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Showing posts from February, 2017

My Relationship Goals

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My Relationship Goals as a Newlywed Wife Goals can help in ensuring we actually do actions that will strengthen our lives. I am setting relationship goals, that will enhance my marriage in the context of my diverse fulfilling life. Take note, I am not a psychologist. My background is in business marketing and journalism. Although I can reflect on personal experience, to see what works for me. Continue Independent Projects I enjoy delving into creative autonomous projects. It could be about dedicating some time on my blogs or online store. There is great freedom in doing something I have control over. These projects definitely will continue during my married life. Not only is it important to me, it is also something my husband encourages. We were both originally attracted to each other's abilities as much as our personalities. Personal projects can be either hectic or calm. I might be rushing to a deadline on a publication or campaign for someone else. Some of my own di

Why I Have Two Surnames As a Married Woman

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Why I Have Two Surnames As a Married Woman Melanie Suzanne Wilson After marrying in February 2017, I publicly  kept my maiden name  and also legally  gained my married surname . That's right. I chose to have  two surnames . And no, I did not draw inspiration from celebrities like Kim Kardashian West and BeyoncĂ© Giselle Knowles-Carter. This was a clear decision based on what works for my life. Past and Present Identities Combined I feel quite happy now with  two identities . I am publicly keeping my  'personal brand'  of  Melanie Suzanne Wilson , which is also my legal birth full name. It is what people know me as. That simply feels right. My  married name  will be used in legal purposes when possible. So in  private  situations and when filling in forms, I am happily Melanie Suzanne Wilson Halford. The last two words will be a surname. I want to feel connected to my new life through a shared name. Both identities reflect who I am in personal and professio

More at the Gold Coast than Theme Parks

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There is More to Explore at the Gold Coast than Theme Parks My husband and I booked our honeymoon months in advance. We wanted a nice long stay at the Gold Coast. I wanted more than rides at theme parks. After research and then experience, I can now share some attractions everyone should enjoy. I was never enthusiastic about theme parks, because extreme rides have always frightened me. I typically got through other theme park visits with one favoured activity - minding the bags. As friends whirled around on rides, I enjoyed opportunities to calmly sip a coffee and look at social media on my phone. Perhaps there are other ways to slow down and still have fun. So we chose to experience Queensland beyond what was already known. This was the goal. The result has been exciting experiences at amazing attractions. Here are some key attractions we have experienced so far. Skypoint Observation Deck We took an elevator all the way to the 77th floor. 60 degree windows provided clear