New Year's Resolutions

It's the last day of 2015 with only hours left until the New Year!
Who is excited and ready?! :)

I decided to post my New Year's resolutions in the hopes that putting them out there for the whole world to see will keep me accountable and make me (hopefully) achieve my goals.
6 resolutions for the year 2016: here we go..

1. Post more on Instagram and make a cohesive feed.
My personal Instagram has been seriously lacking in creativity and photos, so with the dawning of a new year, I thought I'd try to fix that. New photos. New inspiration. New lenses also help ;)

2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
This year, I'm going to eat better, and exercise more.
In years past, I have kept a food diary, so I'm hoping to continue that as well as find an exercise routine I enjoy. Last summer, I fell in love with yoga, but still haven't quite found out how I'm going to fit it into my crazy college schedule. In 2016, I'm going to make more of an effort to do so. Even if I resort to YouTube videos, it's better than nothing :)

3. Less screen time
This sounds so weird to say in this day and age, but I would really like to limit my time on my laptop and not feel like I have to constantly check my phone. When I'm bored, I randomly browse the Internet, watch Netflix, or take quizzes on BuzzFeed. There's so much more to do in this world, why spend so much of life behind a screen?

4. Improve academically.
The semester that just ended is my highest GPA to date. I'm super proud of myself, and can honestly say that I've put more of an effort into my classes ever since I switched majors. I'm hoping to continue this next semester. I am forever grateful that I found a field of study I enjoy at the time I did.

5. Do more of what I love.
Blogging/painting/reading/crafting/adventuring
:)

6. Love.
I'm a representative for a company called So Worth Loving. They have had such a big impact on my life. Their words of affirmation and love have made me want to improve myself in so many ways. I'd love to come up with bigger events for my campus next semester and continue to share love with anyone and everyone :)

I hope that by reading these resolutions it has inspired you to come up with a few of your own.

A huge thank you to those who read this tiny blog. I'd love for it to grow and improve over time, but college still comes first. I do know I want to keep this blog updated in the future. Thank you for taking time to read the ramblings of whatever's going on in my life :)

Have a safe and happy New Year!
Here's to 2016 :)

Baking Blitz

Merry Christmas Adam (aka day before Christmas Eve) ;)

Good luck in last minute shopping, baking, cleaning the house, etc. :)

I'm baking a number of other sweet treats this year, but I really wanted to post this. I wrote this post last year (I know, I know), but I completely forgot to click publish! Haha. Anyway, I thought why not? This post includes a few recipes that you might find interesting, and hopefully helpful if you're a procrastinator like myself :)

The holiday season is the time to bake!

Christmas cookies are always a welcome gift, and it is just another reminder of how sweet this season truly is..

I love baking! Whether it's gingerbread, sugar, or the classic chocolate chip cookie, they're all wonderful! The house smells great afterwards, and the process of baking is {ironically} a stress reliever for me!

I made chocolate chip cookies for my sister to take to school for friends and teacher gifts!
I used this recipe and I think they turned out quite nicely!

Popcorn Balls are always a treat I've wanted to make, but never had the time or ingredients on hand to do so! I bought all the necessary items at the grocery store, so here's my first attempt at this particular salty/sweet dessert..

Recipe here!

Sugar cookies are a staple at my house..so of course I had to include them in this list.

I used this recipe. I also LOVE Pillsbury sugar cookies (especially the holiday themed ones)!

I was literally skipping down the aisle after I spotted the Pillsbury Dough Boy on one of the cookies' packages. I know I'm weird.. 

Also, if you need a quick gift idea, a jar of Cookie Butter from Trader Joe's would be absolutely perfect! I've bought Original before, but I decided to try the Cookie & Cocoa flavor, and it is my new favorite!

Try one of the recipes I included above or choose one from this list (sweets you can make with 4 ingredients or less!) or this one (various takes on the classic Christmas cookie!).

Happy baking! :)

Christmas Cookie Linkup

Mondays are 100x better when there are cookies involved! :)

Today, I'm participating in the Christmas Cookie Linkup that Katie and Juliana Grace are hosting.

Thank you both for inviting me to participate! :)

I stumbled across this (new to me) recipe and I think the cookies turned out really well for my first time baking them.

Marble Sugar Cookies (recipe here!)

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

Best Sugar Cookie dough (recipe below)

Cookie Cutters

Food Coloring

INSTRUCTIONS

Make a batch of The Best Sugar Cookie dough.

Divide the dough into 3 equal parts.

Add a few drops of red food coloring to one portion of dough.

Add green food coloring to another section.

Roll the dough together.

Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.

Bake as normal.

*****

The Best Sugar Cookie Recipe (recipe here!)

INGREDIENTS

2 cups (or 4 sticks) Sweet Cream Salted Butter (softened)*

2 cups Sugar

2 Eggs

2 tbsp. Vanilla

4 tsp. Baking Powder

6 cups Flour

*I used Earth Balance, because I'm lactose intolerant. This made the cookies very buttery :)

INSTRUCTIONS

Cream butter and sugar in a mixer until well mixed.

Add vanilla and eggs, mix well.

Add baking powder, mix well.

Incorporate flour two cups at a time until well blended.

Do not chill cookie dough, roll out with rolling pin and use cookie cutters to create desired shape.

Bake in a 350 degree oven for 6-8 minutes depending on cookie size. Bake only until the bottoms of the cookies get a golden brown.

Search the hashtag #bloggersbakechristmascookies to see what everyone else in the linkup made! :)

These containers are from Wal-Mart, and are only $1 each!

We wrapped 4-5 cookies for each tin, and gave them to our friends as Christmas presents.

There's nothing better to give (or receive) than baked treats :)

Merry Monday :)

Friday Favorites

Hi! I'm back after a crazy, exhausting, tiring, and super long week. I'm back to blogging, and I'm super excited about it! Christmas (!!!) is my favorite time of year, so I'm going to talk about (and celebrate) it as much as I can! :)

Acoustic Version of 'Wildest Dreams'
Bei Bei's Media Debut

Christmas Traditions
CMA Christmas -- Lindsey Stirling
Dad Turns Son Into Elf On Shelf
#Elfed
Fuller House
Gifting Gift Cards
Gingerbread Cake
Harry Potter Locations Illustrations
Jordan Smith Won 'The Voice'
'Mary, Did You Know?' Acapella Cover
Photographer's Unique Way Of Taking Photos
'Star Wars' Tribute
Study Pizza At Uni
'The Great Holiday Baking Show'
19 Christmas Treats
16 Best Places To Go In 2016

Merry (early) Christmas! <3

P.S. I'm participating in a Linkup on Monday!
Each blogger will bake and share their favorite holiday cookie recipe :)

Winter Break Bucket List

YAY, I'm (finally!) on Christmas break, and have been for the past three days, but I've been too tired to post or do anything except sleep and watch movies all day..#oops.

Anyway, I can't believe that sophomore year is already halfway over! It's crazy to believe how far I've come in a year..recently, I've been thinking back on memories from last year, and am happy to say I love the place I'm in now. I switched to a major that will eventually lead to a career field and job that I'm excited for. I have real and genuine friendships that mean the world to me, and I can truly say that a family's love is the best there is. I'm so very grateful for the laughter, grace and peace that fills my life.
*

I wrote down a few goals for my Christmas break, since I want to make it as productive as possible (including Netflix, yes I said it!). This list includes movies/tv shows, but it's not limited to only watching a screen :) When I go back to school, I want to be proud of what I've accomplished while I was "on vacation" :)

Donate hair to Locks of Love.

Exercise/yoga at least 5 times a week.

Make 5 foods (desserts/main dishes)

Paint 5 pieces.

Publish 5+ blog posts.

Read 5 books.

Try 5 new places (eat, see, do)

Watch 5 movies/TV shows

Have an awesome Thursday + check back tomorrow for Friday Favorites :)

Friday Favorites

Hi, everyone!
Can you believe it's December?!
So crazy! This semester has flown by!
I love/hate it :)
I almost forgot to write this week's Friday Favorites..I thought of it last night! So sorry, but at least I posted one this week :)
I apologize for being so MIA lately..I was sick the day after my last Friday Favorites went up, and then over the Thanksgiving holidays, I got a little bit better, but didn't feel like putting together a FF (which is a first!) because I felt like I didn't find any good links :(
Again, I hope this week's post is okay..I haven't spent too much time on the Internet, scratch that, I haven't spent much time on the Internet doing COOL stuff like BuzzFeed and/or finding cool articles for you guys! Instead, I've been researching mass extinction, writing about ethical and moral principles, and working accounting problems..so fun, right? NOT haha :)
Finals start NEXT week, and on top of those, I also have papers and presentations due!
So, as always (or as I should have done in the past) school comes first :)
But..that doesn't mean I'm not enjoying every single day of the holiday season! I brought back my mini Christmas tree and it's (literally) brightening up my dorm room. While I write this, I'm currently eating a peppermint stick, Spotify is nonstop Christmas music, and when I'm done with school and (finally!) start winter break, I will write some holiday-themed posts for ya :)
I'm still celebrating, even if it's in small ways :)

Amy Poehler Now Has A Star On Hollywood's Walk Of Fame: YOU GO GIRL
Bess Talks About How Much She's Changed In 1 Year: Proud of her!
Daniel Radcliffe's Audition Tape For Harry Potter: Precious.
December Style Guide -- Ireland: GORGEOUS
Disney Proposal: Awh!
DIY Christmas Treats: Making some or all this year :)
Downton Abbey -- First Look At Christmas Special: -CRYING-
Gracie's Holiday Spirit: When I grow up, I want to be just like you! Your enthusiasm for life is like no other.
JIM, GUYS! I Just Want A Jim: <3
Julia's Navy Lace Dress: So pretty!
Mall Santa Goes Extra Mile: Awesome :)
Mark + Priscilla Zuckerberg's Letter To Their New Daughter, Max: Must-read.
Rockefeller Christmas Tree Through The Years: I actually watched it this year :)
Royals Go Rock Climbing: #goals
Tina Fey + Amy Poehler Compliment Each Other: Long lost sisters. Get it?
THE Holiday Ad: Just watch it.
THIS dress: I need it.
Unique Wrapping Paper Ideas: I'll definitely be using some of these!
Why 'Elf' Is The Best Christmas Movie: I quote this movie way too much..

*Random: I'm not really sure why Jewish/Hannukkah parodies are so popular right now..I've seen about 5 in the past week! Anyway, I like them! They're really catchy :) It also made me really interested in their traditions! I'm going to research them later :)

Hope you have an awesome first weekend of December!
Go ice-skate or drink hot cocoa with all the marshmallows your cup can hold :) Buy a Christmas tree and decorate it! Be grateful and enjoy every single moment you are able to spend with your loved ones.
Sending love <3

Friday Favorites (Thanksgiving Edition!)

Thinking of those affected by the attacks on Paris + all the other tragedies happening around the world that are never mentioned in the news..sending love your way today and everyday.

Covering The Bases: Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide
Dad Says He And His Son Will Not Hate
Friendsgiving Decorations
Lauren Wells' Home Tour
Liam Payne Bought Flying Car From Harry Potter
Long Distance Relationship In Photos
Nathan Kress, From iCarly, Is Married
Spray-On Nail Polish
This Guy Can't Find Anyone To Take To The Taylor Swift Concert
Tumblr Now Has Instant Messaging
Violinist Pays Tribute To French Victims
Woman Refuses To Change Her Facebook Profile Picture

Here are a few Thanksgiving ideas :)
Desserts That Aren't Pie
Gluten-Free/Vegan Desserts
Muffin Tin Recipes
Thanksgiving Desserts For Kids
3-Ingredient Desserts
(Yes, most of them are desserts! ;)

Be grateful for the people in your life. Put down your phone and spend some real time with them. Have a heart-to-heart. Just love.

<3

Friday Favorites

This week has been so hectic, but thank goodness for this weekend, even if it is a busy one! I have so much to do before the Thanksgiving holidays! Ahhh, the first semester of my sophomore year is almost over! Where did the time go?!

A Man Built A Kayak For His Dogs: Precious!
Finding Dory Trailer: We've waited 12 YEARS for this!
For Those Who Love Giraffes: Adorable :)

Jamie Lawson -- Okay, so this guy was recommended and signed by Ed Sheeran, so he has to be good, right?! Funny story..my roommate found this song a few weeks ago, and played it for me, but neither of us had ever heard of this guy, and now I think he's gonna be famous because of Ed! :) Whoa! (Also, go listen to his album out now! SO GOOD!)

London Underground Gifts: These are all so cute!
Mozzarella Sticks @ McDonald's: YES
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 T: I. Can't. Wait.
One Room Challenge: A 6 week challenge to redesign a room + Mackenzie Horan completed two! Check them out here.

Pizza Hut 3 Tier Box: PLEASE! I need this for the holidays!
Tyler Knott: Love how he views and writes about the world -- it's so evident in his poetry!

2015 -- 98 Song Mashup: This one's my favorite so far!
44 Years Later..Willy Wonka Cast Reunites: If you want to view paradise, simply look around and view it..-insert music notes emoji here- :)

Downton Abbey aired its (almost) last episode Sunday :'( I think everyone's hoping the Christmas special will wrap up the series better, because the ending just wasn't what we were expecting it to be..we want it to feel final!
Also, I finally got around to watching Gotham! I'm already halfway through the first season. It's so addicting, and I love it! I'm trying to catch up, since it's airing its second season right now (and I hate spoilers!)

Have an awesome weekend! :)

Friday Favorites

Yes, it's Friday! FINALLY

I cannot wait to go home and cheer my sister on at her state track meet! I'm so proud of her for making it this far her first year of cross country! Wow! Proud sister rant. #sorrynotsorry

So, not blogging this week was super weird, but I think know I made the right decision. As the semester draws to a close and as the holiday season's now in full swing, it's one less thing on my plate that I have to worry about. I'm still continuing Friday Favorites, because it's one of my favorite posts to write each week :)
I hope each and every one of you has had a good week so far! Here's to the weekend :) 

ASL Hello
Best Halloween Costumes: Harry Potter Halloween + Viola Davis

Cast Of The Babysitter's Club Reunites

Deer Photobombs Photo Shoot
Movies You Need To See In The Next 4 Years
Hot Chocolate In The City
Hunters
Instagram Star Quits 'Unhealthy' Social Media
Jonas Brothers: Talk about a #tbt, wow! They're adorable :) Found this gem while I was watching Aquamarine with my friends! We were looking at the soundtrack, and we were like the Jonas Brothers sang a song for this movie?! Completely freaked out..
Layering
Navy Suede
Potrero Hill
Puppy Time Lapse

REI Will Be Closed On Black Friday
11/7 Slurpee Deal

Starbucks Barista Uses Sign Language To Communicate With Customer

Star Turns To Heart Symbol On Twitter
Texaco
This Would Be Me..

Titanic Theme Park: Yay or nay?!
Vegan Mac + Cheese Recipes

Have an awesome weekend :)

Friday Favorites (Halloween Edition!)

What a crazy week! But hey, that's college for ya :)
I'm so excited, because Halloween is tomorrow!
 Also, the stores are in full holiday mode, which is THE. BEST!

Andy's Room Replicated
Appreciate Your Appreciation
Chocolate Covered Pumpkin Seeds
Costume Queen Of Instagram At 3 Years Old
Drunken Mistakes Aren't Always Bad..
Halloween Hounds
Legally Blonde 3?!
Lights Timed To 'Ghostbusters' Theme Song
New Potter Puppet Pals
Nonprofit Creates Costumes For Kids In Wheelchairs
Pizza Photoshoot
Sweet Treats
Taylor Swift Songs As Lullabies
What The Dancing Pumpkin Guy Looks Like

Have an awesome, festive, and safe Halloween weekend! :)

Time To Say Goodbye (Not Really)

Hi, everyone!

This post is bittersweet.

As the title indicates, it's the end of something, although not forever..

The time has come for me to say goodbye to blogging (regularly).

Though I may not want to, it's something I realize I need to do.

This little corner of the Internet has been mine for almost a year and a half, and through everything, it's been the place I've turned to to type out my feelings and/or write whatever I wanted.

I hope I've been able to relate to you in one way or another, and if anything, I hope at least one of the links in the weekly posts, Friday Favorites, has been able to bring a smile to your face :)

I've loved writing and sharing with you all (aka pouring out my heart sometimes..), and I've absolutely loved being able to connect with you. But, as the months pass, I realize that I've almost become too involved with my blog and the Internet, and though I love it as much as the next person, I need to take some time away from it.
I will continue to post every now and then, if a post magically appears in my mind, and I'll try to keep you updated with what I'm up to :) Maybe I'll even keep Friday Favorites going, but I also want you to know that I want to share quality material with you, and not just something I threw together last minute in order to have a post up.
I will write a post if I feel like it and share it with you guys, but at least I won't be obligated to if I have a busy week.
The past few days made me realize how unprepared I am (for everything), and that life's going to hit me in the face sooner or later, and I better be ready for it. This blog has helped prepare me in many ways, and for others, I need to learn them myself. I want to thank you for every sweet comment that's been left, emails that have been sent, and social media platforms that have been stalked.
This blog helped me deal with the first year of college, and made me document things that would have been forgotten had I not had this blog. I'm so grateful for that, and every single one of you who has read my blog.
I love you.
This isn't goodbye; it's a (talk to)/see you later.
<3

New Vs. Old

A few days ago, I was talking to a friend in my old major, and we were talking about the assignments in each of our individual classes, and the whole time she was talking about one of her Communication classes, I was thinking to myself, "Wow. I am so glad I'm not in that major anymore!" It just re-affirmed my decision to switch majors and made me realize how glad I am that I'm a Business major! I'd rather suffer through a few required classes than hate (almost) all of the classes in the major. I'm really looking forward to the classes I get to take in the coming years, the ones that pertain more to my concentration in my major and minor -- they look SO interesting!

This week's crazy busy, but I'm excited about what lies at the end! If I can just make it there, I'll be okay :) 

My friends and I are attending a Halloween dance, which means FOOD, so obviously that makes me really happy!

I've changed a lot in a year. Throughout this semester, I've caught myself saying out loud or to myself, "Remember last year?" And why? We tend to get stuck in the past, reminiscing or wishing things would have turned out a different way, when the only thing we can do is move forward and enjoy the present. Maybe it's this time of year -- I love the changing of the seasons, no matter how I annoyed I get when I don't know how to dress for it (sweater in the morning, short sleeve t-shirt by the afternoon!). Like Taylor Swift + Ed Sheeran sing, "Everything has changed." (Obviously different circumstances, but still..) This year and last are completely different. I've learned so much about myself during this past year. I've had really cool experiences and opportunities, lessons to be learned, and choices to be made in the last year. Those have all shaped me into who I am today.

New major. New friends. New outlook on life. New way of approaching the world.

The new way is definitely better than the old way.

I'm thankful for the old way of life, because it taught me so much, but I'm also so glad that I don't live in the old way anymore. Now I just need to take each day as it comes, and enjoy it! :)

One of the coolest quotes I've come across recently is, "The trees show us how lovely it is to let the dead things go." Whoa. When you stop and look around at the leaves changing color (and giving us cool photos to Instagram..), it's really amazing to think that we too can let the things that weigh us down go..just release the negative things, and while they may not disappear, at least they are not giving us such a burden to carry anymore. We're free of those things.

Sorry that this post turned out to be more of a journal entry than a blog post..sometimes it's just good for the soul to spill out your heart to strangers on the Internet.. :)

Friday Favorites

Crazy week, month, you name it. Fall break was crazy, but went by way too fast!

I want need another one, but also, I love being back at school, as insane as that sounds sometimes!

I'm really excited about the next couple of days/weeks :)

The holiday season is my absolute favorite time of year!

Adele's New Single

All That Glitters Is Not Gold: Because these are desserts and you can eat them!

Back To The Future Day Web Easter Eggs

Gilmore Girls Netflix Revival: OHMYGOSH YES

INTERNATIONAL CAPS LOCK DAY WAS YESTERDAY AND IT'S A REAL THING!

Love This Story!

Panda Cam: Adorable!

Paris Skirt: Want.

Personal Libraries Fit For Rory Gilmore: Gorgeous.

Picture-Perfect: Carly of The College Prepster + her boyfriend, Garrett took the most adorable fall photos!

Real-Life Up Couple

Scientist Recreates Starry Night With Bacteria

This Is All Of Us If We'd Met Heath Ledger: I'm being 100% serious.

26 Pumpkin Desserts

23 Ways To Eat Chocolate Chips

21 Bridesmaid Dress Color Ideas

Have an awesome weekend!

Stay safe :)

Pentatonix

Their whole album is available to stream on Spotify!

If you've never heard of Pentatonix, you need to change that ASAP! Or maybe you have and didn't even realize it! Okay, going on a rant here :) This musical quintet is one of the best out there. I don't know what the world would be like without this insanely talented acapella singing group! I'm so glad I found them, but I can't remember when, where, or even how I learned about their music. So, their Christmas album is SO GOOD. Trust me, you won't regret listening to it on repeat for the rest of the year (at least! There's never a bad time for Christmas music!). Their new album just came out Friday by the way, so check it out here! My four favorite songs are: Take Me Home, New Year's Day, Light In The Hallway, and Lean On. LOVE THEM! I cannot tell you the number of times I've (already) listened to them..#noshame. And to wrap up this (not an ad or sponsored, just an #obsessed fan) long basically a journal entry blog post, I (as a marketing major) have to say that I am so impressed with their marketing techniques! They engage their target audience through the use of social media, and post on their YouTube channel quite often. I read an article that describes more in detail how they utilize the resources available to them and I think it's really awesome! End rant.

Have a great Thursday :)
Sorry posts this week have been short and sweet! October's been a crazy month!
Check back tomorrow for Friday Favorites!

Friday Favorites

Why is it called fall break when I have tests to study for and papers to complete?!

I think my school should re-name it to "extra days to procrastinate"..

'Aladdin' Theory Confirmed!
Baked Apples Recipe
Brooch Styling Tips
Caitlin: Love this outfit!
Desserts + Style
Dinosaur Dominates American Ninja Warrior Training: This made me laugh!
Disney Helps Make Star Wars Prosthetics For Kids: So awesome!
How To Get Girls Excited About Tech Careers: (!)
Isabella: Her blog is awesome! I loved this post, specifically! :)
Jewelry Sorting: YES
Koala Gives Hug To Cameraman: Precious!

Lucky Charms: They finally made marshmallow-only boxes!
McFlurry Spoon: READ THIS.
Prince William Gives Tribute To Princess Diana: Awh!
Real Places That Inspired Disney's Castles: Whoa.
103 Year Old Woman Volunteers: Life goals.
27 Kitchens
23 Desserts
20 Scarves For $20 Or Less

Have an amazing weekend! :)

Favorite Instagram Accounts

Instagram is one of the coolest marketing tools today. It can be used to sell your product(s), introduce yourself to your customers in a more relatable and interactive way, and also share bits and pieces of your personal life. Make it creative. Make it personable. I've found some of my favorite blogs, products, and companies using Instagram. Too cool! I love that each picture is a sliver of someone's story that they chose to share with the world. It's scary putting your heart out there, but so worth it when it truly captures how you feel + so awesome when what you have to say resonates with another soul. Today's blog topic is Instagram accounts because, like Netflix, they are (just as) addicting. I could probably scroll forever. There are so many gorgeous feeds! Also, on a serious note, do these people take an "Instagram: How-To" course on crafting the perfect #aesthetic feed?! Because, I'm jealous! I wish my feed could look like one of theirs :)

Though I might not have the best artsy Instagram, I'm all about stalking other people's feeds. 

Here's a few of my favorites! :)

Bloggers

Amy Stone: All about her aesthetic.

Bess Pearson: The most hipster, boho-chic feed around.

Cambria Grace: Beautiful.

Julia Hengel: Highlights + sneak peeks from her blog!

Lauren Wells: Stunning. 

Lucy Laucht: Beautiful pictures.

Mackenzie Horan: Bright, colorful, fun!

Rebecca: Her style + Northern Ireland adventures..

Sarah Vickers: Envious of..her closet and life.

Travel

#followmeto: The original couple who started this hashtag, and cool photo series..

Paris: Mostly Paris-centered photos :)

Polkadot Passport: Journey around the world via pictures!

World of Wanderlust: Dream turned reality.

Words

Madisen Kuhn: Her words just speak to me.

So Worth Loving: Everyday inspiration.

Tyler Knott: Daily haikus -- yes, please!

What are your favorite Instagram accounts?

What's In My Netflix Queue + Recommendations

I love reading 'What's In My Bag/Purse' posts, but I've never seen one about a Netflix queue. I think that would tell a lot more about a person than their favorite flavor of Chapstick (although that might..). I'm a big fan of Netflix, if you couldn't tell from previous posts, so I thought I'd share what I love watching and if you want, you can leave recommendations on your favorites :)

MOVIES

Ferris Bueller's Day Off (Pretty sure this is the only 80's movie I actually like..I know, I'm weird.)

High School Musical 1 + 2 (#childhood)

Legally Blonde (So motivational.)

Mulan (My favorite Disney princess!)

The Emperor's New Groove ("Pull the lever, Kronk!")

The Fox And The Hound (Always sobbing by the end of this one..)

Whenever I have a bad day, I can always watch one of these, and I'll feel 100x better :)

TV SHOWS

Continuum (I actually discovered this show on Netflix! Still trying to decide how I feel about the ending of the show..)

Friends (Rebecca actually recommended this show to me!)

Gilmore Girls (Classic.)

Grey's Anatomy (I'm in a love-hate relationship with this show.)

Parks and Recreation (Leslie Knope and I would totally be best friends..)

The Office (Jim's my dream guy..)

I've watched these already, but I have no problem re-watching an episode or two from any of these shows :)

What are your favorite movies/tv shows to watch/re-watch? Any recommendations? :)

Friday Favorites

How has another week already come and gone?!
But, what a crazy, awesome week it's been! + I'm even more excited for the weekend and days to come :)

Fall is such an inspiring season, even if it doesn't always feel it (temperature wise)!

Ad For Extra Gum: LOVE, literally.
Amsterdam: This city!

Apple Orchard: She's living a dream..
'Bad Blood' Orchestral Cover: 'Cause why not?
Big Sur: Going on the travel bucket list..
Cheap Flights To Europe: YES!
Coats Under $100: Please and thank you.
Colorful Desserts: ALL.OF.THEM.
Disney Sequels: Dreams really can come true..
Dog Serves As Best Man: Precious!
Follow Your Heart: Must read.
London: Perfect outfit for this place.
Meet Moana: The next Disney princess :)
Nancy Drew: AHH! One of my favorite childhood book series is turning into a TV show :)
Pepsi Perfect: Any Back To The Future fans?
Taylor Swift Lyrics Used As Lines In A Soap Opera: Watch this!
Travel The US For < $500: Summer 2016.
'Wildest Dreams' Cover: Gorgeous.

Happy Friday! :)
Have a great weekend!

smileshineinspire

The story behind my blog name..

:)

I've always loved my username for my blog + corresponding social media!

While I remain an anonymous blogger, I love being able to have accounts that I can use for interacting with people who read my blog, blogs I read, or any friends I've made via the Internet! Social media is so cool in that it lets you share glimpses of your life with the world. Of course, be careful with what pictures you post! :)

Anyway, to the story, so I made my Tumblr blog before my 'real' blog one summer afternoon, and the rest is history. The username I use just popped into my head, and I thought, "Wow! I love it!" I started my blog to be inspirational, and then it turned into whatever I felt like posting (more personal stuff + pictures/quotes I love) which I still hope is sorta inspirational :)

My username consists of words that are super important to me!
I post things that make me smile :)
+ shine is one of the coolest words and I hope that when you read my blog, it reminds you of sunshine + to shine like the awesome person you are <3
and last but not least, I post what I hope is kinda sorta inspirational, which is where inspire comes from :)

I also love the header, because isn't that font just beautiful?! :)

Share your social media below, so we can chat! :)

Have a great Thursday!

Friday Favorites tomorrow :)

Downton Abbey

There are many reasons why Downton Abbey is one of my favorite TV shows.

I have many favorites, but whenever someone asks me what my all-time favorite is, I always answer with Downton Abbey. Yes, a lot of it has to do with the characters -- people we can laugh with, cry over and relate to. People from all around the world have come to know and love this show, and there are plenty of reasons why. The number one reason I love this show is because I love the people I share it with and the memories I've made because of it. I bond with people over it, quote it (way too) often, and have had more than one tea party on account of the television show being centered around the English characters and their way of life. I've watched this show with people who mean so much to me -- my grandma, mom, sister, roommate, close friends. Taking time out of a busy schedule to sit down and enjoy a television show is so rare nowadays, and I'm been so lucky and fortunate to have had quite a few of those moments. I also reminisce when I watch an episode..it can take me back to the times when I watched Downton Abbey at my grandma's house, or last year when my roommate and I decided to take food back to our dorm so we could continue binge-watching DA. And, this year, the final season, we're able to watch the last season of Downton Abbey together.

I am so thankful for this TV show and how much of an impact it's made on my life.

A subtle nod to my Downton Abbey obsession in my dorm room..

Have an awesome Tuesday!

Friday Favorites

My week's been one crazy roller coaster ride, know the feeling?
Hope this weekend is good for you + your soul :)
Enjoy the season of fall, weather and all!

Airbnb + Travel

Anyone Can Crash This Wedding: Bucket list, anyone?

Cinnamon Bun Oreos: YES!

Dinner In The Great Hall: One day..
Disneyland Halloween
Facebook's Stepping Up Its Game
Fall Inspiration
Gilmore Girls Marathon

Learning Your Way Around A New Town: A move, college, etc.
Modern Day Belle
National Treasure 3, Please!
'Outlander' Inspired Outfit

Proposal Stories: Custom Monopoly Board, Photographer Of Own Proposal, Roller Coaster
Social Media Safety: So good + so important!
THIS dress (!!!)

Two Legged Kitten

Why Kate Winslet Keeps Her Oscar In The Bathroom

Stay safe :)
You are loved.
Happy Friday!

Exciting Stuff, You Guys!

OHMYGOSH

I cannot wait to share more, but right now, I'm still trying to completely wrap my head around it all :)

I'm a SWL Campus Rep, and I couldn't be more excited! I was eating dinner and studying last night, when I decided to check my e-mail, because I'm one of those weird people who has to check their email every 5 minutes (and I hadn't looked at my email in an hour or so which was suprising!), when I saw the So Worth Loving email (!!!) SO. WORTH. LOVING. My favorite company had emailed me to say that they had accepted me to their Campus Representatives program!

After I read the first few lines of the email, I completely freaked out. This is a dream come true.

I cannot wait to start planning events and get to know more of the student body at my school :) After a tough week at school, this e-mail lifted my spirits! I'll keep you guys updated. Until then, thank you so much for your love and support :)

Urban Outfitters

My sister is probably the biggest fan of Urban Outfitters, even though she's never bought anything from there. She and I both love to scroll through their website and dream about buying everything they sell. It's all about #aesthetic, isn't it? Haha :) We went road trippin' one Saturday, and stumbled across an Urban Outfitters store. As you can imagine, my sister completely freaked out. We've never even stepped inside an Urban Outfitters store before, so everything was brand new to us, and we loved it! I hate that there's not a store closer to us :(

YES

Everything's so pretty!

Books galore!

You can have any letter/symbol you want on your coffee cup :)

Aren't these terrariums awesome? I really want one for my room..

Who doesn't love a good Polaroid?!

The dressing rooms are one-of-a-kind :)

Love these! 

I'm a big fan of any coffee table/inspiration book :)

Have a great Tuesday!

Friday Favorites

It's fall, finally!

Also, yay for Friday :)

My favorite band finally put their album on Spotify!

Check it out :)

A Bride Took Her Own Wedding Photos

Apple Recipes

#CampingWithDogs Instagram: Just followed!

College Student Covers 'Chandelier' On The Voice: Whoa.

Deaf Dog Knows Sign Language

Dog Train: Inventive.
It's Official! 90's TV Returns To Nick
Lion Cubs

Mini Pop-Tarts

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

Oreo Recipes

Otter Learns How To Use Inhaler For Her Asthma

Photoshoot For Newborn + Friends: #squadgoals

Pizza Recipes

#PotterItForward: HP Way Of Pay It Forward: Love.

Rainy Day Activities To Do In London
Red Panda

Taylor Swift + Dylan Barnes 'Shake It Off': YES
The World Is Beautiful: 1, 2, 3

Travel Instagrams

Todrick Hall's Taylor Swift Mashup

YOU're The Cover Model For Elle This Month

'Zoey 101' Time Capsule Opens 10 Years Later
1989: Guide To Swift's + Adams (Interpretation Of The) Album

Have a great weekend :)

Friends Are The Family You Choose

I'm pretty happy with my chosen family.
They're the people who just 'get' me, who make me a better version of myself..

I'm lucky to have so many sweet friends :)

Whether it's talking about our day or eating dinner together, I'm thankful for the people who I'd consider family!

So..with that being said, thank you!

Thank you for letting me rant to you (via text)

Thank you for helping me study!

Thank you for bringing me Chickfila when I'm sick
Thank you for being weird with me (in public)

Thank you for watching Harry Potter with me
Thank you for stopping me from buying everything in Target

Thank you for sharing your food :)

Thank you for planning our journey around Europe!
Thank you for sending encouragement when I need it most

Thank you for giving me hope when I'm feeling down
Thanks for singing along to the radio with me when we're roadtrippin'

Thank you for bonding with me over Downton Abbey and Grey's Anatomy

Thank you for hanging out and loving me even when I'm in a bad mood

Thank you for texting me before a big test and wishing me luck
Thanks for not letting me go to social functions by myself
Thank you for your support and understanding

Thank you for helping me get through these four years at college. I couldn't do it without you guys.

I love you!

Studying Tips From A College Student

Studying. The word itself is student and dying combined..

Anyway, today I received two assignments back and I couldn't be happier with my grades!

And..-drum roll please- it's all thanks to studying!

I hate studying as much as the next person, but it's something that is necessary in order to succeed at college. The problem is I never really learned how to study! I've had to figure out this "studying" thing on my own, and I've definitely learned what does and doesn't work the hard way aka almost failing a class. I hope a few of these tips will help you when you're trying to study :)

Turn your phone on silent, not vibrate.

Silent and/or all sounds off are the best possible options for your phone when you're trying to study.

It's tempting to want to text back your friends or check social media if it keeps vibrating or ringing during your study sessions.

Take study breaks.

Referring back to the previous point, if you want to text your friend back or check Instagram, do it! But only look at your phone at the specific times you've decided on beforehand.

Figure out if you can study with music or not.

I can work on math problems and listen to music, but I can't focus on science or write a paper when music's playing at the same time. Understand when you can and can't study with music.

Stretch.

Get up and move around every now and then!

Make flashcards (if you need them).

I've realized that this is a great way for me to study, so I'm trying to do this more often!

Don't study on your bed (unless absolutely necessary).

My friends fall asleep while studying on their bed all the time, so that's why I added this one, even though I study on my bed most of the time..but anyway, do what I say and not what I do..haha :)

Don't eat and study at the same time.

I know you probably never would have thought you'd hear me say that, but I've tried to eat and study simultaneously on multiple occasions, and it doesn't work.

Study in a room with lots of light (or outside!)

If you can manage to study outside and not get distracted, then go for it! I love studying outside with the fresh air and sunshine :)
I go to a beautiful school and studying outside is one of the many privileges that go along with this campus in the first few weeks in the fall and last couple of weeks in the spring :)
If it's too cold or too hot, study inside, but in a room full of light. If it's too dark, it will make you want to fall asleep!

Try to get a good night of sleep the night before.

Even though it's "only" studying and not the actual test, it's still very necessary to be alert and ready to study! Sometimes just getting "in the mood" for studying has a lot to do with sleep the night before.

What helps you study?

Good luck and happy studying (if that's even a thing!) :)

P.S. Good grades make studying totally worth it!

Friday Favorites

It's Friday! Ohmygosh. I'm so happy! It's been a long week, so I'm excited to relax some and catch up on my TV shows! :)

Happy birthday shout-out to Amy Poehler, Prince Harry, and my roommate :)

'Allegiant' Trailer

'Bad Blood' Parody = 'Good Blood'

Cake Decorating Ideas

College (And Life) Tips

Every Moment Counts

Floral Crowns For Fall Weddings

Gym Teacher's Twist On Popular Dance

Hotel Bucket List

How To Fall Asleep Faster

'Hunger Games' Trailer

Joanne Froggatt On Her 3rd Downton Abbey Nomination

John Cena Congratulates Little Girl On Beating Cancer

'Jungle Book' Trailer

'Mary Poppins' Reboot

Nickelodeon's New '90s Channel

Pasta Pass Take Two

Rainbow Doritos

Sandcastle Hotels

Soldier Surprises His Son For His Birthday

String Quartet Plays On Side Of Road

'101 Dalmations' Engagement Photoshoot

21 Places To See Gorgeous Fall Foliage

Have the best weekend!

Also, the final season of Downton Abbey premieres this weekend, Sunday, September 20! :)