April 8, 2020

A Day In My Life: Quarantine EditIon

I hope everyone is staying safe during this time. Things are absolutely crazy! I decided to share what my day looks like during this quarantine. If you're looking for things to do while stuck inside, check out my latest post. 




Wake-up. I've been taking advantage of my days off by sleeping in. As soon as I wake-up, I gravitate towards my phone. I check all of my social media channels, including Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and TikTok. (I could spend hours on TikTok!)


Workout. I love starting my mornings off with a good workout-- mostly because I've noticed I've been gaining the Corona 20. I am constantly snacking-- does anyone else have this problem? My boyfriend and I FaceTime so we can workout together. I still use My Poppin' Workout Routine.



Get ready for the day. Shower, get dressed, and do my hair. I don't do anything elaborate these days.



Work. Work. Work. I love my job as a blogger because I am able to work from home. Let me know if you want to see an in-depth blog post on my work from home routine.


Lunch break! My mom makes the best flatbread pizzas.

More work. On this particular day, I spent my afternoon editing some graphics for some blog posts.



Social media. Social media is a huge part of being a blogger. I am currently trying to build up my TikTok audience. Follow me @guiliannamcginniss!


Emails and data entry. I respond to any emails I have and enter statistics for my blog. I try to do this weekly. It makes it easier for connecting with brands and companies. (Highly recommend if you're a fellow blogger! Let me know if you want to see what that looks like.)



Outside time. I am so blessed to be quarantined in a state where it is 80+ degrees. My mom and I like to sit by the pool and listen to music. We've been listening to Miranda Lambert a lot lately!



Dinner! My family ordered takeout from Outback Steakhouse. #Yum



Movie time! My family sat down in front of the TV to watch Onward. #NoSpoilersHere



Popcorn intermission. Popcorn is my obsession-- I needed to pick some up to finish out the movie.



Virtual trivia. Every now and then, my school hosts virtual game nights. They're so much fun! Last week, I won a $25 JC Penny gift card. I also like to FaceTime my boyfriend and do it with him! We have a blast!

Let me know what you're doing while staying at home. We'll get through this together. Stay safe!



April 6, 2020

10 Things To Do While Under Quarantine

Happy Hump Day! Today I'm sharing some things you can do while under quarantine. I'm definitely not used to staying indoors for days/weeks at a time. I'm used to going to the beaches, malls, and theme parks. I'm trying to make the best of being quarantined. So, with that being said, here are 10 things to do while under quarantine: 


1. Clean + organize everything.

The other day I gave my closet a deep clean. It's organized by coats, dresses, shirts, sweaters, etc. I even took it a step further and organized my tops by color and sleeve length. Next up, the drawers under my bed! #WishMeLuck

2. Let your creative juices flow.

Create the blog you've always dreamt of. Or, launch the podcast you've always wanted, but lacked the time to do so. I am taking this time to publish two blog posts a week as opposed to just one. I'm also in the early stages of creating a YouTube channel. 

3. Workout at home.

You may not be able to go to the gym. However, there are a bunch of resources you can use to get the most out of your home workout. I like to use the app 7M Women. Click here for my workout routine. 

4. Read the books on your night stand.

I'll be the first to admit that I'm not a big reader when it comes to novels. Blogs and fashion magazines are more my speed. Whatever you've been meaning to read, pick it up!

5. Explore your backyard.

I love spending time outdoors. My afternoons are spent on my flamingo pool float soaking up Florida''s sunshine. There are so many things you can do in your backyard! Have a photoshoot or upgrade your garden. You never know what you'll find in your backyard.

6. Netflix Party!

Netflix Party allows you to watch your favorite movies and shows on Netflix with other people. My boyfriend and I love having Netflix Party date nights. There is also a chat feature on the side of the screen so you can communicate with one another. It's so convenient! Lately, we've been watching movies from the early 2000s. 

7. Have some self-care time.

I love a good old pampering routine. Don't forget to take care of your body and skin! Click here to read about my simple pampering routine. DIY a scrub to exfoliate your dead skin, try out a new facemark, and paint your nails!

8. Do a puzzle.

My family and I just finished a 750 piece puzzle. It took us a few days to complete it, but it's done! 

9. Play some board games.

My family's favorite board game is Code Names. It is so much fun! 10/10 recommend!

10. Skype.

I love using Skype because of all of the features it offers. My boyfriend and I use Skype because we can share our screens with one another. Over the past couple of weeks, we had to open a PayPal account together, register my domain, etc.. Skype made it easy to do all of those things because I was able to see his screen and he was able to see mine. 

I hope you all are staying safe. Positive thoughts!


April 1, 2020

A Florida Girl's Wardrobe Essentials

The warmer weather is officially here! Over the past couple of weeks, we've been hitting 90+ degrees in central Florida. I thought now would be the best time to share my wardrobe essentials with y'all-- especially for the spring and summer seasons. 

Straw Rattan Circle Crossbody Bag | Universal Thread Natural

I picked up one of these bags from Marshall's when I first moved to Florida. I absolutely love it! It holds all of the essentials-- my cards, phone, and chapstick!

natural straw easy boater with size adjuster and light band | ASOS

Sun hats are a must in the Sunshine State. My boyfriend bought me back a colorful straw hat from Mexico; I use it all the time. I also have one that I found brand new at a thrift store. They're super cute! 

Shirttail Graphic Tee | Lauren Conrad LC

I love graphic tees like this one from Lauren Conrad. I purchased a bunch at the end of last summer. They're perfect to throw over bathing suits or to pair with ripped jeans. I like to pair my tees with cropped denim jeans and flip flops. It's so simple, yet it looks so put together.

Miller Square Sunglasses | Tory Burch

I love Tory Burch sunglasses! I recently got a new pair since my last pair was stolen. I always get compliments when I wear them.


Monogrammed Dockside Shirt | Marley Lilly

I don't necessarily have this exact shirt. However, this visual represents all things monogrammed. Monogrammed anything and everything is a huge trend in the south. I like wearing oversized monogrammed shirts over my black Adidas shorts. 

Women's Canyon Sandal | Circus

I actually picked these up for graduation. I love that they go with just about every outfit. They can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Comfy sandals are a must in Florida!

Sculpting Pull-On Cuffed Capri Jeans | Lee

I really like capris-- especially in Florida. They're perfect for lunch dates by the beach or shopping in the air conditioned mall. I like to layer since it's hot outdoors, but cool indoors.

Ross Shift Dress | Lilly Pulitzer

Anything and everything Lilly is a staple for your wardrobe. My Lilly Pulitzer collection has grown over the past couple of months. I have so, so many dresses. I cannot wait until this quarantine is over so I can get out and wear them. They're so bright and colorful!


Even though the title of this post is "A Florida Girl's Wardrobe Essentials," you can easily apply this to any state during the summer season. Let me know what your wardrobe essentials are for spring and summer.


March 30, 2020

My Simple Pamper Routine | Spring 2020

I'm not going to lie-- my life has been pretty boring lately. I've been staying indoors trying to make the best of the quarantine lifestyle. With that being said, I have quite a bit of time to pamper myself.


DIY Brown Sugar Scrub

One of my favorite ways to pamper myself is by exfoliating the dead skin cells off my body. I like to make my own sugar scrub with products from my pantry:
  • Brown sugar
  • Olive oil
  • Honey


Extra Smooth Sensitive 5 Blade Razor by Venus

I usually use my f.a.b razor, but I ran out of heads for it. (And, they're super expensive!) I had this disposable razor in the back of my closet and decided to give it a try. I really like it's ability to glide over hard to reach areas, like my ankles. It also gets a super close shave! 



Bath and Body Works please bring this back! I am absolutely obsessed with this product for shaving. It is an oil-based consistency, which allows me to get a super close shave. It lasts for days! I use tis product sparingly as it is discontinued. 



Now that I am living in Florida, I am constantly spending time in my pool. Sometimes my hair needs some extra love. This conditioner brings my hair back to life, causing it to appear soft and shiny.



Radiance Renewal Oil-infused Cream by Gold Bond Ultimate

Shoutout to Influenster for sending this to me. I absolutely love this product. My legs are beaming afterwards. #Glowy




My sister's godmother gave me this product and I really like it. It's absorbent and extremely lightweight.


I like to do this pampering routine two times a week. I don't do it more than that because I don't want to over exfoliate my skin. It's super simple and quick, yet it still makes me feel better. What are some of your go-to products when you need a sudden pick-me-up?


March 23, 2020

Affordable + Natural Makeup Routine

Ever since I was 13, I have loved experimenting with different makeup brands, formulas, and products. 8 years later and I still have a passion for it. In the past couple of months, I have tried multiple different products to help me create my new favorite natural makeup look. Not to mention, it's very affordable!


Hydrating Como Concealer | e.l.f Cosmetics

TikTok made me do it! I am absolutely obsessed with this concealer-- I've never experienced a product like it. It's lightweight, yet high coverage. It leaves your skin looking silky smooth. I like to use this under my eyes to conceal dark circles. I also use it on any blemishes and/or red marks. It works wonders!



Infallible Pro-Sweep & Lock Translucent Setting Powder | L'Oréal Paris

A few months ago, I was on the hunt for a new setting powder. I picked up this one. Mostly because I received a free gift with purchase. How could I pass that up? I ended up loving this powder. It truly does lock in your makeup. Best part is: no cakey finish!




An impulse buy that I couldn't be more stoked about. This warm rose shade is so flattering! It's a very universal shade; I think it would look great on a variety of skintones. It is great for girls and guys on the go who are looking to wake their skin up in a pinch. The moisturizing formula makes it easy to quickly blend the product out. I like to use a beauty blender, but if I'm in a rush, I simply use my fingers. 10/10 recommend! (Note to Colourpop: If you're reading this, please sponsor me!)





I received this product complimentary. I am still on the hunt for a brow gel that I love. However, this one does the job and it's only $2. I can't complain! It takes me 10 seconds to tame my brow with this product. Super easy to reapply throughout the day too if need be. 




On days when I'm looking to add some color to my lids, I reach for this $12 palette. I absolutely love the shade range. I opt for neutrals and pinks because they're easy to blend. I like to apply a light shimmery shade to my lid and a darker brown to my crease. I usually play around with the top four shades to create a natural, subtle look.




Did I fall into their trap of using Bambi as a marketing strategy? #YaIDidYaIDid

Am I mad about it? No! I am obsessed with this mascara. It lengthens and volumizes my lashes, creating the illusion of bigger eyes. I love it! I'm obsessed! 


I can't believe all of these products are from the drugstore! In all honesty, I believe they are comparable to high-end brands like Urban Decay and Tarte Cosmetics. I will definitely be using these products to help me create natural makeup looks throughout the spring season. If you have any affordable makeup products you can't live without, let me know!



March 9, 2020

Life Update | Winter 2020

It's been awhile since I've posted-- I've been busy with school, traveling, and work. I thought I would put together a post giving y'all an update on what I've been up to-- from Spring Break to my graduation approaching in two short months. Read all about it:


Spring Break 2020.

2 weeks ago, Andres came down to Florida from Pennsylvania for Spring Break. We documented all of our experiences and put together a video. We went to a Phillies game (where I got hit in the knee with a ball-- it was bad), the beach, Walt Disney World, and so many other places. We had a magical time. Check it out here. We had such a magical time that he is coming down again in a few short weeks.

I'm obsessed with TikTok.

Like, actually obsessed. The majority of my TikToks include Andres. However, since he went back to Pennsylvania, I've been experimenting on my own-- sadly. Follow me @guiliannamcginniss.

My life as a preschool teacher.

Disclaimer: being a preschool teacher is not as easy as it looks. Though it may seem as if all we do all day is sing songs on the rug, we do so much more. I can't speak for all preschool teachers, but I'd say that I can definitely speak for the majority. I have developed into a professional multitasker. I can supervise a child on the potty, pour milk, comfort a child who is missing their mama, and have a conversation with someone from administration about attendance. If I'm not doing at least four things at a time, I feel like I'm doing something wrong. These kids constantly keep me on my toes. I learn something new each and everyday. And, I love that.

College.

I am finishing up my final class online: Research Methods II. I FaceTime with my professor/peers 1-2 times a week to go over material and work on my research project. It's been working out really well. I am traveling back up to Pennsylvania in April to present my research. #WishMeLuck

Graduation.

Graduation is right around the corner-- literally. Not even 2 months! My whole family is flying up from Florida to Pennsylvania to see me accept my diploma. I will have at least 1 blog post, if not 2 dedicated to the experience. I am beyond excited! (Let me know if y'all want to see a vlog! I'm sure Andres and I would love to put something together!)

Personal writing.

I am a firm believer in writing as a stress reliever. I love writing-- whether it's through a blog post or poetry. I decided to put together a document where I could share some of those extremely personal writings with you. Click here to check it out.

Blog content.

I have been blogging for 6 years. Wow. I started my blog writing about my life; mostly about the boys I had a crush on in 9th grade. Then, my blog grew and developed into a beauty and fashion space as I began working with brands and companies. I'm excited to see where my blog goes next. Right now, I'm considering gearing more of my posts to a teacher audience. Let me know what y'all think!



February 24, 2020

A Preschool Teacher's Wish List

About a month ago, I started working as a preschool teacher. (You can check out my latest post to learn more about that here.) In today's blog post, I wanted to share with you some things that are on my wish list as a preschool teacher. 



On Fridays, I am allowed to wear jeans. These TOMS would be the perfect addition to my outfit. If you're a preschool teacher and looking for the perfect pair of Teacher TOMS, checkout Etsy!


According to every teacher, these pens are a must-have. These pens would be great for labeling papers, writing up reports, etc.


I am constantly writing little notes to myself-- have A's parent sign accident report, give B's parent a thank you card, make copies of attendance sheets, make copies of lesson plan, etc. This notepad is super cute!

Padfolio with Clipboard

A clipboard/portfolio is at the top of my wish list. As a teacher, I am constantly taking attendance, jotting down notes, and filling out reports. I want a clipboard with an extra compartment to store pens, sticky notes, etc.

Cute Teacher Tees

Etsy has so many t-shirt options for fellow teachers. I especially like the one above that says "Teaching Future Leaders." I just think that is super cute! I'd love to wear these to class and/or running errands.

Growth Mindset Poster

As a psychology major, I am a firm believer in helping students develop a growth mindset. Even though my kiddos are young, I think introducing this idea is still important. The earlier stages of a child's life are extremely influential.

February 17, 2020

I'm A Pre-School Teacher | 10 Things I Learned So Far (1 Month Update)

About a month ago, I started working as a preschool teacher. I'll be honest with you-- I didn't think this would be my first real job. However, I am happy with my job. I had a 9th grade English teacher who would always say, "I love my job." I can honestly say the same.


Here are some things I learned after one month of being a preschool teacher:

1. Managing a class of fifteen three-year-olds is much more difficult than it sounds.

Three-year-olds! How hard could it be? Actually, really hard. I am constantly learning something new. Everyday is a learning experience. And, I love that.

2. Being prepared is your best friend.

I try to arrive to my classroom 10-15 minutes early to check inventory, go over lesson plans, and organize supplies.

3. Each child needs a different approach. 

Each and every child is unique and special. Each and every child learns in a different way. You simply can't use the same approach for all of them. Be creative!

4. One on one time is extremely valuable.

Fortunately, I co-teach. So, another teacher can engage with the group if a student needs some extra one on one time. I've found one on one time to be completely beneficial.

5. Sometimes, it's important to let your students lead the lesson.

The other day, during Circle Time, my students wanted to hold hands. Instead of forcing the kids to sit on the carpet and sing the days of the week, I decided to teach them the nursery rhyme Ring Around The Rosie.

6. It's never too early to learn about something.

The other day during snack time, one of my students began talking about the digestive system. He explained how the food went into tummy. I took this opportunity to teach him about intestines. They had a lot of fun trying to pronounce it.

7. Facebook Groups, Instagram Stories, and Pinterest Boards are your new go-to.

I've joined 2 Facebook Groups which offer lesson plans and support for preschool teachers. So, so helpful! 10/10 recommend!

8. Some days are harder than others. Like, a lot harder.

I'm still learning. A lot. So, I'm learning how to control different behaviors and manage my time.

9. It's okay to ask for help.

I've had to ask for help on a number of occasions. I do what's best for the kids.

10. You really are making a difference.

The early stages of a child's life are extremely influential to their developmental patterns. There are somedays when you feel like you're not getting concepts and ideas across to the children, but you're doing your best and that's all that matters.

If you have any tips and/or tricks for working with young ones, please let me know!


January 27, 2020

Post-Flu Pamper Routine

For the past 10 days, I've had symptoms of the flu-- a terrible cough paired with a sore throat, painful headaches, and a never ending runny nose. It's safe to say this past week was very unproductive. All I wanted to do was sleep. And, sleep some more. With that being said, I am slowly recovering and wanted to show you my pamper routine. This pamper routine helped weaken my symptoms and increase my confidence.



A warm bath.

I love starting any pamper routine off with a bath. I use Johnson's Soothing Vapor Bath when I'm feeling sick or under the weather. The smell of the product is very soothing. This is a holy grail product for me!

Shave.

Smooth skin instantly increases my confidence by 2 points. Chances are I did not shave during that sick period-- so, shaving is a great way to boost my mood and pamper myself.

Moisturize.

My skin tends to get very, very dry when I'm sick, especially my hands and heels. I like to use a honey based balm to heal my cracked skin. I also have to moisturize my lips and the area under my nose. I do this by adding an extra layer of chapstick to my lips and adding some Aquaphor under my nose. (I also like to do lip masks if my lips are really dry!)

Eyebrows.

Chances are if I neglected my leg hairs, I also forgot about my eyebrow hairs. I like to take five minutes to pluck and trim.

A cup of tea.

I am a huge fan of tea. I literally had at least 6 cups a day last week. It felt amazing on my throat. I like to drink black tea and add a little bit of milk and honey. Yum!

Water.

I've been drinking between 3-4 bottles of water throughout the day. I think this has also helped me relieve my symptoms.

Disney+. 

Courtesy of my amazing boyfriend, Andres. He shared his username and password with me AND made me an account with Joy as my profile picture. I've been watching Hannah Montana. Next up, Wizards of Waverly Place. What are you watching on Disney+?

That is all for my post-flu pamper routine. I'm still sticking to bland foods and drinking as much water as I possibly can. Let me know what you do to help you overcome the flu.





January 20, 2020

What I Learned Living In Lakeland (1 Month)

Three words: I love Lakeland. I've been living here for a little over a month and have discovered the perks of being a Floridian-- from finding the most gorgeous seashells at the most beautiful beaches to going to Walt Disney World every weekend. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't living my best life.


Here's what I've learned so far:

While all of your friends are posting pictures of the snow on Snapchat, you'll be posting pictures of your feet in the sand.

I think it's been below 50 degrees once. And, I'm totally fine with that!

Biweekly pedicures are a must.

I wear flip flops all the time. My feet sometimes get a little cracked and dry. Exfoliate and moisturize!

Boys from the south are so much sweeter.

No one is sweeter than my boyfriend. However, the boys at the local Publix are always offering to carry my groceries to my car. I can count on one hand how many times this has happened to me up north.

It's hard to make friends in your 20s.

I've turned to social media to help me link up with some girls in my area. Hello, Facebook Groups!

My mom gets really mad when I scream at the top of my lungs because there is a lizard on my windowsill.

Fortunately that was a one time thing. Unfortunately I have a feeling it will happen again. Those lizards are everywhere!

The beaches in Florida are a thousand times prettier than those in Delaware and New Jersey.

I can actually see my toes!

My pool is my favorite thing ever.

I love sitting poolside with a cherry coke blasting Taylor Swift.

Crisper's over Panera Bread.

And, that's a really big deal for me to say. I ate, slept, and breathed Panera Bread back in Pennsylvania. I've got to give credit where credit is due.

Long distance relationships are completely doable.

Andres and I have been doing the long distance thing for a month now. We spend a lot of time FaceTiming, playing Facebook Messenger games like UNO, and sending silly selfies on Snapchat. It's going really well!

It's hard to find a bad spot to take pictures.

Florida's plants are absolutely gorgeous and they're everywhere. They make for the perfect photo backdrops.

Lakeland is pretty much the perfect place to live.

45 minutes to Walt Disney World. 45 minutes to the beach.


This past month has been a lot of fun exploring my new city. I can't wait to unravel more hidden gems this town has to offer.



January 13, 2020

20 Ways To Slay 2020

I don't know about you, but I am ready to slay 2020! A new decade means it's time for a new you. Let's do it together!



1. Make a feel good playlist.

2. Create an online portfolio.

3. Clean out your closet.

4. Purge, purge, purge!

5. Set time aside to take care of yourself.

6. Volunteer.

7. Find a creative outlet.

8. Amp up your planner game.

9. List out your goals.

10. Journal your most intense thoughts.

11. Declutter electronics: cell phone, laptop, tablet, etc.

12. Utilize Pinterest for almost everything.

13. Buy a new pair of pajamas.

14. Update your social media profiles. #NewDecadeNewMe

15. Redecorate your living space.

16. Keep your goals within reach.

17. Check in with friends and family.

18. Maintain a practical fitness regimen.

19. Do random acts of kindness.

20. Practice confidence.

I wish you and your family again, a happy new year! Don't be afraid to put yourself first and work towards the goals you want to achieve.


January 6, 2020

20 Goals For 2020

Welcome to 2020! I am kicking this decade off with a bunch of new things. For one, I moved to Lakeland, Florida from a small town in Pennsylvania. With that being said, I have so many places I want to explore and things I want to accomplish.


Here are my 20 goals for 2020:

Land a job.

This is a big deal! I've never had a real job before-- other than blogging. I'm planning on applying for a variety of different jobs, part-time and full-time. I'm thinking retail?

Increase blog revenue.

I would also like to increase my blog revenue on both Guilianna Marie and Everything We Ever Wanted. I'd like to accept more sponsorships.

Walk with my graduating class.

I am going to be the first college graduate in my family. I am beyond excited! #GoCavs

Go to the Capital Grille.

I have to celebrate my graduation somehow, right?

Present research.

I am flying back up to Pennsylvania to present research. I am presenting on the impact of athletics on academic performance.

Completely organize my house.

My house is kind of a mess. My mom, sister, and I have been working really hard to organize everything. From closet drawers to the foyer. (On the bright side, my room is almost finished. Room tour coming soon!)

Reach 200,000 views.

I'd love to reach a larger audience and gain some more views on my blog.

Buy a Walt Disney World annual pass.

Hence the reason I need a job: WDW every weekend. Yes, please!

Look into graduate programs.

I am definitely considering school psychology. I am hoping to maybe even obtain my teaching certificate. I also want to be an immigration psychologist. I'll see how it all plays out.

Improve my current workout routine.

Last year, I managed to adopt a workout routine and stick with it. I use an app called 7M Women. (Not sponsored!) It has helped me shape my body the way I want.

Meditate more often.

I love meditating. It allows me to not only relax, but live in the moment. Spotify has a bunch of great options.

Make more video content.

My boyfriend, Andres, and I have a YouTube channel. I'd love to add some more videos to our channel.

Engage more in the blog community.

I'd love to participate in more Twitter chats and make some more blog friends.

Clear skin.

Clear skin has always been a challenge for me, but since I started taking some medication it's cleared up. My skin should be completely clear by February.

Explore my new hometown.

Lakeland!

Visit Sanibel Island.

Rumor has it: it's full of shells. I've been dying to visit since I've heard of it.

Attend one of Disney's events for vacation club members.

Disney hosts a variety of events for vacation club members, including "free" admission to theme parks on certain nights.

Do at least 8,000 steps each day.

Like I mentioned earlier, I want to improve my workout routine. I'd like to do more cardio.

Enhance my social media outlets.

Hello, Instagram!

Spend more time with my family.

Though my life is going to be crazy-- blogging, getting my first job, preparing research, etc., I want to maximize time spent with my family.

Here's to a new decade! Let's rock it together!