GYM.Bag Subscription Box Review

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! I would first like to apologize for having this post up so late. I'm usually pretty good about having blog posts up at 10:00 A.M., but I was pretty busy this past week.

Let's talk about my new favorite subscription box: GYM.bag Shop. The GYM.bag is a monthly subscription box that appeals to the fashionable, yet fit lifestyle.

Each box includes a fashion or fitness bag, a clothing item and two to three bonus items. Bonus items include beauty products, fashion accessories, and/or fitness tools.

To give you a better idea, here's what was in my February box:

There were actually three bonus items in the February box:

• The Laughing Tree Organics facial scrub, lip balm, and reusable cotton facial pads
• L.A. Colors Nail Polish
• Two samples from All Good: Coconut Oil and Lavender Body Lotion

I absolutely love the smell of the facial scrub; it smells like walnuts. 

(I still have yet to try these products out. I'm saving them for a rainy day.)

I am absolutely in love with this pink crewneck. It is made of the softest material-- ever! I love how I can wear it with leggings for the gym or I can pair it with jeans and booties. (Or, better yet, I can wear it to bed! So comfy!)

I also adore the headband. It is gold with silver detailing and black flower-like studs.

And now, for the most exciting feature in my subscription box: a Melie Bianco clutch. (For those of you that don't know, Melie Biano makes vegan leather handbags.) With that being said, I was very impressed. This bag is such great quality!

My final thoughts:

I thought that this subscription box was very similar to the FabFitFun subscription box. However, the FabFitFun subscription box isn't as customizable, nor as cheap.

The GYM.bag Shop box costs $39.99 per box, whereas the FabFitFun box costs $49.99. The GYM.bag shop also allows you to choose monthly or quarterly deliveries. The FabFitFun box only does quarterly. So, if you're looking for a cheaper alternative to FabFitFun, I would definitely go with this box. Plus, you can get it every month!

I was recently looking at the contents of their March box-- order it; you won't regret it.

Thanks for reading,

GYM.bag Shop Links:
https://www.gymbagshop.com/
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USE CODE GMSALE FOR 15% OFF OF YOUR FIRST BOX

Bloggers Go On Spring Break Link-Up: My Spring Essentials

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! Today I have an exciting post for you all: My Spring Essentials. More importantly, this post is a link up with several other bloggers. They will be linking their post up at the end of this post; be sure to check them out!

Cross Body Bags

Cross body bags are perfect for spring and summer. Your hands are free to do whatever! 

Boat Shoes

Boat shoes are a spring and summer staple. They are the spring version of UGGS as far as I'm concerned. They go with everything! Pair with J. Crew shorts and a flowy top for a day out on the water.

Big Tote Bags

I love using tote bags for day trips. Throughout the spring and summer I find myself going to the beach and/or park for the day. A larger bag makes it easy to store headphones, snacks, books, etc. in it.

One Piece Bathing Suit

Bikinis are great, but one piece bathing suits are better.  I've found that I can utilize a one piece suit a little bit more than a two piece. For example, a one piece bathing suit is perfect for the water park and family functions.

Music: Ed Sheeran

Good music is a must for spring break. Lately, I've been listening to Ed Sheeran's new album. I love "Galway Girl" and "New Man."

Music: Olly Murs

I recently rediscovered Olly Murs on Spotify. I love "You Don't Know Love."

Stud Earrings

I love wearing simple stud earrings during spring and summer. It's too hot to wear long, dangly earrings. (P.S. I love these pearl earrings! They go with everything!)

Cardigans

Cardigans are a great way to layer during the spring season. I find myself wearing them all the time. Especially in the morning when I'm walking from my car to school.

Athletic Shorts

Athletic shorts are a must for me. During the spring season I play soccer outdoors. 

Baseball Caps

For Christmas, my parents got me a baseball cap from Cabrini University. It's perfect for bad hair days and lazy days.

Floral Dresses

Floral dresses are always in style for spring. I have at least 10 floral dresses that I wear all the time. You can layer a cardigan over it for warmth.

Pink Makeup

I love wearing light pink eyeshadow during spring. Pink, sparkly eyeshadow is one of my favorite ways to play around with my makeup.

That concludes my spring essentials. I know they're all over the place, but I hope you enjoyed it. Be sure to check out all of the links below. 

Thanks for reading,

HW Naturals LLC Review

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! Today I am featuring an Etsy shop by the name of HW Naturals LLC. This Etsy shop contains all of the products you need for a Sunday night pampering session.

First things first: the packaging; it's adorable! I am absolutely in love with the way everything was boxed up. In this white box, there were four bath melts in chocolate rose. 

Here is an up close picture of the chocolate rose bath melt. Let's talk about the individual packaging for a second; it's so cute!

Secondly, the product itself smells just like chocolate and roses.

It took a decent amount of time for it to completely dissolve. So, I decided to help it along and break it apart every now and then. But more importantly, when I got out of the tub, my skin was so, so soft! I was amazed! I don't remember a time when my skin felt softer.

I've always been the type of girl to gravitate towards lotions, but after using this product I don't know if I'll ever go back.

After stepping foot out of the shower, I applied the smallest amount of product to my arms and legs. My legs felt very smooth. And, they had a hint of shimmer! (I am definitely planning on using this product for prom.)

The Organic Lip Polish was the last product I tested. Again, this product smelled so good! I applied a little bit of product to the center of my lips to target the dry areas. I found that my lips felt fairly soft afterwards. 

In order to lock in the moisture, I used this lip balm from HW Naturals in mint. It smells very fresh. I now carry it in my backpack and reapply it throughout the day. It's a great little pick-me-up! 

Last but not least, Haley also sent me four samples of different body butters. Again, all of the lotions smell amazing. However, I have to admit that my favorite scent is Orange Vanilla. My grandmother, on the other hand, loves Lavender Kiss. She immediately put some on after I opened the package. She just "couldn't resist."

That concludes my review on Haley Williamson Naturals LLC review. I want to thank her for sending me these lovely products. They were incredible! You all will probably see some of these products in April/May when I put together some different prom posts.

Thanks for reading,

Haley Williamson Naturals LLC Links:

www.hwnaturalsllc.etsy.com

Spring and Summer Fashion Wishlist 2017

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! Today I am sharing my Spring/Summer Fashion Wishlist with y'all. I have several preppy pieces featured from brands like J. Crew and Lilly Pulitzer. I can't wait to start shopping for the warmer months.

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Khaki Shorts

I currently own two pairs of khaki shorts; a pair from Old Navy and a pair from Sperry Topsider. I love my pair from Old Navy, but they're getting a little run down, so I need to stack up on those. I just love wearing Simply Southern shirts with khakis. It looks so cute and preppy!

Navy Anchor Wristlet

During the spring/summer, I don't find myself needing to lug around a heavy handbag. I like to utilize my Michael Kors cross body bag and my Vera Bradley wristlets. I love this one because it is navy... which makes up 90% of my wardrobe.

White Sandals

I've been on the hunt for a pair of low white wedges for the longest time. I purchased a white Lilly Pulitzer dress for graduation and want some nice shoes to go with it.

Vera Bradley Tote

However, I do like carrying tote bags with me on day trips. They are perfect for road trips and beach getaways. This one is super cute!

White Pants

I love wearing white pants during the spring/summer. I've found that they look great with bare shoulder tops. (I love wearing printed blouses with plain white cropped pants. It looks so chic!)

Sundresses

As far as I'm concerned you can never, ever have too many sundresses. I think I own about 15? 20? It's a problem, but I love them dearly.

High Waisted Bathing Suits

Like I said earlier, I love all things navy. I also love high waisted bathing suits. They look so classy! Whenever I go to pool parties and/or family events, I always gravitate towards it. It's still a two piece, but it's a little bit more conservative. It's the best of both worlds! (Plus, I receive a ton of compliments whenever I wear it.)

Light Weight Scarf

Scarves are the perfect accessory for any season. You can layer a blanket scarf in the middle of November and you can wear a light weight one when you're on the boat. Mo mom recently bought me a white scarf with navy and red anchors on it. It's so cute! I'm definitely going to feature it in some outfit posts.

Flip Flops

I love these navy flip flops! (Mostly for the anchors on them!) It's nice to have a pair of go to flip flops.

Beach Cover up

I only have two bathing suit cover ups: a black one and a white one. I'm looking for more of a kimono this season.

Maxi Dress

I love the look of maxi dresses; they're so beachy and effortless. (And of course the one in my graphic is everything because it's LP.)

Floppy Hat

I don't know why, but I've always wanted a big, floppy hat. I think it'd be the perfect accessory for Downtown Disney when I go in June. And of course, all of the beach trips I'll be going on.


What's on your spring & summer fashion wishlist? Comment below!

Thanks for reading,

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Travel Essentials For Spring Break

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! Because it's officially March and I'm going on a mini vacay soon, I thought I would share my traveling essentials with y'all.

Headphones

First things first: headphones. I love listening to music because it makes the time pass. Lately, I've been listening to Old Dominion and Little Big Town.

Glitter Yeti Ozark Tumbler

I love using this for travel. I have several events coming up this month and am going to be out the door: early, early, early! I can fill this up with some caffeinated beverages to keep me moving throughout the morning.

Big Tote

I recently got a gigantic top handle/ tote bag. It has three compartments; it can hold everything I need. I'm planning on taking it with me on my weekend getaway to Baltimore, Maryland.

Bathing Suit

I always bring a bathing suit with me. (And I always put it in my carry on, too. You never know when your luggage is going to arrive- or not.)

Sweatshirt

I always, always, always bring a sweatshirt. You never know when you're going to get chilly. Lately, I've been wearing my crewneck from Cabrini University everywhere.

Flip flops

I typically wear flip flops because I can leave my shoes on for airport security. I love to wear my black Michael Kors flip flops, but as of lately I've had my eye on this really cute pair from J + S Sandals.

Snacks

I like to pack gold fish, pretzels, granola bars, protein bars, etc. I'm always hungry. Before the flight. During the flight. And after the flight.

Books

I'm not much of a book reader, but for my AP Economics class I'm reading The Armchair Economist by Steven L. Landsburg. It's actually somewhat enjoyable. I have to read it for school, so why not?

Makeup Bag

Now, in this makeup bag, I have more than just makeup:

• Hydrating sheet masks (Long airplane/car rides make for the perfect pamper time!)
• Hydrating lip balm
• Fuzzy socks
• Mascara
• Lip gloss
• Powder
• Concealer
• Blush
• Oil absorbing sheets

You're going to want things to keep your skin hydrated if you're traveling via plane. 

Comment below what some of your traveling essentials are! 

Thanks for reading,

Beauty Is Life Review

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! Today's post is sponsored by Beauty Is Life. They were kind enough to send me two makeup products to review on my blog.

Beauty Is Life USA sent me a Multi Touch highlighter and a nude lip gloss.

A little bit about Beauty Is Life

Beauty Is Life is a German-based beauty company. They sell a wide range of makeup products, as well as skincare. More importantly, they are animal cruelty free,

Packaging

When I first opened the package, I immediately fell in love. The design of the packaging is sleek and modern. I especially love the design of the multi touch powder. The product is in a black chic compact. For convenience, they included an application poof.

I also adore the packaging of the lip gloss. It's sleek and modern just like the highlighter.

Consistency and application

The multi touch highlighter is very pigmented; a little goes a long way. It is very easy to apply.

As for the lip gloss, it is a little sticky. However, it's the perfect wear (not too heavy/light). The application is also extremely easy with the doe foot applicator.

Longevity and durability

These products lasted so long! Specifically, the multi touch lasted on my skin all day. It doesn't cake up or seep into my pores like other blushes and highlighters.

The lip gloss also lasted awhile. Though, after drinking and eating, I did need to reapply a bit to the center of my lips.

Appearance on skin

I was very impressed with the way the multi touch looked on my skin. I used it as a blush/highlighter duo. It made my skin look "alive," if that makes sense. It gave my skin a healthy glow.

The lip gloss also appeared nicely on my skin. I have a tendency to apply lip products only to the center of my lips. It gives the impression of fuller lips.

Overall opinion

I want to start off with saying the experience I had with Beauty Is Life in general was incredible. The woman who assisted me was so kind. She always answered my questions promptly and mannerly. I also adored the products. The multi touch highlighter will definitely be loved by all of my friends come Prom night. The lip gloss is something I keep in my backpack because it is so light and natural. It's easy to apply between classes when I'm in a rush.

In the future, I would like to try some more of their face products out, such as their satin foundation and primer.

That concludes my review on Beauty Is Life. Let me know if you've ever tried out their products.

Thanks for reading,

**Please note, products may only be found online.

Beauty Is Life's Links:

https://www.beautyislife-usa.com

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February Favorites 2017

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! Today I'm sharing my February Favorites with you guys. I'm super excited about the songs I'm sharing with you. (My personal favorite is Heavy by Linking Park and Kiiara.)

Multi Touch in Balina 03 by Beauty Is Life 

Beauty Is Life sent me this product about a month ago. I have a review going up on this product on Monday, February 27, 2017. I'll go into more detail on the product then; but for now you can know: it is a "microfine pressed powder that makes the skin shimmer with a superfine brilliance." Gorgeous finish!

Lights, Camera, Lashes 4-in-1 Mascara by Tarte Cosmetics

I love the mascara because it's lengthening, curling, volumizing, and conditioning mascara. This mascara is infused with olive esters to condition, treat, and protect lashes. It's now one of my holy grail makeup products.

Monogrammed Jersey

I am definitely a prepster at heart. I love all things monogrammed, especially this monogrammed jersey from Marley Lilly. It's definitely been my go-to-throw-on this month.

Diamond Cut Necklace

I've been wearing this necklace from Mikukumi all month. (I don't want to say too much because I'm planning a spring lookbook where I feature some of Mikukumi's handmade jewelry.)

Vera Bradley Wristlet

This month I've had a number of events. This clutch has come to the rescue on numerous occasions. I love the fact that it's black, and therefore goes with anything and everything.

Issues by Julia Michaels

It Ain't Me by Kygo ft. Selena Gomez

Not Afraid Anymore by Halsey

Cold by Maroon 5 ft. Future

Heavy by Linkin Park ft. Kiiara

Thumbs by Sabrina Carpenter

Blogger of The Month

I love reading blogs (when I have the time). Therefore, I want to feature a blogger in each and everyone on of my favorites posts. It's important to share the love!

This month I am featuring: Alyson from My Life As Alyson. Alyson has a beautiful blog-- that has been standing strong for two years now! I wanted to congratulate her on my blog. I know y'all will love her blog just as much as I do. Go show her some love!


Thanks for reading,

Semester Update

Welcome back to my blog, everyone!

Lately, my life has been pretty busy, so I thought I would post a mini life update regarding my school work and future academic career.

The Classes I'm Taking

As of now, I am pretty much taking the same classes I was last semester: AP Statistics, Journalism, AP Economics, and Human Anatomy and Physiology. The only difference is my Spanish class and English class. I moved on to Spanish 202 and for my English class, I am now taking Technical Writing.

I wanted to talk a little bit about my Technical Writing class. First of all, I really, really enjoy it. We're learning how to write emails and things like that. I've found that I can apply the material I'm learning to my blog.

Where I'm Going To College

I'm torn between two colleges: Cabrini University and Ursinus College. As of now, I am leaning towards Cabrini University because they have 5-year Master Programs. They have one for business and another psychology; two fields I am interested in.


What I Want To Do With My Life

As I mentioned earlier, I am interested in both business and psychology. For the longest time, I wanted to be a journalist-- until I found out they make hardly any money. So, I moved on to psychology. The thought of opening up my own practice excited me. And then, I eventually grew board with that idea. Now, I'm considering going into business. I love working behind a computer; I love collaborating with brands; I love technical writing... Why not?

Cabrini University's Presidential Dinner

I was accepted into Cabrini University's Honors Program. Therefore, on Saturday, I was invited to an exclusive dinner. I had a lot of fun; I received a certificate and a medal. I also got the chance to meet with the chair of psychology. She was so nice! I'm planning on sitting in on one of the psychology classes this spring.


That's all for my update. Comment below how your school year has been and/or what you want to study in college. I'd love to hear!

Thanks for reading,

25 Things That Make Me Happy

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! I planned on posting my annual Get Ready With Me: Valentine's Day" post today, but unfortunately I was super busy Tuesday night and Wednesday night. Instead, I thought I would share with you 25 things that make me happy.

1. Taking pictures

2. Spending time with my family

3. Blogging

4. Pampering myself

5. Binge watching One Tree Hill on Netflix

6. Traveling

7. Sleeping in

8. Applying makeup

9. Pedicures

10. Shopping at beauty stores

11. Shopping at Target

12. Color coding my notes

13. Eating Dove chocolate

14. Cleaning my makeup brushes

15. Writing in my journal

16. Planning blog posts

17. Drinking milkshakes

18. Exercising (hiking, playing soccer, yoga, etc.)

19. Having lazy days

20. Having long talks with my mom

21. Bonding with my sister

22. Getting ready for dances with my friends

23. Smelling roses

24. Eating pizza

25. Shaving


That concludes my blog post on 25 random things that make me happy. Comment below some things that make you happy.

Thanks for reading,

Get Ready With Me: Valentine's Day Posts

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What To Wear: Valentine's Day

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! Today, I have a Valentine's Day post for you all. I wanted to share with you some last minute outfit ideas for your special day.

The Red Dress

I am all about that little red dress. Red looks good on everyone. You can't deny it.

The Little Black Dress

The LBD is classic. I own at least four little black dresses. I know, I know... but there are so many different ways to dress them!

I like to throw on a shawl over my spaghetti strapped dress for fancier occasions. If it's more of a casual evening, I'll throw on an oversized cardigan. Play around with it; and have fun with it!

Skinny Jeans and A Sweater

This is probably what I'll resort to for my V-Day look. I'm all about cropped, dark skinny jeans. Pair your jeans with ankle booties and an oversized sweater. From there, accessorize! I like to go with a chunky scarf. Don't forget your Alex and Ani bangles! Perfect!

PJs

If you're staying in for Valentine's Day, definitely go with you coziest, fuzziest PJs. I'm all about sweatpants and Victoria's Secret robes. So cozy! And of course moisturizing gloves and socks-- one of my best friends got me a pair for Christmas. They're to die for!


What are you wearing on Valentine's Day? Comment below!

Thanks for reading,

Pamper With Patchology

For those of you that don't know, I am a senior in high school; I take a series of AP and CE level courses. When I'm not studying, I'm volunteering; When I'm not volunteering, I'm working on my school's newspaper. I'm applying for scholarships and filling out college applications. And come spring, I'll be back playing soccer. My life is pretty busy.

Come Friday night, all I want to do is relax-- and pamper myself. 

Patchology is a lifestyle-inspired skincare brand that creates products designed to keep up with busy people’s on-the-go needs. This line of products is perfect for when I'm in a pinch. 

The Hydrate FlashMasque 5 Minute Facial Sheets are incredible. It replenishes your skin with essential ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5. After stripping my skin with an exfoliator, I like to use this to nourish my skin.

I used this SmartMud No Mess Mud Masque just the other day. I really like how it made my skin feel. It made my skin feel very smooth. The best part about this mask is that it only takes 10 minutes! (You can leave it on for a longer period of time if you desire.)

Prior to using these eye gels, my under eye area was blue/purple in color and very dull. After one use, my eyes have been much lighter and brighter. I really like this product. (It makes my makeup routine much quicker come morning.)

This product is my absolute favorite. I used it after exfoliating my lips. My lips were super soft! I haven't had any issues with cracked and/or dry lips.

Patchology’s tagline is “beauty at the speed of you.” They recognize their customer for who she is: demanding, unique, and evolving. Sometimes she wants things quick, and sometimes she likes to slow it down.

They're a beauty brand built around you. They produce products that are non-basic essentials that reinvent your routine. They're all about quick fixes that work harder-better-faster-stronger. I love that. I'm definitely going to be using their products for many years to come.

Thanks for reading,

Sources:

https://www.patchology.com

EG Peachy Keen Nail Polish Review

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! Today I am sharing a new brand I discovered with you all: Earth Glamour.

"Earth Glamour’s compassion for all animals is strongly rooted and bound by our promise to sell only cruelty-free products. We are grateful to those who follow our Vegan-based lifestyle. The desire to stop animal abuse is the basis for our products. Together, we will preserve the lives of innocent animals."

A little bit about the product

Over at Earth Glamour, they are all about providing cruelty-free, vegan products. Their line of nail polishes is five-free. Being a five-free nail polish company means that their polish formulation doesn't contain five of toxic ingredients: Dibutyl Phthalate or DBP, Toluene, Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, and Camphor.

Not to mention, they were recently added to the Leaping Bunny Approved list. This means their products aren't tested on animals, nor do they use ingredients that have been tested on animals.  You can read all about "The Standard" HERE.

Packaging

I really like the packaging: it's sleek and girly. (I love having it on my vanity for decor.)

Consistency and application

The nail polish was very easy to apply. It wasn't too chunky or too thin. The product glided on smoothly. In order to build up the color, I applied two coats.

Longevity and durability

The nail polish held up well. Like I mentioned earlier, I applied two coats and a clear coat. The product lasted 4-6 days, which I think is great considering all the handwork I do throughout the day.

Appearance on skin

Because this color is so light and shimmery, I think it would look great with any complexion. I'm looking forward to wearing this shade again in the spring and summer.

Overall opinion

I am very pleased with this product from Earth Glamour's line of nail polishes. I love that they are cruelty free and vegan. I would definitely recommend this product.



Thanks for reading,

Earth Glamour's Links:

http://www.earthglamour.com 

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Top 10 Valentine's Day Dates To Try

Welcome back to my blog!

I just love February-- Valentine's Day is one of my favorite holidays. With that being said, I wanted to share 10 V-Day date ideas for you and your honey.

Let's do dinner under the stars.

My town has a very nice park. My boyfriend and I enjoy walking the trail, as it's not muddy and the scenery is gorgeous. Bundle up and grab some soup. Lay out a blanket and look at the stars. So what, if it's cliche? It's romantic!

Play board games.

For New Year's Eve, I went to my boyfriend's house. We played Taboo. I had so much fun! Try game like Scene It or Sequence. Those are always fun.

Play a conversation game.

Sometimes my boyfriend and I will go back and forth asking each other questions. I'm always learning new things about him.

Try asking:

• What's on your bucket list?
• What's your favorite book and why?
• What's your biggest achievement?

Dance in your living room.

I'll be the first to admit-- I think ballroom dancing is so romantic. Push the sofa back and clear the floor. Put on some romantic tunes and just dance. 

Have a "theme" night.

Make dinner according to the movie your watching. For example, if you're watching Lady and the Tramp, whip out the spaghetti and meatballs yourself. That's adorable!

Write poetry.

My boyfriend and I celebrated our one year anniversary by sharing poems and other written works we wrote for each other. I really enjoyed that. 

Relive your first date.

My boyfriend and I confirmed our relationship at a school dance. Later on, we went to Hershey Park. I think it would be fun to go up there again and relive our first "date."

Make a vision board together.

I saw this on Married At First Sight... I thought it was the cutest idea ever. If you and your boyfriend are serious, try this! Grab a poster board and start snipping clips and pics from magazines. 

Netflix and chill.

As of lately, I've been binge watching... and I mean binge watching One Tree Hill. (It's bad.) Find a show the both of you like and binge watch a few episodes.

Window shop.

Why not? If you both are shopaholics and enjoy strolling around... head to the mall! Grab a hot chocolate at Starbucks and indulge in some of the latest spring styles.

That concludes my 10 Valentine's Day dates to try. Comment some of yours below. Kyle and I are still trying to figure out what we want to do. 

Thanks for reading,

Image Sources:

Essay Tigers

Lori Adams Books

Eleanor's NYC

Other Links:

Kyle's Blog

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