Living With Dyslexia

Hey y'all!

I have mentioned a few times about my battle with dyslexia. I have come to terms with the issue, but I still get upset by the things people would say to me.  Nothing I do is easy. This blog isn't easy because of it. I work hard and I am proud of my accomplishments. Here I have listed 40 things I've learned (or been told) through having dyslexia as an adult.

1. It is a disability and you have it. 
2. Words are hard. 
3. Textbooks are not your friend but they are on your team.
4. Things are going to look different to you then others. 
5. It will take you longer to get to the thought everyone else is at. 
6. You will learn to control your anger (sorta).
7. Your brain doesn't work the same as others. 
8. Challenge your creative side because most of the time this side is stronger. 
9. Accept help.   
10. You are going to learn differently. 
11. You are a 1 in 10 statistic and people will remind you of this in hopes that it boost your self esteem. (Most likely doesn't work) 
12. You feel different and set apart from the group. 
13. You will forever be dyslexic. 
14. Albert Einstein and Walt Disney were dyslexic (Still doesn't help your self esteem).
15. You will have to work harder than others. 
16. Alone. You will feel alone. 
17. It's not going to be easy. 
18. Prepare to bring your computer everywhere. 
19. Prepare to explain why you bring your computer everywhere. 
20. Take advantage of the help around you, including the disabilities services. 
21. Get comfy in the front row of your classes. 
22. If you don't have time management skills, your gonna learn them. 
23. You can never be "cured" from this disability. 
24. People will tell you that you will grow out of it. 
25. It's not your parents fault. 
26. Most likely you have ADD or ADHD. 
27. You will confuse your left from your right. DAILY. 
28. Fight the daydreaming. It's part of the disease. 
29. I promise, the letters aren't moving on the page. It just looks that way. 
30. Studies show you are either extremely organized or extremely disorganized.
31. You will be told that you have a gifted mind (still not helping that self esteem issue). 
32. There are imbalances in your brain chemistry.  
33. Procrastination seems like the answer, its not. 
34. There is nothing wrong with your eye sight. 
35. People will tell you "Oh I think I have that too..." Don't get mad at them
36. Think in pictures, not words - it helps. 
37. Don't push yourself too hard. Take a break every once in awhile. 
38. People are going to make fun of you. Just brush it off. 
39. Don't let what people say get to you. (Refer to numbers 11, 24, and 35) 
40. Love yourself. (cue Justin Bieber music) This is only one part that makes up YOU! 

Always, 

Sadie Lee

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Hello 2017!

Hey y'all!

In 2016 I...
moved 601 miles from my forever best friends (AKA my parents) and starting attending my dream school. I have been able to walk the same halls as my father, my grandfather, and many family members in between. I became a doggy momma - see Instagram HERE. I was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD. New family members joined us into this world and some left us for a better place above. I started working at a golf course. No, I still don't know how to play golf. I got to rejoin my sorority here at my new school. This brought me amazing new friends. I found a major I love studying. I experienced a real football season - HAIL STATE! I turned 22. I'm half way to 23 now and this really isn't as exciting as Taylor Swift made it sound. I reconnected with old friends and made some new ones. I worked with some amazing companies on projects that will help change the world. I have been battling a stomach condition and made the decision to cut gluten from my diet. I was elected into Dance Marathon marketing team. You can read all about my project goals HERE. I turned in a submission to the NRF Big Show and I get to go to New York to meet with the retail companies. I was elected as Chi Omega's newest Director of Marketing. For the first semester ever, I made the Dean's List. Most importantly, I (attempted) to complete my #HSLGamePlan.

In 2016 I learned...
things are not always going to turn out the way you planned in your pretty planner. Life brings heartache. Of course, we look back on the positive things and the accomplishments we completed. But it isn't always rainbows. I cried, ALOT. I contemplated moving home. I knew God brought me here for a reason and that I needed to stick it out. I learned that people are taken from this world and there may never be an explanation for it. I learned that you can't always be the strong one. Sometimes that job should be left for someone else. I learned that you have to stand up for yourself. My personality is very outgoing but, I have a hard time believing in myself. I learned you can do it. You can do anything. It will take hard work, dedication, perseverance, and maybe some accountability from those around you but, you can do it.

In 2017 I hope to... 

become more in love with my blog, (almost) finish my degree, complete another half marathon, and find happiness in everything I do. The goals I have set are intended to make me a happier, healthier, more thankful, and fulfilled me. Sometimes it's hard to make a goal that last 365 days. I am focusing on the things that fill me with joy, the things that make me laugh so hard my belly hurts and my one dimple shows. This year is about being delighted and overjoyed. It is about finding your happiness.

B L O G
- Develop a schedule -
- Try really hard to get two posts up a week (Y'all know I'm not good at this) -
- Dedicate time to communication -

S C H O O L
- Define my career goals -
- Add two more amazing semesters to my GPA -
- Find a route for organization -

F I T N E S S
- Stick to my diet plans and try to cut bread / pasta as best I can -
- Try something new -
- Complete another half marathon (that would make number 9 since I was 14) -

L I F E S T Y L E
- Take a new adventure each month (#HSLTravels, anyone?) -
- Take a 30 min me time each day -
- Become a morning person (NOT EASY) -

I have posted these goals on my white board so I can continue to refer to them. I hope by the end of 2017 I can come back and tell you all about the way I took 2017 and filled it with happy memories, good people, and exciting adventures. What are your goals / resolutions for this year?

Always, 

Sadie Lee

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Stick With HSL

Hey y'all! 

I had the pleasure of working with one of my favorite companies again! If you haven't seen my post with CaseApp you can check that out HERE. This time, I had the opportunity to work with StickerApp and create custom labels and stickers. I have always wanted something that represented Hey Sadie Lee and this was the perfect way to do it. They had so many options from kraft paper to glossy stickers to transparent labels. It was so hard to narrow it down. Plus, you can customize every piece of it. I chose four stickers that showed everything HSL stands for. 

I picked the things that meant the most to me and my blog. There is one for Cooper to capture the rare moments where he is sitting still, one that included my deer header on the blog, one to represent my button I have had since I started HSL, and one with my favorite quote I leave at the end of every post. These are the things that show who HSL is. These are the pieces I want others to share when they think about Hey Sadie Lee. What is the best part, you ask? Head over to the "Stick With HSL" tab on the menu bar and you can purchase as many stickers as you would like! 

If you would like to create your own stickers to represent your brand, use the code "SADIELEE20" for 20% off your entire order! This code will expire December 17th, 2016.

Always, 

Sadie Lee

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Remember to always love the life you live!

This post is sponsored by StickerApp. All opinions are true and my own. #ad

10 Lessons From Dad

Hey y'all!

With Father's Day just around the corner I took some time to reflect on all the things my Dad has done for me over the years. Now that I am older and off at school, I don't get to spend as much time with him. I carry the lessons I have learned with me everyday and I strive to live a life just like my parents do.

1. Say your I love you's. This sounds so silly. But he never fails to say I love you when he hangs up the phone or when we part ways. NEVER. And I love that.

2. Always click the camera button 100 times for the best shot. When I was younger I use to complain about posing in front of the camera with my mean older brother (who is now my best friend, something dad predicted would happen). My dad would click click click click click photos and we would sigh or roll our eyes. Half of the photos would be us just walking away from the camera. I don't know where the tables turned to me being a fashion blogger but, dad never fails to always get the best shots for the blog.

3. It will all work out the way it is suppose to. I hate waiting and I hate being in stressful situations. No matter what is happening he is just as calm as can be. Somehow dad's just know that everything is going to be okay.

4. Laughter is the best medicine. Most effective way to get through anything is to laugh about it. Laugh at your situation, laugh at yourself, laugh with those around you. Laughter can solve it all.

5. Family is everything. My dad's number one priority has always been family. He puts family right under the Lord and above everything else. We are a team and we are consistently trying to build each other up to be the best that we can be.

6. Respect the bell and ring responsibly. I am proud to say that I am attending Mississippi State University. This is also the home of my dad's Alma Mater. A tradition at MSU is to ring your cowbell during football games but only at the appropriate times approved by the Southeastern Conference. My dad and I have been attending games since I was a little girl and he was the first one to teach me how to properly ring your cowbell.

7. This too shall pass. It's hard to believe but there is a positive to every negative. Dad is constantly reminding me of this statement. I try extra hard to remember this when I am angry at the little things.

8. You can do it. He is a fixer upper. If it is a do-it-yourself he will do it. I have countless pieces of furniture around my house that my dad has created. He also taught me that almost can anything can be fixed with your own two hands.

9. Creativity is key. I have always had a creative aspect. As a kid I loved making crafts and fun DIYs. Now that I am an adult I have used my creativity, well, here to create this blog. I feel that I get this characteristic from my dad. He loves taking photos and using them to make videos. My favorite ones are of our family vacations. Check them out at www.JPierceProductions.com!

10. No man will ever love you like your dad loves you. One thing is for sure, there is no love like a daddy's love. He has been there for all the ups and downs. He has continued to love me through every struggle and victory that I have encountered in life. And cheered me on through it all.

To the guy who takes 80% of my blog photos, who never turns away one of my ideas, my favorite bulldog, and one of the best cheerleaders - Thank you for being the best dad in the world! I don't know where I would be in life without your love and support. I have conquered my battles and taken on my victories with you by my side and I wouldn't want anyone else. Thank you for doing everything in your power so that my dreams can come true. Thank you for providing me with a everything I need. And thank you being the number one guy in my life. Happy Father's Day Daddy!

Always,
Sadie Lee

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Remember to always love the life you live!

Get Personal With CASEAPP + Giveaway!

Hey Y'all,

Since I got my IPhone 6S for Christmas, I have been searching to find the perfect case to put on my new gold beauty. I wanted something unique and easy to identify as my phone (and we all know I love monograms). I stumbled upon this website CaseApp.com. They had so many designs and customizable options that you are sure to have a one of a kind case! It only takes five steps to create your new case!

Step one is to choose the perfect background. 

Step two is to find the exact spot of the design you like. 

Step three is to add any pictures or text. 

Step four is to center the text however you would like. 

Step five is to order!

It is that easy and before you know it you will have a custom iPhone case! The best part is that the fun doesn't have to stop there. You can also create a custom laptop case using the exact same steps. Use my code "HEYSADIELEE20" for 20% off your order now! This code is only valid for two weeks (expires June 17).
Now for my favorite part, I am giving one lucky reader a free code (value 40$) for CaseApp.com! All you have to do is enter the Rafflecopter below and you can enter up to 5 chances. The winner will be chosen on June 17th! So you have two weeks before the giveaway ends. Goodluck and remember, always love the life you live.

Always,
Sadie Lee
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a Rafflecopter giveaway

10 Lessons From Mom

Hey y'all!

Mother's Day was yesterday and I unfortunately could not be there to celebrate. It got me thinking about how much my mom has taught me over the years. She is my very best friend and I thank the Lord everyday that he gave me a mom that is caring, loving, giving, and always there for me. She has taught me so much and I know as life goes on I will learn more and more from her.

1. Celebrate the little accomplishments along with the big ones. She always cheered for my winnings in FFA just as loud as she would cheer for my B on my English paper. No milestone was too small to be proud of.

2. Travel often and know about where you are going. I have been very fortunate to get to travel many places with my family. Wherever we would go, my mom would have spent the past 3 months researching famous and historical spots that we needed to see. As much as I dislike history it's hard to hate it when you're standing right there.

3. If people aren't meant to be in your life, it is okay to let them go. I have a hard time standing up for myself and letting go of friendships, even unhealthy ones. I play the "what if" game in my head. My mom always taught me that if it's not meant to be in life then it won't be.

4. Say your please and thank you's. I am so grateful that my parents taught me those southern manners. My generation is getting to the point where we don't use these enough. I want to be a part of the few that still do.

5. Don't hate the person, hate the act. Just because someone is hurting you does not mean they are a bad person. Whatever they are doing it is just a bad act and pray that one day they can see that.

6. Ask for help when you need it. It is okay to admit you need help. I always saw it as being weak and that's not true. Sometimes a job takes two people and that's fine.

7. Be a good listener. My mom is the best listener I know. When I am home and just need to vent about the events of the day - she's there. She, without a doubt, has always just been a phone call away when I need her.

8. Don't let your fears stand in your way. She may be afraid of heights but she will still jump off a cliff in the Bahamas. She never lets fear get in the way of taking on an adventure.

9. Pray about everything. Pray when you're happy. Pray when you're sad. Pray when you're thankful for something. Pray when you're going through something. The answer is always prayer and then wait to see what God's plan is.

10. Never settle for anything less than your daddy. Whenever my dad would do something nice for her she would turn to me and say these exact words. As a kid it never meant that much to me. Now that I am an adult I can see how important it is. I hope that the man I marry is half as great as my dad is and my mom will always be the one who taught me this.

Whether the lesson be "always listen to Jimmy Buffett" or "when in doubt, cook Santa Fe soup" I know my mom has taught me to be the kind and loving person that I am. I hope one day I can be the mom to my kids like the one God gave me. Now, go hug your mom tight and tell us in the comments - What is a lesson your mom has taught you? And remember, always love the life you live!

Always,
Sadie Lee
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The New HSL

Hey y'all!
Long time no talk.
but really.

Every time I thought about how I was going to introduce this post I came up with excuses why I disappeared. They were all - utterly. stupid. Sometimes you just need to disappear. You need that time to reflect on your own life and your personal game plan. So here it is...

I decided to lay out a map. First I chose the categories that were the most important to me and then I made a list of everything I wanted to accomplish. If you haven't heard - I moved 10 hours away from my hometown and family to go to my dream school. The joy of being in a new place faded fast when I realized what I had done. This was the time for me to grow a little and fulfill the purpose of why I moved here. So here we go, my game plan:

BLOG
1. I would like to blog 2 times a week(Mondays and Fridays). I made this such a strict standard last year that it became less of something I wanted to do and more of something I felt like I had to do. I want my blog to feel professional but, I also want to enjoy it. I called my blog a job and never treated it like one.
2. I want to treat my blog more like a job! I want to work on a more professional schedule for my work lifestyle. I want to conduct each day to feel very productive. Less netflix (well slightly less)!

SCHOOL
1. This past year I was diagnosed with dyslexia. I was very embarrassed by it all and I kept it between those closest to me for a long time. I got frustrated with people telling me that it was "normal" and that it was "no big deal". I have realized now that it may be a big deal but, is just another part of me. I want to use what I have learned from being diagnosed to help those that are struggling with understanding it. I had a hard time coping with the fact that I found out as an adult. If I can help one other person that is going through this then I was diagnosed for a reason.
2. I have recently changed my major to better pursue my dreams in the future. I am now a Fashion Merchandising major with a minor in Business Administration and a Minor in Marketing. I want to use my blog to further my knowledge in the fashion industry. I also want to connect with those in the blogging world that have similar career goals in the retail world.

FITNESS
1. My goal is to run 4 days a week. I use to tell myself I needed to run everyday and I would get discouraged when I didn't complete that goal. I hope to complete my first full marathon this year.
2. I have started Yoga with Adriene. This gives me something other than running to continue being active. I want to do yoga 2-3 times a week. This not only helps strengthen my muscles but, it has helped with my anxiety too.

LIFESTYLE
1. I dare you to move 10 hours from home and make a million new friends in a day. This has been a big test of survival for me. I have learned that those who are important will continue to play a part in your life journey. As for making new friends, I want to get more involved in my sorority and college church group. I love how important blog friends are to bloggers. I get so inspired by Cristina and Rachel being blog wives. I have learned so much from them already and it truly shows that friends don't have to be next door to be important to you. They are great bloggers and great friends!
2. For my personal lifestyle I want to listen to more bible study podcast (currently listening to the Breakaway series for all my aggie friends out there). I want to continue with my personal journal and my prayer journal each night. I have never been big on reading (probably because I now know I'm dyslexic, am I right ladies?) but, I want to try to read books more often. Now that it is summer hopefully I will have more time.

This blog and the people I have met through it are so important to me. I wish I could give a white rose to each person who has impacted me in the past (almost) 2 years since Hey Sadie Lee was born. My parents have been huge supporters and I can not thank them enough. My blog has always been about fashion, style, and confidence because those are the things I care about the most. HSL will still be about those things and much more. I think this post has gone on long enough but, let me know if you have a Game Plan that you are working on! Show me on social media by following along and using the hashtag #HSLgameplan. Thank you for letting me have this break and sticking with it through me. Remember to always live the life you love!

Always,
Sadie Lee
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BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!

Hey y'all!

If you follow me on Instagram, then you have already seen my big surprise! I have been holding this in for quiet some time now. I had to wait until I could share the news with my family at Thanksgiving but...

I'M MOVING! 

I am very excited to say I will be a #MississippiBlogger very soon! I will be attending Mississippi State University to study Business! This has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl. God has a funny way of making everything work out the way it is suppose to! Below is the video my dad made for my family when we revealed it at Thanksgiving. Hope you enjoy!

Sadie Decision for the future from James Pierce on Vimeo.

Now bring on the packing tips and Mississippi recommendations! I can't wait to start this new adventure and bring y'all along with me!

Always with love,
Sadie Lee

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Four Date Night Tips!

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #BeHealthyForEveryPartofLife #CollectiveBias

Hey y'all!

Dating in college can be hard! It's tough to find the time in the week, effort to get ready, and on my down time I usually like to get some ZZZ's instead of going out. Well ladies, I am here to share with you my four date night tips to put some pep in your step and get you out on the town! 

1. Take time to relax! If you have the time to take a bubble bath, do it! You want to feel comfortable and beautiful when you go out. I know this time of year I always get sniffly and stuffy. So to keep those pesky little germs at bay, I take Emergen-C powder packets mixed in water. With over 20 varieties of vitamin supplement drink mixes, Emergen-C offers the formula, flavor, fix, and FUN you're looking for! Emergen-C gives you more healthy days and more healthy nights. What better place to sip your tangy drink than in a relaxing hot bath!

2. Pull everything out ahead of time - your clothes, makeup, and hair accessories! It helps to not feel rushed or frantic at the last minute. I know its not good for my anxiety if I am 10 minutes late and still can't find the left shoe. And if you do end up being in a rush, don't forget the MBC (Mascara, Bronzer, and ChapStick)! I have always felt if I have these three things I feel at least 75% put together. My favorite kind ChapStick is ChapStick Total Hydration. It is 100% natural, age defying, instantly smoothes and moisturizes, and is clinically proven for healthier looking lips. This stuff will keep you kissable all night long!

3. Dress the part! I love surprises but I like to be prepared for where I am going. You don't want to assume it is a dinner date and end up going bowling in  high heels! So if you can, I would get it out of him where y'all are going before hand. This way you know exactly what to wear when you are getting all dolled up! And if you don't know, you can never go wrong with a good pair of comfortable booties. HERE I styled them with a dress and HERE I styled them with jeans. 

4. Pack your purse with your go-to items! I am the type of person that has to be prepared for anything and my bag is the perfect example of this! Sometimes I wonder if they got the idea for Mary Poppins' purse from my own personal Kate Spade. My go-to items list could go on and on but, my top three things to never leave the house without (aside from keys, wallet, and phone) would be some powder, a pen, and Advil Liqui-Gels. First, I have very red-toned skin and I keep powder in my bag to ensure that no one gets to see my true skin color. Next, I keep two pens in my handbag at all times. Honestly, every where I go I always seem to need one. Lastly, I don't go anywhere with out some kind of pain reliefer. Advil Liquid-Gels offers advanced liquid fast relief. Nothing's faster on tough pain (among OTC pain relievers) for muscle ache, headache, and joint pain. Please use as directed. 

All of the products I have mentioned can purchased at your nearest Walmart. I hope this helped a little with your date night essentials. Now settle your nerves, grab your man, and go out for some fun! What are some of your date night tips? Read more by clicking #BeHealthyForEveryPartOfLife!

Always with love, 

Sadie Lee 

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Post-Race Remedies!

Hey y'all!

I completed my 7th half marathon this weekend in the pouring rain. I don't recommend running a half marathon in a hurricane! This was the hardest race I have ever completed. On the plus side, I did finish and that is all that matters! Here are my post-race remedies for after you get that well deserved medal.

1. Enjoy your post-race party! 

Usually every race has a post-race party after. You get food, your finisher gear, take pictures, and some serve beer! Enjoy this time because you deserve it. You get to eat whatever you want (Sadie said so) and be sure to take lots of pictures. You will never be this happy again. Finish line happy is the best kind of happy!

2. Drink plenty of water. 

You have just lost your weight in sweat. Running takes a lot out of you and even if you feel fine after your race, you need to continue to hydrate. This will help your muscles heal faster.

3. Take a little walk each night. 

My dad reminds me of this often. I like to take a week off before I start training for the next race. This does not mean that your asics don't hit the pavement! It is best to walk a mile or two each night to get those muscles moving.

4. Stretch often. 

Today I had a fitness class I was dreading. I knew it was going to be hard but, stretching will really help for the second day pain. The second day after your race usually hurts more than the first. By stretching and keeping your muscles in motion it will help with stiffness. 

5. GET SOME REST! 

Again, you deserve it! You just ran a freaking (insert milage distance) race and that deserves a big, alarm clock free, nap! Try to get to bed on time for the next few days. If you're like me, you're gonna need it.

Always with love,
Sadie Lee

P.S. I got a FeceBook page! You can like it HERE to get all my updates! Also, only 2 more days to enter my Women Warrior Giveaway! Check that out HERE!

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Pups In The Pumpkin Patch!

Hey y’all!

This weekend we took the pups to pick out their pumpkins from the patch! Samson (our Chihuahua) was so cute running through the rows of pumpkins in his little costume. This was one of the first times taking Sophie (our new German Shepherd) out of the house and she did so good! She is by far one of the prettiest German Shepherds I have ever seen. Both of our dogs are rescue dogs and we could not be happier with these two!

Texas thinks it is still summer right now, so this sleeveless swing dress was the perfect choice for spending the afternoon outside. I probably could have gone without the riding boots but, COME ON, it’s October! It should be in the 70’s, not the 90’s. Oh well.

Dress (similar HERE and HERE) / Necklace / Watch / Riding Boots (similar)

Always with love, 

Sadie Lee

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