Lifestyle – A Spoonful of Honi

Catching My Eye | 07.09.21

Kimberly — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 13:00:22 +0000

Happy Friday! I don’t know about you, but short weeks always feel extra long to me. I have a fun weekend planned celebrating a friend’s birthday, seeing a play at a farm, and packing up a storm for my upcoming move. Life has been anything by slow lately. It feels like a complete 180 from last year, and I’d be lying if I said I was handling it well. I’ve had one too many crying sessions lately, but I’m really hoping the fall can be a time of relaxation and joy as the holidays approach and my brother gets married. Anyone else feeling constantly overwhelmed with life going back to normal? this week’s good things: Family time over the weekend was much needed, Maggie cuddles have been extra sweet, I’m deep in a good book and all I want to do is read. Let’s get started! one | a book list It’s a big month for publishing! Check out this list of the 43 most anticipated book releases of July. I’ve already added 10 books to my ever-growing TBR list. two | work tips Need to send that pesky reminder email regarding the item you’re waiting on? Here’s some tips on how to perfectly craft that email bump. three | fashion find I got some linen shorts from Target last week, and I knew I needed to pair it with a bodysuit. I have never liked bodysuits on me, but this one from Amazon fits like a glove. I got it in the green, but I’m waiting for the black to come back in stock. four | friendship tips Love your friends but don’t know how to show them? I love these tips on how to show you care based on someone’s Enneagram type. Speaking as an Enneagram 1, they nailed it. five | currently reading Reese, Ames, and Katrina are about to enter into a very complicated relationship. Reese and Ames were together when Ames was Amy. He decided to detransition to a live as a man to make life easier, but that decision cost him his relationship with Reese, his only family. When Katrina, Ames’s boss and lover finds out she’s pregnant with Ames’s child, he wonders if this is the chance he’s been waiting for to have it all with Reese. Could they be a family together? Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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July Goals & A June Update | 2021

Kimberly — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 13:00:22 +0000

Happy July! June wasn’t what I expected to say the least, but I’m hoping to have a really strong July. A ton of life changes are about to come my way, and while I know it’s going to be a lot, I am so excited to see where it takes me. Let’s get started! June 2021 Goals one | read six books I did it! You can check out my full reading list from June here. two | take a hike Life was a little crazier than expected this month, so the hike will unfortunately have to wait. Hopefully, I can get out sometime this month or next. three | run three times a week I’m going to count this as a half success! I made it out on about six runs, so I hit my goal two weeks out of four. I experienced some recurring health issues towards the end of last month that threw me off, but I still think I gave great effort. four | go thrift shopping Again, this month was a little busier than normal but thrifting never goes out of style. July 2021 Goals one | move into my new apartment This is basically a gimme since I have to move, but I know this month is about to be the most insane time in my life, so I kind of need this win. two | go on daily walks I really miss the simplicity of walking that I picked up during the pandemic. I’m going to try to weave this back into my daily practice as a lunch break during the week and a morning routine on the weekends. three | read six books Books to read this month include Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo, Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters, Women Don’t Ask by Linda Babcock and Sara Laschever, and Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi. We’re keeping it at three goals this month since I know it’s about to be an insane 23 days. Between moving, traveling, and a crazy workload, I need to be kind to myself. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 07.02.21

Kimberly — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 13:00:41 +0000

Happy Friday! I hope everyone is able to enjoy a long weekend to celebrate America’s birthday whether you have today or Monday off. I’ll be heading up to Kentucky to spend time with my boyfriend’s sister and brother-in-law, and I can’t wait to relax! This week, as most weeks, has been really hectic — I think life is going to be a little bit in disarray until I can get settled in my new place — but its also been a blast to celebrate birthdays and accomplishments and begin the packing process for my new place. this week’s good things: birthday celebrations for three important people in my life, knocked HUGE to-dos off my list, found the perfect bridesmaid dress. Let’s get started! one | ethical options As mentioned below, I’m not the greatest at ethical shopping, but I really want to cultivate a lifestyle that does support ethical choices and options. I’m attempting to get into thrifting, and I love this curated list of ethical fashion options from The Good Trade. If you’ve got other recommendations on how I can make better choices for the environment, please let me know! two | the four-day workweek I’ve been reading books and articles about shorter work weeks since I can remember, so why are we still slogging through 40 hours minimums in America? I would estimate I work over 40 hours most weeks, but what would happen if we implemented some of the tips from smaller companies that have minimized work time to maximize productivity and happiness? three | fashion find I hate to admit this, but I’ve been loving Amazon fashion! I got this top this week, and I went to a birthday dinner for a friend where everyone was complimenting me on it. The perfect top to dress up or dress down. four | books interesting people read Looking to find your next read? Base it off of what interesting people are submitting to this website. It was founded by a company based in Singapore and its goal is to make reading fun, collaborative, and easy. five | currently reading I am devouring the second book in the From Blood and Ash series. A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire picks up right where the first book left off, and I am truly loving it. I really enjoy the way Jennifer L. Armentrout writes, and there’s nothing better than being sucked into a book just for the fun of it. I can’t really explain anything without giving anything away, so just know I love it. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Summer Bucket List | 2021

Kimberly — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 13:00:58 +0000

Summer is in full swing in Nashville, and I am ready for all the things this season has to offer. I used to live in a town where it was summer all year long, but nothing compares to Nashville at this time of year. From local ice cream shops to a baseball game every other week, there’s no way you can be bored in Music City. Let’s get started! one | go to a baseball game I’ve never pretended to be a sports gal, but there is nothing better than a Sounds game from the Band Box on a hot summer night. Give me a hot dog and an ice cream cone and I don’t think there’s been a better night. two | watch an outdoor movie There are multiple outdoor movie festivals going on at a time, and I’ve always managed to make it to a showing in previous summers. It’s one of my favorite traditions. three | decorate my apartment I’m moving into my own place at the end of the July, and I am incredibly excited to make it my own. I’ve never lived on my own, and I’m interested to see how my style evolves and showcases itself in a new place. four | go on a date from my adventure book My boyfriend got me The Adventure Challenge for our one year anniversary, and we’ve been so busy we haven’t had a chance to scratch any dates off of our list. I can’t wait to do something fun and unexpected in the next few months. five | attend a concert It’s been much too long since I’ve seen live music. One of my boyfriend’s favorite bands is coming to town mid-August, and we will be front row for our first concert in over 18 months. six | find the perfect spot for star gazing Admittedly, I don’t know a lot about stars, but it’s always something I’ve wanted to do. I have the perfect blanket and telescope to make it the perfect evening. seven | see Shakespeare in the park Nashville’s annual Shakespeare in the Park is coming back from August 12 – September 19. I’ve never been, and this feels like the perfect time. eight | enjoy a rooftop brunch There is no lack of rooftop options for a tasty brunch. I’ve been to plenty at night to see the skyline, but I’m looking forward to a sunny morning sipping mimosas and looking at the skyline. nine | try a new ice cream place Fifth and Broadway just opened up downtown. I’ve been loving popping over there for lunch or drinks, and there’s a new ice cream place in the Assembly Hall I’ve been dying to check out, Hattie Jane’s Creamery. Yum! ten | read a book at the park I couldn’t have a summer bucket list without including a reading activity! I got a picnic blanket in my FabFitFun box for summer, and I can’t wait to take it to the park down the street, find a shady spot under a tree, and dive into a new story. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 06.25.21

Kimberly — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 13:00:54 +0000

Happy Friday! This week was an emotional rollercoaster. My boyfriend and I spent quite a bit of time on Tuesday solving a problem that’s been on our plates since December, my health issue from earlier in the year cropped up again, and I got amazing news at work. Some ups, some downs, but mostly I’m just excited for the weekend. I’ve got some quality friend time planned, and I can’t wait to catch up with my gals. this week’s good things: Amazon Prime Day (consumerism at its finest), crossed a big to-do item off the list, got great news at work. Let’s get started! one | making new friends I love love love these tips from Grace on how to make new friends as an adult. The biggest takeaway for me was to not be afraid to make the first move — I made one of my best friends by sliding into her Instagram DMs to ask if she wanted to go to CMA Fest with me, and we laugh every time we tell the story. two | work tips I’m back in the office full-time, and boy does 3 p.m. hit differently. I’ll give anything a try that promises to wake me up in the afternoon these days. I’m interested to try these habits recommended by Self that promise to energize my afternoon. A few ideas stood out to me, that are plausible, like playing some more upbeat music, taking the time to make a snack, and scheduling in breaks. I’ll be trying these out next week. three | skincare find I have been experiencing the driest skin in my entire life the last month or so, and I feel like I’m running out things to try. My future sister in law is big into skincare, and she recommended this Tony Moly mask to me. I immediately ordered it, and I can’t wait to try it out. four | snack thoughts I’m thinking about investing in Thrive Market. Does anyone use it and love it? I’m such a big snacker, and I’m just trying to decide if it’s worth it. Let me know in the comments or in my DMs. five | currently reading Set Boundaries, Find Peace came recommended to me in a Girl’s Night In newsletter, and it came at the perfect time for me. I’m a self-proclaimed people-pleaser, so nothing is harder for me than boundaries. I do my darnedest, but it’s something I’ve always struggled with. In Nedra Glover Tawwab’s debut-book, she delves into how to set healthy boundaries in your personal life with friends and family as well as with your work life with toxic coworkers or unrealistic expectations. I’m loving it so far and can’t wait to permanently add it to my shelf (it’s currently on loan from the library). Happy reading, Kimberly

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2021 Goal Progress

Kimberly — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 13:00:17 +0000

We are a little over half-way through 2021 — Congrats! Whether this year isn’t anything like you expected or it’s turning out exactly as planned, I’m glad you’re still here. While I feel like I’ve accomplished a lot over the last few weeks, I also feel like I’ve accomplished nothing? It’s a weird feeling, but I’m going to keep moving forward. As you may know, my boyfriend and I do a weekly check-in with each other to make sure we are on track to accomplish our goals and making sure our weeks are going the way we want them to. The other week, I realized one of my goals had completely changed — so, we pivoted my weekly tracker to reflect those changes. Just your gentle reminder that goals are great to have, but it’s also okay if they change! Being adaptable is arguably the most important characteristic to have in life. Anyways, let’s get started! 2021 Intention Develop a healthy relationship with my mind, body, and soul. Update: Honestly, this is a hard one. I’ve had a dysfunctional relationship with my body for a very long time, so I knew this would take more than just six months to master. I’m trying to feed myself physically, mentally, and emotionally on a daily basis. I journal every day. I try to move my body in some way or fashion whether that’s just a walk or some yoga. And I try to eat healthy, nourishing foods. This is definitely a journey, but I’m glad I’m embarking on it. 2021 Goals one | further my industry knowledge bi-weekly through educational courses, trainings, or certifications There are lots of trainings, courses, and educational opportunities I have in my saved folders that I’m going to make it a priority to get to this year. I love learning, and in my industry, it’s so important to stay up-to-date on all the new information available. Update: While I haven’t been able to tackle courses bi-weekly, I’ve still managed to complete almost all of Julie Soloman’s courses — which is a huge step for me. Next, I’m going to try to tackle either my Google Analytics certification or some other certifications that could help me in my field. two | outline my book idea(s) I’ve always wanted to write a book. It’s been a goal of mine for the past two years to write that book, and I’ve never made any head-way. In 2021, I plan to outline my book idea(s) and finally make some progress on this life-long goal. Update: Unfortunately, I have made zero progress on this life goal — and that’s okay. There are six months left in the year, and I know I can make some progress on these outlines in the coming months. I can’t wait to see what I come up with. three | remain heavily involved in my non-profit work and investigate new opportunities Done and done. I haven’t found a new literacy organization to be a part of yet, but I was elected to a new board position with one of my non-profits and I’ve secured some awards and media coverage for another non-profit, and I’m really proud of the work I am accomplishing. Update:I currently serve on two non-profit boards, and I hope to maintain that involvement throughout the year. I also want to find a local literacy foundation to start working with that I can remain involved in in the years to come. four | distribute a regular newsletter to my blog readers I used to send a weekly newsletter, and I want to start that up again. I need to brainstorm some more ideas on how I’d like to see it designed and what information I’d like to include, but I’m planning to start distributing again in February. Update: I am happy to report that I am back up and running with my newsletter! I’ve changed to a monthly format that talks about three upcoming book releases for the month as well as my top three blog posts over the last month. I might add to it as I get more comfortable with the format, but so far I’m really loving it as a way to connect with my readers. You can sign up for my newsletter today! five | develop a consistent, sustainable workout routine If you’re a regular reader, you know I had a pretty good workout routine down prior to October of 2020 when I had a slew of health issues pop-up. I’ve been back on the grind for two weeks now and feeling better than ever. I hope to keep it up in the months to come since working out always makes me feel at my best. Update: Unfortunately, it’s been really hard to get back into working out. Things have been crazy busy at work and with life, and I’ve been participating in a little bit of “revenge bedtime procrastination” lately which means I’m staying up much too late to wake up at 5 a.m. for a workout. I’ll hit it hard one week, and then completely fall off the wagon the next. I’m hoping to be more consistent in the latter half of 2021. six | cook at home more regularly I started this habit in 2020, and I’m keeping it around for 2021. I invested in a meal kit delivery system at the end of 2020, and I really love it. It makes cooking so much easier. As someone who never knows what to cook, it’s really nice to have it show up at my door 80 percent ready for me to make. Update: Check that box! I cook at home about three days a week, and I’ve even been meal prepping my lunches since going back in the office. Cooking at home makes it so much easier to stay healthy and mindful of what I’m putting in my body. seven | travel to two new cities (if safe) If it’s safe with the pandemic, I’m hoping to travel to two new-to-me cities this year. I haven’t gotten to explore half of the United States, and I’m itching to see some new cities. I haven’t wanted to travel to any cities in 2020 because of COVID, but hopefully, 2021 is a little better for travel. Update: I scratched one city off the list, and I’ll be scratching another one off in September! My boyfriend and I took an amazing trip to Atlanta at the end of April where we went to the Coca-Cola Museum and Georgia Aquarium, and we’ll be visiting Chattanooga for a friend’s wedding in September that we are turning into a bit of a longer trip for me to see the sights. eight | learn how to crochet I tried to pick up crocheting during quarantine, but I picked it up a little too late. I’m planning to dedicate one night a week to crocheting to truly learn the art. Update: While I haven’t been crocheting as consistently as I’d like, I did learn a thing or two over the last few months. I’ll keep picking up my hooks and learning as the year progresses. I’m hoping to finish as least one pot holder project. nine | read 75 books I read 71 books in 2020, and I am determined to keep up that reading pace. I created a thorough 2021 TBR List (post coming next week), and I have piles at the ready no matter where I am (seriously). I can’t wait to see what new favorites come out of this year. Update: I am so proud of myself because I am on pace to reach my reading goal this year. Wahoo! ten | plan intentional time with my friends and partner If 2020 taught us one thing, it’s that friends and family are some of the only things that make life worth living. Both my boyfriend and I want to be more intentional in our dates — I want to do one new date activity a month together, and he wants to go on one extravagant (for us) date a quarter. I want to carry over this intentionality to my friend groups by taking dedicated time for girl’s nights and get-togethers. Update: I’d say I’m so-so on this goal. I’ve managed to cross it off the list every month, but it isn’t always due to my planning. I’d say about half of my friend time and date time is because I took initiative in planning it and half of it is because something was already on the calendar, but honestly, I’ve had such good, quality friend-time these last few months, I’m simply grateful for it no matter how it came about. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 06.18.21

Kimberly — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 13:00:31 +0000

Happy Friday! Boy am I glad it’s the weekend. It was a long week. I worked late almost every night, and I completely messed up my sleep schedule, so I definitely need rest this weekend. After a year of no plans, everything came back in full force, and I am feeling the side effects of that. How are you fairing in this post-pandemic world or is it just Nashville that feels like it’s completely back to normal? this week’s good things: I bought a couch for my new apartment, and it should only take a couple weeks once I’m moved in to arrive (if you don’t know, couches are delayed for MONTHS right now), I finished No Exit and it was so good I’m still thinking about it, and I’m celebrating a great friend’s birthday this weekend. Let’s get started! one | juneteenth explained Juneteenth is tomorrow, and if you’re like me, you, unfortunately, didn’t know about this holiday until last year (we are all learning). I thought this article did a great job of explaining what the holiday is, how to honor the day, and why it matters. two | a book list Summer books are here! There are so many amazing books coming out in the next few months, and I love this compiled list from The Everygirl to kick off my TBR. three | fashion find I went to the mall with my brother and future sister-in-law last weekend, and I saw so much white eyelet I couldn’t stop looking at all the pieces. This is definitely one of my favorite rompers that caught my eye. This with a flannel or black denim jacket over it? Say no more. four | mental health This piece from Liz of Hello Adams Family is exactly what I needed to read this week (and every week if I am being honest). I am a person consumed by how I could always be doing “more,” and I’d be lying to you if I told you I knew how to stop thinking that way, but this article was a nice little reminder that I’m not the only that. What we watch on TV, TikTok, and our daily in-person activities tells us that “more is more,” but sometimes, we need rest, and that’s okay. More is not always more. five | currently reading She was known as Emily Doe by millions during the Brock Turner trial. Now, she’s taking back her name and identity. Chanel Miller was sexually assaulted by Turner on Stanford’s campus, and when he only received six months in jail for his crime, the world didn’t bat an eye. Miller’s story highlights a world that works to protect the perpetrator rather than the victim in most cases, a world where even when you do everything right something can go wrong, and a world where the most courageous thing to do sometimes is get out of bed. I’m listening to the audiobook, and while it’s a difficult story to read, Miller’s talent with words in undeniable. Happy reading, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 06.11.21

Kimberly — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 13:00:08 +0000

Happy Friday! I had a good week. Anyone else? It’s been awhile since I’ve felt this good, and I’m terrified it’s going to go away (that’s anxiety for you), but I’m soaking it up while I can. This week was jam-packed with meetings, networking events, and late nights of work, but it’s all worth it. this week’s good things: I joined a Nashville bookstagram book club, I’m not as tired this week, I worked our four times this week. one | the power of thought I loved this article about how some people are scared to be happy because the world is such a dark place. But actually, acting happy and working to bring about change is shown to be more effective. Fascinating! two | a book list It’s Pride month! I posted my list of books I recommend to read this month (and all year long), but here’s another one if you’re still wanting to add to your list! three | recent purchase I’m moving into my own place in July, and while I’m trying not to buy too many new things just to pack and move them, I couldn’t resist these reusable glass straws. I love straws, and I thought these would spice up any drink. four | father’s day gift guide Father’s Day is around the corner! If you’re anything like me, you could use some help when it comes to finding a gift for your dad. They are wonderful people, but they can be so hard to shop for! I love this list from Carly, and she always gives a good price range to choose from! five | currently reading I’m picking up No Exit this weekend. Darby is heading home from college to visit with her dying mother when she gets stuck at a truck stop in a blizzard. There’s four strangers inside the convenience store, and one girl locked in an animal crate in the car next to Darby’s outside. What is Darby supposed to do? Darby must find a way to save this child, but she has no idea who to trust. I bet I finish this in one sitting. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Spring Favorites | 2021

Kimberly — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 13:00:44 +0000

I can’t believe it’s already summer here in Nashville. The months are flying by, especially since life is really returning “back to normal” with vaccines being widely available and the warm weather here to stay. I’m wrapping up a few things I loved over the last few months with a spring favorites list. Let’s get started! one | mood boards I create mood boards every month and create a type of collage in my planner. Not only do I love curating the images, but I love scrapbooking them into my daily routine. Being reminded of the things I’m inspired by on a regular basis is a great way to live. two | these work pants from Amazon These pants are the Holy Grail of pants. They’re stretchy, paper bag style, and come in a ton of different colors. What’s not to love? I already own a pair in black and mauve. three | Untamed by Glennon Doyle I feel like I say this about every memoir I read, but boy, did this one hit me where it hurts. Glennon and I have a lot in common, more than I’d like to admit when it comes to our need to control, but I truly loved this book. It’s odd because most people wouldn’t think that they could relate to a famous writer who left her husband to marry a famous soccer player, but Untamed is further proof that underneath the shine, people are just people. We all have our quirks and flaws that unite us as human. I was skeptical when I first started this book, but Doyle’s writing builds and grows with the reader and hopefully, if you’re anything like me, you’ll be taking photos of passages in the book and sending them to your boyfriend because you relate to them so much. four | reading This sounds silly since I run a blog about books, but I’ve been reading so many amazing books lately, I feel like I’ve fallen back in love with it. I’ve been taking days and just having reading marathons with myself. I feel like a kid again, and it feels so darn good. five | black denim jacket I wear this jacket at least three times a week. It goes with everything, and elevates any outfit from something simple to something I at least look like I tried to coordinate. six | traveling My boyfriend and I have been fully vaccinated for about a month now, and upcoming travel is a must. We took a trip to Atlanta when we were half-vaccinated, and we have a trip to Raleigh and Chattanooga coming up in our future. It’s so nice to be able to safely plan trips again! seven | the gold slides I rarely wear heels, so finding an appropriate work shoe can be difficult sometimes. These gold mules are perfect for the office and a casual day out for drinks. eight | ilia mascara Did I tell you guys I found the best mascara for my eyelashes? I was using Too Faced Better Than Sex, and I loved how it went on in the morning, but by mid-afternoon, it looked like I had nothing on my lashes. This mascara lasts all day and lengthens my lashes by miles. nine | From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout I finally read the most popular book on TikTok, and it was well worth it. It’s hard to explain without ruining the twists and turns that make the book so amazing, but there’s sexy guards, re-branded vampires, a country in need of saving, and a bad-ass girl with a dagger. What more do you need? ten | spending time with friends & family again Thank goodness for vaccinations, right? My schedule has been packed with quality friend and family time for the last month, and my heart could not be happier. As an introvert, I am very tired, but I am also very happyy. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 06.04.21

Kimberly — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 13:00:02 +0000

Happy Friday! It was my first week back in the office since last March, and boy did it exhaust me! I went to a networking event last night, I got home, and I just cried from how bone-tired I was. It’s okay. All of this is going to be an adjustment, but we are in it together right? I shared some behind the scenes on my Instagram about how I’ve been feeling the last few weeks, but I’m trying to focus on the good things. this week’s good things: We’re back in the office for work and it’s nice to collaborate in person, I got back in the gym twice this week, hard work feels like it’s finally paying off. Let’s get started! one | a book list The amount of books coming out this month is insane! I’m already drowning in library books, but I may or may not have put some of these on my TBR. two | work tips I love the podcast Bad on Paper, and they have a famous episode where they talk about asking for a raise. Highly recommend giving it a listen if you’re coming up on an anniversary, taking on more responsibilities, or switching jobs. three | furniture find I’m moving into my own place at the end of July, and I’m on the hunt for the perfect couch. My boyfriend and I went and tested out the LoveSac this weekend, and I fell in love but it’s so much money! If you know of any great, affordable couch options, please let me know! four | happy pride Looking to celebrate? Here’s a calendar of international events. five | currently reading I’m diving into the second book in the Shadow and Bone trilogy, Siege and Storm, this weekend. This book follows Alina as she fights against the Darkling’s desire to control her power. She finds herself enlisting the help of a famous privateer to lead the Grisha army. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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