2018 Summer Bucket List

Happy Summer Sunshine, Y'all!

Today's blog post is a bit more casual. I'm going to be sharing my goals for this summer. I organized my goals into four different categories: Personal, Blog/Social Media, Education, and Fitness.

PERSONAL

Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.

Next semester I have a few early classes. I want to start getting into the routine of waking up for those early 8:00 AM classes.

Wake up early.

The early bird catches the worm. Isn't that what they say?

Travel somewhere.

I want to go somewhere I've never been before. And, I'm actually going to South Carolina. I'm so excited!

Plan a romantic summer date.

Maybe a picnic? Leave some ideas in the comments below!

Write more.

I want to journal more. I really enjoy it.

BLOG/SOCIAL MEDIA

Make a video.

Maybe I'll make a travel video or something? I don't know, I'm still playing around with making videos on my blog. However, I do enjoy it!

Hit 140,000 page views.

Help a sister out!

Work with at least five companies.

Last semester, I took a break from working with companies-- and I kind of totally regret it. But, it was really difficult for me to balance my blog with my school work.

EDUCATION

Take a summer class.

I am currently taking a biology course at my community college. Oh, boy! (It's gonna be a rough one!)

Read a book.

I just want to read something. Leave suggestions below!

Work on my Spanish.

So, I have officially decided I am going to try to minor in Spanish. I'm super excited!

FITNESS

Drink more water.

Drink. More. Water. We're gonna try this!

Workout 2-3 times a week.

At school, I worked out 3-4 times a week. It was great! However, I tend to slack off when I'm at home. So, hopefully I'll be able to stick to a consistent workout routine this summer.

Comment below: What's on your bucket list this summer?

Paperless Post Collaboration & Review

Welcome back to my blog, everyone!!

Before I get into today's blog post, I wanted to let y'all know that you can expect a blog post from me every Monday again. The spring semester is officially over-- and I can officially breathe again. I am so happy to be back into the swing of blogging again.

Without further ado, here's today's blog post, a collaboration with Paperless Post:

What is Paperless Post?

Paperless Post is an online platform in which users can design invitations, cards, and flyers. 

How does it work?

Users can purchase coins for their e-cards. In exchange for a few coins, you can put together your own e-card or flyer. Even the background of your card is customizable; it's so cool!

Collections

Personally, I am a huge fan of the kate spade new york collection. The collection includes a variety of birthday cards, thank you cards, wedding invitations, etc. 

This one has got to be my favorite: 

Though this card isn't from the kate spade new york collection, it's still super fun! I'll definitely be sending this card to my sister on her birthday, May 31st.

Just to sum it up for y'all, I am a huge fan of Paperless Post and the company's mission. It's easy and fun! I'm planning on sending some more e-cards to my friends and family this summer. I might even put together some flyers for an event. 

Thanks for reading!

Paperless Post: https://www.paperlesspost.com

What I Learned During My First Year of College

I'll be honest: I thought college was going to be a step up from high school. Daunting drama. Fake friends. And, catty cliques. But, it wasn't like that at all. I slid into the crowd with ease. In this blog post, you'll read all about the lessons I learned during my first year of college.

Your roommate doesn't have to be your best friend.

My roommate and I said hello to one another, but we weren't the best of friends. And, that's okay. We were two totally different people. That's the case with some roommates. Don't beat yourself up over it.

Boys. They only want one thing.

As early as my freshman year in high school, I learned this concept. (You can read all about that experience by clicking here.) The same trend carries throughout college. Guys would ask my friends about me and get my Snapchat from others guys. And, they would constantly hit me up and ask to "hang out." Blocked him. And, him. Oh, and this other guy blocked me because I refused to give him what he wanted. It's disgusting.

Before you drink: think!

Go to parties and have fun, but be safe. Always put your safety first.

You DO meet your best friend in college.

Unfortunately, I didn't have the best group of friends in high school. I was ragged on by one jealous girl-- who totally killed my vibes. In college, I found my best friend. Shoutout to Erin! Thanks for always being there for me. This year has been a blast being by your side!!

Long distance relationships are hard.

Okay, really hard. I can't thank Kyle enough for putting up with me. As I got more comfortable
in college, I started testing my boundaries. We've had our fair share of downs. But, we've also had our fair share of ups. I learned that communication is definitely important. Don't shut someone out just because you're stressed.

You're capable of a lot more than you think.

You can make tons of friends. You can step out of your comfort zone. You can even be a spy for the Soviet Union during the Manhattan Project era; (it's a long story)!

You need to work for A's. 

I worked my butt of this year. And, it paid off. Hello, Dean's List!

Outfit repeats are not federal offenses.

In highs school, I'd rather be caught dead than be caught wearing a shirt I wore 6 months ago. Outfit repeats are a thing in college. And, guess what?! They're 100% accepted! Encouraged, even!

Being homesick is not childish.

I was homesick. A lot. I came home almost every weekend during my first semester. That's okay, too. It gave me time to adapt to college life a little bit more slowly. Unfortunately, if you're going to school on the other side of the country, it might be hard. But, hey, you'll make it work. FaceTime wasn't invented for nothing!

Don't take a professor twice if you didn't like them the first time around. 

If you had a professor that you loved and you have the opportunity to take his/her class again-- do it! However, if you didn't like a professor don't take them again. I learned that the hard way. (I thought hey, why not minor in that particular subject!)

Caffeine is your best friend.

Have an 8 AM class? I advise you hit up your school's coffee shop on the way to class. Oh, and you have a class that goes until 9:30 PM? I advise you hit up your school's coffee shop on your way back to your dorm. You're gonna want some sugar in your system to get you through these long days... and longer nights.

Group. Projects. Suck.

In high school they sucked. And guess what? In college they still suck. (Sorry mom, I know you hate that word.) But, it's true. Nobody wants to do their part of assignment, so someone-- usually you, has to take over. This one is inevitable. Good luck!

Things happen for a reason.

I've been saying this since my freshman year of high school. Things happen for a reason. You fail a test. You gain an internship. You go to a party. You meet someone new. It's all in God's plan for you to grow.

Checkout what I learned during my high school years:

9th Grade Accomplishments & Memorable Experiences

10th Grade Accomplishments & Experiences

My Junior Year Experience

The Senior Year Experience

Lessons I Learned In High School

Spring Semester Classes Recap

I am about to finish up my spring semester as a first-year student at Cabrini University. I could not be more thrilled with my experience!

I wanted to share with you the classes I took:

RELS 110 - Search For Meaning

As an honors student, I had to take this class. Cabrini University has a religion requirement, so this course counts towards that core. Overall, I was a little freaked out during the first few sessions. However, as the semester progressed I learned to like the class. And, I actually learned a lot.  

PSY 203 - Developmental Psychology I

This class is necessary in order to complete my major. This class focused on how children grow and develop. I really enjoyed writing papers for this class. However, the tests were super hard. Like, A, B, and C all sounded right to me. I can definitely tell you I worked my butt off after that first test.

HENG 305 - The Creation, Fall, and Redemption

As an honors student, I have to take an additional honors class. Coming into Cabrini, I had an English credit. Then, I was put into an English class for the fall semester. I decided to take another English class-- maybe I'll complete an English minor, who knows? I'm already half way there!

ECG 200 - Rethinking Addiction

By far, the coolest class I took this semester. This class counts towards the core curriculum as well. I absolutely loved it!  For my signature assignment, I talked about the safe houses Philadelphia was planning to put into affect in order to promote safe drug use. 

SPA 204 - Conversation and Composition

Oy vey. Last semester, I finished with an A-. For being the only freshman, I'd say that's not too shabby. Being in 204 meant that I was one of few native English speakers. The majority of my class was made up of hispanic students.

PSY 309 - Abnormal Psychology

Again, another class towards my major. I loved this class! Again, I learned so much-- I know, I know. Who knew you learned so much in college?

Classes I'm Taking Next Fall:

SPA 210 - Intermediate Spanish Social Service

PSY 271 - Stats For Social Sciences I
PSY 202 - Personality Theories
PSY 305 - Social Psychology
PSY 204.- Developmental Psychology II
ECG 300 - Immigration, Law, and Social Justice

In August, I'll probably end up putting together a blog post on why I chose these courses. I'm going to start sharing some of my career path ideas with y'all, very, very soon.

My New Favorite Go To Outfit For Spring

Welcome back to my blog, everyone!

Today, I have a quick and simple post for y'all. (Sorry!! I've been bombarded with school assignments. But hey, when summer rolls around I'll be able to step up my game again.)

I'm sharing my new favorite go to outfit for spring with y'all:

Outfit Details:

Top - Primark

Jeans - Hollister

Booties - Target

Headband - Headbands of Hope

Thank y'all so much for tuning in this week! I am in love with the way some of these pictures turned out. Natalie is absolutely gorgeous! Shoutout to her for being a terrific model for me.

Question of the Day: What's your go to look for spring? Is it an off the shoulder blouse like Natalie? Or, is it a floral maxi? Comment below!

The Ultimate Spring & Summer Fashion Wish List For 2018

Though spring is over a month away, it's never too early to start shopping for your spring and summer wardrobe. I love amping up my closet with: bright colors and fun patterns. (Just a heads up; you'll see a lot of Lilly P. in this wishlist!)

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 / 13 / 14 / 15

1. Twill X Midi Short

I am in desperate need of a pair of white shorts. I think they would be so much fun to pair with bright, fun Lilly tops.

2. Lowie Blue Skinny Leather Belt

A navy blue belt is also on my wishlist. I love belts. I think they're a super cute accessory. Not to mention, they keep my pants up.

3. Arriana Beach Please Tote

This tote is too cute to pass up. I love the bright tassels. During the summer months, I find that I carry around a ton more: blotting sheets, deodorant, water, etc.

4. Charming Urchin Bracelet

During the spring and summer months, I like to accessorize lightly. This bracelet isn't going to sweat my arm off.

5. Lilly Lanyard

For Christmas, I received a Lilly Pulitzer ID wallet-- that I love to death. I would love to get a matching lanyard if I get the chance.

6. Bell Sleeve Cover-Up

I saw this swimsuit cover up and immediately fell in love. I love the cut and wide sleeves.

7. Miller Thong Sandals

Lately, I've been obsessed with Tory Burch this and Tory Burch that. These sandals are at the top of my wishlist this season. They'll go with everything and anything; instantly transforming my outfit.

8. Diamond Tassel Earrings

Tassel earrings have been super trendy. I've always thought they were a little too bold for me. However, lately, I've been wanting to experiment with this trend. Maybe if I kept my hair down, they wouldn't be as "loud."

9. Villa Del Mar Logo Bar High Neck One-Piece

When it comes to bathing suits, I definitely prefer a good one piece. They'e just a little bit more modest. Ya know? I love this solid-colored one. I''d definitely be making a statement while sitting poolside. (I see it now: Classic Ray Bans and a pair of MK flip flops. Do we see it?)

10. Colby Silk Clip Top

This tunic would be perfect for a late night walk on the pier. I'd pair this with ripped jeans, or some white cropped pants depending on the occasion.

11. Resor Infinity Loop

A fun colored scarf is the perfect way to transition into the spring season.

12. Prana Women's Quinn Dress

I am in love with this peach color. So cute! I think this would be a nice dress to just throw on.

13. Lipsi One Piece

Again, I love one piece bathing suits. And, I love the color navy. Need I say more?

14. Pom-Pom Beach Woven Sun Hat

I. Need. This. Hat. In. My. Life. Enough said.

15. Adjustable Gold Tassel Necklace

This gold tassel necklace would be the perfect go to accessory during the warmer seasons. I can definitely see myself layering this with some solid colored tops and cut offs. (Comment below letting me know how you style your tassel necklace!)

Comment of the Day: What's on your spring and summer wishlist? 

How To Balance A Blog + College

Being a full time college student makes it difficult to be a part time lifestyle blogger. For those of you who are in my position, I'm sure you understand.

Here are some of my tips to help you run a great blog while maintaining an awesome GPA:

Use a planner.

My planner is my best friend. (I'm sorry, Natalie! You're a close second, I promise.) I use the heck out of my planner. My top tip: come up with a color coding system.

SCHOOL

BLOG

FITNESS

LIFE (VOLUNTEER, FAMILY, ETC.)

IMPORTANT

It's a pretty basic system, but I really like it. It helps me stay on top of all of my to do's. 

Stay organized.

Keep your work space clean. Keep your planner intact. Keep your computer files in range. If you stay organized, you'll be able to manage more tasks. And, you won't feel as overwhelmed. (I don't work well with a messy desk.)

Prioritize school work.

School, then blog. In high school, I couldn't imagine putting my blog second. However, this time, I'm paying for my college education. It's important that I devote the needed amount of time to my schooling.

Devote time to blog.

With that being said, if your schedule allows, block out time to devote especially to your blog. I like to spend Friday afternoons in my school's cafeteria. It's the perfect time to eat and blog, and blog and eat. A few weeks ago, I sat in my school's cafe for 2 hours. I had soup, and a grilled cheese. Oh, and fries! Two orders of those curly things. They're addicting!

Plan blog posts in advance.

During winter break, I like to go to town and plan for a year's worth of blog posts. That's almost impossible, so I settle for the end of the semester. I like to use Google Drive to help me organize dates and blog titles.

Here are some tips to plan for a semester's worth of blog posts:

• Brainstorm. Set a timer for 20 minutes and put all of your thoughts on paper. Your bound to come up with some great ideas!

• Search the web. The worldwide web is the perfect place find content inspiration. I like to gravitate towards social media, like Twitter and Pinterest. They always have great ideas in stock for me.

• Revisit YOUR blog. Scope out your old blog posts for content ideas. Are there any routines you can update? What about a new story you can tell?

Those are all of the tips and tricks I have for managing a blog while in college. Live by your planner. It will make your life 10x easier! Put your school work first and devote a bock of time do your blog 1-2 times a week. And lastly, plan in advance! This is the system that works best for me. What works best for you?

Question of the Day: Do you find running a blog while in school a difficult task?

How To Perfect Your Next Essay ft. Boss Chic Crate

Midterms are right around the corner-- which means, midterm essays are in session. Here are my tips to make sure you get an A! (Or, at least a decent grade to keep that GPA going strong.)

Mug: Boss Chic Crate

Outline.

As soon as you get the assignment: brainstorm. Outline some ideas. I like to paste the prompt into a word document and post bullets/phrases underneath the topics. This helps me organize my thoughts.

Draft.

I like to complete research as I draft my essay. (I don't want to waste anytime researching information that I'm not going to use in my essay. Please don't tell your professor-- or mine for that matter, I said that.)

And then, draft again.

During the second draft is when I like to complete my research. I research topics that need stronger arguments. This balances my essay making it look more complete and thorough.

Edit.

Edit your paper. I like to read through my paper and move phrases/sentences around to make my paper flow better. I also fix any punctuation mistakes I may have made. Oh! And, now, is a great time to hit up a thesaurus. Word choice is everything.

Go to your school's writing center.

Some of my teachers actually offer extra credit if you go to the writing center. Another set of eyes on your paper does no harm.

Edit. Again.

I know. I know. How many times can you edit something? Just read through it one more time. One more.

Email it to your professor a week in advance.

If your professor will look over your paper before the submission date, take advantage of it! A few of my teachers did this and it really helped me.

Go back and add some things.

Add anything that your professor told you too. Make your paper the best it can be.

Submit!

Congratulations! You're done!


Editing is key. I highly recommend looking over your paper 2-3 times before you submit it. Your professor will be able to tell you put time and effort into the assignment.

And, celebrate!

Don't forget to celebrate with a cup of coffee in your favorite mug. My current favorite mug is this one from Boss Chic Crate. These mugs are so girly-- and I love them! They look so cute on my desk. This one is so fitting since International Women's Day was on March 8h. Definitely recommend! Go checkout Boss Chic Crate's social media links below.

Question of the Day: How are you enjoying your classes right now? Writing any big papers?

Boss Chic Crate Social Links

www.bosschiccrate.net 

Instagram | Twitter | Google+

Winter Makeup Routine

Today, I thought I would share my winter makeup routine with y'all. I've been testing some new makeup products and love this combo!

I tested the look on my sister, Natalie:

FACE

Face Base Illuminating Primer | Models Own

I use clean fingers to apply this product onto my face. (CAUTION: It is extremely sparkly!)

Dream Fresh BB Cream | Maybelline

I use a wet sponge to apply this product to my face. I like to use two coats of this product because it's so sheer. If I have any redness/imperfections I'll go with a concealer.

#NoFilter Finishing Powder | NYX Professional Makeup

This is my favorite powder of all time. It makes my skin look so smooth and radiant.

Amazonian Clay 12 Hour Blush | Tarte Cosmetics

I love this blush! It lasts a whole school day, which is a miracle to me.

High Beam Liquid Face Highlighter | Benefit Cosmetics

As far as I'm concerned, this is the best highlighter on the market. I like to apply this to not only my cheekbones, but the center of my face too.

EYES

Highliner Gel Eye Crayon  | Marc Jacobs Beauty

I simply tight line my upper lash line.

Troublemaker Mascara | Urban Decay

I don't love this mascara, but it's growing on me. I definitely prefer Urban Decay's Perversion mascara.

Brow Shaping Gel | Ulta Beauty

I like to run a bit of product through my brows to keep them in place. This product does just the trick!

LIPS

Shine Shine Shine Lipgloss | Essence Makeup

This is my favorite lipgloss. I can't say enough great things about it. It's so shiny! A little bit goes a long way (and it lasts a really long time, too!) My go to trick: Apply a little bit of product to the center of your lips. Not only does it look more natural, but it makes your lips appear fuller. Win, win!


Question of the Week: What's your favorite makeup product? 

10 Things To Do On Spring Break

Spring Break is right around the corner! I am so excited to be able to take a break and focus on my mental health-- college can be so stressful!

1. Catch up on school work.

Now is as good as time as any to get caught up on assignments. You can work at your own speed and devote the time necessary to that assignment you've been putting off.

2. Get ahead on assignments.

So, maybe you're like me and want to get ahead on some assignments. Not a bad idea! I like to use break as a time to get ahead on readings and final projects.

3. Do some spring cleaning.

I know when I come home for the weekends, I usually don't do much cleaning. Now is a perfect time to dust my room and clean out any old makeup in my drawers.

4. Catch up on some sleep.

I know I'm not the only one who stayed up until 2 AM last week writing a paper for my psychology class. Girl, take this time to rest.

5. Get together with high school friends.

If you're home and you have the time, get together with your high school friends. It will be nice to see their faces again.

6. Work on a hobby.

I'm sure you all know my hobby is blogging. It's my pride and joy. If you have a hobby dedicate some time to it. In college, you're always working on assignments. Now is a great time to show yourself some love.

7. Go to the beach.

For the Instagram pics.

8. Spend some quality time with your family.

I spend Monday-Friday at Cabrini University. I spend Saturdays running around and Sundays are really the only day I get to see my family. And, that's when soccer season isn't in session. And, when is it not?

9. Go on a mini vacation.

Hey, if you're bank account allows for it, get away for awhile!

10. Relax.

Do a face mask. Paint your nails. Watch Netflix.


Question of the Day: What are your plans over Spring Break?

My Current Gym Playlist

In honor of the New Year, I've challenged myself to fight off the freshman fifteen. In order to do that, I've been hitting the gym twice a week. Every now and then, I change up what I listen to while I workout. However, I always find myself going back to these songs.

Here are some of the songs I've been jamming to while on the treadmill: 

Question of the Day: What's your favorite song to workout to?

How To Prep For A New Semester (Ft. My Favorite Free Printables!)

Most of my friends from high school are heading back to college this week. Therefore, I thought: what better time to post a blog on getting ready for a new semester than now!

Here's how I'm getting ready for my spring semester at Cabrini University:

1. I start my checking my college's portal and email for syllabi.

Some teachers are really good about uploading the syllabus to your portal. And, some teachers are not. As much as I love technology, I still like to have physical pieces of paper in my hand. With that being said, I immediately print out a syllabus when I see it.

2. After printing out all of my syllabi, I put all important dates into my planner.

This actually saved my life on more than one occasion. I completely forgot about an assignment-- it was due the next day. I don't know what I would have done! Thank goodness it was in my planner!

3. Afterwards, I go through my planner and put all assignments on a free printable.

This is my favorite free printable of all time. It's super helpful! Go back through your planner and write down all of your assignments in order. Then, as you plow through the semester cross assignments off as you complete them. Easy as that! Click HERE.

4. Order textbooks.

Stay on top of your game and order your textbooks. You can always return them if you don't need them. However, if you don't need them, consider keeping them. It's nice to have a textbook to follow along with. My favorite place to purchase books is from the Barnes & Noble Marketplace. I got a book I needed for $1.99. I know, I know. Please, hold the applause.

5. Make a schedule.

First, write down when your classes are. Then, add in study times and workout periods. Oh, and if you're a blogger like myself, add in some time to get crafty. And, most importantly, schedule some time to relax. College is stressful. Don't burn yourself out. Schedule in some time to Netflix and chill or listen to some music and do a face mask. Checkout this Tumblr account for a ton of other free printables: The Organized Student.

6. Buy supplies.

I like to buy new folders and notebooks for each class. I also like to pick up another set of my favorite R.S.V.P pens and highlighters. Oh, and index cards! I'm always running out of them.

7. I like to finish up by adding any important dates to my calendar/planner.

I like to add birthdays, holidays, and breaks to my planner. I'm actually off the last week of February and the last week of March. How exciting is that? This way, if I'm falling behind on assignments, I can simply take the time over break to catch up on them.

8. Relax.

I like to spend the week before I go back to school taking care of myself. I like to get my toes done, do a face mask, and watch Netflix. This way, I feel fresh and confident when taking on my new classes.

Question of the Week: How do you get ready for a new semester?

18 Goals For 2018

Happy New Year, everyone!

To kick off the new year, I'm sharing some of the goals I want to accomplish this year:

1. Hit 150,000 views.

This year, I hit 100,000 page views and that was a huge milestone for me. Shoutout to you guys for being absolutely incredible.

2. Finish my first year of college with all A's and B's.

This past fall, I finished the semester off with all A's and A-'s. I am pleased to announce that I made the Dean's List! I'm so proud of myself. I'm hoping to continue those grades throughout the spring semester.

3. Stick to a consistent workout schedule.

This fall, I've been able to stick to a fairly consistent workout schedule. I worked out on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Fingers crossed I'm able to keep a consistent workout schedule this coming semester.

4. Volunteer somewhere this summer.

Giving back to my community is very important to me. I'm hoping to volunteer my time at a hospital or local charity this summer.

5. Obtain an internship.

Somewhere in the mix, I'd also like to obtain an internship. For those of you that don't know, I am majoring in psychology. Hopefully I can get an internship at a counseling center or something like that.

6. Give my closet a deep clean.

I am a college girl-- it's time I get rid of those "grungey" t-shirts I thought were so trendy in high school.

7. Drink. More. Water.

I've noticed that when I cut soda and other caffeinated beverages out of my diet, my skin is radiant and clear. My goal is to drink more water this year in order to keep my skin happy.

8. Workout at least twice a week.

Going off of formulating a consistent workout schedule, I would like to exercise at least twice a week. This semester, I was able to accomplish that (for the most part). Every now and then, I go to the gym to play basketball. It's actually a lot of fun!

9. Travel some place I've never been before.

It could be a park. It could be Hawaii. Either way, I want to travel.

10. Complete a Pinterest workout challenge.

I've seen a number of ab workouts and squat challenges. I'm determined to try one of them and conquer it.

11. Try something new.

I know-- this is super vague. I'd just like to try something new. College is all about making memories and trying new things. Let's do it!

12. Collaborate with another blogger.

Hey bloggers, if you're interested, comment below!

13. Blog consistently. (Every other week!)

College. Is. Stressful. Finding time to breathe, let alone create a blog post, is almost impossible. Instead of posting once a week, I am going to start posting once every other week. I apologize in advance.

14. Give my blog a makeover.

I'm definitely down for trying a new layout. We'll see what I decide in the months to come.

15. Collaborate with 10 companies.

This year, I worked with so many companies and it has been an incredible experience. I'm hoping to continue that trend this year.

16. Make more videos.

I made a few videos this year. I'm hoping to make some more next year. I really enjoy putting them together.

17. Engage more in the blogging community.

Twitter chats, I'm coming for ya!

18. Start a prayer journal. Or just pray more often.

I saw this idea on Pinterest and would love to try it.


Question of the Week: What's your #1 goal for the new year?