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Warm Weekend Wear


This weekend was beautiful. The weather was actually so nice that for once I didn't have to leave the house all bundled up in three sweaters, a jacket, a winter coat, hat, gloves, you get the picture. In fact, on Sunday afternoon, the temperature reached the low 60's and I comfortably wore this outfit outside! Of course, knowing Wisconsin, there could be a foot and a half of snow on the ground by the time this post goes live. Oh well, the warmth is always welcome whenever it comes around!

Productive Things to do Every Weekend

Lately I've been trying to motivate myself to make healthy changes and choices, and not just when it comes to eating right and working out. Two things that I stress a lot in my life are the amount of sleep I get and my productivity level. I aim for eight hours of sleep every night (which in reality is rarely the case), and I try to keep myself busy or at least mindful of what I need to accomplish in order to be productive.


A few weeks ago I had a four day weekend and set out with the mindset that I would accomplish a ton of things on my days off. Instead, I ate like all of the food in my house and watched Keeping Up with the Kardashians for hours on end. I wound up crying to one of my friends on the phone because of how much time I'd wasted. I could've been working out, blogging, doing homework, reading, organizing my room, or really done anything except sit around and veg out!

In general, I put a lot of pressure on myself to be productive, and it doesn't always work out (like yesterday I spent a solid two hours on Pinterest on my couch..), but something I have come to realize is that there are ways to be productive without feeling like it's the end of the world to take a day off and just relax and do nothing. In fact, there are productive things to do while you're relaxing! It's like killing two birds with one stone.

and you know what they say...

So how exactly can you be productive every weekend without really doing anything?

1. Unsubscribe from unwanted email lists // Ever since the middle of junior year I have noticed an incredible amount of emails popping up in my inboxes from random universities and schools offering me scholarships and reminding me of application deadlines. Among tons of random college junk emails like those, brand emails from stores I don't shop at, and random emails from sites I've never even heard of, I find myself constantly deleting messages from my inbox all day. I signed up for unroll.me, which only takes a minute, and easily unsubscribed from over 100 unwanted email lists I was on!

2. Plan out blog posts // For me, writing blog posts is the fun part, but coming up with the topic is half the battle. On the weekends I like to scour Pinterest, catch up on other blogs, and read my favorite websites for inspiration to come up with post ideas/topics for the week. I try to keep an organized calendar with a flowing list of ideas on my phone so I can just whip out a post every night without stressing about have nothing to post.

3. Make a week-long to-do list // Sometimes making a nightly to-do list doesn't let you see the bigger picture of things you want to accomplish throughout the week. Write down a few tasks or goals that will take you more than just one night to accomplish, like maybe cleaning out your closet, slimming down your inbox, or reorganizing your desk. You'll feel productive at the end of the week by having one bigger project checked off.

4. Read the news // Catching up on what's going on in current events could make you feel a little more up-to-date and like the 5 hours you spent Netflixing on Saturday morning were justifiable (since, you know, you at least were aware of what everyone else out in the world was up to).

5. Clean Your Room // Starting the week fresh with a clean space is essential to giving yourself a clean slate to work with! Decluttering your space equals decluttering your mind, so you're set to crank out that whole to-do list once Monday morning comes. I always wind up throwing a ton of clothes around my room throughout the week and picking them all up over the weekend only takes a few minutes and really makes me feel like I've pulled it together. Honestly, it's just because I don't have to look at a messy space and think "oh, that needs to get done, too", because it's done!

How do make your weekends productive?

PS- Will you be watching the Oscars tonight? I'm thinking I'll take over my kitchen at some point this afternoon and whip out a few yummy appetizers. I'm really in the mood to cook!
xoxo

Spring Break Dresses

We always book our spring break super late, so I have no idea where we will end up going this year (if anywhere!), but hopefully it'll be somewhere warm! However, whether I'm headed to a tropical destination or not, I know a ton of you are (if so, please share!) and I can't be the only one who loves wearing dresses all week long when I'm on vacation in the sun. I mean, there really is nothing easier and looking put together and stylish without any hassle is exactly what we're all going for when relaxing poolside and enjoying some sun... am I right?


Ahh, these pretty frocks (almost all of them are under $100, too!) have me dreaming of a warm destination! What are your spring break plans?

Are you doing anything fun today? I have service this morning and then my friend group's last indoor soccer game tonight, so it'll be a pretty low-key Saturday for me, just how I like it ;) maybe I'll even throw something productive in this afternoon, ya never know!
xoxo

This Week's Top 10


1. This feather hemmed dress DIY is genius. It's pretty much identical to this dress for a fraction of the cost!

2. If only my morning coffee runs looked like this...

3. I ordered this dress for summer and I'm so excited about it! Such an incredible deal, too.


5. I updated the shop page this week! You won't want to miss the fabulous things I've discovered lately.


7. Give me Olivia Palermo's closet, please

8. This is the most extensive list of healthy food swaps that I've seen! So many good ideas.

9. These 10 things healthy people do before bed are really motivating me to improve my nightly routine!

10. Can you believe we will be wrapping up February at the beginning of next week? I love this post on how to organize and attain your goals.

Happy Friday! Are you doing anything fun this weekend? It's been forever since I've had no plans so I'm kind excited to just relax!
xoxo

J. Crew NYFW

Ahh, fashion week. It's something I'll dream of attending until the day I do! The incredible looks that every designer comes up with never cease to amaze me, and neither do the geniuses behind all of the work. The creativity that goes into the whole realm of "style" truly is an art! 

Lately, J. Crew in particular has been making a comeback. Ever since a few seasons ago when everyone and their mother complained about J. Crew straying off their beaten path, they've really done a good job of returning to the core of the "old J. Crew" while still incorporating new and fun things each season. Don't you think?


Bun goals.



That green!


Tell me those heels aren't the most fabulous things you've seen all week.


This color combo is beautiful.



Give me all the lace-up.
//
{All images via}

You can see all of the ready-to-wear looks from the spring collection right here, and shop J. Crew's new arrivals here! Which look is your favorite? I love all of the funky and vibrant patterns and colors! J. Crew definitely earns a 10/10 in my book.

From the actual fashion show at NYFW last week, however, the fall and winter collection looks are all here!
xoxo

Fabulous New-To-Me Inexpensive Brands

Some of my favorite sites to shop are Revolve and Shopbop. I love the selection and the variety of products, and somehow there always seems to be a million things that I'm adding to my wish-list everyday! However, purchasing designer clothing can get expensive, and I know that in my life currently I rarely wear a piece out more than once or twice, so I have trouble justifying outrageous price points. I mean, once something has made it on Insta, why bother wearing it again, ya know? (Kind of kidding, kind of not)

So what's better than discovering a brand you love, and being able to snatch up a few things without the guilt? I'm telling you, not much. Today I'm sharing a few new brands I've discovered that aren't too expensive, but definitely are too, too cute.

J.O.A. (Shopbop // Revolve) Such a fun selection of casual dresses and classic wardrobe staples.


English Factory  Seriously some of the cutest classic pieces with a preppy twist!


Motel I'd say this is more fun, going-out type clothes, but so cute nonetheless.



Do you have any favorite new-to-you brands? Do share!
xoxo

The Hunt for Perfect Jeans



Ugh, denim. A million and one options quite literally to choose from, yet picking out jeans is one of the most challenging things out there! Maybe it is just the overwhelming selection, but between styles, washes, sizing, brands, stretch, etc., it seems almost impossible to find just the perfect pair of jeans.



I'm on the hunt for a new pair of dark skinny jeans and I don't even know where to begin! My favorite jeans right now are from J. Crew and GAP, but I think I want to go for something a little different. Do you have any suggestions for me? I really like all of the pairs above, but none jump out at me!

So, please do share! What's your favorite pair?
xoxo

Winter Formal Recap


Formal on Saturday night was so much fun! Because winter formal is just for juniors and seniors, this isn't a dance I've gone to for the last four years, but it was still another bittersweet senior moment. I picked out my dress Saturday morning (super well planned, I know) after I had my friend drop off a few of her dresses for me. Since my dress didn't work out, I had to borrow a dress, which I usually don't prefer doing but I ended up wearing this velvet backless dress and loved it. I am definitely considering buying it myself because I love the way it looked, and it was so comfortable! I also feel like I could wear it a ton in college.

The dance itself was fine (that's never really the part anyone looks forward to!), but dinner and pictures before were so much fun. The before part is always my favorite, and of course the after parties are usually a good time as well. Our after party for this dance was really low-key but still fun to just hang out with everyone and finish off the night.




I forgot my camera and the lighting wasn't the best in the room we were in, but I still think we managed to get a few nice pictures even if some were iPhone quality! I am a little obsessed with that picture of Jack and I... not gonna lie haha.

Also, in case you're curious, I styled the dress with my hair half back tied in a black bow, my favorite silver heels (very similar here), big silver earrings (similar), and this same bracelet. I like the minimalistic, classic and clean look with the velvet!

How was your weekend?
xoxo

Making the Most of Free Time

It's been a fun few months. From the hustle and bustle and constant cheer and excitement of the holidays, to a pretty good start to a new year, and more recently, Father Daughter, Valentine's Day, and last night's last Winter Formal! I feel like I've been so busy and I've had so much to constantly look forward to, that now I'm honestly not quite sure what to do with myself and my open weekend plans! Today in particular I have a ton of homework to do, but hopefully I'll find some time to shoot outfit posts and work on blog things too (let's be real, what second semester senior actually does their homework anyways?! I'll for sure be blogging all day).

I've decided to take advantage of this opportunity of having "nothing to look forward to" by making this the perfect chance to create my own things to look forward to instead!


Host a Brunch // I've been wanting to host a brunch for the longest time. I'd consider myself a borderline professional bruncher (I'm making that a thing), and I really think I'd be doing a disservice to all of my friends if I didn't treat them to one of life's greatest pleasures ;) Planning events is half the fun too, am I right or am I right?


Check Some Boxes // As much as I'd love to get carried away and cross off everything on my bucket list in these next few low-key weeks, I think it's also important to use a little bit of free time to play catch up and do a few maintenance things. I know for me at least I have long-term projects, scholarships, blog tasks, and so many more things that I've been putting off forever that I should really just dedicate some time to and get done.

How do you make the most of a less busy schedule? Any fun ideas for me? Happy Sunday, enjoy the rest of your weekend!
xoxo

5 Favorite Beauty Products


I'm not huge into beauty posts, but I felt that in honor of my last winter formal tonight and one of my last high school dances it would be appropriate to share a peek into how I get ready and some of my favorite products to use!

This Week's Top 10




3. Popular blog post ideas that you can actually use

4. I watched this documentary this week and it was seriously fascinating.

5. Have you ever seen a more fun tassel necklace?

6. I ordered these wedges for under $50 and they're fabulous for the steal they are! 

7. The prettiest round-up of decor ideas

8. Adele pranking Jamba Juice is hilarious.

9. These are the healthiest packaged snacks you'll find!

10. Winter formal is tomorrow night! I'll most likely be playing my favorites with these heels.

xoxo

Steal Her Style

Nothing says spring like stripes and scallops! Unfortunately, if the weather where you live is anything like here in Milwaukee, it definitely doesn't feel like spring outside (not yet, at least! I'm crossing my fingers it'll get here eventually) Something about February, too, makes me feel like it's also a bit early for all of the bright colors and pastel shades that the spring season often boasts. Today I've recreated a look I love, that I definitely wish was suitable for the current weather. Casual, comfy, and street style chic perfection, in my favorite combo of black and navy. I love the classic accessories in this ensemble too... that circle necklace has found it's way onto my current wish-list, and I love how the delicacy adds a touch of femininity to contrast the sporty sneaks and masculine watch. Don't be fooled though, the little diamonds on the watch are a gorgeous detail not to be missed.

Striped tee (under $20 version here) // Scalloped skirt (plain scalloped option under $50 here)
Necklace // Bangle // Watch // Bag // Sneaks

One more day until Friday!
xoxo

Life Lately


Yesterday was a really strange day for me. I woke up in the middle of the night, which happens rarely, and I fell back asleep right away, but it always just kind of sets me in a weird mood and leaves me feeling a little off when I wake up. Of course, school was pretty uneventful, although we did have sandwich making during lunch. Sandwich making is held on a Tuesday once each month and it's when we make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in the lunch room (we call it the Quad) and anyone can come and help during their lunch if they want to. Since I'm on ministry team at my school, of course I helped out during my lunch! The rest of the afternoon was fairly slow, and overall the school day just seemed to really drag on.

After school, on my drive home, I was maybe two blocks from my house when I was in a car accident. I'm not sure if I talked about the car accident I was in last November when I swerved in a blizzard, hit my passenger side into a pole, and totaled my car, but yesterday was kind of a similar situation. However, yesterday's accident actually wasn't my fault, because I was driving down a street when another car whipped out of a parking lot without looking and hit me, which destroyed my whole passenger side of the car. Luckily no one was in my car with me, because anyone sitting on that side probably would have been hurt! Other than the damage to my car, the situation was handled well and both me and the other driver were fine.

Situations like these are unsettling, but they happen. Of course, they're called accidents because they are just accidents, and because no one was hurt, it really isn't too big of a deal. As frustrating as it was, it could have been so much worse, and the damage can be fixed. I am just lucky I am okay, and nothing too too bad occurred. 

Ahh, and it's only Wednesday! Cross your fingers for all of us that we make it through the week! My winter formal is on Saturday and our group still doesn't have a plan for the after party #typical. Wish me luck with that!
xoxo

My Favorite Healthy Snacks

I talked about how I'm giving up snacking, junk food, and sweets for Lent, but that doesn't mean I don't have a few favorite healthy snacks in my repertoire. I am typically a pretty big snacker, so having healthy snacks that are easy to grab and take on the go is important to me. In my AP Human Geography class we have focused so much on our food and the processes that food nowadays goes through, so I have a huge disgust for foods loaded with added sugar and artificial ingredients. 

These snacks below are some of my favorites, and they're all packed with protein and fiber, with very little sugar! Of course, they're all made of natural ingredients too, making them a nutrient-dense, clean snack to add to your pantry.

Sweet Snacks:

Chia Bars // I had a really weird obsession with these last year, but rightfully so, because these bars are so good. I love chia seeds, but some people who aren't used to the texture (a little slimy, tbh) might not be the biggest fan. These 100 calorie bars only have a few grams of sugar for how sweet they are, which is so ideal for someone like me who's tempted to go at the whole box! The peanut butter chocolate and coconut are my favorite flavors, and they always hit the spot if I'm craving something sweet for a snack. Plus, chia seeds have a million health benefits, so these are really a clean, power food option!

Fiberful Granola Bars // I love granola bars. Who doesn't?! But sometimes I feel like if I eat one I've pretty much just devoured unnecessary calories and a lot of added sugar and I still won't be content. Of course, since this bar is packed with 9 grams of fiber, you're satisfied after just 120 calories. These are pretty low in sugar too (6 grams), and they offer a good amount of protein. I love both flavors, chocolate and peanut butter and chocolate, chocolate chip.

Dark Chocolate Edamame // I absolutely love edamame, and soybeans really are an incredibly healthy food considering they're loaded with fiber and protein. Of course, I love chocolate too, so I love that you can enjoy a chocolatey treat when your craving something sweet, without sacrificing protein and fiber for pure sugar! One serving (about 1/4 cup) is 200 calories and has 13 grams of sugar, but the 5 grams of fiber and 7 grams of protein makes up for it.

Savory Snacks:

Cheese Sticks // I'm a huge cheese person, but I'm not a fan of how much fat can be packed into a tiny serving. I like to buy the light mild cheddar cheese sticks from Trader Joe's because they only have 3.5 grams of fat in one 70 calorie stick (and 7 grams of protein).

Skinny Pop // Skinny pop is definitely an essential in my house! Popcorn is such a healthy snack option because when you want something to mindlessly munch on, there really is nothing better than a low-calorie, yet healthy option that will fill you up (hello, popcorn is a good source of fiber!). Skinny Pop also comes in 100 calorie packs that are ideal for tossing in your lunch to grab during morning classes or as a little extra something if you're still hungry after lunch.

Chipotle Chickpeas // Okay. I can not tell you all how much you need to try roasted chickpeas if you haven't already. I am obsessed! One serving of these chipotle chickpeas is only 120 calories, and has 5 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein. That's pretty good! I have been on a chipotle kick lately and so these crunchy chickpeas always hit the spot for me, but there are more flavors too that I'd love to try... like this Cinnamon Crunch option from another brand.

Roasted Broad Beans // To be completely honest, this is the one product on here that I haven't tried yet! My friend saw me writing this post and insisted I add them to the list (she claims they're delicious!), and now I am super eager to try them! 0 sugar, lots of protein and fiber, and only 100 calories per serving for a salty, crunchy snack is right up my ally. She loves the sea salt flavor, but I think the barbecue sounds delicious too.

Pistachios // Ah, a classic. The thing I personally like about pistachios is that it'll take a while to shell all of the nuts, which forces you to eat slower so you're full and satisfied by the time you finish your serving.

What are your favorite grab and go healthy snacks?
xoxo

Splurge Vs. Save

Happy Monday! I hope you all had a nice weekend and a lovely Valentine's Day! Yesterday I tried a new brunch spot with my BFF and it was so delicious (hopefully you saw the Instagrammed goodness!)

Lately I've been finding so many cute pieces and incredible dupes for too-good-to-pass-up deals. Splurge vs. save posts are some of my favorites to share, so I hope you enjoy this random round-up of pretty pieces! Don't forget to shop some of the sales still going on through today with my sale guide that you can find here.


Save: Cluster EarringsLace-Up Flats, Tassel Crossbody,
Leather Pouch (it's monogrammable!), Mesh Leggings, Off Shoulder Dress

Those mesh workout leggings are definitely finding their way into my cart...
Have you found any good deals lately? Hope you all have a great start to your week!
xoxo

Valentine's Day Sales

Ahh Valentine's Day, there's no better time to treat yo-self to a little gift or two, and thanks to all the sales going on this weekend, that won't be a hard task to conquer! 


J. Crew: extra 30% off sale with code SHOPSALE // ends 2.14.16 

Madewell: extra 30% off sale with code XOXOMW // ends 2.17.16 

Lord and Taylor: 20% off with code PRESIDENT // ends 2.15.16 

ASOS: extra 20% off with code LINCOLN // ends 2.16.16 
(This is the prettiest light blue romper, this peplum cami would get so much wear, and this off-the-shoulder dress is a must for under $30!)

Target: 25% off clothes & shoes with code PRES // ends 2.15.16 
(Loving this scalloped one piece and this pair and this pair of wedges are both under $35 each! Not to mention these faux suede over-the-knee boots could be a dupe for the Stuart Weitzman pair!)

Banana Republic: 40% off with code BRFIT // ends 2.15.16 
(I've had my eye on this ruffle sweater, and now these incredible lace-up flats too...)

Nordstrom: up to 40% off President’s Day Clearance // ends 2/22 

Revolve: up to 50% off select styles // ends 2.15.16 

Kate Spade: extra 25% off sale with code SPOTON // ends 2.15.16 
(Color block satchel done so well)

Pottery Barn: 20% off with code FRIENDS // ends 2.15.16 

Serena and Lily: $50 off every $200 with code DREAMHOME // ends 2.25.16 

Bloomingdales: 30-70% off select styles // ends 2.15.16

Club Monaco: extra 30% off sale and clearance with code LONGWEEKEND // ends 2.15.16
{I love these pants, and this sweater looks so cozy.)

Shopbop: 25% off Calvin Klein underwear // ends 2.15.16
(I recently got a bra and bottoms and they are the comfiest, softest material ever. Everyone needs them.)

GAP: 40% off with code LONGWKND // ends 2.15.16
(This skirt looks so comfy, these lace-up flats are under $50 before the discount, and this shirt is a necessity!)

Happy shopping and happy Valentine's Day!
xoxo

3 Blogs I've Been Loving Lately

Lately I've been on a Pinterest craze, and I think one of the most frustrating things is loving a particular photo and not being able to track down the source. Obviously then, one of the best feelings is being able to find not only original photos, but beautiful blogs behind the pretty outfits just loaded with content. This week I discovered a few new-to-me blogs that I can not stop obsessing over!

Recognize any of these photos?




Prosecco and Plaid is seriously the most #goals blog I've ever seen! Not only is Jessica from Newport, Rhode Island (aka my second home!) but her travels and impeccably classic yet chic style is everything I could want in life. Ugh, and her hair! Totally inspiration for my new short 'do.




Dallas Wardrobe is another blog I've been loving because Amy's outfits are rooted in preppy styles, but always with a fun flair, especially when she rocks her signature red lip! Dallas Wardrobe is one of those blogs that really gives me inspiration to restyle pieces I already have in my closet and create a fabulous ensemble.




See Want Shop is another current favorite of mine. Lisa's snapchat is really what I'm obsessed with, because her snap stories are gorgeous and her life is like a living Instagram feed (someone please take me to Australia!). I love her casual and breezy style... it's like she's a year-round beach goer and I'm into it.

Have you been loving any particular blogs lately? I'd love to add yours or a friend's to my reading list!
xoxo

This Week's Top 10


Is it just me, or does Monday feel like forever ago? I, for one, am definitely ready for the weekend.

1. I love before and after home tours, and this one is no exception!

2. I am loving this high-neck scalloped one piece swimsuit! Oh, and it's under $50.

3. These donuts are so cute... Perfect and easy to make Sunday morning for V Day!

4. This white dress with bows down the front would make the perfect frock for spring and summer.

5. More goals, more goals! See what I'm giving up for Lent if you missed the post.

6. I love this ruffle sweater, and it's so cute on Kate!


8. This rice bowl with fried egg and avocado looks delicious

9. Gwyneth Paltrow's story of being stalked really freaked me out.


Have a happy Valentine's Day weekend! Enjoy Monday off too if you have a long weekend #jealous.
xoxo

Last Minute Valentine's Day Outfits

Leave it to me to realize I have plans tomorrow night to go out to dinner, and absolutely nothing to wear. I ordered this dress, which would have been so cute for the occasion, but it was way too big when it arrived yesterday! Luckily I did a little speed shopping and ended up finding this skirt on sale at my Urban Outfitters... only one left, in my size... oh, don't you love it when that happens?! Anyway, below are a few last minute ideas for any Valentine's Day outfit!



For a fancier night out, I love the idea of wearing a bright pink or red dress. I don't know if it's cheesy or just in the spirit, but there really is no better excuse than Valentine's Day to don a fun dress in a pretty hue.



Tomorrow night my boyfriend and I are going to the cutest French restaurant for dinner, and I wanted to dress up a little without going over the top and looking too fancy. A cute outfit with a colorful skirt is a fun way to go about it. I am pretty excited about my red skirt ;)

What are you wearing for Valentine's Day? Do you have any special plans? See my Valentine's Day gift picks here!
xoxo

My Lenten Promises

I am writing this post in part because I know it'll hold me accountable for my Lenten promises this year, and in part to keep track of the progress I make throughout this Lenten season. Given that today is Ash Wednesday, aka the start of the Lenten season, I figured now would be the perfect time to share the promises I'm making this year as a way to help myself kick start into this time for reflection, renewal, and prayer. Sometimes it's so easy for me to forget that I blog for myself, too, and it's nice to use this platform as a communion between sharing my life with other people, and sharing my life for my own growth as well.

This year, I want my Lenten promises to focus more on adding to my faith life, rather than just giving up things for the heck of giving something up for Lent. The whole point of giving something up for Lent is to remove the things that distract you from God in order to renew your relationship with Him and allow it to grow especially during this time that Jesus spent suffering. I usually give up chocolate every year because I am a self-proclaimed chocoholic, but this year I am doing things a little differently with my Lenten promises. Not only am I giving something up, but I am giving up three things, and I am adding three things to my life to "replace" them, in a sense.

For Lent this year I am giving up snacking, all junk food, and swearing. I have noticed lately that I don't just eat when I'm hungry and stop eating when I'm content, but I eat out of boredom, and I eat when I just don't feel like not eating, which is a really bad habit. I am hoping that by eating three healthy, balanced meals every day I will be focused more on other things rather than food and I will be able to channel this focus into devotion to God versus gluttony. In addition, I am giving up swearing not because I swear a lot, but because swearing is something that I often do just out of carelessness. I am giving up swearing as my way of practicing being mindful of the words I say in order to create a more faithful outward expression of myself. In other words, it isn't so much about the swear words as it is the lesson I want to teach myself to really be aware of what I say.

And, of course, for the three things I am adding... I am adding weekly service, daily meditation, and daily scripture to my life. I used to do service often on Saturday mornings at a food pantry, and for the last few months I haven't gone. I have no reason not to go, and because so much of Lent is really about giving not just giving up, I figured service is the best way that I can give back. I am going to try to go serve at this food pantry every Saturday morning throughout Lent. In addition, I find myself often thinking that because I pray every night before bed that I am getting in a good dose of prayer everyday, but I think especially during Lent I am completely capable of stepping this up. I downloaded an app on my phone with a daily scripture passage and lesson from it (if you're interested, it's called Daily Bible Devotion in the App Store) and so far I really like it. I want to read scripture every day, which only takes a minute, and then meditate for at least 10 minutes, no distractions, for some part of my day either praying, clearing my mind, or just plain relaxing in order to thank God for my blessings and pray for those who need it.


Looking for a quote for this post I also stumbled upon the cutest Etsy shop for bible verse prints. Above I gathered a few of my favorite verses:
1 // 2
3 // 4
5 // 6

But some of the prints are even cuter (love this one and this one) with just as wonderful verses on them as well. I really recommend checking out this shop, I think I'll have to order at least one to put in my room as a reminder of my promises during Lent.

I am really excited about this Lenten season and I am really going to work to keep all of my Lenten Promises. Happy Ash Wednesday! Are you making any special Lenten promises this year (if you're a fellow Catholic reader)?
xoxo

Bright Nike's


Nothing says weekend wear like leggings, a cozy oversized sweater, classic accessories, and tennies! I had been wanted these fun Nike's forever and when they went on major sale a few weeks ago, I knew it was meant to be. I'm not a huge fan of Nike's when it comes to exercising because I find they have very minimal support, but they're perfect for sporting around on the weekends and wearing to school. I also have been loving this sweater lately because it keeps me warm and the oversized look is so easy to pair with really any type of bottoms.

Styling Short Hair

In the past week, I've come to realize how much easier it is to have short hair... showering is faster, shampoo no longer needs to be used in excess, and drying it takes a matter of minutes rather than hours. However, one thing that I've found most difficult about having short hair is that I actually have to style it now. I am so not used to having to style my hair at all. When I had long hair, I blessed with natural waves and volume that came from air drying and messing it up with my fingers. Not going to lie, I took my senior photos after towel drying my hair!

Unfortunately, this is not the case with my short hair. I got out of the shower on Saturday, let my hair air dry, and then cried about how much I hated it. I thought it looked so terrible to the point where I didn't even go out Saturday night because I thought I looked ugly... basically I'm pathetic. I'm not trying to throw myself a pity party, really, because TBH I think I just sound more pathetic and more like a brat rather than like I should be feeling bad for myself. The point is simply that I'm glad I donated my hair, and once I learn how to style it and get used to the short, I know I'll love it. I just need a little inspiration.



What I've realized with my naturally wavy hair is that it's just too puffy for this length! I'm thinking I'll learn a few tricks with my curling iron and straightener, maybe watch a few tutorials like this one, or read a few posts like this one. I just need to see what I can do to get back to my signature wavy look without looking like Lord Farquaad from Shrek... yes, it was that bad.


For school, I am obviously not going to start heat styling my hair every morning (let's remind ourselves I go to an all girls school and wear a sports bra everyday and have never entered the building with a stitch of makeup on), but I do want to preserve a little bit of my dignity. I love the half back bun look, and I will probably start doing a lot more french braids... my whole high ponytail thing isn't going to work anymore, time for a new signature style!


One look I am excited to try with the short hair is a deeper part! Straightening my hair has never been a long process for me, so I might start doing it a little more often because I'm sure it won't take long at all now that there is a lot less hair to work with, and I think a deep part looks so chic!

If you want to go back to my archives and read a sort of embarrassing, sort of funny post about my favorite hairstyles, consider this here your jackpot. Happy Monday!
xoxo

Currently Coveting


New Balance's // I've been wanting a pair of cool, casual sneakers for a while now. My converse are getting so gross, and this pair of New Balances is so much cooler anyways.

Halter Bikini Crop Top // I feel like I've blogged about this bikini top so much. It's a classic in the navy hue, and I love the style! I can't seem to bite the bullet though, I just don't know how it would look on me! Thoughts?

Raw Hem Skinny Jeans // I need a new pair of dark wash skinny jeans, and the hem on this pair is too cool to pass up (they're also under $50!)

Metallic Bikini (and bottoms) // This shiny suit set is so fun and I'm definitely going to keep my eye on it as spring break gets a little bit closer!

Drop Waist Dress // I posted about winter formal dresses here, but I never ended up finding one I loved enough to order. This dress, however, I've had my eye on forever and now that it's on sale I feel like I need it!

Stud Bangle Trio // How cool are these?! I would love to add this little trio to my jewelry collection to make some fun stacks and arm parties.

What are you currently coveting? Have a great rest of the weekend and enjoy the Super Bowl if you're watching!
xoxo