12/9/14

cliche gift guide

I arise from the dead is what I want to say, but not so much how I wanted to say it. But here is proof I still exist and very periodically click on over to this space and brush off the cobwebs. The update is a totally different story. For now, since the only thing that seems to be going on in blog world is gift guides (yawn), I decided to join in on the fun. I mean like they say if you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

I won't bore you on what you should be buying your lovely smelling man in your life, or the little brother who's #1 priority is still sports, but more what you should buy for you. Because in my book? You deserve it.

I tend to be the worst at gift giving (whoops – ask anyone close to me) because I tend to just spend my only currency on myself. So take this guide as you will – pin it to your 'wishlist' pinterest board (because yea, we all have those), consider buying a few odds and ends for your mumsies/sisters/cousins/super trendy best friends, and obviously yourself.

P.S: Don't forget to wrap once received and put it under it under the tree! Or Hannukah bush.



'Merci' cards. Perfect for sending long lost cousins a trendy thank you to counteract their shitty gift giving. 

Vogue and Coffee. To fuel the artsy bloggers motivation. Oh and to create a perfect instagram photo

Scout tee via Sincerely Jules. One step closer to being a famous blogger, she whispers to herself.

Cashmere Scarf via Zara. Yes, Zara scarves are all the rage.

– Amy Stone print via Design Darling. I could live in Amy's instagram photos for the rest of my life and be fully satisfied. On the reals, everything about her eye for beautiful visuals is something I admire. always.

Blanket via Lulu & Georgia. Yes. Blankets are everything.

You will not find me in a mall for the next 15 days or so. Comin' for ya, online shopping. As for the blog world? Let's hope I don't go milk-carton missing again anytime soon. Focker out.

9/24/14

I'm feeling 22...

To the "ael" to my "Rach" (read: The Rachael Way),

HAPPY BIRTHDAY. I figured since I can't send you mail (I mean I could, but lets face it I'm more than broke), posting about you on our favorite thing (aka how we became friends) is a pretty cool gift. Also, people can read this and agree as to why we have so much love for you. Talking to Ashleigh and then you about two weeks less than a year ago, I would have never expected to come out of all of this with a best friend. Meeting you in the basement of a frat house (lol, what is life) minus the partying and just talking forever about blogging and just getting each other? Yea, never thought I would have left Ohio knowing I made a new best friend forever. 

As you say, #BridesmaidStatus

I couldn't put into words the amount of thankfulness that I have that you are in my life. I can tell you realllllly anything and I know it won't be pushed into judgement category of your brain. You accept me for who I am...even if I've called you crying, freaking out about dates I'm about to concur, dealing with the men that suck, and every little positive thing in between. Because let's face it there are more positive than negatives in life but the fact that we can listen to each others negatives when we face them is a beautiful thing.

Thank you for letting me vent to you when its my time 4am and yours 4pm. Thank you for dealing with every call before AND after dates- good or bad. Thank you for making your two hour drive to meet little ole sunshine and sinatra. Thank you for inspiring me to rebrand. Thank you for meeting me in a frat basement for gosh sakes. Thank you for your gifts. Thank you for showering me with love (wow look at me sentimental as eff). Thank you for encouraging me to follow what I love! Thank you for rocking at life. Thank you for being the best person you could ever be. Thanks for all of our bucky inside jokes that I can think of to myself and laugh at (change blog title to something with Felicia). Thank you for being you - you rock never change

I cannot wait until you can return back to the U.S because I am booking my flight to see you A.S.A.P. (even though its miles away). I know you are enjoying china and I am so proud of you for taking your own leap of faith and doing something that scared you. 

Hope you're crying because we're good at being sentimental.
Thanks for giving me a blog topic for today.

I hope you're feeling the 22-est. 

X's and O's and Felicia's,
Sunshiney Rach

9/23/14

Life goes on

Disappointment gets the best of us. Also meaning, disappointment takes the living shit out of me. I am someone who gets their hopes up TOO high only to be disappointed. Throughout my growth in the past 5 or so years, I've gotten to understand that you really can't rely on many [besides yourself] because there is always a chance someone is going to disappoint you. Not saying you shouldn't be excited for things because again, I get too excited for weird things (like the fact I can actually sit down and blog today!!!!!).

Two phrases I live by are: Everything happens for a reason and Life goes on. (Also maybe even YOLO(?) quite possibly). Both of those are so vague yet stand true because for every bad thing there is a good thing! Like rose and thorns all the sorority girls do(I think?)/people do and sometimes never know what to share.
but like you can't resist this face....

If you need a happy pick-me-up list on this tuesday: I gotchu

the cutest of puppies (aka loving on mine)
reading your favorite blogs religiously
windows down driving to your favorite jam
warm weather
re-watching episodes of Friends and Full House
dreaming of being at your favorite place (in the entire world)
finding new hangout spots (read: parks)
organizing your closet/desk (okay, only me?)
people watching in the hustle and bustle of New York City. 
feeling beautiful
cuddling up with your favorite blanket and falling right to sleep
the moments leading up to your birthday
baseball (tailgating) season
being reunited with friends after a long time away
doodling & crafting
and not boys

What's on your list?



9/15/14

Rgord for Miss America

Last night was one of the few (besides Miss USA/Miss Teen USA/Miss Universe/Miss New Jersey) that I decide to take over everybody's twitter newsfeed. I do apologize except it's truthfully not that sincere of one. Recap (if you missed it): I called that Miss America would be a blonde / VA would be in bottom two / I made my idol crack up and pretty much I have too much love for the people that surround the pageant world.

A huge congrats to Miss New York and her little cup talent (which I did before at camp so by association property I could probably be Miss America?). In other words, since she's relevant is it alright to ask to borrow her romper from her talent portion? 
source

Also can we point out that I think Delaware got ROBBED. Ok, carry on. 

When it comes to pageants, it's apparent I have too much to say about it. Here's what I was word vomin' into the twitterverse:



Sometimes, people just think of more clever things to tweet than I do. Here's what I was lovin:
I've trained my friends well.
Told you.


Did you watch? What were your thoughts?

9/12/14

On writing a new book

There are points in life where you're like today sucks and really it's inevitable. Then there are months that you spend car rides, and netflix shows counting down the second to the good stuff that will pop up in your life. Sort of like people that pop out of 10XL sized cakes. Except all disease free. Today is officially my last day of summer. And it was one for the books. For the diary if you will. That will never resurface for I have big intentions to tear up every word until I don't realize this summer even happened. Clearly the only option to end this summer is with a few shots of dramatic with an order of time travel (don't worry, it's in the works).

I really did have big plans like, mid-june(?) to make a bucket list but I knew this summer wouldn't be one to document besides a few snaps of my standard beach views, selfies, and ootd's (basic). However I never would have saw the cutest puppy in all the land come my way, finally make a trip to NY last minute, or even have to pay for myself on a date. Thanks for that, if you still read this...asshole.

What I did do this summer consisted of:
frequent beach trips (featuring my The Atelier Shop tote)

rebrand my blog (for better or for worse) and had some really great photoshoots in Philadelphia 

spent too much time in #RittenhouseSquare

had multiple boat days exploring land and sea/e (yes, double meaning)

finally said YES to something that scared me and just did it. moral of story: You'll probably live

took many of my spare time to hang with the hunk of my life

and ended the summer with a little Manhattan bang.

Its easier said than done to glam up your life a bit. Yea, the beauties of makeup and story telling. This past week began the new book in my life. Not a chapter, because I'm pretty sure sometimes chapters can be boring and we want to skip them. But the first few pages of the book can always help you figure out if you want to keep reading to see what happens to the princess or if it just gets tossed in the trash with a huge bang and a side of shoulder shrugging. Let's hope I make it out of junior year alive. And problem free. Care packages accepted in the form of peanut butter, artsy pictures/polaroid film, and/or renewing my vogue subscription. 

9/10/14

Meet my Mush

Finally catching up on my blogging and somehow finding the missing part of my brain that had stopped me from checking out this little place that has part of my heart, I decided to give you my favorite story that I've been waiting for, also a thing that takes up the other half of my heart.

For months, my family had been back and forth about getting a dog. I was leaving for school soon enough, and I got real impatient. Debate after debate, discussion after discussion, sending my family GIF after pinterest article, we decided to go for it. After vacation. While on vacation, we discussed names on a relaxing afternoon spent in the water. My family is kind of dorky, but I don't mind. I wanted flash, brother decided on Winston. Excuse me what? We started making jokes about names that referred to our family inside jokes (you have those too, right?) and we started talking about our all time favorite Saturday Night Live episode, featuring Drake. Just watch this, you won't regret it (especially the Disney World lovers). We love Drake for more reasons than just a silly SNL skit or two (we're avid fans...he's jewish...). I wish I could remember who decided it was a good idea but here's a virtual pat on the back (to either my brother or myself). At that point on vacation, I couldn't wait until we got home.

The day after coming home, we went to go look at the puppy place where we got my dog I had while growing up. We knew they had recently received a bunch of newborn cockapoos so we had to check it out to get dibs. Duh. We knew we wanted something with a poodle mix because they don't shed, are easy to train, and so much more. I'm not kidding when I say I have now experienced love at first sight. There were two out of six cockapoo's we really liked (a boy and a girl of an apricot color). After repetitively calling the one we liked Drake to see if he would respond...all he did was jump up in his bin and lick our hands uncontrollably. We decided to take him out for a test run (literally run) and we were sold. All he wanted to do was sit on our lap and love on us. We were used to finding dogs there that wanted to run away from us but we knew he was ready for a home!


My dad wanted to check out the girl dog, thinking soon-to-be-drake was too hyper. I wish I could explain how drastic the difference between the girl version of him was. She didn't want to play, love, or run. Just sleep. My dad thought soon-to-be-drake would be a little much to handle but boy was he wrong.

Two days later we were able to pick up baby Drake and he was official ours! Yes, best birthday present ever. It's actually hilarious because when I was younger until the age of like 13(?) I was terrified of dogs. Especially big ones (hence why I refuse to ever get one). We had a dog, and he was the only one I wasn't scared of. In middle school, a huge ass (aka not sure what dog type it was) dog bit my nose so basically that scared me for life.

Running around petsmart like a frantic Mom-who's-expecting, I asked all the workers what was the best of the best. I spent too much money on dog treats and toys, just because who knows what he would like (read: He will eat/bite ANYTHING). Coming into our world, this little mush has been beyond spoiled and the best I ever had (and could ask for).

My dog growing up was a bijon and very hard to train. Since day one of being home, Drake has been aware of "sit" and to go to the bathroom outside. Safe to say, training him has been a walk in the park [which we've only done once because he FINALLY got his shots]. Talking your ear off about my dog would not be an understatement. I realize that dogs are the best type of love you can get and they will love you endlessly (read: who needs a boyfriend? Not this dog mom).

Summary: Get a dog. You'll be happier.


9/9/14

My birthday suit

86. Probably the number of ideas I've had about writing blog posts yet they just can't seem to turn into posts. Or maybe I'm the problem. The problem being I can't seem to find the motivation to sit down, put down my beer, and get to writing. 86 is also the number of degrees (plus a few) it's been the past week. In my apartment, I have lack of A.C, therefore I've befriended some people here or there to use them for their icebox of a room. Don't worry, spending time with them is a solid time waster, too. Win-win aka I'm all about it.

Considering today is the first day I felt chilly all day, I'm mad that my initial idea of writing todays post was to share my favorite outfit of the summer. The outfit I wore on my birthday. The outfit I want to wear EVERY.DAY.OF.MY.LIFE. I have a filthy (no for real) filthy obsession with trying to rock Rompers. 

This past summer (yeah I'm about two months late to update you on my summer vacay), I went to Fourt Lauderdale for a week! I stayed right on the beach (with great service via The Ritz Carlton), and soaked up the sun. And by soaked I mean drank my heart away with all the wine I could get my hands on because club level


#1 - @ Kilwins | #2 - @ Las Olas Blvd | #3 - @ Millionaire's Row Waterfront

Other things I checked out on my trip: 
Got over my fear and tried something new (read: yuck) | Met John Henson at my hotel | Basic bitch featuring me.

Who's with me to go back to summer...with no worries in the world and a cold beer in my hand. And my birthday suit. Ready to start my official countdown to 21 years old. 

9/2/14

Word Vom (Like Cady Herron)

I don't think I've showed up here in about what feels like an eternity. I've spent endless nights the past few weeks (between anxiety attacks and playing with my dog) with blog post ideas floating through my head but pretty much whenever getting on my computer I've been avoiding it. Like an awkward encounter with an ex (which I didn't have to experience at all this summer #hooray).  The only thing that I can do right now is update you on my life, since sometimes my instagram does not do the justice. Also lists are fabulous so happy tuesday and wordvom day to you (and me, of course).


1. I really can't stop listening to this song. I was introduced to it a few weeks back when I met a friends friends and we were watching music videos at like 1AM. The video is pretty trippy and you need to watch it a few times to understand it completely unless someone tells you about it initially.

2. I moved back to a (new) school. I keep some parts of my life pretty private (i'm sketchy...barely any of my friends knew I was going)! My apartment has NO AIR CONDITIONING and its about 90 fricken degrees so I'm currently camped out in the library until my next class. Also I have my own kitchen and its great because we have cold beer easily accessible but I'm too lazy to cook so I really can't see how much else this is benefiting me. Lean Cuisine til ya die.

3. I've been so upset about leaving my pup. Talk about dog mom issues. Whenever we FaceTime (which has been often since my 48+ ish hours of leaving home) I cry. Because quite frankly, I have a soul. No, it is not filled with dust.

4. I really like stupid sentimental moments. This morning in my first class (cue the real throw up because 8AMs) my professor was asking us questions because of course we started learning the first day I'm a junior in college we don't mess around. I am the person in classes that likes to avoid speaking but I'm taking all courses related to my major and I actually raised my hand voluntarily. It actually made my heart and mind feel with nervous and kickass tears because I was like well shit I know my stuff and this is what I want to do with the rest of my life. It's a research class and she said next week were reading about blogging/bloggers. So hey, homegirl, you can count me in. A+ all the way (I hope).

5. Sidenote: tinder-ing here will probably be interesting and very unfortunately UNavoidable.

6. I really miss my dog(?) Yea thats not even a question. It's okay because I'll be home (involuntarily...well I'm actually volunteering ha ha) so I can cuddle him all day then. For now, I'll just be counting down the days. #anxietanxietyanxiety.

7. Ever since rebranding I've lost much readership. I realized my dreams of wanting to be a fashion blogger were pretty much shit and there was no way in hell I could keep up with that. I actually like writing (or being behind a camera waaaay more) that figuring out how to pose and what outfits to wear. But yea, rebranding? Didn't help me. I lost daily readers (not sure why). I got rid of my separate twitter account, and also a bad case of no motivation and possible writers block syndrome? If you have any advice please direct it this way. much needed.


This is the artsiest picture my living room will get. #CollegeGirlsLoveTapestries.





































I'll see ya when I see ya.

8/25/14

New York (for a) Minute

If I had a bucketlist this summer (which I planned on making a post about but realized I really wouldn't accomplish many of my desired to do's) the #3 or #4 on the list was make it to NYC. In the home stretch, a week away from saying goodbye to summer, shorts, and shandy, I decided at 4 in the morning that day (read: saturday) that I was just going to go for it. Although I had no idea what I was about to face.

Driving to Hoboken (birth place of Sinatra-- hi!) was nothing short of easy. Traffic, rain, and impatient Rachel made for it a looooong ride. Finally, after paying a whole whopping $10.20 just to the NJ turnpike (#bye), the sun began to shine.



I had no set plan as to what I wanted to do in the city, I just knew I wanted to be there. We ended up in flatiron district, got a glimpse of Empire State Building, checked out some tourist shops, walked Central Park, and then (really) got drunk on a stoop on the Upper East side. It's like I was pulling a Chuck Bass...it's fine -really.  Before I knew it the night was over, and little grandma Rachel stayed up until 4am. Which meant the next day (sunday) wouldn't be a pretty one. I woke up early to get home to have all the cuddle pups in the world, but as soon as getting to my car I saw my tire light on. I panicked and naturally ended up at the closest Dunkin Donuts because thats how I figured I could solve my problems. I was wrong. 5 or so hashbrowns in, I get to my car and try to drive away. 

Uh nope, my car said. I had a bad case of flat tire syndrome (which I get monthly...). I was stuck. on a sunday. two hours from home. I had to get towed to a local shop (since car dealerships are closed sundays...like oh hey eff you, just saying) and wait three hours to get my tire replaced. The tow truck driver asked me if I would date him [had to block his number since he called me after he dropped me off...he had my number since my towing service gave it to him I'm not THAT weird]. Luckily, it was a block away from the waterfront and I got to experience this view and realized shit could have been worse.
Moral of the story: I shouldn't leave the comfort of my own bed to accomplish things on my summer bucket list because I'll be out of a few bucks here and there. and a pair of sunglasses. Grool. 

8/20/14

Nice and easy does it!

So many times have I read other fashion blogs and stalked their instagrams and have fumed with envy over the fact that they can put their little chambray tops on and rock those in your face huge baubles...which I love. However, I'm not big on necklaces on myself. When styling, I prefer rings out the wazoo and some major eye arm candy: a simple watch, a few bangles and voila is my most day to day go to preference.

But if I'm honest I have a filthy (in a good way) obsession with Fifth and Mae. It's like a college gals' closet's miracle -- inexpensive, great quality, and mucho versatile to rock with any outfit. Here's how I've styled my goodies:

what I shopped: initials
outfit 1 // top: TJ Maxx - bag: H&M
outfit 2 // top: Forever21 - skirt: Eshakati 
outfit 3 // top: Cotton On - shorts: Forever 21

Between black on black, denim on denim (my fave...Canadian tuxedo), and navy (or nothing) stripes, I guess you can say I live pretty much the 90's mom wardrobe (dare shirt included). All I need is my high waisted shorts...Oh wait...it's 2014 and that IS a thing. I cannot recommend Fifth and Mae enough. It's totally affordable for a birthday gift for a friend (when on a budget), or even more jewls for ya bad self. Treat yo self.

Other items I'm loving: States (wish NJ was one...it would be sold in a heartbeat! // Grab the bull by its horns // Prism ring // Astrology time!


Which item would you get your hands on?

8/18/14

Do you do it for the #gram?

When your a 90's kid with a sick fashion sense, you find yourself never leaving behind said trends that your mom haaad to have you in. You know...fanny's....GAP sweatshirts tied around your waist...and obviously flannel.

Although I lacked my fanny, which I do have, I was sure to rock my Emi-Jay tank. More than just rocking it to dinner. I rocked it to the beach. I even rocked it to sleep because we only know that the beach makes you too tired to even change out of your dinner outfit. So consensus: it's freaking sleep approved.

I was thinking about the shirt and wondering why the eff doesn't every blogger in the world already own one? Personally, *ESPECIALLY* being a blogger, insta has become my favorite social media to use! I love following accounts that I can draw inspiration from or be like why am I not them and what steps can I take TO become them?
     
     

Top: (c/o) Emi-Jay / Bottoms: Old Navy [sale] / Jacket: Brandy Melville /
Shades: Urban Outfitters / Shoes: DSW 

When I saw the I DID IT FOR THE INSTA top I think myself, my neighbors, and all 900 instagram followers of mine agreed this top had to be in my possession. Can I possibly pull a Cady Heron and wear it under all my clothes?  Hello of course I'm an Aaron Samuels lover, too. It's true I'm no stranger to instagram and I think I'm on the level of cool because I don't worry about how many times I post a day. Sometimes I think my staged pics are overrated so I try to spice things up (see: this bad boy). My favorite instagram tip? Use VSCOCAM with the F2 filter/ exposure +2/ temperature -2. Homeboy does wonders on natural lighting.

Some of my favorites: uno dos tres cuatro cinco

Do you do it for the gram?

8/15/14

Who needs high school reunions when you have social media?

Just last week while talking to myself in my daily installment of throwing on some of my favorite products I was faced with the thought of my first ever high school reunion. After recently seeing some blog posts about it (as well as hearing from a friend), I was thinking about what mine would be like. And ultimately, would I go? Chances are probably because I'm sort of nosey sometimes. But then I was like hold the iphone [as I scroll through my newsfeed]. Now a days...so like....5+ years from now will reunions even be relevant? Think about it. Back in the days of smoking cigarettes during their school lunch break and actually having to converse face to face (and pass notes) during class. GASP. They looked forward to receiving the good ole snailmail and happily (or angrily) count down the days on their pretty little trippy looking calendar and not on their palm pilot (good ole days), ipad, or cellie. Really, I don't need to attend my high school reunion (Ok maybe I will but I'll worry about it when it comes around the corner. scared face emoji riiiight here). I got all of them in the palm of my hand (read: iPhone) but chances are we really aren't facebook friends.
source
With facebook, I've been able to follow a sweet friend of mine since high school (the very beginning)! Once we met, I think we both instantly clicked but truthfully I can't even remember what. I can always remember having the greatest of laughs with this lady. Who dat who dat you (or I G G Y) might ask? Alyssa Joseph a'course! Not only am I here to bring you an exclusive (keep on reading) but I want to share with you the honest truth about this lady. Hands down, throughout my years of knowing her she always had the kindest heart and instantly knows how to crack a smile even on the days the sun don't shine. When hanging out, I more times than not had the opportunity to hear her sing her sweet tunes. Besides the fact she covered songs that already had a near and dear spot [on the left side of my heart, if you're curious], her voice always made me feel like I was floating on a cloud. In musician heaven.

What inspires this Nashville bound lady? Rain. Candles. The way the sunlight comes through the leaves.
"I write about my surroundings, recent life experiences, and emotions. Watching other musicians perform also sparks creativity in me."


"If you love SIA, Ingrid Michaelson, and Adrien Reju, Alyssa Joseph is the homegirl on the rise"
 -Said by yours truly

Was more than tempted to post a picture of us from freshman year of high school but for the sake of your computer screen, I think it's best we refrain. Homegirl [me] had not yet discovered eyebrow waxing. Five points for Rachel. Congrats, good job.

If you made it through my jibber jabber then boy do I have a treat for you. Here's a cookie. I mean THE PLACE TO LISTEN TO ALYSSA'S NEW SINGLE. The place to listen to it actually. All the cool kids[/musicians] are doing it. 





Oh my goodness! Fabulous you love her too? Don't forget to show her some love on social media where she posts all her upcoming news [+ local shows (If you're in tristate area)]: 

And don't forget to hit up your X year high school reunion. Or not. Because thats what for late insomniac nights when you find yourself on your ex best friends boyfriends sisters cousins instagram. Or something of that sort. Social media, FTW.


8/12/14

Have your cake and social media stalk some bloggers too!

When I show up on Tuesdays/Thursdays, you know I have something important to say. As a blogger, it's really cool for my fans (you know, I'm like celeb status) telling me they love my instagrams/my writing. I mean I think anyone loves anything that can boost their itty bitty ego a lil' bit more. Regardless, as a blogger (or even better yet..a millennial) we know the joys of the let me stay in bed for an extra ten minutes and stalk my ex boyfriends cousins new girlfriend because she's pretty syndrome to even finding a blog, trying to figure out all there is to know about them and then try to befriend them before they get really creeped out and probably put you on their shit list. KIDDING.

Blog land is a happy place, a great place. As the all so trendy Marie Antoinette once stated, "Let them eat cake stalk their little hearts out". Here are some of the cooliest ladies on the interweb, check them out. Stalk it up on all social media. You may never know if you are meeting your new bestfriend or #ins(ta)piration!
 

Don't forget to show ya love!


XOX, 
the lady who wouldn't mind eating some cake.

P.S I have some exciting things in the works, make sure to come back tomorrow [and friday]! 

8/11/14

A shoe for me, a shoe for you (+giveaway)

Yesterday, I was able to capture some really foody for thoughty type snaps - all within about an hour span. After getting coffee off Walnut Street in Philadelphia (Rittenhouse...obv), I sat down to take some poor quality hand/coffee/table/bag/accessories shot when I looked up. Ugh damn this generation and the fact we never look up from our phone sometimes.  When I looked up, I realized the man was definitely homeless. We see so many of these in the city, truthfully I get a bit I'm tiny don't try to small talk with me when it comes to street corner residers. However, as I was sipping on my $3 iced coffee, I had those epiphany moments we all love where I was like shit, there's so much more to life than this. I need to calm down about the small stuff, stop sweating it literally and just live my life. However, especially for me easier said than done.

A few steps and a block later, I ran into a wedding party. I then proceeded to judge her dress (sorry, pinterest inspiration is too much sometimes), but I thought about how happy she must be. I also thought about her being a bridezilla and wondering if anything had happened yet where she would have unleashed her beast. I did get to stalk the pre-wedding ceremony pictures which was really cool. Then, in typical girl fashion, I signed in sadness that I have a bad case of single-fever and it will be a new era by the time I find a mister worthy of my stopping mid walks to take pictures or even the fact I decide to write about him (sometimes) on le internet. Oh yea, should probs add my pageant crazies to that list, too. 
A pictures worth a thousand (and eight) words. And people watching is probably the best sport I'll ever partake in.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

8/8/14

Case of the 20's

Whoever said that becoming an adult would be a great thing was def sipping on that purple stuff rappers love to jam out to. Being a person that's very goal driven (surprise!) and becoming overly mature [note: at times] has probably lead to my dreaming of only a short skip and a hop to become an infamous twenty something


Imma let you in on a little secret. Four years ago, I had a pretty bad year. The last year of teenager-ing? Definitely the same. Nineteen (I know #fetusstatus) was definitely not an easy one for me. Probably the toughest assignment the man up above set me up to was figuring out who I am, want I want from life, and how and who will I surround myself to get me there. I've definitely distanced myself from great people for I figured judgement would arise on circumstances I judged myself for. WHY ARE WE OUR OWN WORST ENEMIES? This year, it was a little bit almost inevitable I was ready for a year of shit. That's like a chinese type of symbol somewhere on the road right? 19 definitely had it's perks and I was ready for the real world until August 3rd at about 11:43 PM.

When the big clock struck midnight, I was in my bed. Reading blogs. Maybe yours. Not the glamorous life I wanted when entering phase one of adulthood. I was pretty frustrated and anxiety and all that pretty stuff flung through my body. Finally, when I woke up in the morning I realized things would be different. I was so happy to finally have my puppy but realizing that my 20's and the rest of my life wouldn't be glamorous? Well shit. Could I like stay 19 forever or....

36 hours into phase one, I just proved to myself that being an adult wasn't pretty and I'm ready to turn ten again! Cha cha cha's, Hiiiii-yaaaa's, and all. (They also say EAT MORE CHICKEN after cha cha cha's now, not sure where that comes in...) I had my mind up in the clouds, almost literally when I hurt my preciousness of a car. Who is now going to have to get an extreme makeover and leave rgord in a more terrible debt than ever. Again, adulthood proves to be a little female dog.

When bad things like that happen, we all tend to FREAK THE FREAK OUT, and go through EVERYTHING we have to be worrying about and then try to turn into inspector gadget and figure it all out when really we can't. Reality bites, trust me- I think I should be the brand ambassador for that...

After hearing eavesdropping on unnamed people in an unnamed location (look the sketchiness is back!), I decided I should check into the Lokai bracelet myself. The reasoning behind it had me sold in a heartbeat. Said unnamed woman was saying she broke down and bought it when she felt at her lowest point. When mid 20 year old life crisis, a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do. Buy something that will make her feel better [which I did]. Truthfully, I thought this was some dumb product at first like the rainbow-loop sensation (you know you work with kids when....) but after my research I was a sold lady. If you're feeling down, remember you have the same hours in a day as BEYONCE. Oh, and get a bracelet that will boost ya spirits.

Dress: forever21
Shoes: Naot
Clutch: St John

P.S was definitely not compensated for this post. Just totally in love with these bracelets.

8/6/14

Pimpin' Ain't Easy

Pimpin' ain't easy as said by the famous Big Daddy Kane (excuse me, who?). My other search results came up to be Snoop Dog (TBT) and R.Kelly, which made me feel much better about the googling of realizing this was a REAL song. I thought it was just thought up by some random teenager sitting around a friends basement with water bottles filled with...well, not water.

Honesty hour up in here: I love getting interviewed. I rarely get nervous and I think it's a lot of fun. I'm ultimately a crazy person right? Wrong OK maybe. I'm really stellar at showing off and talking about all things I know like the back of my hand (but actually) aka moi. To me, going on first dates are like interviews. I'm really good at small talk, big talk, medium talk, talking ears off, etc.
I've had shit dates where I decide that talking about the raining of cats and dogs outside is the most exciting thing about me (read: I wanted to skiddaddle) or dates where I spend hours chatting about X, Y, and Z and they have the hard urge to check their phones and look for the nearest escape route. However, there's probably something (you and) I could avoid chatting about on a first interview I mean date.

For starters I believe talking about your favorite hobby/activity TOO much could just be a boner kill. I bet you 9/10 times they DO care about your latest baking episode or hiking trip to a really cool stream (I mean come on I do ALL of those...) but if you spend hours talking about your hike up a side of the road mountain chances are they won't be returning your texts after a while. For me, of course, pageantry is my word vomit of choice. And for that, I really would like to apologize to all the dudes who never understood that there was a whole lifestyle, drama, and butt glue behind those hot swimsuits (this year c/o Kandice Pelliter).

Another topic to bury under a rock is most likely your views on the Pally-Israel middle east shenanigans. However, at the end of the day the positive part is that we all just really want peace. Just like my blog, I would never express my full views of political things (mostly because I don't care to know much of it), so chatting a dates ear off about me being super pro one way (especially if they are the other way) just wouldn't be a pretty thing. Also tip: don't you dare begin to even talk about this if you have no idea what to say- only because chances are you could look like a loon.

(For the bloggers): KEEP CALM AND REFRAIN from using words such as sponsorship, blates, and OOTD's. I'm the poster child for this experience so either refrain from such acts or get your pretty little bottom blog-stalked. BLO-ALKED. blog stalked. ok cool. Making up my own words.

If you need time to waste at your desk this wednesday, please refer to this itty bitty link: click me!

What are you guilty of word vom-ing on a first date?


8/4/14

Happy Birthday Obama!

It's an hour until my birthday as I write this post (yes, sometimes I do schedule them), and all I'm thinking is WHAT THE EFF. I know I'm not turning something in my late 20's or even 30's but besides my killer stomach ache (I mean, who doesn't want that on their birthday...), I'm seriously stunned. Maybe depressed about it, but only a little. Note to self: STOP WORRYING BECAUSE IF YOU GET UPSET EACH BIRTHDAY FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE IT WILL SUCK.

In the past year, I'd say I learned a helluva lot about myself. I know everyone says that every year and I'm pretty good at being the stereotypical cliche (hence my statement above), but on the reals as much as I hated this year, it was a pretty good indication about all things me and my future.

In the past year I've: met a Miss USA, got broken up with, changed schools, lose my first close family member, emerge myself into the world of pageantry (ily, networking), met my best friend through blogging (hi Rachael), battled anxiety, learned to appreciate my family and family time so much more, changed schools again, came home, realized what true friendship means, met more blog friends, became my own worst enemy, went on a shit ton of terrible dates, blogged about them (the best part), traveled, rebranded my blog, spent too much money on retail therapy-ing, bettered my writing skills and found my voice, had the opportunity to experience fabulous internships, became a really artsy instagram-er, and ultimately, blog my freaking heart out. Oh! and got a pup (more on that later).

I'm not really sure what I think my last 45 minutes of a teenager wants to say on my corner of the interweb (someone was shocked when I told them I OWN a corner of the internet. I mean who would trust me with that much responsibility?!?) but I know 20 year old me is being sappy as anything. I'd like to shoutout to everyone (I'll take cliches for 400, Alex) who's impacted me in the past year.

To the losers who made me realize what I don't want from a future beau. To the blogging friends (both close and far) to encourage and support every.single.step. Like I've said, blogging is a strange thing (read: fucking weird to those who don't get it), but I wouldn't want it any other way. To netflix for getting me through boredom and avoiding all daunting tasks I should have been doing. And obviously to Monogram Meredith: for giving me the cutest of shirts to wear in any season. I wish I could give you the 411 on everything Meredith and mine's relationship. I'm not sure how it even began besides the fact I designed her pretty little sliver of the web. I would love to look through ancient archives (because its been months now, duh) however it's my birthday and thats a great story for another time (over under on you caring? 0).


All Meredith's products (pillows, tanks, and cover ups) have a sporty handstiched monogram to boot...avec a super rad background design. I think my favroite part of my MM shirt is how funky and easy it is to mix it up into any outfit. I especially love to wear it lazily (I'm guilty). When I'm not dressing nicely (so let's say 99% of the time), my go to is anything comfortable (shorts or leggins depending on mother natures bipolar-ness). In the winter I had fun pairing it with simple leggings and a sweat jacket! In summer, it's easy to throw on with a simple pair of shorts. 


If your looking for some affordable gifts for a birthday friend (cough cough definitely me cough cough), I think hope I directed you to the right spot. Just call me the GPS of birthday gifts, it's fine. Lastly, I'd like to thank my dearest friend Ritz Carlton Ft. Lauderdale for showering me with the princess (that I am) treatment to start my 20th birthday off right. Never stop being you, dawg.

It's a shame that my most exciting moment of my birthday this year will be the fact my age will now say a 2-0 on the big tindy. Hooray for not being a teen! As far as my gift from you goes? Make sure to say hello to Meredith
Here's to beating teen pregnancy (and 364 days until I can buy out a whole shelf of boxed wine)! Sorry ma. 


8/1/14

She's beauty and she's grace...

Two truths and a lie:
I've competed in pageants.
I think pageants are stupid.
I'm obsessed with pageants.

If you don't know me, I bet you know nothing about pageants (unless you are a pageant friend/exist in pageant realm). If you do know me, I think you can attest to the fact I've taught you everything you've learned thus far ABOUT pageants. It's my christmas, my birthday, and one of my FAVORITE nights of the year.

True life: This is my last blog post as a teenager. On monday I turn the big 2-0. 

Back to scheduled programming. My birthday is on monday and I'm spending my birthday weekend glued to my computer to watch Miss Teen USA. That is not a joke. Yes, I am more excited for watching a pageant than my own birthday. Some call it sad, others call it growing up. Whatever that means. I could go on (about a rant and a half) as to why I love pageants and want to work in the pageant industry but just typing those few little words send the jitters and goose bumps and all the feels from the tip of my fingers to my noggin. And thats the moment I'm like heck yes, I want to work with pageants. It's not everyday people say that they want their job description to be filled with myths of crazy moms controlling their spray tanned babe, but really its not always like that.
The tallest (and sweetest) teenie - Miss New Jersey Teen USA 2014


Throughout competing (which I now realize I have no future of being a pageant queen, I'm not even five foot), I've gotten to watch the way the Miss Universe Organization works and figures out what type of girl [or woman for Miss USA/Miss Universe] they want to represent their organization. 

Not gonna lie, every year except this past Miss USA, my predictions are always pretty top notch and on point. But my thoughts on this past years Miss USA show is a WHOLE other blog post in itself. 

So if you find yourself bored on saturday (or friday, because prelims...duh) make sure to check back to my post and root on some of my faves, or figure out your own!



Here's my top 10 (in no order):
Arizona / DC / Arkansas / Louisiana  / Illinois  / Mass / New Jersey / Oklahoma / South Carolina

Ohio / Nevada / Texas / West Virginia / Virginia / Utah

I noticed (while searching for my top 5, pre prelim watching) that I usually tend to pick blondes for Teen USA and brunettes for Miss USA. WEIRD.

As far as top 5 (crap, 6 because I can't choose) here's what I got brewing (in no order): 
Mass / Nevada / Oklahoma / Arkansas / New Jersey / Texas
images via www.pageantupdate.com
I have my reasons for picking each girl but I swear on my butt glue (you're probably like WAIT WHAT IS THAT) that you don't care. Make sure to follow along on my twitter account for me to live tweet the show on saturday...unless I find something more important than watching a pageant (read: RARE). 


7/30/14

"Because I'm Chuck Bass"

A great philosopher once told me, personally, something along the lines of you're a princess and you should never have to pay for your own meals. Well actually, I'm kidding about the great philosopher unless you consider my dad while consuming an (accidental) $50 order of a strawberry daiquiri (because he was feeling pretty yolo-ish). On the reals, my dads pretty great. Tipsy or nah.

Which brings me back to my struggle of going halfsies on a date. (Ok yes, I guess I am spoiled). In regards to my opening sentence: I don't like paying for dates until we are dating. My opinion? I think the mister should be paying only to realize how he should impress the girl of his dreams (ok really she was the only girl that swiped right...kidding). I'm traditional and I don't care that you're in college or living the post-grad life. Suck it up and do it. Or don't date me.

After rereading what I just wrote, I seem stuck up. Where is my fendi purse and celeb friends to boot? Nonexistent or I wouldn't be spending my free time blogging up a storm. Although Blake Lively's now doing it, SO if Serena Van Der Woodsen is doing it, that means I should do it too, right?

Which leads me to my next problem I know all too well. Sometimes, I have a big mouth. It's actually just really funny because if you'd ask even a best friend of mine they wouldn't even know what my fall plans are for school, where I'm going on my next vacation, or who I'm even dating (sometimes). I've been known since my sleep-away-camp-chofesh [read: free time] days of being what we liked to call A SKETCHMONKEY. Meaning, I was secretive. So yea, back to my point of having a big mouth which really just DOESN'T make sense to you anymore, oui? With that being said, I'm like an open book at a wedding party when it comes to telling people I blog. I try to keep my mouth shut about it but I don't understand how people can be so hush hush over something that is technically THEIR WORLD. Not judging, because I get it and I hate when people joke about my blog to me to my face.

see chofesh:


With kiddycup, I shared with him the blog and he enjoyed it in doses only when I dared to show it to him to watch his giggles with me thinking on the inside (with my face BEAT red) shit is he giggling because he thinks its funny, that I'm cute, or that I'm a freaking loony bin person who he should probably hit up a restraining order with? Clearly, he stuck around for a good amount of time until I wrote my angry post. My very very angry emotional post. Which is now, for great laughs. Just like my break up post from my long time boyfriend (who I weirdly never let read my blog). Note: I don't recommend posting when in an angry mood. Or pre-brunch.
My real question is, when should you let someone in? You know the nice (questionable) tinder guy you met who you are sort of "dating" (whatever the fuck that means these days) and you accidentally told him that your a blogger (and to NOT mind the weird artsy pictures uploaded on instagram). I've dealt with the awkwardness of having a guy who you thought was really great and decided hey what the hell let me blog about him and all his jewish perfect glory until he decided that binge watching silicon valley and every other HBO show under the sun wasn't cutting it in his night time routine post work and click on my blog where I practically express that I wouldn't mind having his children. Yes, on the internet. 

He who does not exist anymore around my life (he only lasted about two weeks, I think), still likes to get updates on my life via blog then text me (probably sur la toilette. Which means on the toilet in french, FYI).  You know, if only he wasn't so creepy for wanting to read a college girls blog about absolutely nothing. Then again- my fault for blogging about him right? PS IF YOU STILL READ HEY SMILE BECAUSE THIS IS ABOUT YOU

Like any upper east sider (cue SVW or BCW), they don't know how to keep their mouths shut when it comes to shoving their friends out on the streets stuck in the latest goo they call drama. In Serena fashion, this wouldn't be an issue because clearly Dan is a better blogger than her. He's able to be a better blogger than me and not open his loud mouth (which he's been known to have) because well, shit, he's gossip girl.

And for Blair? Well, she doesn't have this problem because...HE'S CHUCK BASS.