Reuse a Scarf as a Belt

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This scarf shown above was so thin that it didn't look right wearing it as a regular scarf since it wasn't full or fluffy like others. With the inspiration from the bow belts from Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch's clothing, I used this thin scarf as a belt for these tan shorts. Even though they don't help hold my shorts up, they just add that extra style to your outfit. To me it made me feel like that safari/jungle look. Don't make it look to kiddish by using chiffon scarves and avoid silk scarves. Also, you want to make sure it is long enough so you are able to tie it into a bow because you don't want it to be awkwardly hanging around. So hopefully you are able to make a statement with these scarf belts.

x o x o 

Back to School Series: What to Carry on Your First Day Back to School

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   For some of you the first day of school has already happened but for me the first of school isn't until September 4th, which is the same day as my 2nd driving test....eeep talk about the nerves. Well, since we don't get school supply lists like in elementary school, we don't know what to bring on the first day back to school. So over experience this is my what to bring to the first day of school so you won't have to carry to much or panic when you don't have what you need on the first day back.

1. Backpack: Carrying a backpack is essential to hold all your stuff and even your lunchbox if you don't want to carry so much stuff and didn't get a locker assigned prior to the first day back (which is what is happening to me). Even if you carry a purse, carrying a backpack can help you keep your hands free with a jumble of school stuff and enable you to meet and greet people. 

2. Folder: Carrying a pocket folder is essential to hold all the classes syllabus and summer homework without getting it wrinkled and torn apart from your hungry backpack or the shuffling of books in your hands. You don't want to make a bad impression on your teachers on the first day back. I would carry one folder for the first day but feel free to carry more if you want. I love getting an adorable folder because it would make me happy and motivated, and after the first day you can use it as a homework folder for your classes.

3. Notebook: Since you have no idea what is going to happen on your first day, notebook comes in handy when the teacher want you to do something and you don't have your class supplies yet. It can be used to write done school supply list or hopefully not on the first day, lecture notes. Bringing one would be good enough unless you know that you will need a separate notebook for each class. Again bringing a good looking notebook will help motivate you...well it does for me.

4. Pencil Pouch: Bringing a pencil pouch is something you need to keep with you for the whole school year, it essentially keeps your life in there. Bringing pens, pencils, highlighters, etc. for the first day will make you look more sufficient and if there is a cute guy needing a pencil, you have one right with you(:

5. Agenda: For the first day, an agenda is key because first day is when the teacher tell you important dates to remember and first homework assignments and it is good to have your agenda to write down everything instead of trying to remember in your head because so many thing is going on and you can't remember everything. Also, clubs will be posting dates and you need to remember that as well.

6. Water Bottle: Sitting for 8 hours a day is a long time and we need a good 8 cups a day. Drinking water will help keep you hydrated and glowing throughout the day. A water bottle is not only good for water; it also can be used to keep juice or drinks without making you look suspicious.

7. Book: This is really the most optional option depending whether or not you are a reader. If you are then bringing a book with you is good for classes when the teacher talks for about 5 minutes and then gives you the rest of time to do whatever, or even if you are stuck without a car (me) and have to take the bus, having a book with you is good to kill time and check up on reading.

8. Snack: I cannot stress how much snacks are so important. I love to eat constantly and not knowing when lunch is until the first day make it important to pack a snack in case you get a late lunch and you get very hungry like me. If you forget to pack a snack, you could always steal bit out of your lunch.

x o x o 

Failed My Driving Test

       Yesterday was the day I took my driving test. I was super super nervous because I didn't want to fail, but end up I did anyways and it was embarrassing. I did the worst parking I have ever done and my dad was trying to argue these 2 points that took about 30 mins. What was worse was that I had to sit in the car the whole time and the girl before me who passed came back and more people came to the parking lot waiting to take their driving test. I was so ashamed. I only told 2 people that I was taking the  test and good thing I did because there was so much expectation that I would pass and end up I didn't. I failed and I didn't even get to go on the road. It didn't hit me very hard until I got home and I exploded into tears and was so miserable for a couple of hours. I never wanted to take the test again because I was afraid of failing.

       So on our way to dropping my sister off at soccer practice, my dad brought my mom and I backed to the testing place to let me practice again and I did everything perfectly since I had experience on how they were going to test me. He also taught me a valuable lesson that I am beginning to understand and want to use. He said that never feel intimidated by anyone; they are here to help you. The worse they can do is say no to you. They aren't trying to be mean and they can't be biased. My dad was trying to help me get past the fear of what other people might think of me because truthfully I am intimidated by strangers like I am afraid of what they might think of me, but after talking to my dad I am trying to be less afraid of what other people might think because I am only hurting myself if I give into what other people want. I need to think of myself and what I want, and I want my license (: Also, I realized that failure doesn't mean that I am a failure in life; it just mean that I made my life more interesting by having an obstacle and something to work for like a journey. Also it is a great story to tell the future children. (: I am going again next time, but with a greater confidence and getting past the parking! Has anyone else ever failed their driving test?

x o x o 

Back to School Series: What I Carry in My Makeup Purse

I don't wear much makeup to school, only BB cream, eyeliner, eyeshadow and lipstick/lipgloss. The hard part for me is keeping it on the entire school day. So I carry a makeup bag in my purse to touch up in between class or when I am in an emergency to clean up my face. So here are what I pack in my makeup bag to school and keep in mind that I don't wear foundation or go full out on makeup products.

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.....My makeup bag for school....

The makeup bag is from the Sephora Perfume collection and that $50 perfume sampler is a good deal because some of the perfume sampler's actual sized perfume is more than $50 and you get it for free. Also, you can use the perfume sampler's for school.

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1. Pop up hairbrush w. mirror: This is a two in one great item to have. It's both a mirror and a hairbrush. Before, I had a compact mirror and a hairbrush in my purse and it took up a bit of space, so this is a great item to have to help save space and use. Plus, it isn't expensive at all!

2. Hair Ties: I hate having my hair in my face when I am working or performing a lab, so I keep hair ties with me so I wouldn't have to go around asking people for one or use a rubber band. Also, I keep more than one because people always ask me for a hair tie and never return them so it's good to keep extras.

3. Bobby Pins: I have bangs and with my hair tied back the bangs keep falling in my face and totally makes me irritated so my handy dandy bobby pins help pin back those extra hair falling in my face. Also, they help in case you have a hairstyle and have a piece of hair coming out and you need to pin it back. They are like a lifesaver for making your hair not becoming a disaster throughout the day.

4. Lip Balm/Chapstick: Whether you call it lip balm or chapstick, this is a must have in your purse. They help keep your lips from chapping throughout the day and you don't want that chap feeling hanging around you throughout the day. Also, they give a little gloss so they also can act as a lip gloss for you lips. If you want a two in one, go for the Revlon Lip Butter or L'Oreal Colour Riche Lip Butter which gives you a lipstick, lipgloss and lip balm all in one!

5. Lipstick: I always keep a lipstick with me to touch up on my lips after lunch or during the day when my lipstick comes off from snacking or drinking water. So, it's good to retouch on those lip to give a pop of color or in my case, I like to stick with nude to pinky because I'm not a huge pop of color gal and neither is most people in my school. Apply chapstick/lip balm before to prevent your lips from chapping!

6. Lipgloss: I use lipgloss for on top of my lipstick to give it a shine, but don't over do the lip gloss because no one likes over shiny lips or to kiss the stickiness of your lips! Also careful that they don't chap your lips by making your lips peel.

7. Hand Sanitizer: Throughout the day, there is a ton of germs everywhere, and with the flu season coming, you don't want to be sick and miss those dances or parties. So, SANITIZE! Keeping a pocket/mini hand sanitizer in your purse will help you if you are in a hurry to wash your hands. I like to sanitize after every class and before lunch to help me be sick free! You can even get a yummy smelling one to make sanitizing fun.

8. Travel Hand Lotion: Lotion is a must! They help keep your hands moisturized in the winter and they can be yummy smelling and act as a perfume too. Keeping lotion will not only help your skin and help cover up some dry patches throughout the day, the can even be a conversation starter by saying, "Oh, that is some nice smelling lotion" or "Can I borrow some lotion?". (: Instant friends!

9. Perfume Atomizer or Perfume Sample: Perfume Atomizer are perfect to carry your perfume without bringing the whole bottle. They help refresh yourself before class or an important meeting because image is everything! If you don't have a perfume atomizer, perfume samples work as well. Plus you can get them at your makeup counter! Sephora perfume collection for $50 gives you a ton of samples plus a free full size perfume and a mini bag! Score(:

10. Neutrogena Cover Up Acne Stick: This is so useful for those zits that decides to come up during the school day and can ruin your day. So this stick is portable and will not only cover up the stick but will help eliminate that zit so you can go zit free in the future.

x o x o 

Back to School Shopping Haul Part II

Last friday, I went on my outdoor mall with my best friend to help her shop for her senior picture outfits as well do a bit of back to school shopping. However, I did not get as much as I did with my sister, but regardless I did get some clothing for the fall season.

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1. Smitten Kitten tee | dELiAs   (white)  $19.50 > $5.99   I wanted to get some quirky, cute tee and there was a sale for buy one get one free, so I found this adorable kitten shirt that said "Smitten Kitten" on it. Even though it was a size medium, once I tried it on I loved the loose feeling and it crop just right. I got another by the same company that said "Smart Bunny" with a quirky bunny with glasses for my sister. The "Smitten Kitten" tee is so comfortable and soft which I love and the kitten is very adorable since right now I'm like obsessed with kittens, especially the Himalayan doll face kitten(:

2. Divided Oversize Cardigan | H&M   (maroon)  $29.95 > $15.00  So again, I couldn't find the link for this, but this purchase to me was worth it. I was at first not going to buy it, but my friend convince me that it was a good investment for a cardigan. I bought the cardigan in a way bigger size than I am to get that oversize effect that I wanted. It didn't wasn't longer; it was just baggier looking. My friend got one in blue, but in her size and it was fitted on her. So it depends if you want one that is fitted or baggier. I personally like baggier to give me a comfy, casual feel.

x o x o

Back to School Series : How to Organize Your Agenda/Planner

Even though some of you have started school already, I haven't start school yet but will soon. So, I've decided to do a back to school series that will hopefully help you in school and get you ready for a new year.

Organization is key to having a successful year and with homework, projects, extra curricular activities, and tests, we have a hard time remembering everything which can lead to forgetting something important. What better way to organize your life then using a planner, either electronically or by hand. Personally I use both since I always carry my phone, but I'm obsessed with my planner and love writing in it. So here is some tips I found useful for my planner(:

Deciding on what size planner is based on whether you like to carry your planner in your purse or with your notebooks and binders. Since going to an IB high school, I've been using my own planners rather than the planner they give to us because now the planner they give to us require us to write in the dates and frankly I don't really like it. So from 9th-11th grade I have been carrying small to medium size planners like the one on the left since it was easier to carry it in my purse, but for senior year I decided to go for a large planner because IB senior year = more things going on. The pros of having a smaller planner is that it is able to fit in your purse, but it will also weigh your purse down. A bigger planner has a more space to write but will require you to carry more. I have decided that beside a large planner; I would be keeping a pocket planner in my purse only for major test and events so I would have a quick glance of upcoming important events.

Here is an example of my planner from 10th grade and how I organize the calendar portion which is what I look for in my planner since I like to write major events down and be able to glance at what is going on within the month. Using label stickers, I assign a sticker to a certain subject for example: red = test/quizzes/exams, blue = CAS (for IB), green = school events, and yellow = special events. However with my new planner, I am now highlight the event the different color category instead of using stickers. Also, I highlight the date to signify that I have something that day that I need to pay attention to. For very special events like holiday or birthdays I like to do something special around the box to really point out for myself. For test/quizzes/exams I write them in red pen to really signify to myself. As you can tell I like to decorate the calendar with stickers, it makes it look festive(:

So for each subject, I write down each subject I have and the homework I need to do and highlight the homework due the next time with the same highlight color I used to highlight the subject, which signifies that I have something for that subject. With upcoming test and quizzes, I would write it in a different color and even put a symbol, (T), saying that I have a test coming up for that class. I also on the way top put the event going on that day and write in blue pen for "Homework" on one line and then all the subjects. In black pen, I write the homework for that subject. I really love highlighters so I highlight the different subject alternating based on my A and B day classes. I also don't like to repeat highlighting pattern so I try to mix it up. On right corner I like to also make a short to do list of other things I need to get do beside my homework. 

The same goes for my calendar on my iPhone. I have different colors for each event similar to the label dot system. Also, I like how I can add more information on there like notes, reminders, and times. The reminders especially are helpful because it will remind you before whatever happens, happens. However, sometime I do neglect to type it in my phone because we aren't allow to be using our phone during class, so usually I would have to do it after which makes me tend to forget or neglect to type it down. 

Key thing to remember for organizing your planner:

1) Categorizing events by stickers, highlighter, etc. is a good way to keep track which is happening

2) Highlighting homework and the subject reminds you that you have something due

3) Test/quizzes/exams in a different color like red will be a bold reminder for you

Trust me, taking time to write/type stuff down onto your planner either by hand or electronically will definitely help you organize your life much better and help you be more efficient during the school year and even with your life (:

 x o x o 

Crossing Something Off the Bucket List = (:

This morning I went for my daily morning exercise of running, but for the past few days I have been walking with my mom since my running shoes I used gave me a blister on the back of my heel. But today, I attempted to run with a different running shoes and I was inspired by one of my neighbors who I see everyday running around the subdivision 5 times with her dog. Seeing her and talking to her at the subdivision block party, I wanted to attempt it since I have been stuck in running only once, 1 mile. So blasting my workout playlist to the max., I started my journey. I started my first mile slowly pacing myself and by the time I reached the 2nd mile I had to run on the other side of my house so I wouldn't be tempted to stop. I was extremely tired by the time I was halfway done with my 2nd mile and I was so tempted to stop, but I kept telling myself that I was almost there and my mom really encourage me once I past by her while she was walking. When I crossed the finish line that is making it into my driveway, I felt motivated, accomplished and so proud of myself. Finally I did it, I get to crossed off something on my bucket list. This run proved to me that I was able to do so many things I want to do before school starts like finish my book list, summer homework, baking, etc.

So I am currently watching my cartoons (I'm a dork) trudging through the whole seasons. I was so upset that one of my favorite shows, Jane By Design, is cancelled so I am looking for a new show to watch. I'm excited for the Carrie Diaries to premiere. Also, I can't wait for The Vampire Diaries, Once Upon a Time, Dallas, and Nikita to come back. I was thinking of watching Warehouse 13 since I love those type of history show.

Well so much for my rambling. I just wanted to shared with you the happy accomplishment I did (:

x o x o

Late Night Reading

Well right now is midnight and I am not at all sleepy which is a bad thing since I need to start adjusting my sleeping time for school. So, I am currently blogging to y'all while watching, yes this is going to seem childish but I can't help it, cartoons. To be more specific, I am watching Codename: Kids Next Door. But I have to admit something to you all, I am a bookaholic. I have a huge obsession with reading from historical fiction to chick lit to classics; I love them all.  What I love about reading books is that it transport me into a different place, helping my creative juice start spinning and flowing. I love to curl up by the fireplace with a hot chocolate or lay on the grass with a cup of lemonade and read. They are great to help me take a break from my stress and my life. I especially love to read books in the paper form and not electronically because I love the tangible feeling. Having a book in my hand makes me feel like I am in the 19th century, a century I love. Plus I need to learn how break one bad habit with books...I must learn NOT to read the ending while reading the book....it is such a bad habit I have :(

Here is the stack of books right now sitting next to my lounge chair in my room:

1) The Agency: The Body in the Tower by Y.S. Lee      (YA historical fiction & mystery & series) I am a bit of a history junkie and reading historical fictions are my favorite because I learn something about the past as well. My most favorite is historical romance!!! (:

2) Julie & Julia: My Year of Cooking Dangerously by Julie Powell   (memoir)  I wanted to read this novel right after I watched the movie. Memoirs are such amazing books because they are very interesting about someone like us with something interesting happening.

3) Illuminated by Erica Orloff  (fiction & YA romance)  My sister actually borrowed this book under my card, but didn't read it. I did read a bit of it and so far it didn't have any reference to Romeo & Juliet like they said at the back, but maybe it will occur later, which means I have to read some more (:

4) Eragon by Christopher Paolini (YA fantasy fiction & series)  I also wanted to read this after watching Eragon. I have been wanting to get in the habit of reading the novel first before watching the movie, but that never happened yet.

5) The Chemical Garden Trilogy: Fever by Lauren Destefano  (YA fantasy fiction/ romance/dystopia & series) I have read the first book in the series, Wither, and I loved the book so much and I was so excited when the 2nd book came out, but with all the books I have, I haven't gotten a chance to read it yet.

6) The Probability of Miracles by Wendy Wunder  (YA romance fiction)   I saw the ad for this book on the dEliA's website and reading the inside flap it sounded very interesting. However so far reading it, I had a slow time reading it because usually if a novel is good, I would read it in an hour to a day worth, but this novel has taken me so far a week and I don't think I am even half way done. I hope it gets better since I am at the part where Campbell is at Maine.

7) The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell   (YA romance fiction & chick lit)    I am definitely gonna try that habit I wanted to get into with reading the novel before the movie, well in this case tv series. I actually did this with The Vampire Diaries and The Secret Circle series. I started this novel before but never finish, but maybe I will be able to finish this time(:

8) Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen  (fiction & english classic & romance)   Yes this novel is for school, which I am being an overachiever and read all the novel before actually reading it in school. I loved the movie w. Keira Knightley so so so so much that I bought myself the novel in a Penguin classic, oldie looking style and am excited to sit outside with this novel and read it. Hopefully I can get it done before school starts(:

Well that is a hefty list of books I have, such a book hoarder, hopefully I will be able to finish all of this before school starts. I will check back in next week with my progress, reviews and hopefully a finish to the list.

x o x o 

Maybelline Color Show Nail polish : Chiffon Chic

I am currently obsessed with nail polishes! I hate the process of getting it on perfectly, but I love the colors though so I have to deal with it (: So, I recently purchase Maybelline Color Show nail polish in Chiffon Chic and I must say that I am actually really happy with this purchase. It's like Essie or China Glaze polishes for a better price.

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So nail polish doesn't require that many coats to get the color, it only took me one to two coats! Also, it is a very good price at $2.47 at my local Walmart. I love this color because my nail polish collection is currently all pinks and reds, and this nail polish is a beautiful lilac/lavender color that also can look like a pink too depending on the light. It does come out like what nail polish in the container shows and I absolutely am pleased with it and will be going back for more Maybelline Color Show nail polishes (:

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Above is a picture of it in use outdoors, I love the color oh so much and love the fact that I don't have to waste much of the product by putting multiple coats to achieve a solid color look.

 x o x o

Julia Child's Birthday

Today is Ms. Julia Child's birthday and in spirit of her birthday I have decided to watch the Julie & Julia  movie starring Meryl Streep and Amy Adams. Which then inspired me to borrow both Julia Child's novel and Julie Powell's book about her journey. Being a huge foodie, I absolutely love the french cooking of this movie and makes me want to attempt cooking some of these recipes despite being a high schooler (: So here I am with a coffee on my left and my chinese vocabulary on my right with Julie & Julia playing on my computer as I type this. In the mail today, I received my back to school orientation packet, which made me realize that school is fast approaching and with nothing completed I am far behind. Summer is leaving and school is coming which means this senior year is my last as a high schooler and I am going to make the most of it! More later....

x o x o

Back To School Shopping Haul Part I

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Back to school is right around the corner for me, and I figured I needed to get some shopping done for the fall. That is why I focused on looking for fall/winter pieces instead of my usual hunt for summer pieces. Also, it is great to go shopping now before school starts because it is a great way to score bargains with many store doing huge sales for school.

1. Neon Heart Top | Forever 21 : (neon yellow/pink)   $17.80   This actually has a funny story to it. So I was on a hunt on for these sweaters I found online, and I was debating between this sweater that I bought and this other one in my new favorite color, mint green (click here to see the other sweater I am talking about). For the fall/winter season, I didn't want to stick with the warm colors, but instead wanted to go bright and bring some color into the cold seasons. When, I was at the store, I found the mint green sweater, but it was in a size large. My sister saids that it was okay because oversize sweaters are good for being comfy. I tried it out and it wasn't looking good. So then there was no more sizes, which was sad. On our way walking to the front, my sister spotted the neon heart sweater on a mannequin. I couldn't find it in the store, so my sister just pulled it right off the mannequin! I didn't even tried it on or think about it. It was just in my size and felt soft as ever! Luckily, there was an abandoned hanger laying on the table with the mannequin, so we just slipped it on and paid. I did try it on at home and it felt like we were meant to be! Bought this for $9.01 with a gift card I received, saving myself $9.86.

2. Lace Trim Hipster Panty | PINK by Victoria Secrets : (T38 - Pink floral)   $9.50  Victoria Secret does make some of the comfiest, stylish lingerie and clothes, and I have gotten in the mail from them this card for free underwear and so I gotten these. Bought this for $0.00 with a card from them in the mail, saving myself $9.50.

3. Oceanside 14.5 oz. 3- Wick Candle | Bath and Body Works :   $19.50 > $9.50  I love candles, but was never allowed to burn them in my room. So I decided I wanted to get a candle for my study table downstairs because I gotten these coupon cards of 20% off entire purchase and a free travel size signature item. I at first wanted to get a small candle in Autumn for a fall scent and it was my favorite of all and not as strong to the point that I could not stand the smell. So, we found these 3-wick huge candles in summer scents on sale for half off, and so I decided that it would be a better investment because that was the same price as the fall scent. So I got Oceanside because it reminded me of this time at the lake last month which was pretty memorable (that is another story(; ).  However, I did receive another coupon for 20% entire purchase during September, which I going back to buy my Autumn candle. Bought for $8.27 with a 20% entire purchase card, saving myself $16.70.

4. Carried Away Travel - Size Body Lotion | Bath and Body Works :   $5.00  I wanted to get a travel size lotion for my locker so I could moisturize my hands when I stop to grab my books from my locker because I did that freshman year, putting the lotion in this locker container I bought at Meijers. It was perfect timing that I received a coupon, and my sister recommended this scent since she bought it a long time ago.  Bought for $0.00 with a free travel size item coupon, saving myself $5.00.

5. Scarf | H & M : (sparkly taupe)  $9.95   So, I always wanted a chunky scarf that would look full around my neck and not thin and skimpy. Also, I have been in love with sparkly items like sweaters and scarf, but the kind that is woven and does leave a sparkle trail behind. This scarf felt amazing and I absolutely loved the sparkles, so I had to buy it. The picture doesn't do this scarf justice because it fails to capture the gold sparkles in it. It is perfect to give your clothes the extra points for style and class while staying cozy. Had a 20% entire purchase coupon due to the Teen Vogue Back to School Sale, and therefore saved some money. *note: the link shows the same style & price of the scarf I bought, but couldn't find the exact color I bought in store, but I do like this coral color which is what I was planning on buying again when I go back.

6. Divided by H & M Cable Knit Sweater | H & M : (bright pink)  $24.95 > $7.00  I found this sweater on sale and was so happy that it was in another bright color which is my favorite, pink. I tried it on and loved the way it fitted on my body and wasn't lumpy or baggy. Also, it was comfy and cozy with the cable knit, and the neckline showed just enough skin. The length is short enough so I can put it over a dress or show off my belt on my jeans. Had a 20% entire purchase coupon due to the Teen Vogue Back to School Sale, and therefore saved some money.  *note: I could not find a link to this sweater on line due to it being on sale, so maybe you can find it at your local H & M sale's rack.

STAY TUNE FOR BACK TO SCHOOL SHOPPING HAUL PART II when I go to an outdoor mall with my best friend (:

x o x o

Impromptu Vacation

Impromptu vacations are in my opinion the best type of vacations because they are spontaneous and promising of fun. It is a good way to get away from your burdens and enjoy away from your life. Impromptu vacations don't have to be somewhere far away from home either; it can be a day at a local park, local amusement park, etc. Yesterday my parents surprised us with the announcement that we would be leaving for a vacation for a day at Mackinac Island and with less than 24 hrs we are on our way to the island to unwind and enjoy the last of summer before school starts. So more later an remember to enjoy the last of the summer and take some time to enjoy yourself!

x o x o

Once a Week Musts

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Here is a list of my one week musts(: Comment below what yours are!

1. During the week we are stressed, over worked, and need some alone time, and what better way to unwind at the end of the week then taking a bubble bath with some yummy bath bombs or bubbles. Bubble Bath are a good way to relax and also help your skin by soaking in bath salts that are known to help your skin. I love to take my bubble baths with some yummy candles lit, meditation musics from radio.com and a good book.

2.  Hair is something very important to me and tends to be dry at the ends from all the hair straightening or curling. So what better way to re store that moisture by treating your hair to a hair mask. It takes about 5 minutes to apply and about 15 minutes to set in a hair cap which you will be able to do other things while waiting, and this will give your hair the softness and glossiness for a long time.

3. Not only is it good to treat your hair to a mask, it's also good to treat your face as well. It also takes 5 minutes to apply, and you are still able to do your regular routines. Face masks really cleanse your skin deep cleaning it out of impurities, smoothing your skin, and diminish redness than the daily face cleansers. This too will last a long time and help your skin(:

4. I cannot stress how important it is to clean your brushes because brushes always come in contact with our face and is exposed to dust, bacteria, and who knows what else. By cleaning your brushes at least once a week, you will eliminate bacteria that could create problems for your skin. If you don't want to waste money on brush cleaning liquids, use olive oil!

5. Exfoliate everywhere is a must because not only do they help erode bumps and acnes, and help prevent them from re appearing. Also, doing this too often can actually harm your face, so twice a week is maximum(: If you are on vacation on the beach area, sand is also a good exfoliator. 

Teen Vogue Back To School Deals!!!!

I haven't taken my back to school shopping trip yet and thank goodness I haven't because O-M-G when I found out about this on teenvogue.com, I was jumping with joy!!! If you haven't heard of this like me then be prepared for a really awesome back to school shopping deals! Certain stores such as GUESS, American Eagle, Gap, Aeropostale, and more are giving exclusive discounts for readers of Teen Vogue. I'm talking 20% entire purchase at H & M or 30% and free sunglasses when you purchase something at Aeropostale, and these are the legit deals, I didn't make them up! It is very easy to get these deals too. All you need to do is download the Teen Vogue Insider App onto your iPhone and bam! Instadeals for you!!!! However there is a catch, all these deal are on one day only, and that day is tomorrow, August 11. 2012, which is why if you download the app today the deals won't open.

If you don't have an iPhone, don't fret, because you can Teen Vogue also posted it on their website, which is how I found out, and all you need to do is take the promo code they posted on there. So click here to be directed to the Back to School Saturday deals; however you will be limited a bit because some require an app so hopefully you can borrow someone's iPhone (: . So start making that shopping list and browsing through all the online website and get ready to go back to school shopping with Teen Vogue!

My Besties (Skin)

So if you have picked up and read the September Issue of Seventeen Magazine, then you would know what Besties I am talking about, but if you didn't then what Besties is is just top voted products for mini categories within 3 categories: hair, makeup, and skin by the reader. Since some of the winning products are not some of my winning products, I've decided to show you my besties for the Skin category: *Note: the pricing is based on the link I have attached the product to and can vary!

1. Face Cleanser : Formula 10. 0. 6 Best Face Forward Daily Foaming Cleanser ($6.99)  I was first attracted to this cleanser by its packaging. However, this cleanser is amazing! It does not break me out or dry me out. Also, it soothes the redness in my skin and does not cause any more to reappear. I don't like the smell because it smells like artificial strawberries, but it is a wonderful daily cleanser that I use in my morning skin routine.

2. Face Moisturizer/ Lotion :  Dermo Expertise L'Oreal Futur-e Moisturizer + A Daily Dose of Pure Vitamin E ($10.19) & Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream ($11.99)  The reason why I have 2 products listed is because each is part of my morning or night skin routine, but the true winning champion is the Cetaphil cream because it works wonders for my skin. It rejuvenates my dry skin and flaking skin (I didn't have this in 6th grade and I had a flaking cheek...enough said...talk about embarrassment that day!) So this is part of my night routine and used when I have patches of flakiness. I use the L'Oreal daily moisturizer in my morning routine and it does moisturize without over moisturizing. It also protects my skin without built in sunscreen so I don't have to worry about sunscreening my face. These two products a must buy if you are a girl/woman on a budget and don't want to buy high end moisturizers.

3. Face Scrub : St. Ives Apricot Scrub Acne Treatment ($3.99)  This scrub really helps clean my skin and leaves it feeling fresh and clean. I use it when I am showering because it can double up as an exfoliator for bumps on my body. It is rough so I don't recommend using it everyday or you will flake, but I use it at least once or twice a week.

4.  Acne Treatment : Zapzyt Maximum Strength 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Gel ($5.29)  O-M-G This treatment is the BEST thing that ever happen to me. This works on reducing and preventing blemishes from becoming an annoying, bulging red accessory on your face. All I do is dab the gel on where I feel a pimple coming once in the morning, once after my shower, and once at night, and BAM it's gone! It does dry and leave a dry sensation on your face, but trust me I cannot tell you how much I love this product, and without it I don't know what I would do about my acnes.

5.  Lip Balm : L'Oreal Colour Riche Lip Balm in Caring Coral ( $7.99)  & EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balm in Summer Fruit ($3.29)   Again with two favorites because the L'Oreal lip balm is like the Revlon Lip Butters (another obsession product) but this really moisturize my skin while giving it the gloss and lipstick to my lips. Also, I love this color caring coral because it isn't too bold and I can wear this casually to school or when I'm going out. But for purely lip balm, I would have to go with EOS because not only is it cute, and taste good, it really moisturize my lips without making me needing to re apply ever 5 minutes. I use it in the morning and I am good to go!

6. Body Lotion (Technically this is a hand lotion) : MOR Little Luxuries Lychee Flower Hand Cream ($12.00)  I found this hand cream in a boutique shop in downtown Maine while I was on vacation and I absolutely fell in love once I tested it out in the shop. It smells amazing (partially biased because I love lychee) and really moisturize my hands making them feel like a baby's bottom! (well never really felt a baby's bottoms because that would be strange, but it's a saying!)

7.  Sunscreen : Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Sunscreen Lotion ($8.99)  This is my new favorite sunscreen because it not only protects from both UAV and UAB /SPF, but smells just lovely (like vanilla coconuts) which makes me excited to reapply sunscreen and not my usually hate towards them because they give a sticky feeling.

8.  Perfume : Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau de Parfum Spray ($75.00)  This is my all time favorite perfume because it smells amazing! It is not too spicy or fruity, but flowery (hence the name) and is perfect for teenage girls like me without making me smell too old. It is perfect for spring and summer (I go for vanilla and warm scents for the cold seasons) and this perfume is very potent and long lasting. Also, I like it better than the other Daisy perfume because it is so potent and has that distinct smell.

9. Razor :  Gillette Venus Embrace Razor ($11.04)  Through my experience with shaving, I learned that you really need a good razor to have a good shave. Cheap razors that I used before gave my legs bumps, rashes, and cuts and didn't give a good shave. Investing in a good razor can really help protect your skin and give a good, pain-free shave, and that is the gillette embrace razor. It is the best razor I have used and doesn't give me nicks or cuts! It leaves my legs feeling smooth and nice.

Nothing is better than walking in the rain

Picture is from here

Hello! First journal entry on my upcoming, new blog *raising the roof*! So I've been working on my huge essay for school (I go to an IB school) which is called an EE or extended essay, and I made this bet with my mother that I would be able to finish the rough draft of the EE by this sunday at 11 a.m. If i  win the bet then I would get this Kathy Van Zeeland purse that she bought but never used, but if I loose I would have to give her my GUESS purse that I have not used yet. I thought it was going to be easy, but am I wrong. I so far have about 60 words done and a huge writers block, not to mention I need to be writing my college application essays too. So I have created a work area in our basement on our childhood plastic picnic table, and using an exercise ball as a chair since I can't since on the bench without half my butt sticking out. So I was having a huge writer's block and so I decided that it would be good to take a walk in the rain since it was something I have never done before. Armed with my floral umbrella, keys to the house, and my iPhone, I went outdoors. It was remarkably soothing walking down the sidewalk with the rain beating down the umbrella and no one outside but me and road ahead of me. It just gave me time to take in all the nature (yes this does sound corny and cheesy but it's true :P) and the beauty it possesses. I came back inspired, but not for my writer's block unfortunately, but for creating and blogging on my blog. So thank you for reading and taking the time to stop by and hopefully you too will be inspired and learn from me. 

x o x o 

Expensive To Affordable

If you are a high schooler like me or someone who likes to save money yet loves shopping, designer items are major splurges and consider a lot of thought. However, don't fret, we still can get those designer looking items for less while still saving money for Starbucks or the movies later!

forevergina.blopspot.com

This Stella McCartney dress from net-a-porter.com is beautiful with its lace overlay and adorable black bow. Its perfect for those special occasions like date night, homecoming, prom, dinner with the parents, etc. However, are you that prepared to put down $5,295 for it? Instead here is a similar looking version from Forever 21 that has the same lace overlay and black bow, and is $5,267.20 cheaper!!! 

forevergina.blogspot.com
*Note: you can even make your own cap toe shoes!!! Click here for the DIY link

Ballet flats are an essential for every wardrobe, but paying $545 for a pair by Lanvin  from net-a-porter is a too much money. These Cap Toe Ballet Flats from Forever 21  the same design as the Lanvin flats for $525.20 cheaper! However, the Lanvin ballet flats are made out of real leather and the Forever 21 pair are made out of faux leather, so it depends if you really want quality shoes. For a high schooler like me, I would go for the Forever 21 pair because I do so many things that I would destroy the $545 pair or be so afraid to wear them that they would just sit in my closet like a shrine. Also, the Forever 21 flats can be worn casually and formally while the Lanvin one despite the leather material can be worn casually most of the time.

forevergina.blogspot.com

Clutches are perfect for going on the go without lugging around a huge purse and can really make a statement for an outfit. Alexander McQueen clutches are known for their skull knuckle duster closure, but looking at the prices it is a bit out there. However, Love Culture just came out with this clutch with a replica of the skull knuckle duster closure in a golden yellow. Even the price is a tad high for a clutch, it does beat the $2455 for the Alexander McQueen one by $2,422.10. 

forevergina.blogspot.com
*Note: Both boots come in different colors

With school starting soon fringe boots has made its way to becoming a staple for the boho trend. These Minnetonka boots are adorable and the company is well known for their fringe footwear, but these adorable boots are too much for me to afford on a $20 allowance a month basis. So these Mudd fringe boots for $29.99 on sale at Kohls are a good deal for the same style boots for the fall. Plus there is some hardware on top with the studded details and are $69.51 cheaper.