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Five Great Ways to Share Joy During the Christmas Season

December 13, 2019 by Autumn Murray Leave a Comment

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Five Great Way to Share Joy During the Christmas Season

There are simple things that you can do to share the warmth of the holidays. Brighten someone’s day this holiday season with these few simple actions.

Everyone is feeling the pinch during these tough economic times. Instances of depression and loneliness are also markedly higher during the holiday season. There are many things you can do to help others to get through these trying times. Make it a family affair, children will learn the real meaning of Christmas as they share their joy with others. Share your happiness by following these few suggestions:

Sharing Time With Those Who Are Lonely

1. There are many lonely people who live in nursing homes. They may not be able to leave the building or even their bed. Some of these people have no family to visit them, not even at Christmas. Imagine the warm feelings you could spread by visiting just one lonely resident. Contact a nursing home near you and ask if there are any such patients who could use visitors. You may just make a new friend.

2. If you are homebound, you could do something as simple as sending a card to a nursing home patient who would otherwise not receive one. Call nursing homes or your church to get a list of people who are homebound or stuck in the hospital or nursing home. If they won’t give out names, just make a few cards or notes and send them to the hospital or nursing home to be distributed as they see fit. The activities department loves to have new things to hand out, and they would know exactly who needs to receive them. They also enjoy seeing the smiles that your thoughtful gift brings out in their residents.

3. If you are talented at sewing or knitting, you could volunteer to make and distribute hats, mittens or blankets to a homeless shelter. This is also a good way to help if you are stuck at home.

4. Take a meal to an elderly neighbor or couple and plan to spend an hour visiting. You will be surprised at how much joy you can bring to a lonely soul, just by being there. It doesn’t matter what you talk about, but I’m sure you will hear lots of great stories if you take the time to listen.

Leave the Joy With Them

5. Help an elderly or disabled neighbor put up their Christmas tree. If they don’t have one and you are able, buy a small tabletop tree at a discount store. Buy a bag/box of candy canes, some Mardi Gras beads and maybe a strand of lights. It is just that simple. You will have a great time decorating their little tree together. The best part is that this tree will fit just about anywhere, especially small apartments or hospital rooms. If/when the new owner of the tree does have other guests, they will have candy canes to share with their visitors.

These simple acts of kindness don’t take much effort or money. These are the kinds of memories your children will cherish. It will teach them how important it is to care for another person. They might even be surprised at how much they actually get out of it.

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Lexus 2020 RX 450h F Sport – Leading Luxury SUV – Now Even More Defined

December 2, 2019 by Autumn Murray Leave a Comment

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Lexus 2020 RX 450h F Sport – Leading Luxury SUV – Now Even More Defined

The Lexus 2020 RX 450h F Sport is one of the best-selling luxury SUVs in America and the RX 450h is one of the top luxury hybrid SUVs. It’s a benchmark of quality, comfort, and consistency. Changes for 2020 RX 450h are significant enough to keep the RX as one of the leaders in the luxury pack. While attending the Girls Guide to Cars Conference in Atlanta, we were able to test drive the Lexus 2020 RX 450h F Sport and test out all of its functionalities.

Reinvigorated and Refined

Starting with the signature grille, a symbol of the Lexus brand and distinctive “face” of the vehicle, the designers created an elaborate look based on an L-motif. Each individual block has a different shape and angle to create a varying form that balances a strong yet elegant image. The hand-drawn angles of the grille surround are also echoed at each corner of the bumper to smooth the visual flow.

Responsive Steering and Multimedia Options

The RX has more responsive steering and added multimedia options for smartphone and touchscreen integration. A range of interior and exterior enhancements build on the iconic luxury crossover’s appeal and contribute to the reinvigorated design and function, key to discerning Lexus customers.

Android and Apple CarPlay Auto Integration

New for 2020, the RX line is the first to receive Android Auto integration, in addition to in-car connected technology applications from Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa. Guests can seamlessly interact with their smart device of choice through familiar on-screen apps on the optional 12.3-inch touchscreen or standard 8-inch touchscreen in all 2020 RX, RXh, RXL, and RXhL models.

Interior

The RX comes with a comfortable, car-like interior. Updates for the 2020 model year include standard paddle shifters and touch capability for both the 8.0-in and 12.3-in infotainment screens.

Driver controls have also been upgraded with the optional 12.3-inch screen now 5.4 inches closer to the driver and useable as a touchscreen in addition to Lexus’ standard touchpad control. An upgraded voice control system is now capable of recognizing a larger range of phrases. The RX also offers two new seating positions for the third row and available captain’s chairs for the second row, increasing the 2020 Lexus RX’s seating flexibility.

Advanced Safety for Peace of Mind

In addition to the 3-year Lexus Enform Safety Connect and 10-year Enform Service Connect included with the vehicle, the suite of standard advanced safety features in the 2020 Lexus RX adds Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 as standard equipment. This adds daytime bicyclist detection and low-light pedestrian detection along with Road Sign Assist (RSA) and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) to further expand the scenarios in which the RX is designed to help provide additional safety to the driver and passengers.

Daytime bicyclist detection is part of an enhanced Pre-Collision System (PCS). Previously designed to detect a preceding vehicle or pedestrian, the Pre-Collision System now has the potential to detect a preceding bicyclist as well. The PCS has also been enhanced to help detect a preceding pedestrian in certain low-light situations by increasing the camera’s sensitivity and dynamic range.

Road Sign Assist (RSA) displays certain road sign information in the instrument panel, while the Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) system is designed to detect visible lane markings to determine lane position and place the vehicle in the center of the lane when working in conjunction with the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. If road markings are not detected, LTA is also capable, in certain conditions, of following the car ahead of it.

Hybrids Bring The Best of Both Worlds

Lexus introduced the world’s first luxury hybrid vehicle — a gas/electric version of the RX luxury-utility vehicle — more than a decade ago. The RX 450h and RX 450hL continue to serve as powerful reminders of the brand’s hybrid leadership, with 308 combined system horsepower for powerful performance and impressive EPA-estimated 30 combined MPG for RXh and an EPA estimated 29 combined MPG on RXhL.

The Lexus Hybrid Drive system pairs the D4-S fuel injection 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance. Instead of transfer gears and a driveshaft to the rear wheels, the all-weather drive system employs a second, independent electric motor to drive the rear wheels, when needed, to help maintain optimal traction.

Trunk Space

One of the features that I love is that the RX has 18 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55.9 cubic feet with them folded down. Plenty of space for boxes, suitcases, and all of my kids’ sporting equipment.

About Lexus

Lexus is an automotive company that takes inspired design, relentless innovation, and uninhibited performance and turns them into passionate, moving experiences. But, that’s only part of our DNA. We’re equally dedicated to offering exceptional customer experiences. And in doing so, creating loyalty throughout the world—not just with the people who buy our vehicles, but the people in the communities around us. Their unique contributions have moved the entire automotive industry forward. But, they never forget about giving back. That’s why they strive to empower people’s lives, help to preserve the environment and donate to numerous causes.

Get Social with Lexus!

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Thanks to A Girl’s Guide To Cars and Toyota for sponsoring the 2019 A Girl’s Guide to Cars Fall Drive & Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. This 2019 Lexus RX 450 H is sponsored. All opinions are my own.

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Depression and Stress During the Holiday Season

November 27, 2019 by Autumn Murray 1 Comment

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Depression and Stress During the Holiday Season

Mental distress is common during the holiday season. Possible triggers include relationship problems, financial concerns and unrealistic portrayals in the media.

The holidays are frequently associated with mental distress, hence the popular terms “holiday blues” and “holiday depression.” Some people find themselves feeling mildly low or stressed during the holiday season, usually recovering when the festivities are over. The holiday season usually refers to Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year, however, there are other winter festivals that likely cause distress.

Holiday Blues or Depression?

Mild mental distress is usually manageable without treatment. However, when someone feels their life is being markedly diminished by low mood, it is advisable they seek medical advice. They may be experiencing a depressive illness such as SAD, which affects people between Autumn and Spring. There are also physical illnesses that present with depression, which should be ruled out.

Depression symptoms include, but are not limited to:

Persistent feelings of low mood
Lack of enjoyment or interest in activities
Difficulty concentrating
Tiredness
Sleeping problems
Changes in appetite

Possible Triggers of Holiday Blues / Depression

Existing life stressors and commitments – seasonal stressors will occur in addition to ongoing life issues. Although the holidays are hyped up as a time of joy, this isn’t always the case. The holiday season cannot magically erase responsibilities and/or problems.
Relationship problems – relationships can become intense, particularly when everyone involved is feeling pressured. For example, some may be concerned about spending time with relatives they have conflicts with.
Financial concerns – some people will feel pressured to spend a lot of money at Christmas, not just in gifts, but in food, travel, entertainment and decorations.
Physical concerns – socializing, preparing food and traveling can all be exhausting. Overindulging in junk food and alcohol results in feelings of fatigue, sluggishness, and low mood, and excessive intake can seriously compromise health.
Previous holiday experiences – people may reflect on past celebrations that invoked strong emotions, both positive and negative. A good example is of those spending a holiday season without a loved one, perhaps due to a bereavement or divorce.
Media images of the holidays – the media often focus on ideal images, resulting in people feeling pressured to conform to those ideals. This is especially difficult for those whose personal experiences differ greatly from the images portrayed.
Lack of sunlight – evidence from light therapy trials suggests strong links between mood and sunlight. People will likely experience low mood due to lack of sunlight even if they do not meet the full criteria for SAD.
A combination of factors – people may experience some or all of the above during the holiday season. While low mood due to lack of sunlight alone may not always cause significant distress, relationship problems, physical concerns and lack of sunlight may be harmful in combination.

Health Benefits of Getting Outdoors by Julie Singh

If you’re a self-professed homebody, you could seriously benefit from a change of scenery. Spending time in nature could improve your physical and mental health, ward off illness, and actually make you happier!

As the Father of Western Medicine, Hippocrates, once said, “Nature itself is the best physician.” If you’re curious about the health benefits you can reap from being outside, read on! Below, we cover 13 reasons to soak up everything nature has to offer. Read on for the best benefits of getting outdoors.

Read the full article: HERE

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How to Get into the Holiday Spirit

December 5, 2019 by Autumn Murray 1 Comment

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How to Get into the Holiday Spirit

Getting into the Holiday spirit often involves the places where the most time is spent. Here are some easy to implement ideas to get you into the holiday spirit that you can do at home and at your office.

Holidays often become more challenging to prepare for as time goes on. Friends and relatives that once shared the Holidays may have passed away or moved many miles away. Getting in the holiday spirit often involves taking action before the holiday festivities begin. Here are some ideas for getting into the holiday spirit.

Christmas Candles

Highly scented Christmas candles can bring the scent of baking pies or cookies quickly throughout the house. Evergreen candles and highly concentrated air fresheners can add the freshly cut Christmas tree smell to an artificial tree.

Choose elegant white or colored candles that complement the holiday decorations. Look for Christmas candles made by companies that specialize in aromatherapy. Multiple wick candles will pull the scent throughout a larger area. Plan to light these Christmas candles during parties and informal gatherings.

Business Christmas Gifts

Owners of small to mid-sized businesses may feel the budgeting problems associated with buying numerous employee Christmas gifts. Business gift cards allow business owners to buy gift cards for local grocery stores, retail outlets, and in online shops. These business gift cards can be purchased in different monetary denominations.

Christmas postcards can be sent to everyone in your business and personal contact lists. These postcards may generate phone calls from old friends, unexpected guests, and other family members who want to feel closer to loved ones. Business contacts may keep the Christmas postcards on display and think of emailing or calling to take advantage of business services.

Christmas Photos

Christmas photos provide a great way to reflect on Holidays past. Taking a few digital Christmas photos ensures that there will be lasting memories for next year. Use older Christmas photos to decorate near the Christmas tree or the gift area. This will to add more holiday spirit to the living area of the home or business. Digital Christmas photos of children or especially funny Holiday moments can be framed and used as conversation pieces leading up to New Years’ Day.

Placing Christmas photos around the home or office can help loved ones feel close by. Light scented Christmas candles to bring back warm memories of baked goods without the calories. Use these tips to help bring the holiday spirit into any home or office environment.

Christmas Music

Play Christmas music that is festive, relaxing, and soothing. Avoid songs that are explicit that may offend friends or co-workers. If you have to work longer hours during the holidays, bring holiday music to work.

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Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta

November 20, 2019 by Autumn Murray Leave a Comment

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Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta outside view

Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta | Credit: Porsche

Disclosure: The Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta invited me, along with my colleagues attending the Girls Guide to Cars Fall Media Drive and Conference to spend the afternoon at the center. All opinions and experiences are my own.

Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta

Have you ever wanted to drive a Porsche? Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta has you covered. Drivers can drive a selection of Porsche vehicles on the 1.6-mile track designed specifically for the unique capabilities of Porsche vehicles.

Thanks to A Girls Guide to Cars, I got a chance to visit the Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta and test drive the Porsche 911 Carrera S and the Porsche 718 Cayman.

At Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta

Fun Fact:

Portions of the movie “Captain America, Civil War” was filmed at the Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta giving it the unofficial nickname of “The Avengers Headquarters.”

Porsche Experience Center Atlanta Track and Line Up

Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta | Credit: Porsche

The Porsche “Playground”

In order to truly appreciate what a Porsche is engineered to do—Porsche designed a 1.6-mile circuit featuring six different driving experiences that showcase the incredible performance levels of Porsche vehicles.

When I got behind the wheel of the Porsche 718 Cayman GTS I couldn’t wait to test out my “need for speed.” The Porsche 718 Cayman GTS is a mid-engine sports car with 305 horsepower and a max track speed of 175 mph.

The professional driving coach that I was paired with to direct me through the course gave me permission to speed and I hit 98 MPH in a matter of seconds in the “Dynamics” area on my fourth try. It was so exciting and thrilling at the same time! It is important to note, that the circuit is not a “racetrack.” It is a performance track built to test the abilities of the cars.

Out of all six sections of the driving circuit, the “Wet, Low-Friction Circle” section was my favorite. We were able to test out the glorious drift of the Porsche in the low-friction circle and experience the over-steer capabilities using a combination of throttle and steering input on an inward slope of wet polished concrete.

Off-Roading at Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta

Porsche Cayenne

Porsche Cayenne Off-Roading

The Cayenne is Porsche’s mid-size luxury crossover sport utility vehicle. For the Off-Roading experience, a professional driving coach is at the wheel of the Cayenne and drives you through a separate track designed for testing the engineering and safety technology behind the Cayenne’s capabilities.

Simulator Lab

Drivers of all ages can experience the thrill of driving at some of the world’s greatest race tracks Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta’s Simulator Lab. There is a selection of Porsche driving options to choose from all with highly authentic physics and performance characteristics. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to try out the Simulator Lab during my visit as my time was limited.

Heritage Gallery

Porsche fans will love taking a self-guided tour of the Heritage Gallery within the PorschePorsche Drive. The gallery features an ever-changing collection of historic Porsche vehicles from the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart and a variety of Porsche vehicles from private owners in the United States.

Restaurant 356

Restaurant 356 at Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta

Restaurant 356 is a contemporary restaurant, with a relaxed yet elegant feel. Their classically trained chefs use fresh, local, organic and sustainably produced ingredients to create seasonal menus with a modern flare. They are open for lunch, dinner, and private events.

The food and atmosphere are amazing! The restaurant is open to the public and reservations can be made on Open Table.

About Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta!

The epitome of driving freedom, the Porsche Experience Center Atlanta provides a thrilling experience you can only get from an iconic sports car manufacturer.

This purpose-built destination is designed to help guests fully explore the abilities of the world’s most thrilling sports cars. A 1.6-mile driver development track consisting of 6 modules combine to create a challenging and exhilarating environment filled with hands-on and fast-paced learning.

Beyond the track, you can compete on iconic tracks around the world in our Simulator Lab, or view one-of-a-kind vehicles in the Heritage Gallery. For a more formal meal, Restaurant 356 offers a thoughtfully curated menu combined with stunning views of the track.

Get Social with the Porsche Drive Experience Center of Atlanta!

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A Girls Guide to Cars Conference in Atlanta

A Girls Guide to Cars

A Girls Guide to Cars brings together the insights and views of writers and reviewers who share their unbiased, honest and personal narratives about cars and their lives in cars. Their mission is to empower women to be smarter, happier car owners. Thank you A Girls Guide to Cars for a wonderful and informational conference! I can’t wait to attend next year!

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Life Time Athletic Atlanta Cycle Competition

November 18, 2019 by Autumn Murray 21 Comments

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Life Time Athletic Atlanta October Cycle Competition Winners

Kendra Whittemore, Autumn Murray, and David Bittenbender

Life Time Athletic Atlanta Cycle Competition

Each October, Life Time Fitness holds a cycle competition to encourage members to take cycle classes offered at all of their locations nationwide. Life Time’s mission is to provide an entertaining, educational, friendly and inviting, functional and innovative experience of uncompromising quality that meets the health and fitness needs of the entire family.

And each October, my friends and I have a friendly competition to see who can take the most classes at our location at Lifetime Athletic Atlanta.

Autumn Murray during Life Time Athletic Atlanta October Cycle Competition

Costume Fun at Life Time Athletic Atlanta’s Cycle Karaoke Night

October Themed Cycle Classes by Ryan Makely-Philips at Life Time Athletic Atlanta

Themed Cycle Classes

Throughout the cycle competition month, Ryan Makely-Philips, Life Time Athletic Atlanta’s Boutique Cycle Manager, designed fun and creative themed classes to encourage participation. Themes included: a celebration of Pride Month, 80s Rock ‘n Roll, a tribute Stranger Things, Halloween, and a Halloween Cycle Karaoke class led by Ryan and instructor Hallie Heller-Chase.

Cycle Competition Winners at Life Time Athletic Atlanta

Kendra Whittemore, Dave Bittenbender, and I rounded out the top three members with the most cycle classes at Life Time Athletic Atlanta with a combined total of 199 rides between us. With an average of 20 miles “per ride” in each class, we averaged a grand total of 3,980 miles – the distance from Atlanta to Anchorage Alaska is just over 4,000 miles. That is some pretty amazing mileage!

While this was probably a normal month for Dave, a USA Dragon Boat champion and current competitor in competitions around the world, Kendra and I biked around our work and family schedules to get as many classes in as we could. We went a little crazy this year as Lifetime partnered with Sandals Resorts for the cycle competition. Talk about an incentive to do what we love – workout, feel great, and possibly win a Sandals Resorts vacation? We went all in and gave it everything we could. At the end of the month, I completed 81 classes, Kendra came in a close second at 71 classes, and David with 47 classes. Kendra wins the prize for most classes in one day as a few days she took five classes, whereas my limit was four.

Life Time Athletic Atlanta Cycle Classes

Life Time Athletic Atlanta offers 100 indoor cycle classes per month. Indoor cycle classes are incredible workouts that push you at your own pace. Life Time’s expert instructors drive the energy with music, drills and motivational coaching.

Types of classes indoor cycle classes include:

AMP – AMP is a heart-pumping, calorie-burning, high-energy cycle workout that’s fueled by the beat of the latest music.
EDG- EDG blends metrics-based heart-rate training with motivational music for a fun and results-oriented cycle workout.
Power – PWR is a structured cycle training class designed for the cycling enthusiast or triathlete.
AMP Sculpt – AMP Sculpt infuses our heart-pumping AMP class with body-sculpting sections for a party-like, full-body cycle workout.
EDG Sculpt- EDG Sculpt takes our metrics-based EDG class to the next level, adding strength training to drive your results even further.

Autumn Murray - Lifetime Athletic Atlanta Cycle Competition

My tribute to Bubba Dee Licious at Life Time Athletic Atlanta’s Halloween Ride and my 81st Cycle Class

Life Time’s Amazing Instructors

Thank you to all of the Life Time Athletic Atlanta instructors that encouraged our friendly competition and played some amazing playlists during our rides — Ryan Makely-Philips, Hallie Heller-Chase, Tisha Puri-Puridan, Clare Klitenic, Michael Morris, and TJ Ventre. Instructors like you make working out fun and keep us coming back for more!

Ryan Makely-Philips and Hallie Chase at Lifetime Athletic Atlanta Cycle Competition

Life Time Athletic Atlanta Boutique Cycle Manager Ryan Makely-Philips and Cycle Instructor Hallie Heller-Chase in costume for the Halloween cycle class.

About Life Time

Life Time was founded in 1992 by Chief Executive Officer, Chairman, and President Bahram Akradi, with its first location in Brooklyn Park, Minn. The company opened its first 65,000-square-foot club in Eagan, Minn. in 1994. Life Time remains committed to championing a healthy and happy life for its members through a portfolio of unparalleled athletic lifestyle resorts that go beyond fitness to encompass the entire spectrum of daily life for individuals, couples, and families of all ages.

Not a member of Life Time Fitness? You can find locations and membership details HERE.

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Choose Love Movement on September 16! | #ChooseLove

September 2, 2019 by Autumn Murray 23 Comments

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Choose Love Movement on September 16! | #ChooseLove

On September 16, I will turn the ripe age of 50 years old. The big Five-O is an age that I never thought I would live to see and I welcome this birthday with open arms.

I am eternally grateful for the life that I have lived and for not taking the steps that I so often thought of that would have prevented me from experiencing all of the good things life has to offer in spite of the difficulties I had to experience to get to this point.

With all of the negativity that is going on in the world right now, we need love more than ever. I believe that it is easier to love than it is to hate. We are born with love in our hearts. Hate is learned and it takes an effort to hate.

No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.
― Nelson Mandela

Choose Love Movement on September 16! | #ChooseLove

Me at or around the age of one

I Want Love

As I detailed in the “My Story” section of this site, my childhood was not ideal. What child gets rejected by two families in the lottery of life? Me, that’s who. My birth mother allowed an environment of abuse and neglect and then my adopted family took the abuse to an entirely different level.

I’ve only ever had one wish and that is to be loved and accepted as I believe every child/person deserves.

Piglet: How do you spell ‘love’?
Winnie the Pooh: ‘You don’t spell it…you feel it.
– A.A. Milne

Autumn Murray recognized as Social Hero

Me in 2nd or 3rd grade.

I Will Always Choose Love!

I will always choose love regardless of circumstances. It is not a slogan to me, it literally is my life’s creed.

If someone like me who has been through neglect, abuse, overt racism, sexual assault, and rape can make the conscious effort to Choose Love, I believe anyone can.

I Choose Love because in the words of Martin Luther King, Jr. “Hate is too great a burden to bear.”

I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.
― Martin Luther King, Jr.

#ChooseLove on September 16th!

Making others feel included and accepted is something that is always on my mind and something that I strive to accomplish in every situation. Although I am sure I have failed in some ways over the years, I’ve always wanted people to feel included as I know what it is like to be felt left out and to look on from the sidelines.

Call To Action! For my 50th birthday – September 16 – I want to launch a global message of positivity. I am asking each individual that reads this message to post a message on social media with the hashtag #ChooseLove and tag me in it.

The message could be just the hashtag #ChooseLove, or a positive message, GIF, meme, quote and/or photo with the hashtag #ChooseLove and tagging me.

Tag me on my social channels!

Instagram: @autumninatlanta

Twitter: @autumnatlanta

Facebook Business Page: Simply Amazing Living

Pinterest: @autumnatlanta

YouTube: @autumninatlanta

Choose Love! Article: George Michael’s Music Saved My Life

Click HERE to buy a Choose Love T-shirt!
Available in Tank Tops (Men and Women’s) and Unisex T-shirts.

Suicide Prevention Organizations:

Yellow Ribbon Foundation

The Trevor Project

SAVE

“I feel my heart break to see a nation ripped apart by its own greatest strength – its diversity.”
― Melissa Ethridge

When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.
― Jimi Hendrix

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Shop at Walmart and Earn Double Box Tops!

August 10, 2019 by Autumn Murray 19 Comments

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This post was sponsored by General Mills but all opinions expressed in the post are my own.

Box Tops For Education

I have been clipping box tops for the Box Tops For Education™ program since my godson was in kindergarten and asked me to save them and give them to him for his school. That was almost 20 years ago.

When my daughter started elementary school, I led the Box Tops For Education™ program for three years. With the help of parents diligently collecting and clipping Box Tops, our school was able to raise enough money to purchase smart boards for each classroom™. It was wonderful being a part of a fundraising effort that will have a lasting impact on the school for years to come.

Box Tops For Education™ started in California in 1996 when General Mills created a program to support education and benefit America’s schools. It is now one of America’s largest school earnings loyalty program with over 90,000 K-8 schools participating. Over $913 million dollars has been given to participating schools to purchase books, computers, playground equipment and more.

Shop at Walmart and Earn Double Box Tops!

I am starting my back to school shopping early this year and will be on the lookout at Walmart for items with the Box Tops For Education™ logo.

Walmart is ramping up their support for Box Tops For Education™ from now until September 8, 2019. Shop at Walmart for your family favorite food items and earn 1 Bonus Box Top for each regular Box Tops For Education™ product purchased. Additionally, earn 5 Box Topsfor each cereal multipacks. This offer is exclusive to Walmart so hurry in to take advantage of this Double Box Tops offer!

Shop at Walmart and Earn Double Box Tops! #BoxTopsatWalmart

Box Tops have Gone Digital! Download the Box Tops For Education App!

There literally is an app for everything. You can easily download the Box Top For Education™ App from your smart phone’s App store for free and start supporting eligible, enrolled schools today.

Each product featuring the Box Tops logo is worth 10 cents (unless otherwise specified) to your participating school when you scan your receipt containing the participating product in the free Box Tops App.

Box Tops For Education App Rules and Regulations

To receive both your regular and Bonus Box Tops, your eligible receipt must be scanned in the App within 14 days of your Box Tops For Education™ product purchase at Walmart.

Note: There is a limit of $20,000 per school per year for redemptions through the clip and receipt scanning programs. Limit $10,000 per App user per year for redemptions through receipt scanning. See www.BTFE.com for App Terms of Service, Official Program Rules, and Privacy Policy. Standard data rates may apply.

Important Walmart Disclaimer:
Product information is provided by the supplier or manufacturer of the product and should not be construed as advice. Walmart does not sponsor, recommend or endorse any third party, product, service or information provided on this site.

Shop at Walmart and earn Double Bonus Box Tops!
(Ends September 8, 2019)

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Michelle Obama Becoming Book Tour Stop in Dallas | #IAmBecoming

January 8, 2019 by Autumn Murray 47 Comments

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Becoming Book Tour Stop in Dallas, TX

I was so excited when my husband surprised me with VIP Meet and Greet tickets to see former First Lady Michelle Obama in Dallas, TX on her book tour for her memoir Becoming. For details on how the surprise took place, you can read about it in my post here.

We live in Atlanta, so he also arranged for a flight and overnight hotel accommodations in Dallas, TX.

Michelle Obama Becoming #IAmBecoming Dallas, TX

Atlanta Airport getting ready to board my Delta flight to Dallas, TX.

I love visiting Dallas where “big things happen.” It has been a few years since I’ve been in the Dallas airport and was surprised to see a large stage in the middle of the airport. How awesome is that? As listed in Guide Live, Musician Michael Clay approached Dallas Love Field officials with the idea to showcase local talent. I can’t think of a better way to spend my time waiting for a flight than listening to live music. With all of the musical talent we have in Atlanta, maybe we will get a stage sometime in our Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport.

Stage in the Dallas Airport.

Michelle Obama Surprises Students

When we checked into our hotel room (my friend Charis was with me as her husband also surprised her with tickets), we turned on the television to the local Dallas news and saw that Michelle Obama had surprised students at the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House during their annual Young Women’s Leadership Conference. Dozens of young women were discussing their thoughts on her book Becoming during one of the conference sessions when the former First Lady walked in and surprised the students. She was met with cheers, a few tears, and overwhelming admiration.

VIP Meet and Greet Check-In
We arrived at check-in around thirty minutes before we were expected to arrive to make sure we were able to get into the VIP reception. The information we had about the event specified that late arrivals would not be allowed into the reception, only the presentation following the reception. We were not taking any chances with arriving late as we were not giving away our shot at meeting Michelle Obama!

Michelle Obama Graces the Cover of Essence

Chris Bosh and Autumn Murray

Chris Bosh

As we were waiting in the VIP reception line, we see Chris Bosh, former NBA player and Dallas local, in the reception line with his wife and young daughter. He was kind enough to take a photo with me after I asked his wife’s permission.

L to R: Autumn Murray, Michelle Obama, Charis Hanberry

The Hugger-In-Chief

When I found out that I was going to meet Former First Lady Michelle Obama, I immediately wondered if I could receive one of her famous hugs. I have said numerous times that I want a hug from Michelle Obama before I leave this earth.

As we anxiously stood in line to meet her, we looked at the people around us. There appeared to be around 150 in attendance and everyone was dressed to the nines. I can imagine we were all thinking the same thing, that if you are going to get a picture with Former First Lady Michelle Obama, you want to look your absolute best!

We were in line behind Chris Bosh and his family and about twenty people back we saw Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks, and his family. It was pretty amusing to us that the guy that owns the Dallas Mavericks and pays the lease of the facility we are in (American Airlines Center) has to wait in line like everyone else.

When it was our time to approach her, she greeted us by saying our names. I know she was given our names ahead of time, but it still freaked me out just a little to hear Michelle Obama say my name! And then she opened her arms and hugged me! I got my wish! As I was hugging her, I told her that I couldn’t believe I was hugging Michelle Obama and I might have jostled her a little in my excitement. She just laughed and then hugged my friend.

As they were telling us where and how to stand for the photo, I thanked her for continuing to go high as they continue to go lower. She looked at me and said, “There certainly is a lot of low in the world right now.” And I agreed. We took our picture and as we were leaving she held my hand and said: “Thank you.” At that point, I could barely walk out of the room. The security must have sensed my instability and told me that we could take the stairs instead of the stairsteps as we had entered.

I am just so proud of myself that I didn’t break down and cry and that I was able to talk to her without sticking my foot into my mouth.

Meeting her was simply amazing!

“Hugging is how I connect to people – how I show warmth and make folks feel at home.” Michelle Obama (source: The Medium)

A Conversation with Michelle Obama

We had seats in the center of the 7th row. As we were waiting and everyone was getting to their seats, videos were being played on the flat screens. Videos from her on Ellen, the Jimmy Fallon show, James Corbin and so many others. Also, pictures from her childhood and throughout her life were being shown set to some of Michelle’s favorite musical artists (Stevie Wonder, Lauryn Hill, Diana Ross, and a host of others). Some people were dancing and a lot of us were singing along with the music.

When it was time for the program to start, Mark Cuban and a few other Dallas locals got on stage to say a few inspirational words before Michelle Obama was introduced. Mark Cuban had his two young daughters with him and expressed his views on the importance of diversity and female leadership and inclusion.

Valerie Jarrett, a former senior advisor for Barrack Obama, then introduced Former First Lady Michelle Obama and the crowd immediately stood up and gave her a standing ovation. And then for over 90 minutes, she held a microphone and answered Valerie’s questions in front of a transfixed audience that was hanging on every word she said.

During the “Conversation” as in the book, Michelle described her growth from the South Side of Chicago to First Lady of the United States, through stories of empowerment and overcoming adversity.

The entire event from meeting her to watching her presentation was extremely empowering. Everyone in the room was happy and there was such a positive vibe that it seemed infectious. Michelle Obama to me is an inspiration and a treasure. I love her compassion for others and her ability to remain classy no matter what is said about her. She knows who she is and she knows the sky is the limit to what she can achieve. I thank her for writing her book and for wanting to help others “become” who they were always destined to be.

Michelle Obama and Valerie Jarrett | Credit: Getty Images

Michelle Obama

Autographed Copy of Becoming
Included in our VIP Meet and Greet package was an autographed copy of Becoming. I am in the middle of my second reading of the book. When I am finished, my daughter is going to read it and then we will discuss how every woman is becoming their best self.

VIP SWAG

Also included in our VIP Meet and Greet package was a Gift Bag filled with lots of Goodies! A recipe book by Sam Kass, Anastasia Beverly Hills makeup, a Motown Magic CD, a hat from the Ellen Degeneres Show, a water bottle, a free exercise class at Barry’s, a few postcard-sized pictures of Michelle Obama, a VIP “Becoming” lanyard, and all the items came in a sweetgreen recyclable bag.

Get your copy of “Becoming” by Michelle Obama today!

AN OPRAH’S BOOK CLUB 2018 SELECTION

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Best Buy In-Home Consulation for Free!

August 27, 2019 by Autumn Murray Leave a Comment

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What’s Included in the Consultation

Best Buy In-Home Advisors will provide recommendations and a personalized plan for the right solution to improve your home and lives through technology. You can choose what works best for you and your family. Their In-Home Advisors are technology and whole home experts who can handle any project – big or small and they will work with you to bring out the best in your home.

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Eero Mesh Wifi System

Get great WiFi performance in your home with The Ero Mesh Wife System. It comes with three eros and is made for homes with 3-5+ bedrooms. Each ero is tri-band and uses TrueMesh technology to enable great WiFi performance and reliability no matter how many devices you use in your home. And with eero’s app, you can set up your system in under 10 minutes, share your network with guests, and manage family screen time from anywhere.

Ring Video Doorbell 2

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