Thursday, February 8, 2018

2018: The Year of Self Care


2018 is the year I've decided to put myself first. I have been surviving on minimum sleep and crappy fast food for years, and I'm starting to seriously consider what it's doing to my body. Since 2018 began, I've started eating a more plant based diet, trying to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night, and have tried to put aside a little 'me time' each week. I wanted to share with you some of my favorite ways to 'treat yo' self', even when you're pressed for time.

1. Take a Bath- while this may seem silly to a lot of people, I think throwing a bath bomb in the tub and letting my muscles relax for a while is the height of luxury. I work part time as a waitress and hostess, so I am always on my feet. My body is starting to feel like I'm 82 years old, not 22. So even if it's just for half an hour, my time spent in the tub helps me sleep, helps me ease tension in my muscles (especially my back muscles), and I can shut off my brain for a little while. I also recommend throwing on some music to add to the mood. I love listening to the 'Instrumental Pop Covers' playlist on Spotify.

2. Try a meditation app- I didn't think I'd love this, but guided meditation is actually really nice, and can put me in a great mood. There are a ton of apps that you can use, that give you different meditations based on what you're looking to focus on, i.e. stress, sleep, depression, anxiety, etc.. I also find that they really effective if you're using headphones, because everything else going on around you gets drowned out. It's too easy to get distracted by the dog walking around, or someone cooking in the kitchen, or the clock ticking, or whatever it is going on in your home. If you're in need of a good pair of headphones, definitely check out Reviews.com's list. It shows you all your best options, pricing, and features. I'm definitely going to be saving up for the BeatsX wireless headphones, I think they'd be great for the gym.

3. Get a Manicure- I feel more put together when my nails are done. I think when my nails aren't done I feel kind of messy and gross. Even just a plain nude color keeps things fresh and clean, plus the mini massage you get afterwards is miraculous. Here on Long Island, a regular manicure costs $7. $7 for an hour dedicated to yourself is not too shabby.

4. Read a Book- What a perfect way to escape. Reading is my favorite way to transport myself to another time, another place, another life. I recently read Outlander and oh my gosh it was incredible. It takes place in Scotland in the 1700's. It was romantic, it was funny, it took me completely out of Long Island and planted me in the middle of a giant castle filled with Scottish royalty. I HIGHLY recommend it. If you want to hear more book recommendations, definitely let me know in the comments below, because I'd love to write that!

5.  Take A Nap- I don't care how old you are, I don't care what job you have, I don't care how sophisticated you are- everyone benefits from a nap. Even a 30 minute power nap can restart your engine. There is no shame in letting your body recharge itself for 30 minutes, even an hour if you have the time. Listen to your body; if you're falling asleep at your desk, or you have the worst headache in America; or hey maybe today is the first day of your period- take a nap. Your body needs it. It's not just for little kids, I swear.

6. Exercise- Working out triggers endorphin's! Endorphin's make you HAPPY! Find a workout that you love, and stick to it, once a week, twice a week, whatever works for you. I personally adore Pure Barre. It's expensive, but occasionally I'll treat myself to a class and it makes me feel UNSTOPPABLE. I also love Zumba, I love taking my dog for a walk around the neighborhood, anything to get your body active and releasing those endorphin's is perfect.

Monday, December 18, 2017

Christmas List


I don't know about you guys, but I love getting inspiration from other peoples Christmas lists. I thought it would be fun to share some of the things I'm hoping for this year! 

1. Pure Barre Membership

I was really skeptical about Pure Barre, I've never loved working out, but holy moly, this class made me want to kick some ass. I fell in love with their whole program. It's super intense, fun, and works your entire body. 

2. Aerie Underwear


I know this is weird, but there is nothing I love more than new underwear. Aerie undies are so soft, comfy, and come in a ton of cute colors. You can't go wrong with 10 pairs for $30.

3. Amazing Grace Ballet Rose

Okay I have to admit, I was an asshole and bought this for myself in Ulta the other day. I couldn't help it. It smells so pretty and so clean. It's a very fresh scent, and I've already received so many compliments on it! 

4. Michael Kors Cindy Crossbody, Large, Oyster

I adore crossbody bags. They are so easy to travel with, and they can really dress up an outfit. I love this one because it's not too small, not too large, it could fit my wallet for sure, and a couple of necessities like chapstick, lady supplies, and my keys! 

5. Milk and Honey, Rupi Kaur


I have heard nothing but wonderful things about this book of poems. I would absolutely love to try something new. I'm really never a poetry buff but I need to know what all the fuss is about. 

6. Vans Sk8-Hi Sneakers, True White
I think these looks so cool, with jeans and a flannel, or with leggings and a cozy sweater, I love the Hi-Top design. 

7. BeatsX Wireless Earbuds

Now that I'm really trying to become a gym rat, I now understand the need for wireless headphones. Seriously that cord is a pain in the ass, and I think these white ones look so cute! 

8. Crest 3D White Strips

I know this is weird, but I would never buy these for myself. It would be so wonderful to find these under the tree this year! I'm a little bit obsessed with dental hygiene and white teeth, my teeth need some TLC. 

Thursday, November 16, 2017

Holiday Dresses Under $100


$98.00

I am all about velvet this holiday season, it looks classy, and can be dressed up with heels and jewels, or dressed down with tights and boots.

$44.99

$48.00

I think metallic dresses are so great because THEY are the focal piece of the outfit, it doesn't take a lot to finish the look besides a great bag and maybe some earrings! 

$65.00

Jumpsuit with Pockets- J.Crew Factory
$70.50

$39.99

$56.25

$36.99

I love this plaid dress because it's perfect for the more casual Thanksgiving or Christmas, but could totally be worn again! With boots and tights, I would wear this to work or school. And who can beat $36.99?!?! 

$58.40


High Waist Flare Dress- Lord & Taylor Design Lab
$59.99

Monday, October 2, 2017

Fall Favorites!

What's not to love about fall? The leaves change colors, we get to bust out our favorite cozy sweaters, and there is a crispness to the air that is positively intoxicating. As it is my favorite season, I have decided to share some of my favorites with you, be it clothing, drinks, foods,  places to go, and things to do! Let me know what you love about fall in the comments! 

1. The J.Crew Downtown Field Jacket; this thing is so versatile! And amazingly it's pretty warm. The moment it's chilly enough to wear this, I know fall has begun! You can find it in store and online, though it is a bit pricey at $148, the quality is unbeatable. 


2. Trader Joe's Gluten Free Pumpkin Pancake Mix; I don't have enough words to describe how good this stuff is. Seriously my family and I discovered it last year and are absolutely addicted. With a little whipped cream and cinnamon, they are the perfect Sunday morning breakfast! 


3. Harbes Farm; Located on the east end of Long Island, Harbes Family Farms are the epitome of Fall. They have the best apple cider donuts, a massive corn maze, a beautiful farm stand with fresh vegetables, and of course pumpkins as far as the eye can see. It has become a family tradition to spend the day out east taking tons of pictures and eating roasted corn until we explode.


4. Sperry Duck Boots; while we all know about the classic L.L. Bean Duck Boots, did y'all know Sperry makes almost the exact same shoe?? And it's cheaper?? Hello! Get with it folks! Sperry has adorable color options and the fleece lining keeps your toes toasty! 


5. Cozy Crewnecks; I have a crewneck from college that has been through the wash more times than I could possibly count, leaving it soft as hell. It is my favorite thing to throw on with leggings and converse when I'm heading out to do some shopping! 


6. Starbucks Salted Caramel Mocha Latte; I will drink this hot or cold, in fact I would inject it if I could. The PSL is garbage and we all know it. SCM is WHERE IT'S AT. 


7. American Eagle Flannels; They are truly the softest thing in the world. If you hold out for Black Friday, they usually have them for only $20 each, which is more than half off. They are well worth the wait and can be dressed up or down! Pair with boyfriend jeans for an effortless look, or wear with a leather mini skirt and tights to spice things up! 


8. J.Crew Camp Socks; these are so cozy!! (Can you sense how much I love cozy things?) And they look great peaking out of duck boots or a good old pair of combat boots. J.Crew always has a ton of colors and patterns. At $16 a pair, they will honestly last forever. 


9. Mums; Mums mean fall, they are vibrant and hearty, I buy as many pots as I can and decorate indoors and outdoors. Plus they make a great background for instas! 


10. Apple Crisp; I don't know how to explain to you why you should be eating apple crisp 24/7. It is perfect. Warm it up and put a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top- HEAVEN. And truly what is Thanksgiving without Apple Crisp?