Grapefruitprincess ReLoaded

Experiential Father's Day Getaways

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Mon, 15 May 2023 16:17:00 +0000

Happy Monday!

Now that we've made it through Mother's Day, it's about time to get ready for Father's Day, so I want to share two great ideas for experiential getaways in Michigan!

Below are more details, but first a photo:

I'm still here.

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Wed, 10 May 2023 15:50:00 +0000

Hey. I am not even sure if someone is still reading my blog. But I thought I'd give an update.

I'm still here. I'm still alive. But so much has happened within the last year. I don't know where to start. Does anyone even care? It's my blog, so I use it as an outlet, just like I used to. So, where have I been?

TW: Suicide. Mental Health.

Life as I knew it and loved it came to an abrupt halt on 03/02/2022. It was a beautiful spring day. I've had a meeting at a local coffee shop. At one point I looked out of the window, and saw my boyfriend Justin drive by in his work truck...

Run NYC! // Studio Update with Photowall.com

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 18:02:00 +0000

Hey y'all! How is everyone doing? As I mentioned in my previous post, I am working from home since March 17th 2020, and since that day have not worked out at the gym.

(This post is brought to you in cooperation with my friends at PHOTOWALL.com They let me pick an item from their store in exchange for my unbiased review. I would never suggest products I don't like or believe in./ As always: If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

One of my first lockdown purchases was a treadmill. I went with a pretty cheap foldable one (find it HERE), just to see if I use it enough to eventually upgrade to a REAL one. And I am proud to say: I use it at least three times a week, and finished tons of miles on it running and walking, doing my virtual races. If you didn't know yet, I do virtual races on Yes.Fit for a few years now and they are tons of fun! Find a referral code at the bottom of this post to get $20 off your first race! And on top of this, I'll share a 25% off coupon for Photowall with you! So just keep reading!

The treadmill and my other few pieces of equipment are in my home office/studio. This is where I work every day and do my crafts and art. I live in a little house in southern Arkansas, and the view from my window is pretty green and neat - that's why we are called "The Natural State" I guess. So running while looking out of the window was what I usually did.

This was until my friends from Photowall.com reached out to me again (see our previous projects here and here). They asked me if I would be down to review another item from their shop, and I sure said yes!

Photowall offers a huge variety of motifs for wallpapers, wall murals, and canvas prints! I went with a view from a NYC penthouse this time, and I have not regretted it at all. It makes the room feel so much better! And if I turn around my treadmill, it really feels as if I'm on top of the big apple!

Hej Fellow Remote Workers! Visit Sweden for an Out of Office Office Experience!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:34:00 +0000

I've been working remotely since March 17th 2020, and I feel blessed and lucky to have a profession and work a job that makes it possible to get my projects done from anywhere in the world - granted I have my laptop and a stable internet connection.

A study and initiative from Sweden makes me kind of jealous though. Don't get me wrong, my back porch or local coffee shop in southern Arkansas is fine and dandy, but can it really compete with the landscape and temperatures in Sweden?

Photo credit: Tina Stafrén/Visit Sweden

Sweden’s New Initiative ‘Out of Office Office’ Offers Remote Workers Offices in Nature

(If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

Sweden now encourages workers to bag-check their remote setup and have an unforgettable workcation in accommodations close to nature without compromising on internet connectivity. In a newly conducted case study, well-being increased by 22% as participants felt less depressed and more calm, harmonious and happy when working and living close to nature. Through the Out of Office Office initiative, Sweden hopes to boost workers’ mental health in a time where remote working increasingly is taking a toll on many people’s well-being.Read more...

Travel Tuesday: Dishing Through Setouchi Japan’s Distinctive Dining Scene

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 14:58:00 +0000

On today's Travel Tuesday I'm taking you back to Japan's Setouchi Island region. While last week's post was focussed on wellness, today we will dive into the culinary scene.

When one thinks of Japan’s Setouchi Islands region, visions of pristine beaches, sparkling blue waters and a thriving art scene might spring to mind. However, this peaceful, authentic region of Japan, which spans fully 700 islands and seven prefectures surrounding the Seto Inland Sea, also boasts a diverse climate that yields some ancient—and even delightfully quirky—culinary experiences.

via Setouchi DMO

When visiting this fascinating country, be sure to titillate your taste buds with a serving of “hidden sushi.” While visually simple at first blush, turn the so-called “Bara Sushi” dish upside down to reveal a hidden underbelly rife with gorgeous ingredients.

Travel Tuesday: Visit the Onsen in the Setouchi Region, Japan

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 01:54:00 +0000

Traveling to Japan is definitely on my bucket list. I'm a huge fan of Sharla from Sharmeleon/Sharla in Japan, Chris from Abroad in Japan (sliiiight crush on him. thanks British accent), and of course Norm form Tokyo Lens. Experiencing this beautiful country through their eyes/lenses gives me a bad case of Wanderlust.

Last week Japan's Setouchi region was brought to my attention, and I love what I see! Even though I sadly haven't visited there myself yet, I want to share it with you.

Setouchi is a city located in southern Okayama Prefecture, Japan.

via Setouchi DMO

Visiting an onsen there is pretty high on my to do list, besides, of course, visiting Tokyo and other urban parts of Japan. It’s been a long road but now, more than ever, we are ready to embrace unique healing experiences in a whole new way and the Setouchi region of Japan is truly the wellness center of Asia.

Father's Day Gift Ideas // ...or just a Gift Guide for any Man in your Life!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Fri, 28 May 2021 13:00:00 +0000

Father’s Day always arrives on the third Sunday of June, ready to be celebrated and enjoyed. Yet each year it seems to be a scramble to find a gift for dad that he will love, even if he’s not a big shopper, never needs anything, or has everything he needs. Here is a list of my favorite items!

(If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro 3x3" 2-in-1 Portable Wireless Instant Camera & Photo Printer

The Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro allows you to shoot and print high-quality photos anytime and anywhere. After taking fabulous shots, you can print them directly from your Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro OR connect with any mobile devices via Bluetooth and print straight from the photo gallery! The Kodak Mini Shot is also available in a 2 x 3 inch size.

This bundle is compatible with iOS, Android & Bluetooth.

You can find it here: https://amzn.to/3fdRr2y

_________________________

When Japandi Meets Maximalism // 2021's Interior Trend of Oversized Design

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Thu, 27 May 2021 14:59:00 +0000

Ahead of this year’s interior trend of bold, oversized design, creators of made-to-measure wallpaper murals, Wallsauce has assembled a collection of maximalist crane murals.

These eclectic designs have been carefully selected for customers to perfect the maximalist look. With a primary color palette and a dash of pastel tones, the collection will allow creative juices to flow and allow for harmonizing furniture.

If sadness had a color, what would that be? // "Lemon" by Korean Novelist Yeo-sun Kwon

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Tue, 25 May 2021 18:52:00 +0000

“If sadness had a color, what would that be? To the novelist Yeo-sun Kwon, it is yellow…"

In the summer of the 2002, when Korea is abuzz with the Korea-Japan FIFA World Cup, a beautiful nineteen-year-old girl named Hae-on is murdered in what would become known as the ‘High School Beauty Murder’. There are two suspects: a rich boy Shin Jeongjun, whose car Hae-on was last seen in, and a working class delivery boy, Han Manu, who witnesses Hae-on in the passenger seat of Jeongjun’s car just a few hours before her death.

(If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

The novel begins with a scene in which Hae-on’s younger sister, Da-on, imagines a police detective interrogating Han Manu. When no evidence can be pinned on Manu and Jeongjun’s alibi turns out to be solid, the identity of the murderer is left unsolved. The case remains a mystery for years, throwing those surrounding the event into turmoil, especially Da-on, who is unable to move on with her life following her sister’s disappearance and murder. ...read more

Deck Your Walls With Travel Stories! // Photowall.com Coupon Code!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 12:26:00 +0000

Earlier this month I took you on an imaginary trip to Sweden. This week I want to show you a way to bring your dream vacation spots, own photos, or wonderful art into your own four walls! And – it’s a Swedish company! Photowall.com!

Photowall.com reached out to me again. Remember, they already helped me turning my bedroom into my favorite room of the house earlier this year by letting me pick a wall mural. You can see everything here: https://www.grapefruitprincess.com/2020/02/new-year-new-home-photowall-sweden.html

Make sure to put the 25% off coupon to good use! More info can be found on the bottom of this post.

My boyfriend and I had to skip this year’s trip to Europe (due to known reasons).

How to Alleviate Pandemic-Related Stress // Visit Sweden Shares Tips!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 14:02:00 +0000

Lockdowns, isolation, and working from home have caused elevated levels of stress for many people: 45% of Americans say they experience anxiety because of the pandemic, according to a UN report. But there are ways to alleviate the stress. Research shows that spending time in nature lowers stress levels – one of the many benefits of grabbing a few minutes to enjoy some greenery or planning a getaway in the great outdoors.

Photo: Martin Edström/imagebank.sweden.se

The positive effects were tested through Visit Sweden’s very own initiative, “The 72-Hour Cabin,” with participants from major cities who had demanding jobs. They were examined before and after spending three consecutive days in the Swedish countryside where they slept in glass cabins next to water. The study proved that being outdoors surrounded only by nature dramatically reduced negative emotions and lowered stress levels.

Do you watch "Yellowstone"? // Take a Ranch Vacation Here

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Mon, 14 Sep 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Yellowstone, the wildly popular cable television series starring Kevin Costner, has sparked newfound interest in the Rocky Mountains and specifically luxury (dude) ranch vacations. Red Reflet Ranch, a 28,000-acre guest ranch in Ten Sleep, Wyoming, has experienced a surge of guests booking five-figure vacations because of their love for the show. Red Reflet even hosted one guest who asked to be called "Kacey" during his stay. In case you do not know, Kayce Dutton is the heart-throb son of Yellowstone Ranch owner John Dutton (played by Costner) on the show. The boom of RV travel, road trips and staycations due to COVID-19 has also bolstered demand for these exclusive getaways.

(If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

via Paramount Network

Below are a few world-class guest ranches where travelers can experience the luxurious cowboy lifestyle of the Dutton family on Yellowstone.

Asian inspired Pumpkin Dish

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Sun, 13 Sep 2020 19:56:00 +0000

"Hello. It's me.." AdeleVoice ... I'm back! It's been a while... I really wanted to keep up the COVID diary, but life stayed so busy (even working from home). Go figure - I didn't. Sorry guys! How is everyone doing? Kids back at school - or home schooling?

I'm coming out of hiatus to hopefully put a new dish on your tables! It's easy, great for fall, and very yummy. Here we go!

(If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

Face Masks with Filter Pocket // #StayHealthy #StayHome #StaySafe

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Thu, 28 May 2020 14:35:00 +0000

I used to only sew for my family and friends, so I’m by no means a pro. During COVID-19 I started making masks, putting my sewing machine and supplies to good use. They are now live in my Etsy store, and since you are a valued reader of my little blog, you will get a 15% discount: CLICK here!

They are 100% cotton, elastics, and you can insert a filter (like a coffee filter etc) into the opening on the back for extra protection.

All masks are washed and steam ironed before shipping.
Contact me for custom orders or any questions!

I will add more mask designs soon!

Stay healthy,
Anni

COVID-19 Self Distancing Diary - Day 7 // Ready for the Island

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 22:59:00 +0000

Date: 3/24/2020
Got up at: 5:45am
Got dressed: Yes!
Started to work: 7:00am
Cups of coffee: I'd say 6...

This day marks one week in self-quarantine and working remotely. I feel super bad for the last two days, mentally all this is really taking a toll on me. Maybe all I need is a good night's sleep. But anxiety took over for the last two nights. I'm exhausted, and it's only Tuesday.

I see all the memes and social media posts from people "working" from home doing random non-work-related things pretty much all day. And it makes me wonder if I'm just one of very few actually still putting in 8+ hours of work every day?

...switching desks from my actual office to the kitchen table and back...

I have to keep the information rolling, organize stuff.. Today I attended an important webinar. I'm stressed, overwhelmed, and tired. Maybe it will take a few more days for everything to adjust, but then again so much is happening every day and I work on my never ending to-do list, crossing off, adding...

Later tonight I will most definitely go for a walk outside, far away from other humans besides the one I share my life (and corona bubble) with.
Read more...

COVID-19 Self Distancing Diary - Day 5 & 6 // ...when I sent off my spit!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 02:40:00 +0000

Date: 3/22/2020
Got up at: honestly no idea!
Got dressed: Yes!
Started to work: Never. It's the weekend. Much needed.
Cups of coffee: 5?

Sunday I tried to stay away from the internet and TV (news) as much as possible, so nothing noteworthy happened...

_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_

Date: 3/23/2020
Got up at: 5:40am
Got dressed: Yes!
Started to work: 7:03am
Cups of coffee: 4

Another busy day working from home. I'm thankful the flow of projects doesn't die down. I hope some of the things we discussed this morning can be put into place, soon. The workday flew by - before I even knew it it was 4pm and I clocked out. On to some more projects tomorrow.

We've had our first confirmed COVID-19 case in our county yesterday, and today another one was added. So even here in rural southern Arkansas that bish made its grand entrance. I feel uneasier by the day, and just try to stay away from people as much as I can.
(If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

One odd thing I did today: I sent off my spit. Yep. And thanks to my spit, some of you might find even deeper roots in Germany, soon! I started using Ancestry.com about two years ago, and I keep adding, researching, and looking ever since. I never paid to get the full access, but when St. Patrick's Day came around I found the $59 offer in my e-mail and ordered my DNA kit right away! If you use my link to order your DNA kit, you will save 15%: CLICK!

It came with two weeks of full access to everything, so pretty much every night I was browsing and going through hints. I love it and knowing a little more about my ancestors makes me feel good and more "rooted" if that makes any sense?

COVID-19 Self Distancing Diary - Day 4 // A Productive Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Sat, 21 Mar 2020 22:53:00 +0000

Date: 3/21/2020
Got up at: honestly no idea!
Got dressed: Yes!
Started to work: Never. It's the weekend. Much needed.
Cups of coffee: 4-ish

I slept in today and feel pretty good. After some coffee and video game time, I finally worked on a little project I wanted to do for quite some time now. Since Justin inherited his granny's house and we've fixed up the bathroom, I took one of the drawers from the old vanity, ordered some super cure hair pin legs, and voila:

(If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

I did some pricing and researching at Home Depot, on eBay, and Amazon - and I found these were the best price and the quality is really good! The are super sturdy and available in several lengths. You can find them here:

I'm pretty happy with my new side table! I can put it to good use as a plant stand and it will probably give my salt lamp a new home, too.
Read more...

COVID-19 Self Distancing Diary - Day 3 // The Day Reality Set In?

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 23:09:00 +0000

Date: 3/20/2020
Got up at: 7:15am
Got dressed: Yes!
Started to work: 7:50am
Cups of coffee: stopped counting

"Either you deal with what is the reality, or you can be sure that the reality is going to deal with you."
– Alex Haley

The past 24 hours have been emotional and kinda strange. A lot happened work-wise. Decisions were made by the government, and had to be executed. And that's when uneasiness took over. While I still have projects to work on for the next couple of weeks, some of my coworkers in another agency had to adapt to new circumstances. I'm hoping and praying for "normality" to return to our lives. I want security for everyone. And I just hope as a team we can pull this off.

Business photo created by evening_tao - www.freepik.com

On top of this I got news from friends who were laid off and some of them running low on groceries and life essentials. During this time, don't forget the people that are usually invisible to you and even invisible to the system, for various reasons... the workers behind the scenes, the kitchen workers in restaurants, bartenders, the waiters and waitresses. A waitress here makes less than $3 an hour and depends on tips. Now thanks to the Coronavirus, there is no dine in. There is no job for waiters, and the extra kitchen staff is being sent home.

This Facebook post I found might be a little harsh and slightly over the top but there is a lot of truth in it, too:
Read more...

COVID-19 Self Distancing Diary - Day 2 // A tiny bit of Good in all this

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 01:00:00 +0000

Date: 3/19/2020
Got up at: 6:00am
Got dressed: Yes!
Started to work: 7:03am
Cups of coffee: 3

Everyone else hanging in there? I've had a very busy day working- but considering the times we live in, I guess it's normal. I was listening to a lot of news today - and I started thinking about the GOOD things that come from the Coronavirus outbreak. And I know, there is more negative impact on our personal lives, but I am trying to focus on the positive impacts in my post today.

It's sad that it takes a pandemic, but the impact on our planet and eco system is so so good right now! Travel bans mean less flights, cars, and cruise ships. Meetings being held via phone or video conference. Remote work leads to no or less commuters. Curfews. All this means - less driving. Less pollution. Not eating out (drive thru or to-go) - less trash!

My friends in Seoul were able to walk around without masks (the ones they usually wear cause of the bad air) since the pollution - usually coming in from China - was non existent for a while (but will sure pick up again...) caused by the big factories shut down.

The Venice canals are clear enough to see fish as coronavirus halts tourism in the city. Swans returned, and dolphins were spotted in the port. This is due to less tourists, motorboats and pollution.

Vintage photo created by freepik - www.freepik.com
Another fact, even though small: Since I work from home now, I'm not throwing every single piece of clothing into the washer right away after I come home. If I don't leave the house, I can sure wear everything (but underpants d'oh) at least one more day. Saves water and electricity!

I hope these times are an eye opener for our future days. Not only do we have to take care of ourselves, but we need to save this planet, too. Without it, there'll be no us.

Stay safe everyone!

COVID-19 Self Distancing Diary - Day 1 // Be Like Kevin

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 23:00:00 +0000

Date: 3/18/2020
Got up at: 6:10am
Got dressed: No
Started to work: 7:08am
Cups of coffee: 5

Hey y'all! I hope everyone is doing well and self-distancing? Yesterday I received the news that starting today we will work remotely. So I may or may not be in my pajamas and Christmas robe right now, at 5pm. The worst thing that happened today was running out of Funfetti creamer. I'm still good on toilet paper, just in case you were wondering. But what time is it acceptable to heat up a frozen pizza? 9am? Past noon? Let me know so I know what to do tomorrow.

(If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

I used to work remotely for a while, so I just picked up where I left off back then.
Read more...

The Arches National Park Looks Nothing Like The License Plate

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 14:25:00 +0000

Road trips and cross country traveling must be one of my favorite things to do. I've visited a bunch of our beautiful National Parks (and adding more to the list every year), and enjoyed my time and the scenery there! When designer and illustrator Amber Share discovered that there are 1-star ratings for each and every single one of the 62 parks, she decided to to illustrate each park along with a hand lettered 1-star review as a way to put a positive and fun spin on such a negative mindset.

If you are a business owner dealing with negative reviews on Yelp, Facebook, Google etc. - this post might brighten up your day a little when you see that nature (or God's creation) literally has to deal with this, too. Isn't it ridiculous?

Well, I've picked a few of my favorites to share with you on here, but please make sure to head over to Amber's website to see all of them! You can even order prints, mugs, and cards with your favorite designs.
Read more...

New Year, New Home // Photowall Sweden Review

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Mon, 03 Feb 2020 17:48:00 +0000

Happy Monday! It's finally February. And let me tell you - it's been a busy January for me, especially the past week: Just a few things that happened: I quit my part time security job (not enough time), finished remodeling a house (call me Chip Gaines! Or Joanna Gaines!), moved out of the apartment (hallelujah!) and into said house (YAY!), annnnnnd I already finished my taxes. Go me!

(I was provided with a free product for my review. All opinions are my own. I would never endorse a product I don't like or believe in. If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

Now it's unpacking time! I went through everything before moving, and decluttered quite a lot. So it shouldn't be too bad. The only room in my new house that is 98% done is my bedroom. Can you tell I love the way it turned out? Thanks to Photowall.com!

Don't miss my 25% discount code on the bottom of this post!
Read more...

Things to do in Arkansas - Walk on the Bottom of a Lake!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Thu, 16 Jan 2020 17:20:00 +0000

Happy 2020 everyone! I'm sorry it's been so quiet around here. I promise to do better! I have to many things I wanted to share, like pictures of my trip to Europe, tell you about me renovating a house and moving.. So much was going on. I hope one of these days, when I'm unpacked and handed over the keys to my old apartment, I'll be able to sit down, work on posts, and get them out to you.

Even our little road trips aren't as frequent anymore right now. But after seeing it on the news, J and I went on a little adventure past Saturday. Lake Monticello is about an hour away from where we live. The lake is undergoing a drawdown so that the dam can be repaired and the fish habitat rebuilt.

Meaning: We were able to literally walk through the lake, on the bottom of the lake since it's drained.

I posted a few pictures in one of my Facebook Groups, and after that post went viral, I though I'll have to share some photos on here, too. I did MINIMAL editing, because the photos I took are very true to what it looked like that day. Enjoy!
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The Taste of Home // Getting my German Groceries here in the USA!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Tue, 29 Oct 2019 17:37:00 +0000

I came back from my trip to Europe a little over two weeks ago, and realized I forgot to do one major thing: more shopping! In my latest YouTube video I shared what I actually brought:

But I sure forgot to hit the grocery store to buy some Knorr and Maggi seasonings, and probably more Lebkuchen, Domino Steine, Marzipan Kartoffeln, and all the other German Christmas goodies. Thank goodness I can now find most of the things right here in the USA, and I can even go shopping at my local World Market! I found so much online, I sure have to plan a visit this weekend.

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Last Minute Halloween Costume Ideas under $40

noreply@blogger.com (Anni S) — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 15:18:00 +0000

Ooops, Halloween is just a few days away - and I bet you don't have your costume yet! I had to get something put together within MINUTES yesterday, since I was named a judge in a costume contest at our annual "Boo at the Pool" about 2 hours before the event started. So I rushed into Walmart since I only had about 45 minutes after work to find something AND put it on before heading to the pool.

(If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

I have spent $38 on the veil, cape, tutu and stockings. If I had more time I would have sure checked out Amazon. They have an awesome selection and thanks to Amazon Prime, the costume would have been here in no time. Oh well. Maybe I will get another costume for our office Halloween on the 31st.

Long story short - I don't want YOU to spend $40 on mediocre things that you randomly put together, so here is a list of pretty awesome costumes. ALL under $40.
Read more...