazy sometimes I still love them.

10. Reading

I love getting lost in other worlds.  It really expands your mind.

xo,

Jerica

New Series Idea

Hey guys!  I want to thank all of you for following my blog.  It really means a lot to me!  Today's post is all about all you!  I really want to start a series where we can discuss any topics. I've been watching a TON of videos like this on YouTube so I thought it would be perfect to blog about.  I want to be a debate/discussion series. I love thought provoking topics and it will help me get to know you guys better. It can be about life, pop culture, or just anything really. If you have suggestions leave a comment or email me at jerica.berner@gmail.com.  I really look forward to hearing all your topic ideas!


xo,
Jerica

My Thoughts On Bruce Jenner

This is a post I've been wanting to do for awhile.  I have watched the 20/20 special and the Kardashian special as well.  I now feel ready to share my opinions about Bruce being transgender.

To be honest, I originally wanted to watch the 20/20 interview because I thought it was all for publicity.  I just could not believe that Bruce Jenner was going to be a woman.  After about 5 minutes in I realized just how real it was.  I personally have never met a person who was transgender.  Watching the interview gave some really great insight.  I feel like I understand what it really means now.

I watched it with my mom who I thought would hate it.  She is very Christian and isn't very open minded with topics like this.  Surprisingly she felt the same way I did.  I felt bad that he lived his life with such a huge secret.  Nobody should ever have to do that.  I know that people can be extremely brutal to that community which makes it harder to come out.  I think that Bruce can really help the community and make a difference.

I have watched the Kardashians for years and I always wondered why he allowed them to be so rude to him.  Watching that special made me cry.  He loves his family SO much that he thinks his decision will hurt them.  I think they are just scared because they have no idea what to expect.  I would feel the same way.  It showed that they are human and they do have feelings.  I really liked how they never mentioned their image being ruined.  They love and support him no matter what.

The hardest part for me was his conversation with Kris.  I cried a lot.  She is hurt that he couldn't share these feelings with him.  Being together 25 years, she now feels it was all a lie.  It wasn't though.  He has been living with this secret since he was 8.  That is why he never shared how he was feeling.  He will still be the same person but free.  I'm so glad that now he can finally be her.

I want to know what you guys think.  I find it very inspiring.  Be who you are, not who the world wants you to be.  Also, be respectful of the LGBTQ community.  They are humans just like us.  Remember that different is a good thing.



xo,
Jerica

DWTS Season 20: Most Memorable Year

It's week 4!  If you missed last week's recap you can check it out here.  Make sure you subscribe so you never miss it!  This week's theme is one of my favorites.  The theme is Most Memorable Year.  It's always SUPER emotional so I know it won't disappoint.  Tonight somebody will be eliminated.  Make sure you are voting for your favorite couple so they don't go home too soon!!!


NASTIA LIUKIN AND DEREK HOUGH:

Her most memorable year was 2008 when she won gold in the Olympics.  This week she danced the Argentine Tango.  It was AMAZING!  I wish it never ended!!  It had passionate and the lifts were fantastic.  She could have gotten more in character but I didn't mind.  She has really improved her posture which has been her biggest critique.  I just loved her!  She will go very far!  Her score was 36 of 40.

MICHAEL SAM AND PETA MURGATROYD:

His most memorable year was 2014 when he came out as gay which hurt his already broken relationship with his dad.  This week he danced the Rumba.  It wasn't my favorite that he has danced but it was very emotional.  You could just feel everything.  It was beautiful and I like his story a lot.  He has really improved.  His score was 30 of 40.

RIKER LYNCH AND ALLISON HOLKER:

His most memorable year was 2014 when his band R5 took off.  This week he danced the Tango.  I'm really starting to like him.  He always stands out and I always remember him.  The music was really hard to pull off a proper Tango but he did great.  I really enjoyed it!  He had some frame issues but he'll improve.  His score was 34 of 40.

ROBERT HERJAVEC AND KYM JOHNSON:

His most memorable year was 2006 when his mom passed away from cancer.  She watched the show all the time so this dance is for her.  This week he danced the Waltz.  I got very emotional.  I was just entranced.  It was his best yet and I know his mom would have been so proud.  It was so elegant and beautiful.  I'm glad they kept it classic.  He will go very far especially because he improves each week.  His score was 34 of 40.

CHRIS SOULES AND WHITNEY CARSON:

His most memorable year was 2014 when he found love on The Bachelor.  This week he danced the Rumba.  It had really beautiful moments but overall it was a bit stiff.  He has had much better dances.  He really needs to work on his chemistry with his partner especially with the dance of love.  It was really simple and elegant though.  He needs to work a little bit harder.  His score was 27 of 40.

PATTI LABELLE AND ARTEM CHIGVINTSEV:

Her most memorable year was 1973 when her son was born.  This week she danced a Jazz.  I'm just not a fan of hers.  She did add more content but she barely moves.  I don't see why the judges are so obsessed with her.  You can't just do the same moves every single week.  I don't think she even has a chance of winning.  Her score was 30 of 40.

RUMER WILLIS AND VALENTIN CHMERKOVSKIY:

Her most memorable year was 2014 when she didn't care about what the bullies say about her.  She realized she is perfect the way she is.  This week she danced the Waltz.  I always love whatever she does.  It was powerful bur also unique.  She is just SO inspiring!  It did need more Waltz content but it looked amazing.  She is dancing for every girl out there.  Her score was 35 of 40.

SUZANNE SOMERS AND TONY DOVOLANI:

Her most memorable year was 1977 when she got the role on Three's Company.  This dance is for John Ritter who was her costar and who has since passed.  This week she danced the Foxtrot.  It was very emotional.  I loved the content so much.  It was fun and light hearted which fits her personality.  It was my favorite by her so far.  Her score was 28 of 40.

WILLOW SHIELDS AND MARK BALLAS:

Her most memorable year was 2011 when she was casted as Prim Rose Everdeen in the Hunger Games.  This week she danced Contemporary.  I FREAKING loved it!  I'm actually a huge fan of the Hunger Games so I wanted more.  It had so much passion and emotion.  I'm blown away by how good she is.  It totally was for the fans and I wanted more!  Her score was 39 of 40.

NOAH GALLOWAY AND SHARNA BURGESS:

His most memorable year was 2005 when he was hit by a roadside bomb in the war.  He lost two limbs but has now accepted it.  This week he danced Contemporary.  It was very touching and inspiring.  He really let his guard down and gave us all courage.  This whole thing was beautiful.  He even did lifts which were so great.  I applaud him.  His score was 32 of 40.

Results:

Patti, Suzanne, Willow, Rumer, Noah, Chris, Robert, Nastia, and Riker are safe.  Michael has been eliminated.

xo,

Jerica

Movie Review: The Judge

It has been snowing like crazy here in Nebraska.  So I have been using this time to catch up on movies.  This week I watched The Judge.

I'm not sure how to describe it without giving too much away.  This is what IMDB says: Big city lawyer Hank Palmer returns to his childhood home where his father, the town's judge, is suspected of murder. Hank sets out to discover the truth and, along the way, reconnects with his estranged family.  I fell absolutely in love with with this movie!

I had very high expectations for this film.  Every one in my family had nothing but great things to say about it.  It totally lived up to the hype!  It was very emotional so prepare yourselves.  I feel like I learned so much about myself as well.  I can't give examples or else it will give it away.  This is one of the best films I've seen in awhile!  Have you seen it?  Share your thoughts!


xo,
Jerica

Being The Bigger Person

Yesterday a disagreement happened between me and a person who I thought knew me pretty well.  I consider them to be a friend.  I've defended her, stood up for her, and been nothing but nice.  Now I feel betrayed.  I won't go into full detail but I've learned a major lesson.  What lesson?  Being the bigger person.

First off, no matter what the situation, there is a certain way to approach me.  You have to ease into it otherwise I am automatically defensive.  This is exactly what happened.  I freaked out!  I'm not a fighter but when I get mad words just fly out.  I don't stop and think.  I may have said a few things that offended and upset her.  I immediately wanted to call my mom because I knew she'd be in my corner.  Then I thought I'm 25 not 12 so I should probably handle it myself.

After being alone for a few minutes I cooled down.  I did apologize but she didn't seem to accept it.  I'm only human.  Of course I'm going to make mistakes and say things I don't mean.  It feels refreshing to be mature.  Sometimes, no matter what you do, you just need to be the bigger person.  I know it's hard but I know you can do it.



xo,
Jerica

Miracles Aren't Real?

Last week I read an article that really upset me.  If you aren't into religion then you may not like this post.  Just know that these are my thoughts and opinions.  I'd like to know your thoughts in the comments.

A guy named Kevin Malarkey wrote a book called The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven after he was in a coma for 2 months due to a car accident.  This left him paralyzed.  At the time he was 6 and at 17 he is claiming it was all fake.  He made the entire story up!  He is quoted saying: "Please forgive the brevity, but because of my limitations I have to keep this short. I did not die. I did not go to Heaven,” Malarkey writes, calling, well, malarkey on himself. “I said I went to heaven because I thought it would get me attention. When I made the claims that I did, I had never read the Bible. People have profited from lies, and continue to. They should read the Bible, which is enough. The Bible is the only source of truth. Anything written by man cannot be infallible."  I totally disagree with his statement.

I was raised a Christian.  I went to church every Sunday and studied the Bible.  He is right that people should read the Bible but how dare he claim other peoples experiences are lies.  Just because he lied about his story doesn't mean others did.  I believe miracles happen and sometimes we have spiritual experiences in order to have a second chance at life.  We are all on this Earth for a purpose.  We don't necessarily know our purpose but that's just a part of life.  You have to make the most out of our life especially if we have a second chance.

I personally never read this book but I have read others.  The books are meant to inspire people not take the place of the Bible.  You can't group everybody into your category.  I'm glad he admitted the truth but he still made a profit so he probably shouldn't be judging others.  The book has since been pulled from stores as it should be.  What do you think about this?  I'd love to hear!



xo,
Jerica