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Sunday, April 28, 2013

Pinterest Addiction, Chronic Procrastination, and Other Maladies....

Hello! It's been eleven days since I last posted! I know, I know...bad little blogger. Everything's just been crazy busy, and I didn't feel right taking the time to put together blog posts when there was so much else to do.

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Which brings me to today's post...can anyone relate to the title? Up until my Freshman year, I was the kind of girl who never played computer games, never went internet surfing. Once I got my own laptop, that all changed. I discovered the lovely blogging world. I started watching Youtube, and a good friend introduced me to Pinterest. It came about slowly, but somehow I ended up on the other end of the spectrum. I can no longer go a day without internet, and in many ways I'm addicted to it.

I'm going to share some startling stats at you: there are 22 blogs in my feed. Now, granted some of those aren't very active. But when they do post something, whether or not I'm extremely interested, I always feel the urge to read it. And then, "look...something from the archive. Let's follow this link. This reminds me of that other blog, let's go check it out"...and on, and on.

How about this one: since joining Pinterest in November (I think it was November...), I've made 25 boards with 2,355 pins. Yikes. Pinterest is a great site, full of inspiration...but it's so addicting. You just scroll...and scroll...."I'll stop when I finish this board....wow, that looks neat...I'll just take a quick peek...."

As if an internet addiction wasn't enough trouble, with me, it always just feeds my procrastination habit. Let's use recent 4-H Fashion Revue sewing as an example, shall we? (Note: Finally finished this dress. Pictures soon!). I bought my fabric back in early February, and had the pattern all ready to start. I planned on washing the fabric and cutting out the dress over several nights while I watched TV. I mean, Fashion Revue was months away, no need to stress. Just take it a little bit at a time. Well, I didn't wash my fabric until the first weekend in April. Then I stalled as long as possible in cutting it out. The dress itself came together in these past two weeks, with marathon sewing from Tuesday until Midnight Friday evening. 

The judging went pretty good, and overall the dress came together nicely. But I don't feel satisfied with it. I feel like it was sloppy, that I'm capable at more, and that the fit going into today could have been better. If I hadn't wasted all this time, I could have fixed all the little annoyances that only appear after a garment is constructed before judging, rather than having to go back later and fix it for prom. Not to mention there would have been less stress, and less late nights. 

I've always loved organizing things. I was the 9 year-old who had all her toys sorted into labeled boxes, which were then stacked inside the toy box. My problem is that when things are easy, I keep things in order. But when Mr. Busy jumps at me, I fall apart. Resolutions are thrown to the wayside, and I switch into survival mode.

Which brings me to another problem; as much as I complain about busy schedules, in fact, I sorta love it. In a mixed up, love-hate sort of way. I have lots of different interests, and I want to be good at a lot of different things. In the long run, though, will running to 3 million different activities actually help me? I may be well rounded, but will I be truly good at anything if I've got too much on my plate? 

I'm sure some of you reading this aren't like me. Some of you might not be interested by internet searches and/or Pinterest, and may be better at motivating yourself to get things done. Maybe you've learned how to deal with your busy schedule, or perhaps you've just decided to cut things out. Good for you! The only point I'm trying to make here is, procrastination is an evil, real-life problem. Internet addictions feed it, and busy schedules are impacted by it.

I think one of the worst parts about it, is that procrastination only makes me feel worse about myself. Let's talk about my dress again. Throughout the process, I kept asking myself, "Why am I even bothering?" and "You can't sew. Why fake it?". I was disgusted with myself. Granted, I was very frustrated with the dress, but what made it worse was that it was all my fault. It could have been avoided. If I had just dealt with the temporary 'discomfort' of actually working on a project, all the last-minute stress and anger could have been avoided.

I hate procrastination. I want to stop. I need to weed out the blogs I like from the ones I read 'just because'. I need to stop checking my Pinterest feed multiple times a day. I should stay off of the internet unless I've finished all my schoolwork. I need to make practical to-do lists, and then carry out everything on the list. I need to set realistic goals, and then work towards them with all my might. 

I don't know about you, but I'm sick of all this guilt. I'm ready to work hard, submit quality projects, and finally feel content. It's time to identify priorities and meet deadlines. So here's to schedules filled with things that will help you reach your goals, and the satisfaction that comes from putting forth your best.

Your Thoughts?: Are any of you facing similar struggles? What are some of your organization strategies? Have you more often found the problem to be procrastination on your side, or a schedule that is genuinely too full?

Thanks for reading! :)

P.S. I just want to take a minute to apologize for the lack of Disney Challenge posts. Like I said, this month's been crazy and blogging had to be put on hold for awhile. I plan on doing a finishing up post about it at some point, but I'm sorry if any of you were missing the posts. Thanks for understanding! :)

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Sixteen // Favorite Singing Voice

It's day sixteen of the 30 Day Disney Challenge! Today's theme is favorite singing voice. Don't forget to check out Deanna's blog for even more picks! :)

Favorite Singing Voice:



My favorite singing voice is Jodi Benson, who does the voice of Ariel. She is just a fantastic singer, and does not only the songs but the dialogue perfectly. 

First Runner-Up:



My second favorite is Mandy Moore, who voices Rapunzel. She, too, does a gorgeous job with the singing and dialogue. I think her voice has a nice, sweet ring to it. 

Least Favorite:



My least favorite voice is probably Adrianna Caselotti, who voices Snow White. She just sings too high for my taste. 

Be sure to be back tomorrow, for best eyes! :)

Your Thoughts?: Which Disney princess do you think has the best singing voice? What about prince?

Thanks for reading! :)

Monday, April 15, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Fifteen // Favorite Romantic Moment

Before I get into today's post, I just want to share one exciting piece of news...Young Yankee Lady is up to 10 followers! Yay! Thanks so much guys for taking the time to read my blog...it really does mean a lot to me!

On to the 30 Day Disney Challenge! We're halfway through, now. :) As always, don't forget to hop on over to Deanna's blog for more picks.

Favorite Romantic Moment:



Strange as it sounds, I think that Roger singing 'Cruella De Vil' is actually quite romantic, in a cute sort of way. Particularly the last part, after Cruella leaves and he's sort of teasing Anita. So sweet. :)

First Runner-Up:



I love the kingdom dance from Tangled. It's also romantic, in very cute and sweet sort of way. Like when Eugene is looking at Rapunzel, and Maximus makes a face at him. Or when they're trying to dance together, and then finally end up together at the end. 

Least Favorite:

My least favorite romantic moment is the same as my least favorite kiss...the one between Prince Philip and Aurora. It just seems very cold to me.

That's it for now! Check back in tomorrow for favorite singing voice. :)

Your Thoughts: What's your favorite romantic Disney moment? What do you think of the couples Roger and Anita, and Eugene and Rapunzel?

Sunday, April 14, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Days Eleven Through Fourteen

Hello everyone!! Well, you've probably noticed that the 30 Day Disney Challenge posts have been scarce the past couple of days. I had my skating show on Saturday (videos coming soon!), which resulted in me skating almost every day last week, plus school, and 4-H stuff, so I was just too burnt out to go through all the photo-finding and linking. :) So, I thought it may be easier to do one post today to catch up, rather than publish multiple posts. :) Please, don't shy away from leaving links and comments! Deanna and I love to hear from you.

Day Eleven: Favorite Animal Sidekick:



The best animal sidekick is definitely Sebastian from The Little Mermaid. Unlike many of the other animal sidekicks that are there for more of a comic/cute factor, Sebastian genuinely moves the plot along. He has his own struggles about whether or not to help Ariel, rather than just blatantly following her. My first runner up would probably be Mushu, from Mulan. I just think he's hilarious. And my least favorite is probably the raccoon from Pocahontis, whose name I can't remember. Primarily for the fact that I cannot remember his name, so he must not have been that interesting. :P

Day Twelve: Favorite Non-Animal Sidekick:



My favorite non-animal sidekick has got to be Lefou from Beauty and the Beast. Of course he's technically a bad guy, as he's Gaston's sidekick, but I still think he's hilarious. Especially when he sings in the bar. :) My first runner-up is is Yao from Mulan. He's the little short guy with the black eye. I honestly don't know who to pick for least-favorite. Any suggestions?

Day Thirteen: Favorite Outfit:



My favorite outfit is the blue dress Ariel wears in the Kiss the Girl scene. I've always loved this dress...from the corset top to the flowy skirt, not to mention the giant hair bow! My second favorite would probably be the one Aurora in Sleeping Beauty wears, when she is still Briar Rose. My least favorite is Snow White's blue and yellow dress....it's too juvenile, and the colors really don't match.

Day Fourteen: Favorite Villain:


I absolutely love Cruella Deville from 101 Dalmatians. She is entirely evil, and crazy, yet still has a forced glamour about her. She scares me, and that makes her a good villain. My first runner-up is Ursuala from The Little Mermaid. My least favorite is probably...the evil stepmother in Cinderella. I just fail to see her motive.

Phew! All caught up! :) I'll try to be good, but things are still pretty busy so these 'collection' posts may become more frequent!

Before I leave, I just wanted to let everyone know that American Duchess is hosting a giveaway for their gorgeous Highbury Regency Shoes! Although I have never bought any of their shoes so can't recommend them on a personal level, I know they do strive to provide historically accurate, comfortable shoes at good prices. These regency shoes are pretty cool, as they are dyeable and have loops for you to add lace-up ribbons! So head over there and enter the giveaway. :)

Your Thoughts?: What are your favorite sidekicks, villains, and outfits? What do you think of my picks? Any interest in seeing videos of my routine? 

Thanks for reading! Check back in later for favorite romantic moment. :)

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Ten // Best Hair

Back again with the 30 Day Disney Challenge! Today's theme is best hair. I decided to avoid the obvious and skip Rapunzel, even though I lover her thick braid with all the flowers. :) As always, don't forget to check in with Deanna for her picks!

Best Hair:



I think we've already established that I love almost everything about The Little Mermaid. The color of her hair is amazing, plus it's thick and a lovely length. 

First Runner-Up:



Meg has the ultimate curly ponytail! It's so long, and thick, and held back perfect. She also has this floppy bang that looks gorgeous, and her cute little curls on the side of her face.

Least Favorite:



Just like with prettiest princess, choosing least favorite hair is basically impossible. After all  they're animated and therefore always look perfect! I decided to go with Jasmine because I've never really wanted my own hair to be black, and I usually prefer more curl/wave than just a straight cut.

Thanks for joining us! Don't forget to link/comment, and be back tomorrow for favorite animal side-kick!

Your Thoughts?: Which princess do you think has the best hair? How about prince?

Thanks for reading! :)

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Nine // Favorite Couple

Sorry for missing yesterday's post! I was busy with school all day, then I went skating, and by the time I got home I was tired. Yesterday's theme in the 30 Day Disney Challenge was favorite couple! Don't forget to check out Deanna's blog for her picks, too. And keep those links/comments coming! :)

Favorite Couple:



My absolute favorite Disney couple is Roger and Anita from 101 Dalmatians. There the only Disney couple where you see more of their married life than their single life. Roger is is smart, sweet, and a tad nerdy. Anita is caring, kind, and ready to play along with all of Roger's pranks.

First Runner-Up:
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I really love Rapunzel's and Eugene's relationship! It comes across very gradually, so it's probably one of the most realistic. Their love for each other is based on personality and character, and to them, looks is just a bonus. Plus, their love is sacrificial, evidence by Eugene giving up his chance for survival to save Rapunzel.

Least Favorite:


I really don't like Cinderella and Prince Charming! They have hardly any dialogue, so they don't even know each other!! Plus, Cinderella's in love with him before they even meet, just because he's 'the prince' and every other girl in the kingdom is in love with him, too.

Be sure to check back in later today, for best hair! :)

Your Thoughts?: Which Disney couple is your favorite? Least favorite? What do you think of my picks?

Thanks for reading! :)




Monday, April 8, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Eight // Saddest Moment

We're starting week two of the 30 Day Disney Challenge! I loved hearing from you guys, so make sure to keep comments/links coming! Be sure to check out Deanna's blog for more fun picks.

Today's theme is saddest moment. Now, I had a lot of trouble deciding on this one! There are so many Disney moments that really make you want to cry. I suppose that's one of the reason we love Disney; even though they're 'kid' movies, they still are deep enough to make us feel something. And yes, I cheated a little. I ended up choosing two moments for both my favorite and first runner-up.

So without further ado, Disney's saddest moments...

Saddest Moment:



I think that the song 'Best of Friends' from The Fox and the Hound is one of Disney's saddest moments. The entire movie's sad, actually, but wonderful. This song speaks of growing up and suddenly, things getting more complicated than they used to be. And who could forget Big Momma's line, 'Forever's a long time, and it has a way of changing things'? 



My other pick for saddest moment is the Furnace Scene from Toy Story 3. I was crying in the theaters the entire time. As friends, they hold hands to meet their inevitable fate of falling into the fire. The part that gets me is the way Buzz looks at Jessie. 

First Runner-Up:




Disney did a great job with the love story in the first eight minutes of Up. It's so genuine, and sweet, and heart wrenching. If you haven't seen it, please watch this. It's worth the time. The rest of the movie is just as good, too, and I'd highly recommend it.



I love this song. How can it not make you cry, though? Poor Jessie. 

Least Favorite:




So, how does one choose a least-favorite sad moment? Well, I went with the scene from Cinderella when the stepsisters spoil her dress. It was a terrible thing to do, of course, but I still don't really feel sorry for her. And I certainly don't want to cry.

Well, I suppose I should dry my eyes and go do something productive...be back tomorrow for favorite couple! It won't be a tear jerker, I promise. :)

Your Thoughts?: Did I totally cheat by choosing more than one for each category? What Disney moment always gets you to cry? What do you think of my picks?

Thanks for reading! :)

Sunday, April 7, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Seven // Favorite Castle

It's already been an entire week of the 30 Day Disney Challenge! Anyone else having a lot of fun with this? :) Don't forget to keep those links/comments coming! We'd love to hear from you. :)

Today's theme is favorite castle...I just thought that was a really good category idea. As always, don't forget to check out Deanna's blog, as well.

Favorite Castle:



I LOVE the castle from Snow White. Instead of tall and towering, it's a little more humble and has lots of nooks and crannies. Plus, it has blossoming cherry trees and is set very close to the woods! Sounds great to me. :)

First Runner-Up:



I'm not sure if it counts as a castle, but I just love Rapunzel's tower! First of all, it's gorgeous set in it's own 'secret' spot in the woods, with the waterfall behind it. And she has the inside decorated very cute and girly. :)

Least Favorite:



My least favorite castle is Jasmine's. I've just never much cared for the shape, or the colors.

That's it for now!! Be sure to check back in tomorrow for saddest Disney moment. Happy Sunday!

Your Thoughts?: Which Disney castle is your favorite? 

Thanks for reading! :)

Saturday, April 6, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Six // Prettiest Princess

Before we get to today's post, I've got some exciting news! My uncle is fixing up a van that will bring himself, two of my cousins, me, AJ, my mom, and possibly my grandmother to Missouri to visit family! I'm very excited, as I'm sure you can imagine. I haven't been there since I was 5! I can't wait to see everyone. Right now we're planning, and trying to figure our way around a few road blocks. Hopefully it will all work out! :)

Back to the 30 Day Disney Challenge! Now we're getting into some of the really fun categories. :) Today's theme is Prettiest Princess. This was a really hard category! Seriously; they're all animated, so of course they're all pretty! So, I ended up doing it with who I would most like to look like. :)

Prettiest:


My first pick is Jane. I just think she's a very natural, real-girl sort of pretty. Plus her berry-pink lipstick is adorable.

First Runner-Up:


Sorry for the blurry picture. I just think Rapunzel is very pretty...in a very cute, girly sort of way. She is a totally different type of pretty than Jane, and definitely stands out against all the other Disney princesses. I love her green eyes, and her tiny nose, plus her facial expressions are wonderful. I actually think she looks like one of my little cousins. :)

Least Pretty:



I know both Deanna and I have been picking on Snow White quite a bit, but I just had to choose her for least pretty. She looks like a porcelain doll. Which I suppose could be considered a good thing, but I don't think it is....that being said, I love her hair. :)

Be sure to check back in tomorrow, for favorite castle!

Your Thoughts?: Which Disney princess do you think is the prettiest? Who do you think you look the most like? There's no handsomest prince category, so let's take a quick pol here: which prince do you think is the best looking? Personally, I'd probably go with Eugene or Eric. :)

Thanks for reading! :)

Friday, April 5, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Five // Favorite Kiss

Welcome back! It's already day four in the 30 Day Disney Challenge! Today's theme is favorite kiss, which did require quite a bit of deliberating. The first choice was easy, but I had a lot of trouble with the others. Be sure to check out Deanna's blog, too!

Favorite Kiss:

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Hands down all time favorite kiss: Tangled. Not the one they do at the very end, but the one right after Rapunzel saves Eugene. Its just so sweet. :) Look at Eugene in the third picture; how is that not adorable? I'm all gushy and smiley now. :) Not to mention Eugene gives amazing hugs.

First Runner-Up:




I just love this kiss from Hercules. It just looks so sweet, and genuine. :) I tried to find a video of it to show you, but no luck. :P

Least Favorite:



My least favorite kiss is the one from Sleeping Beauty. I love it when Prince Phillip kills the dragon and then runs into the castle, but the kiss? Really...boring. And quick. And not at all romantic.

That's it for today! Be sure to check back in tomorrow for prettiest princess!!!

Your Thoughts?: What's your favorite Disney kiss?? Anyone else love Eugene's hugs? What is your opinion on the kiss from Sleeping Beauty?

Thanks for reading! :)



Thursday, April 4, 2013

I ♥ Thursday...Volume 4

Hello! I debated on whether or not to do an I <3 Thursday post this week. What with all the 30 Day Disney Challenge posts, I thought you might be rather bored of pictures. But, it's always a fun link-up so I decided, why not? :)

Here's what I've been <3-ing this week...

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I am so ready for warm weather and springtime outfits!!!! I'm loving this outfit...I just might have to re-create it one of these spring days. :)

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Is this not the most beautiful dress you've ever seen? Gah, I can't even talk. I'm in love. :)

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I'm in a spring-cleaning-nesting mood right now. :) But isn't this adorable? I love the backdrop to the sink...just because you can't have a window to look out of doesn't mean it can be boring!!

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*smile*.

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This is so lovely. :) Just look at her cute kitchen, not to mention her dress!!! :)

Your Thoughts?: What have you been <3-ing this week? What springtime outfits are you ready to wear? Anyone else in a de-cluttering and decorating mood, or is it just me? :)

Thanks for reading! :)

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Four // Favorite Song

Hello, everyone!! Sooo happy I go to do this post...the internet's been sort of wacky as of late. :) Time for day four of the 30 Day Disney Challenge! Be sure to stop by Deanna's blog for her list. :)

Today's theme is favorite song....oohh, what to choose, what to choose? There really are too many good ones. :)

Favorite Song:



Hands down favorite is Part of Your World. I've had this song memorized since I was three. :) It's just so lovely, and really embodies so much about growing up and feeling restless. 

First Runner-Up:



Second favorite is I won't Say I'm In Love. Even though I haven't watched Hercules very often, I still love this song. I love the overall sound of it, and of course the line, 'it's too cliche, I won't say I'm in love...'

Least Favorite:



Sorry Snow White, but I just had to choose I'm Wising/One Song for my least favorite. It's just...not like the other Disney songs. Even so, though, there's still a lot of good things to be said about the classic fairy tale-ness of Snow White

That was a really hard one. I had to refrain from adding I'll Make A Man Out Of You, or Strangers Like Me...not to mention Kiss The Girl! Far too many good songs. :)

Be sure to be back tomorrow, for favorite kiss!!

Your Thoughts?: What's your favorite Disney Song? What do you think of my picks? Do you agree that the classic fairy tale feel of Snow White is part of what makes it a good movie?

Thanks for reading! :)


Wednesday, April 3, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Three // Favorite Prince

I'm back with day three of the 30 Day Disney Challenge! Today's theme is favorite prince. Now, this one took some serious thought. While it's easy to argue that all the princes are too boring (enter the prince from Snow White, whatever his name is...) to even merit a favorite, some are actually quite likable. I'm pretty happy with my final choices. :)

Make sure to check out Deanna's blog for her picks!! :)

Favorite Prince:



My favorite is Shane from Mulan. At first I was going to do Eric from The Little Mermaid. Honestly though, Shane is a lot better. Though just a young captain, he's been through a lot. He had to train a whole army under the watchful (and negative) eye of the king's adviser, his father died in battle before he could get there to save him, and he was almost killed in an avalanche. He's the only prince with a real job, and him and Mulan don't naturally fall into each other's arms at the end, either. He has to make an effort and travel to her home to see her again.

First Runner-Up:



My second favorite prince is Flynn. :) He's funny, a quick-thinker, and a trouble maker. Yes, I know he's a thief, but in general he's a very nice person and so sweet to Rapunzel (read this pin. See what I mean?). Plus, he falls in love with Rapunzel slowly and naturally....not a love-at-first-sight sort of thing like most of the other princes. (And yes, that picture was absolutely necessary in convincing you). 

Least Favorite:
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Prince Charming. For basically the above reason, but also because he falls in love with her solely on the basis of looks. Plus he doesn't even bother to search for her himself (rather different than Shane, eh?). I can't even imagine how terrible his ego must be, because seriously; there was an entire ball where he was the only male in attendance, and hundreds of girls turned out just for him....

Be sure to be back tomorrow for favorite song!

Your Thoughts?: Which Disney prince has stolen your heart? What do you think of my choices? Anyone else think that Shane being the only prince with a real job gives him bonus points?

Thanks for reading! :)

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day Two // Favorite Princess

Hello again, people!! So, the 30 Day Disney Challenge got off to a great start yesterday! I can't wait to see more of your picks. :) Today's theme is Favorite Princess.Now, these picks are rather similar to yesterday's.....but who wouldn't choose a favorite movie based on their favorite princess? As always, don't forget to check out Deanna's and Mikaela's blogs, too.

Favorite Princess:



Hands down, my favorite princess is Ariel. She's spunky, smart, adventurous, curious, and loves her family while still being a bit rebellious. Plus, I think she has one of the nicest singing voices of all the princesses. :)

First Runner-Up:



My second favorite is Belle! She's brunnette, funny, loves to read, cares for her father, and falls in love with Beast for who he is rather than for his looks.

Least Favorite:



My least favorite princess is Cinderella...she's just too one-dimensional. Plus, she doesn't do much to help herself, and instead depends on her Fairy Godmother and Prince Charming to do the real work for her. But I suppose we should give her some credit for not being bitter towards her step-family, even with all the work she's forced to do...

That's it for today. Be sure to stop by again tomorrow for favorite prince!

Your Thoughts?: Who's your favorite princess? What do you think of my picks?


Monday, April 1, 2013

30 Day Disney Challenge...Day One // Favorite Movie

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter yesterday! We had our cousins over, which is always fun. :) Today we're off to do some skiing before all the snow leaves!

Are you all ready for day one of the 30 Day Disney Challenge? We certainly are! Today's theme is Favorite Movie. Oohhh, so many to choose from. Be sure to stop by Deanna's and Mikaela's blogs, too. :)

Favorite Movie:



My favorite's definitely The Little Mermaid. When I was three I knew all the words to 'Part of Your World' (still do, actually). :) Ariel is a spunky princess with lots of personality, Eric is a genuine enough prince, and Ursula is a fantastic villain. What's not to love?

First Runner-Up:


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My very close second is Tangled. I LOVE this movie!! Seriously, so good. All of the characters are unique, deep, and easy to love. It's one of those awesome Disney movies that appeals to little kids, teens, and adults alike. 

Least Favorite:



Yes, yes, Cinderella's my least favorite. There's just honestly nothing about it that appeals to me. Except maybe the mice, they're sorta cute...but overall it's a rather boring movie. 

That's it for now! Be sure to check back tomorrow for Favorite Princess!

Your Thoughts?: What are your favorite, second favorite, and least favorite Disney movies? What did you think of my picks? Anyone else super excited for this challenge? Don't forget to leave a link!

Thanks for reading! :)