Let's Talk: Periods

This is a series I've wanted to do for awhile now.  There are some topics that people avoid talking about.  They exist so why avoid it?  Today I'm going to talk about periods.  All women have them and I'm not ashamed to talk about it.  There is a reason I chose periods as the first post.

Everyday when I sign on Facebook I always look at the trending topics.  Over the weekend I saw this article.  It's about a woman who ran the London Marathon on her period.  What made this trending?  She ran the entire time without a tampon because she wanted to raise awareness for women who don't have access to tampons or pads.  I have many thoughts on this.

First off, I applaud her for even running the marathon while on her period.  When I have my period, all I want is chocolate, Netflix, and sleep.  Yes, I am that stereotypical person and I'm prod of it!  I like her intentions a lot but I feel like there are better ways to raise awareness.  Social media is the perfect place for this type of cause.  It can reach millions with just one post.  Look at the ice bucket challenge and how many people now know about ALS.  There are thousands of people running the race and I personally would feel uncomfortable.  Not because she was on her period but having it dripping everywhere just seems so unsanitary.  I would have considered other peoples feelings before I made that decision.

What do you guys think?  Would you have done it?  Also, what do you think of this series?  Let me know how often you would want a post like this.  I can't wait to hear from you all!




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

Quiz Tuesday: Are You More Optimistic, Pessimistic, Or Realistic?

Happy Tuesday!!!  I hope you all had a great 4th.  I did but I'm still exhasusted!  It's quiz time!!!!  Today's quiz is called Are You More Optimistic, Pessimistic, Or Realistic?  I thought this would be quite interesting.  In my mind I think I'm optimistic.  I've always also been told I'm a very optimistic person so I thought I would see if it's true.  If you want to take this quiz as well just click here.  Let me know what your results are!

I got Optimistic!  The description says: You are upbeat and always see the positive side of life. You have a firm grip on reality, and maintain a cheery attitude even when things aren’t going your way. It’s hard to keep you down because you see setbacks as temporary and use them as tools to get better.

I find that to be very accurate.  I don't like being negitive because it just makes be feel sad.  I try to see the good in every situation.  It really makes life so much better.  Maybe I'll do a whole post on it.


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

Baby Lips Peach Kiss Review

One thing I am constantly trying is lip balms.  For some reason my lips are always super dry.  I did talk about an eos review earlier this year but I felt like I had to reapply every hour or so.  While at Walgreens I decided to take the plunge and buy Baby Lips.

I chose Peach Kiss.  Why did I wait so long!  This stuff is SO amazing!  It goes on very smooth and doesn't leave your lips feeling waxy.  I experienced that with my eos one.  It's really moisturizing as well.  It lasts a long time too which I really like.  I feel like I need to go buy more.

This would be perfect for parents who don't want their kids wearing make up yet.  It is very lightly tinted and you can barely see it on.  It does have shimmer so if you aren't a fan of that try another flavor.  What do you think of Baby Lips?  Also leave me some other good lip balm suggestions.  I'm always looking for more!



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

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

3 Tips To Deal With Anxiety

I have had anxiety for as long as I can remember.  It was extremely bad during my high school years.  If I had a speech then I would literally throw up because I was so anxious.  Taking a test, no matter how prepared I was, I would go completely blank and forget it all.  It was awful.  The doctors always think meds are the answer but I'm here to share tips on how to help with the anxiety.  It doesn't cure you but it really does help with the symptoms.  I really hope these help you as well!  Share your tips in the comments!

Breathing Exercises:

Sometimes I will wake up having an anxiety attack but have no idea why.  I usually just close my eyes and take deep breaths until I feel calmer.  I like this tip because you can do it anywhere.

Make A Playlist:

Music is my answer for EVERYTHING!  When I start to feel anxious I always play my Taylor Swift or One Direction playlist.  This helps take my mind off of whatever I'm worried about.  You can also do a playlist of calming sounds if that's better for you.

Sleep:

I know this probably seems like an odd tip but it really works.  You can do a 20-30 min nap and wake up feeling calmer and more relaxed.  This is really ideal before a stressful class.

xo,

Jerica

Jerica's World Week Recap

Happy Wednesday!  I hope you all having a great week so far.  Today I thought I would share my blog posts from the past week.  What were your favorites?  Let me know!

10 Lessons I've Learned In 25 Years: Here I talk about lessons we wish our parents weren't right about.

Living With Muscular Dystophy But Not Letting It Define You: This is all about letting nothing define you no matter what the situation.

Now Is Your Time: This about living in the now and not putting off things you want to do in life.

Book Haul: These are the newest books I've purchased.

Lazy Day Essentials *Winter Edition*: Here are some essentials for the perfect lazy winter day!

Is Technology Taking Over Your Life?: Is our society too focused on technology instead of actual human interaction?

Hindsight Review: My newest TV obsession!

Quiz Tuesday: Which Frozen Character Are You?: Who doesn't love quizzes and Frozen?

Did you miss any of these posts?  Make sure you subscribe so you never miss another!  Also send me ideas of what you'd like to see!



xo,
Jerica

Is Technology Taking Over Your Life?

This quote is true for many of us especially in today's society.  People live their lives through social media instead of having real human interaction.  I will be 26 in July and to be honest I miss the days where Internet and computers hardly existed.

Growing up we did have a computer but the Internet was sketchy.  We certainly didn't have Facebook or Twitter.  I got my first cell phone at 15 when now kids have them at 10.  I had sleepovers all the time when I was a kid and we didn't have a Wii or iPad to keep us entertained.  We listened to a boom box, played board games, and made up stories for our Barbies.  We also used real film and developed our photos to display.

I feel like this generation is missing out!  They live through social media and their phones.  Kids need to experience an actual childhood!  My nieces who are 3 and 4 can use an iPad better than I can!  Go outside and put down the technology!  Experience the real world!

This goes for all of us as well.  I don't know how many times I've been having a conversation and the other person pulls out their phone.  It's SO annoying!  Let's change this!  I'm not saying that technology isn't helpful, I just want to fix this vortex we are stuck in.

Make it a goal to have a least one human encounter a day.  It could be at lunch or a random person you meet.  Focus on what is being said because trust me you'll learn something.  Was it hard?  Did you learn anything?  Keep me posted on how it goes.



xo,
Jerica

Living With Muscular Dystophy But Not Letting It Define You

I was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy when I was a year old.  If you don't know what this is, it means I have an extra chromosome which prevents me from walking.  Over time your muscles slowly deteriorate until ultimately you die.  This is just something that my parents and I have learned to deal with.  I'm hear to tell that you that just because you have a disease you don't have to let it define who you are.  I don't look in the mirror and see myself in a wheelchair.  All I see is a normal 25 year old who goes out to bars, goes to concerts, and just enjoys life.  Of course I know I have certain limitations but I still find a way.  I have never felt alienated or left out in my entire life.  I remember being 5 and wanting to play t-ball because my cousin did and my mom said I could.  In the end I hated it and quit after our first game.  The point is to not let anything define you except yourself.  You decide who you become not some stupid disease.  Muscular Dystrophy is only a small part of me and that's how it should be.  If you also have Muscular Dystrophy and would like to talk please email me.



xo,
Jerica

Day 10: How To Survive The Holidays

Welcome to day 10 of my 12 days of Christmas!  Only two days left!!  We all know the holidays can be a bit stressful.  There is always a meltdown of some sort in my family.  It never fails!  So today I'm going to give you some tips on how to survive the madness.  Let me know what you guys do!

-Start shopping in November

-Keep the kids entertained

-Make sure nobody feels left out

-If it gets too tense just take a nap

-Watch Christmas movies
-Eat A LOT!
-Play games
-Be socialable

-Just stay calm!

xo,

Jerica

Day 7: Gift Ideas

Welcome to day 7 of my 12 days of Christmas!  Most of you probably have people that you just don't know what to buy for.  I've come up with some ideas.  I tried to come up with a variety of items but it is mostly things I'm hoping to get.  What do you guys want this year?  Let me know!

Who doesn't love Frozen?  This is the sing along version which is awesome.  Anybody would love this as a gift no matter what age!

I'm OBSESSED with One Direction and they always have amazing perfumes.  This is their You & I scent and I hope I get it.  If you aren't sure a person wants a certain perfume then you can buy a set with many different samples.

People always need good headphones.  I'm in love with these neon Beats by Dre.  They are super stylish and amazing quality!  I hate ear buds so I'm glad this style is popular again.

If you know somebody who loves to read I would highly recommend an e-reader.  My mom and I both have a Nook and we use it all the time.  You can take them everywhere as well.

This is something I really want to buy for my nieces.  If you a kid in the 90's then you probably had a similar toy.  Ours were a lot more dangerous though!  Basically it is a flying fairy but she flies using only your hand as the control.  It is SO cool!



xo,
Jerica

Day 2: Random Acts Of Kindness

Welcome to day 2 of the 12 days of Christmas!  Sometimes people forget the real meaning of Christmas.  People just think about presents for their family and friends.  I'm totally guilty of this as well.  This year I've come up with simple things you can do to share the holiday spirit.  You can even do them all year if you want!  Let me know if you try any of these!

-Pay for the person behind you in line or in a drive through

-Adopt a family

-Volunteer at a shelter/food shelter

-Donate toys to a Children's Hospital

-Bake cookies for your neighbor

-Compliment people

-Visit a nursing home

-Sing carols

-Give to a food bank

xo,

Jerica

Challenge Friday: Throwback Time

Challenge Friday is back!  So I decided to do these every other week.  On the other week I want to do an advice post.  Submit questions to my email jerica.berner@aol.com and I'll give my best advice.  You can answer these questions too!  Enjoy!!!!

1. What year were you born? Post a throwback/flashback picture
I was born on July 15 1989.  This picture is of me when I was 2.  It was my favorite picture of me.  I'm not really sure why but I think I look cute.  PS I was totally rocking my Barney shoes here.

2. What was the biggest dance craze back in your day?
The biggest dance craze was probably the Macarena.  It was EVERYWHERE!  We didn't know any of the words but we all knew the moves.

3. Do you still own any VHS tapes or cassette tapes?
I still own a lot of my VHS tapes.  We kept all of our Disney movies but I also kept my Mary Kate and Ashley movies.  I was obsessed with their films.

4. List 5 your favorite past childhood TV show.
Barney

Full House

Rugrats

Cat Dog

Lizzie McGuire

5. What did you want to be when you grow up? Are you the person you’ve wanted to be?
I always wanted to be a spy.  I was in love with that idea.  Sadly I'm not a spy right now but maybe someday.

6. What were your favorite toys to play with?
I was totally into Polly Pockets.  I would play with them for hours!  I'm pretty sure I owned every one.  I still have them to be honest.  Giving them is just too hard because there is SO my memories.

7. What do you wish were still around today? (Food brand, gadgets, etc)
I wish everything from the 90's would come back.  I wish the cartoons would come back so I could share them with my nieces.  Today's cartoons are just too weird.

8. What was the one song you loved listening growing up?
This is embarrassing!  For some reason I was obsessed with Achy Breaky Heart by Billy Ray Cyrus.  I had a cassette that I played in my pink boom box over and over.  It drove my mom crazy!

9. Are there any special things you’ve kept from when you were a child?
All I've kept are my Polly Pockets and VHS tapes.  I wish I kept more though.

10. Your thoughts about today’s generation versus your generation.

Today's generation relies too much on technology.  Go outside!  Enjoy the little things and step away from the iPads.

xo,

Jerica

Motivational Monday: Tips For Staying Motivated!

Happy Monday!  Now that school is out we sometimes just want to stay in bed and watch Netflix all day.  Meanwhile, everything you should be doing keeps piling up.  Be honest, we've all been there.  It's Summer!!!!!!  We need to stay motivated!  I'm not an expert but I wanted to share what I do.  Let me know if you have any tips!

Make A Plan:
This could be something simple like go for a walk or it could be something you need to do like blog.  Doing something productive will make you feel accomplished.  Even if it is just one thing at least you've done something for the day.  Just make sure it is something you actually enjoy.

Stay Positive:
There will be days when you may not enjoy the tasks that need done.  I mean nobody really wants to clean their house.  In these cases you must stay positive.  I usually will play my favorite music so I'm doing the task but focused on something else.  Staying positive makes everything go smoother.

Reward Yourself:
This is personally my favorite tip.  Rewarding yourself will keep you focused.  Sticking to your plan will be more likely if you know you get a treat at the end.  It could be a pair of shoes you've been wanting or a cupcake.  You get to choose whatever you want!  You can only reward yourself if you actually accomplish your goals though.



xo,
Jerica

Motivational Monday: Speak Up!

School is over!  That means I'm back on schedule.  Today's post is something I've been struggling with lately.  Every single thing I say people take it completely the wrong way.  It's very frustrating.  I'm a sensitive person so I hate being judged.  My first reaction was to just not share things with these people.  Then I thought no way because that means they win.  I will rise above!  My message for you guys is to speak up!  You can do it for others or yourself but don't be afraid.  Who cares if they judge you?  Nobody is better then anybody else.  My grandma said the only reason people say something its because they are dealing with their own issues.  Basically my favorite quote "Haters Gonna Hate" and I say that pretty much daily.  Don't be afraid to say what you feel.  Have you every been in a situation like this?  Let me know!



xo,
Jerica

My April Playlist!

Hey everybody!  April is over which means I get to share my favorite songs with you.  It also means only a week left until summer break!  I'm really excited for this months playlist.  In case you missed my March playlist click here.  If you have any songs I should check out then let me know!  Also what songs are you loving right now?

1. Heartache On The Big Screen by 5SOS
I mentioned last month that their EP was coming out this month.  It is SO good!  It only has 4 songs but I literally had it on repeat everyday.  This is my favorite besides the one on my last playlist.  I love how they have evolved into pop rock.  It takes me back to my punk rock phase in high school.  Favorite lyric: The clock is ticking, and I'm out of time The camera's rolling, and I forgot my lines My script is ripped and now I see This is heartache on the big screen

2. Party Girl by Dan + Shy
You guys this is my current obsession!  Somehow I discovered Dan + Shy and I'm hooked.  I'm not a huge country fan but trust me they are AMAZING!  Their entire album is perfection so it was hard to pick just one song.  This was the one I had stuck in my head most.  Go check out the album on iTunes, you won't regret it!  Favorite lyric: I don't need all them humming, buzzing neon signs Long as you got that come and get me look in your eyes Yeah I'ma stay right here so we can disappear We can do it up right

3. Sing by Ed Sheeran
Who is excited for the new Ed Sheeran album?  I definitely can't wait!  This his first single and if it is a hint at what the rest of the album will be then I'm pumped.  I just love everything he does.  I really wish his tour was coming here!  If you have a chance to see him live do it.  It's a magical experience.  This song just gets me excited for summer.  Sadly we have to wait until June for the rest of the album.  Favorite lyric: Let it go until our roads'll change Singing we found love in a local rave No, I don’t really know what I’m supposed to say But I can just figure it out and hope and pray

4. Me And My Broken Heart by Rixton
I usually am awake until about 3 or 4 AM because I'm a night owl.  I was watching MTV and they played this video.  I was instantly hooked!  If you haven't noticed I have a very addictive personality.  It's just a really fun and catchy song.  Who knew that having a broken heart could be so upbeat?  He is still pretty new here in America.  I haven't any other songs by him but so far I'm feeling it.  Favorite lyric:  I need a little loving tonight Hold me so I'm not falling apart A little but I'm hoping it might kick start Me and my broken heart

5. John Doe by BoB ft. Priscilla
This song has an awesome message.  I like songs that actually mean something.  It really showcases what money and fame can do to a person.  We all dream of being famous but we never think of all the consequences.  We all think we wouldn't fall into the trap but peer pressure can change that.  I wasn't going to include this song but it's a message that should be shared.  Favorite lyric: Seems like the bus moves slower Just cause you got somewhere to go So you take a few pills in Beverly Hills But if anyone asks you've got a prescription You got an addiction Who do you think that you're fooling

6. Classic by MKTO
This song is my obsession!  I play it every single day on repeat.  Plus it is always playing in my head.  It's SUPER catchy!  I also just think it is a cute song.  I like the older eras so I like how they are bringing classy back even though it's still modern.  It makes me happy when I hear it.  Favorite lyric: It's love on rewind Everything is so throwback-ish (I kinda like it, like it) Out of my league Old school chic Like a movie star From the silver screen You're one of a kind living in a world gone plastic Baby you’re so classic

7. Replay by Zendaya
I've actually loved this song for awhile but I forgot all about.  While I write papers I just put my iPod on shuffle and this song popped up.  I love the beat!  It's very catchy and kind of reminds me of the 90's.  I'm not really sure why.  I don't really like her other songs though.  This is a good song to play in the morning to get ready for the day.  Favorite lyric: I wanna put you on repeat, play you everywhere I go, e-e-everywhere I go, play you everywhere I go

8. All Of Me by John Legend
I usually hate slow songs no matter who sings them.  I'm also not a huge John Legend fan.  I REALLY love this song though!  It is so simple and beautiful.  I love that he wrote it for his wife.  Plus the lyrics are so meaningful.  I love everything about it!  Favorite lyric: How many times do I have to tell you Even when you're crying you're beautiful too The world is beating you down, I'm around through every mood You're my downfall, you're my muse My worst distraction, my rhythm and blues I can't stop singing, it's ringing, in my head for you

9. You & I by One Direction
I know what you are probably thing right now.  Another One Direction song made the list?  I can't help it I just love them so much!  I'm SO upset I'm missing their tour this summer!  I've seen clips and it looks amazing!  Also for some reason I'm kinda obsessed with Harry Styles.  I'd love to him someday or meet them all!  I did a whole review of the video here.  Favorite lyric: I know how it goes I know how it goes from wrong and right Silence and sound Did they ever hold each other tight like us? Did they ever fight like us?

10. Pumpin' Blood NONONO
I have a story for this song.  About 2 months I randomly heard this song on the radio and instantly loved it.  I never heard it again and had no clue what the name of it was.  I forgot all about it until I was watching Glee and they covered it.  I'm SO glad I found it because it makes me feel happy.  You just wanna dance when it comes on.  Favorite lyric: It's the best and worst feeling like nothing can go wrong You're the decider of the world that you will get to know



xo,
Jerica

Motivational Monday: Regrets

Happy Monday everybody!  Today's topic is all about regret.  Lately I've watched a lot of shows and movies that deal with some kind of regret.  It really got me thinking about my life.  My doctors told my mom I wouldn't live past 3 so she constantly prepared herself.  This year I'll be turning 25.  My mom never treated me different though.  I wanted to play T-Ball and she said okay.  I wanted to join a cheer team and she said yes.  I'm very thankful for that.  The question I've been thinking about lately is if I died right now would I have any regret? The answer is no I wouldn't.  I've done some dumb things but who hasn't?  I've experienced so many amazing and exciting things.  Everybody should just live in the moment.  Enjoy life!

xo,
Jerica