Kenzie Blogs Life: lifestyle

What to do in Charleston

8:00:00 AM

South Carolina is an extremely beautiful state. It's literally shaped like a diamond. I recently went to the city of Charleston and spent some time there and came up with a list of things to do when you visit the historic city yourself!

Take a Walking Tour This is one way to learn about the history of Charleston. You can take the tour on foot with a guide who will show you along the streets of the city. There are also carriage tours as well.
Stick your feet in one of the fountains. On a hot and humid day in Charleston, you'll want to cool off in one of the fountains near the shore. I dipped my feet into this pineapple one, and it felt extremely refreshing
Go walking at night While you can see a ton of cool things during the day, the city gives a different experience when the sun goes down.
Stop at the Market The market holds so many local vendors and it's really fun to see how creative people can be!
Visit the Hunley An old submarine was found right off the coast of Charleston, and you can visit it and take a tour to see it
See Rainbow Row It's kind of a landmark, and you have to do it!
Grab some ice. There are shaved ice carts all around the city, I believe they're all students raising money for college (which is actually located in Charleston itself!)
Visit Plantations There is an entire street loaded with plantations that guests can tour. Though I didn't go on this trip, they look amazing and I would love to the next time I'm around!
Eat at Jestine's and Hyman's. I can't mention one and not say the other, as they're both my favorite spots to eat in the city!
Visit the Churches. It's not called the 'Holy City' for nothing! Charleston is decorated with amazing architecture and the churches are so pretty.

You can find a ton of information just by googling some of these spots! I loved spending time in Charleston, and while I may have been there a few days too long, I would still go back!

Have you ever visited a holiday place more than once? Where do you always go? Where would you love to return to?

Let me know in the comments!

x Kenzie

I fell from the SKY?!

7:00:00 AM

The Olympics just ended, and I could not help but wonder how someone could ever get their body to willingly fling themselves around on the balance beams and the high bars, but then again here I am about to tell you that I flung myself out of an airplane.

You read that right.

I wanted to do it for my 21st birthday and we scheduled it for August so that it would also be my cousin's surprise birthday gift. The day started with having my cousin open some gifts, and a special golden box that revealed that he was going skydiving! We loaded our cars and drove about an hour to where we would be checking off our bucket lists!

A lot of people asked me if I was nervous to skydive, but honestly I wasn't, people do it all the time, and I wasn't going alone. Learning about the risks, didn't even scare me. I was overpowered by excitement. Before it was our turn to dive, an 89 year old man with cancer jumped with his family and honestly if he could do it, I could.

Once up in the plane, we got strapped onto our tandem jumpers and scooted out of the plane. It was surreal watching a plane full of people slowly empty as they each dropped off. I was the last one off and I thought "well if everyone else is off, I better join them" I closed my eyes and we jumped. Cold air hit my face as we fell for 60 seconds from 13,000 feet. Once the parachute opened, I opened my eyes, popped my ears and enjoyed the ride. I literally felt like a bird, or a leaf, slowly floating back down to earth. It's not as noisy in the sky and it was really peaceful.

I was really really proud of myself that I did it, I jumped out of a plane at 13,000 feet above the ground. I even got to steer the parachute a little, everyone cheered when I landed and it felt so good to say I conquered skydiving.

We laughed at my video, and my cousins video. A lot of my other family members said they would want to do it next year. I can't blame them. I found out a few days later, that one of my old math teachers died, and that made me even more happier that I did something like this for some of my last days of being 21 years old. Because life is really short. Why not jump out of planes?

To see more skydiving photos check out my Instagram and also my facebook

Also I did my dive at Skydive Twin Cities and it was amazing (so major shoutout to the staff & my tandem partner Kerry!) If you're ever in Minnesota/Wisconsin, definitely go visit them! It's also so much fun to watch other people dive as well!

Clean Eating

Tips for Motivation

6:30:00 AM

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Let's face it. It can be really hard to stay motivated. I have days where I just cannot seem bothered to move from the futon, or get dressed into anything other than a pair of leggings and a t-shirt. I was having a conversation not too long ago about how to stay motivated to get or stay healthy. It had me thinking about some tips I would give, and lead me to create some Do's and Don'ts for staying motivated in life and sticking to a lifestyle change.

1. DO start slow. This is probably the hardest. Sometimes we quit everything all at once and ban foods right away when in reality, we really should be taking out certain factors first. Slowly getting rid of milk, or slowly making sure to not have a chocolate for dessert can be really beneficial in the long run.

2. Do remember results don't happen overnight. I'm someone who immediatley wants results. If you start working out and have only worked out for an hour the first day, you definitely won't leave the gym having a six pack. That takes time.

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3. Don't worry if you slip up. I always have to remind myself of this. If I accidently eat something milk-chocolate or something not so healthy, I can't beat myself up. That's not good and you'll end up feeling worse about it.

4. Do write down your goals. Using a notebook or planner to plan out a daily goal to set like drinking 12 ounces of water or eating more servings of veggies or adding an extra 20 minutes to your workout at the gym can be really beneficial in the long run as well. Usually if you see it, you'll want to do it. Even if you put it off until the last moment.

5. Don't go overboard. So you want to get healthy and be more active. If you work out a lot in the beginning and don't slow down, truth is you'll get burnt out. I learned that when I started eating clean in January. I was working out everyday and then I got bored with it.

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6. Do set a relaxation day. It's good to keep going and achieve things but give yourself a break once in a while. It's good to just unwind and rest before getting back to the grind.

7.Do make a public commitment. This can help a lot of people. No you don't need to be that person who constantly posts photos of going to the gym. But if you tell people you know that you're eating healthy and enjoying it, that can be helpful too. Because you've said it out loud and you have to stick to it.

8. Join a Group. Finding friends with common interests will help you reach your goals. You're encouraging each other not to give up and keep going.

9. Explore new recipes. This one is for those trying to stay healthy. Exploring new recipes and looking at what other people make, makes me so much more excited to cook and everyone has been loving what I've made so far!

10. Think positive. Getting into the mindset that something might be hard will actually make it hard. If you think about the new things you'll be learning throughout the process it'll make a better result! I strongly believe that positivity is a choice, even though it can be difficult sometimes.

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*Bonus Tip: Start a motivational quote journal. I did this a long time ago and it was really helpful, now I use it to write the quotes on a whiteboard where I can see them everyday!

I hope these tips were helpful! What other tips do you have for someone who is having a hard time starting up a new project or lifestyle? I have been loving veganism so much so far, there are so many different recipes?! I can't believe it. I hope you're all having a great day! Make sure to leave a comment below!

x Kenzie

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April

April's Challenge

9:00:00 AM

We all love something that gives our life a bit of a challenge. I mean, how can you know whether or not something is right for you if you never try it out? Giving up sugar for me last year, meant not feeling as anxious and jittery. Yet as much as I tried to explain that to everyone, I still got sugary sweets in my gifts. In January, I changed my lifestyle again and started clean eating. It went really well at first and I was even down 4 pounds in two weeks, and then it got increasingly hard as school started. I gave up meat for Lent this year and honestly, I really loved it. I was still really intrigued by plant-based diets. And in April, that's what I'm challenging myself to live by.

I'm not going to force my views onto anyone in these posts, but I hope you stick around and discover fun recipes with me. If you're looking for answers to that big "why" questions, then I'd suggest youtube-ing the answer. There are so many benefits to living plant based and I think it'll be a good change.This link is one that I think is really helpful and useful in talking about veganism and how even little changes in diets can make a big difference. I've made a few vegan snack recipes before and my campus has a few vegan alternatives that are actually really delicious! I just want to feel my best. Especially with having about 5 weeks left in the semester!

Honestly, with summer coming soon my diet will probably change again since watermelon is cheaper and that's all I really like to eat when it's warm outside!

If you want to follow me on twitter (I actually created a new account for just tweeting food) because sometimes I like to just look at photos of food okay? Otherwise you can make sure to follow my main account and my instagram! Also my brand new Facebook page is up and running and it would mean a lot if you shared it and gave it a like! :)

Did you participate in Veganuary? Have you ever given veganism a go? What are you most excited for in April? Let me know what kind of posts you'd like to see in the future! Sorry this one is so..wordy!

Looking forward to hearing from you in the comments!

x Kenzie

Beauty

Corners of the Internet

9:00:00 AM

There are many reasons why I love to blog, one of those reasons, if you read my 2 year blogging anniversary post a few weeks back, is that I get to read other people's blogs. There's just something really nice about relaxing with a cup of tea on a weekend morning that I don't have to be rushing off somewhere and reading about someone else's life. It's the little community I log into on my laptop and visit other people's corners of the internet.

While I have never written a post like this, I thought since I didn't do a traditional "things I liked in 2015 post" last month, it would be nice to do a "blogs i've liked in the last year" but that title is too long. So without further ado...here are some of the blogs that I've been reading and hope you do too!

Muted Mornings- I found Mimmi's blog through another blog that was having a postcard swap, and ever since then I've loved reading about her adventures and life in Glasgow! (also if you love owls and Harry Potter make sure to check her out.)

Sallys Baking Addiction- I can't tell you how many times I visit Sallys blog daily, especially being away from home. I come up with quite a list of things to bake. Sally's recipes are some of the best and if you have a throbbing sweet tooth, love for sprinkles and want a baking tip or two, go visit Sally!

Daydreams of Summertime - I've been reading Sarah's posts for awhile now and I really enjoy them. She recently went on a trip to New York City and shared amazing photos from her trip. If you're like me, you'll want to book your own tickets as soon as you're finished reading them!

Just Being Brooklyn- While I just started reading Brooklyn's posts, I love the voice she writes in and her posts about her time in Australia. This girl went bungee jumping!

Memories of the Pacific- Cristina is probably one of the longest readers I've had, and I really enjoy everything about her blog, from her outfit posts, to reviews about places she has been. I do hope you check out her blog, it's such a nice read!

Life Outside London- Michelle has a dog. If you like dogs, then you'll like Michelle. I love what she posts and seeing photos of her pups always brightens my day, and I hope it brightens yours as well!

Another fashion blog that I love and follow is of course, The Trend Pear. Eleanor and Max are best friends living in London and sharing their favorite fashion forward looks, spots to eat and holiday bits. I really enjoy this post and love seeing the looks they put together. They even give a look for less option, yes thank you.

Oh I'm Bree- Bree is new to the blogging community, with bits about life since she's moved to a new town and reviews and opinions, you can really tell she's a great person through her writing. (also she's my real-life pal ) So go give Bree a nice welcoming hello!

Drops of Anna- Anna is one of the sweetest people, and her blogs about her adventures and life in Spain are always a great read.

Alice's Antics- blogging from across the pond, I found Alice through Louise on Sprinkle of Glitter while she was living in Italy and have thoroughly enjoyed her real life voice and antics. She's on her way to studying in the states and I cannot wait to continue to read her posts!

I hope this gives you all a nice list of bloggers to check out! Who are your top 3 favorite bloggers? I could have added Niomi Smart, Zoella, Louise, Tanya Burr, but I figured most of you know who they are! If you have a blog make sure to leave a comment down below! I cannot wait to check them out.

Thanks for reading as always! Hope you're all having a great week!

xx Kenzie

Being Home

Being Home (as told in pictures.)

10:00:00 AM

I've been back in my hometown for nearly a month now on my winter break from school. That's the nicest thing about life after highschool. The homework and tests may be harder, but they give your tired brain a good chunk of time to turn all of the words that have been packed inside, a rest.

A really nice, five week rest.

While I haven't been on the schedule for work very often (hardly at all). I'm still enjoying my time being at home. Like many of you, I love lists, and I also love animated gifs that go with them. So let's take a look shall we?

1. "I'm finally home and away from my roommate!"
This is how I felt leaving the dorm room:

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This is how I felt when I walked into my house:

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2. A few things happen when I'm home alone..

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(I didn't actually bake a pie but I baked other things that smelled delicious!)

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While I do love being home, I also love detoxing from the internet and having days where I just relax and do a little baking or take a bath....or maybe binge-watch 4 episodes of the Kardashians. I've also enjoyed going for walks before or after dinner, and being able to relax.

Are you all home for break yet? Have you gone back to school? It's the last few months before summer guys! We got this!

I hope the weather hasn't been too terrible for you! It's really cold here in Wisconsin, and I haven't wanted to leave my house, or my fireplace for the last few days!

Thanks for reading! I love reading your comments, so make sure to leave one! :)

xx Kenzie

End of the Year

Another (School) Year Done

12:30:00 PM

It's finally Summer. I've been home for 3 days now from Uni and it's great.

2015 has definitely been gentle, it's been a year of a lot of changes so far, but all of them have been for the better. Or at least, I would like to think they have.

This school year was quite different than last, I stayed home when I was meant to move in the fall, which worked out ultimately in the end because had I been away I wouldn't have been there to say goodbye to Sadie. (You can read about her here.)

I did eventually move away, and it was exciting and terrifying all at the same time.

I felt overwhelmed at first, I didn't know how anything worked. But slowly I began to like it, though some days it was hard to convince myself that.

Here are some of the things that I learned (outside of the classroom):

It's okay not to like it at first. Especially if you're like me and you change schools mid-semester and your roommate moves out two weeks in and you're left alone. Just you and your goldfish. After the snow had melted, and the sun peeked out and the blossoms turned to a million lovely colors. I started to enjoy it. And I enjoyed alone time.

(I took a lot of "me time" walks.)

You will miss random things. Being away from home made me realize a list of things I didn't know I would miss. Like quality toilet paper.

Going home is actually fun. I had a moment (which was really an entire week and a half) where I just was not having it. I missed my friends, and my bed and I just wanted away with stress. So I woke up one morning and couldn't fall asleep, walked 20 minutes to my car and drove an hour and a half. I arrived around 9am. You can guess what time I woke. Being home for just a day was really really refreshing. I surprised everyone, including two of my really good friends at their prom (and we cried, and hugged and it was great.) It was honestly, my favorite weekend.

You can go where ever you want. Maybe not where ever. But I explored the heck out of my new town and I found a few of my favorite spots. I think it's really important to find your favorite spot, whether it be on campus or off. If you've been reading for awhile, you have already seen a few of these spots. (here and here).

(and I really took too many sunset photos sorry)

Getting Mail is really exciting. I loved going to my little mailbox and seeing a little card and coming back up to my room to read it. I also loved sending them. I'm a card kind of person and I think it's so lovely to get a hand written note!

As for right now, that's all I've got. I probably missed a few things, but those are the major things that I learned personally! All in all, if we were to compare the ending to last year to this year, I would say this year was 100% better.
If you'd like to hear more just comment below!

As for this summer, like always, I have a few plans and goals. I'll be (hopefully) working more. While I'm not working I really want to...

Read more. I'm thinking about making Paper Towns by John Green a purchase (if you have any book suggestions I would love to hear them).

Be Outside. As much as possible. I love being outdoors, and along with this, I really want to do new things, maybe go to a new place in Wisconsin that I haven't been. Who knows, but I'll share that with you when it happens.

I hope you all are having a great weekend! If you're out of exams, what are your summer plans? Did you go away for Uni?

As always, thanks for reading!

xx
Kenzie

discussion

Music Is Good for the Soul

1:00:00 PM

There are a lot of things music does for us. It can be used as a distraction from that not-so-great day at work or school. It can be used in the background of a party or a commercial. It can make someone feel sad, or angry, or happy. A certain song can bring up some really good or really bad memories. Without music, we would lead pretty bland lives in my opinion.

Can you imagine a world without music? There wouldn't be any radio, or songs to sing along to as loud as you want down the freeway. No background music on tv, or commercials, or movies.

It would be weird. Wouldn't it?

For me, music is something that keeps the stress at bay most of the time.

Music is a life-changing thing.
Personally, I spent four years in choir, I made new friends and sang great songs.

I also made a twitter account, yea I have two. Actually, sorry I have three. Don't judge me. One is my personal twitter, for friends and people who know me in real life or from blogger. Another is a fan account for a certain band and the third is just one where I can rant if I don't have anything to write my frustrations down on. I can write whatever I darn well please and nobody can judge me or yell at me for it.

Getting off topic there sorry.

Music connects people. Kind of like Youtube channels. I became a fan of this group or this person and I can tweet about it, and find different people who also love this certain person or group. That's what I love about music. No matter where you come from, or what your age is, what you look like, you can connect with hundreds of people all over the world just because of one song or person or group. How cool is that?

Together, you watch the artist grow and gain more and more fans (even though it can get really tough to share your favorite with thousands of other people) you still feel proud of them.

That's what I like about music the most.

So what are your favorite artists or songs?

I have a few favorite songs right now such as;

Pompeii by Bastille

She Looks So Perfect by 5 Seconds of Summer (5sos)

Under the Boardwalk Cover by Top Shelf (I saw them on my cruise in 2012 so I wouldn't expect any of you to know who they are!)

Drop In the Ocean by Ron Pope

Starlight by Taylor Swift

Better Than Words by One Direction

I need you now by Olly Murs

The City Never Sleeps by Ed Sheeran

Moving to New York by The Wombats

There are a lot more, but those are just a few that have been on constant replay for me.

Do you have some favorites? I'm sure you do, I would love to know them! Just comment below!

Also, do not be afraid to give me an email or tweet or follow on instagram! You can see those on the get in touch page at the top of the blog! :)

Thanks so much for reading! I'll see you next time!

Kenzie

Pages

What to do in Charleston

I fell from the SKY?!

Tips for Motivation

April's Challenge

Corners of the Internet

Being Home (as told in pictures.)

Another (School) Year Done

Music Is Good for the Soul

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