Fancy Lights

Hi everyone,

If you haven't noticed, as of late, I have been very much into room decor and this includes fancy light fixtures.  Sadly the electrical layout of my room does not support a having a fancy chandelier (if I were to have one, I would have to remove my ceiling fan and I'm not doing that), maybe in the future I can do something about that.

Anyway... if you couldn't tell already... I find lighting a very important part of a room; it sets the mood etc.  So if any of you guys are planning on jazzing up your room in any sort of way (without having to go all the way), I suggest getting a conversational light fixture.  Here are some of the light fixtures I have been ogling:

Enchanted Garden

Hi everyone,

This is the first outfit post I created inspired by a scenery photo.  It's a surprise that out of all of the outfit posts I have done, none of them have been based on a scenery photo.  Maybe it is the lack of greenery (winter), or just my general love/longing for the warmer months that made me fall in love with this photo.

Anyway, here is the look:

Let's Chat: #25

Hi everyone,

Here is another "Let's Chat" post.  I feel like it has been ages since I have updated you all; so this post  is over due.

(photo credit)

"So what's been happening with you?" Oh I've just been hanging out and catching up with some friends.  It's one of the best ways to unwind after a busy semester.   Thank's for asking. :)

I recently got back from a trip.  I went with a few friends on a little adventure.  If you have followed this blog for a while or if you know me in person you probably know that I love going to new places and getting a chance of scenery.  It is so refreshing, and most of all I had a great time!

I also am in the process of redecorating my room.  I felt it was time for some much needed change.  Although I am a person who is very set in their ways, I do cherish change (sometimes).  I have been combing the web for inspiration and I am letting my mind run wild with decorating ideas!  I still have a little bit of tidying up to do, but I'd like to say that most of the heavy lifting (pun intended) is over.  This is a good opportunity to get my creative juices flowing!

And that's just half-of-a-tiny taste of the beautiful world of wall decor!

What are you all up to?

Any cool room ideas?

My Fall Must Haves

Hi everyone,

Fall to me is accessory time because you get to wear a variety of cute accessories to make your look, without freezing while doing it (Winter).  I know that we are well into fall already, and I have already become reacquainted with some of my favorite fall items, but I thought this would make for a nice little post.
I don't know about you but here are my fall must haves :) ....

1. A portable thermos/mug.  For tea of course! Tea is a perfect companion for a morning comment to class.
2. A beanie... for a "rather blustery day".  Also a nice scarf is nice.
3. Booties.  I bought myself a couple this season and I have been loving them.  I usually wear tall boots,  but it is good to switch it up; especially when the weather permits.
4. Leather jacket.  This is one of the top must haves for the season (and it should be it)!
5. Dark lip color.  I need must  go shopping for one.  Not too dark though! Any suggestions?

What are your fall must haves?

Let's Chat #22: Hair Talk and a Bit of Rambling

Hi everyone,

I named this post "hair talk" because there is a high probability that I will start rambling (I don't know where I will end up) :P.  Let me start by saying the cliche "embrace what you've got".  I know saying that is so corny, but there has to be a reason why it is said all of the time.  It is so easy to look over the fence and be wowed by what other people have (which is ok) and change it up to try new things (which is also ok) then end up hating where you started (which is NOT ok).  "Embrace what you've got"; easier said than done.  I am not going to sit here and tell you how extremely self confident I am and how I have always loved my features.  I am not going to say that there wasn't a time where I prayed that my curls would magically loosen, because "everyone loves girls with wavy/straight hair".  I'm not going to tell you that I don't have anything I need to work on.  Why? Because that would be a lie.  

I think when you are a teenager it is so easy to wish something about you was different.  Wishing that something about you was different can lead to you trying things that just don't work for you.  Just think back at your teen years and you'll probably remember an awkward phase you went through, where you decided to try out a hairstyle or makeup trend that didn't suit you.  That is ok because not everything suits everybody.  For example, I do not look good with super straight hair, because of my face shape, I think it makes me look sad (lol).   It is completely fine to experiment with looks.  I am not saying to stay the same way forever, that would be boring.  What I am saying is that even if you change things up you still have to go back to and face the way you really are (eventually), and most of all you have to be fine with it.  Also, facing the way you really are doesn't mean jus giving up and not trying, it means "working with what you got"  (more cliches, yes I know).  For example, if your hair is curly, like me, find out the right products and routine to get your curls the best they can be.  Finding out what works for you may not be easy but it is worth it! If you can work with what you got, not only will you get props from me, you will feel liberated!

Be the best YOU can be!

So here is a collection of hairstyles to inspire you...

Well I did ramble a bit but I don't think I went too off topic.

Also this doesn't only apply to hair it, can apply to any of your features.  I just mentioned hair because it was my example.

If you have ever disliked one of your features and came to love it I would LOVE to hear about it!

Thanks for reading. :)

Lets Chat #18

Hi everyone,

Lots of things have been happening this past month.  I just didn't get around to posting as much as I would have liked to.  Honestly it was a bit stressful, but it wasn't all doom and gloom.  I feel like this past month has brought tons of changes and maybe even new beginnings.

How have you guys been?  Hopefully it's been great to you.

Now that I am about to complete my summer course (that I really enjoyed) I feel the urge to go do things.  Does anyone else feel like going out and conquering the world after you complete something-well maybe not something but you feel... motivated?  Hopefully this motivation won't dig a big hole into my wallet putting my frugal efforts to a halt.  We'll see. ;)

I should be blogging more regularly soon.

The Unspoken Rules of NYC Life

Hi everyone,

For those of you who don't know I live in NYC, Brooklyn to be exact and I have lived here all my life (but I do love traveling).  I've learned a few things about how to get by in a big city.  I often think that it is pretty simple, but when I see the confused faces of tourists I am reminded that it may not be.  I'm putting this list together so that when you travel to a big city NY for example you don't have a confused look on your face (the tourist face).  Also these tips not only help out you but other commuters, making everyone's life easier.  The key here is be conscientious and be aware!  Many of these tips are common sense especially if you have been any sort of city before.   Here are the unspoken rules of Big City Life:

• Keep Moving.  This helps everyone out!  I can't stand when people just stop in the middle of traffic.  If you need to stop and talk to some one or check your phone move to the side please.  Tourists aren't the only ones who break this rule but they are often big offenders.  Also keep up with traffic do not walk slow if everyone seems to be rushing around you.  
• Take the path of least resistance when necessary.  If you've ever been on a crowded block you probably notice that eventually two rows form, one way going towards you and one away from you (the direction you are walking).  Do not get on the wrong row it is just common courtesy.  Also I'd like to make this point.  When a train is coming people tend to run for it please move to the side, people should do the same for you.
• Allow people to get off the train before you get on.
• Plan your trip before venturing out.  Ok the MTA is always having some type of repair schedule going on which results in train reroutings and/or delays, especially on weekends.  Check the MTA website www.mta.info to help you plan a trip and check the train situation.  Also there are many apps that help out too.  Don't expect yourself to be a seasoned train rider in a couple days (be fair to yourself).
• If you are nervous or alone do not ride in the first or last cars of the train.  Many tourists have faces of sheer horror when they see homeless people or anything they aren't used to.  It is a good rule (that I follow) to stay out of secluded cars, because they are often secluded for a reason.
• Do not take out laptops or tablets on the train.  It might get stolen, it might not but why take the chance.  Also the train may become so crowded it might get bumped out of your hands.
• Do not take up more room than you need to.  It is obvious that everyone in the city is pressed for space (pun not intended).  Do not take up extra room when you sit on the train.  Do not lean on the train pole stopping others from holding it.  Try to shrink yourself up as much as possible, without being completely uncomfortable of course!
• Carry cash.  There are many street vendors that sell nice and unique items also if you plan to buy from a food cart carrying cash is very helpful.  But if you are running low you can always find a bank nearby.  

I hope these tips weren't too intimidating!  Also don't be scared of New Yorkers.  New York is not as menacing as shown in the movies. Ask a question if you are lost.

Anyone planning a trip this Summer?

Garden Party

Hi guys,

It is Memorial Day which probably means that you might be having a BBQ or some sort of get together.  Even if you aren't having company over or attending a party, you can still have a fun time.  Hopefully the weather where you are at is pleasant; because if it is head out side to the great out doors and have a grand ole time!

A picnic or garden party isn't complete without lemonade or fresh juice.

Here is a recipe for fancy Lemonade: (20 4 oz servings):

1. In a small saucepan, combine white sugar (1 3/4 cups) to dissolve sugar and one cup of water.  Allow to cool then refrigerate.
2. Prepare lemon juice (2 cups) and remove the seeds.  You may also choose to remove the pulp, but leaving it will give it extra taste.
3. Mix the chilled syrup and lemon juice in 7 cups of water.
4. Serve.
5. Optional:  If you want to make strawberry lemonade blend the strawberries and add them at the same time you add the lemon juice.

When you host the party what drinks do you serve?  What are your favorite party drinks?

Preppy Nautical

Hi everyone,

I've been really busy with the semester coming to an end and all.  I've been faced with a ton of work and haven't really gotten around to posting (not that I don't want to).  The good news is that after all of my finals, I'll finally get a break and I'll get back to my normal posting schedule.  I will return to my normal posting frequency soon.  Just hang in there! I'll be trying to do the same thing as I brace myself for the incoming finals week.  

I'll leave you with  this random little fashion collage, inspired by the nice weather we have been blessed with in NYC these past couple of days.

Things I'd Like to Try/Buy:1

Hi everyone,

I know you are probably pretty familiar with "wish list" posts.  And you may be wondering "why didn't she just name this post a 'wish list'?" The answer is unlike a wish list I can't actually buy some of the things on this list and I have try them.  Well this works out great because I consider myself a pretty frugal person.   I hope you enjoy this new type of post!  Also as usual,  I encourage you to share any advice or suggestions, but especially in these types of post!

1. Find the perfect pink lipstick.  I am on the hunt for the "perfect pink".  I want a lipstick that isn't too pink but isn't too nude.  I'm looking for like a "dusty pink" or a "dusty rose" type of color.  I've been looking around a bit (but not diligently enough I suppose).  The thing is lipstick can look completely different in the bullet than how it looks on your face.  Some even look different from swatch to actual lip application. ugh!
2. A new recipe.  Maybe something with herbs and spices. mmmm!
3. Try the no makeup look...as scary as it seems.
4. Read a good book.  Or maybe a book that makes me cry.  Sometimes I like a good tear jerker.  Any suggestions?
5. Try a new fragrance; maybe a light fresh scent.
6. Try a shade of nail polish I have never tried before!  I'm usually very wary about choosing nail polish colors because I'm afraid of staining my nails (even though I use a base coat).  Maybe I'll borrow my good friend's pastel yellow nail polish.

Any suggestions/advice?

Room Idea: Navy and Yellow

Hi everyone,

I really feel like changing up my room so maybe I'll do something once finals are over.  After finals I can take a bit of a breather and work on some things I actually want to work on, like fixing up my room or reading a book.  I am really loving this color combination it's so happy and fresh (kind of like how I'll feel after finals).

Do you ever feel like a change in scenery?  What do you do when you feel that way?

Get Cozy!

Hi guys,
It is cooling down (weather-wise). The time is coming to cuddle up under a nice blanket, with a nice cup of tea.  My room was cozy-ed up a bit by switching to a heavier blanket and changing to darker curtains.  Maybe this picture can give you ideas for your own room.

 

Anyone who has been to my house can tell you about my obsession for candles (and basically anything that smells good).  I feel like you a good scented candle can be relaxing.  After a long day I just love lighting a candle and in a couple of minutes my room smells like heaven! Here are a few candles I recently purchased.  I also have a reed diffuser in the back.

What are your favorite candle scents? And what makes you feel nice and cozy in your room?
 

Let's Chat #1: Awkward Phase

Hi guys,

www.yahoo.com

Did that picture make you smile? It certainly made me laugh when I came across it today! That is a sea sponge (yes, Spongebob's long lost cousin).  Isn't the ocean such an interesting and amazing place? 

Today was a long day for me and it feels great to just sit back and get to blogging!  I have decided to start a new series about what's on my mind called : Let's Chat.
 This blog post is going to be all about what I am going to call the Awkward Phase. (That is kind of why I chose the picture I did).  I was inspired to write this post after a funny discussion with my friends today.

You may be wondering what on earth is the Awkward Phase?  Well the Awkward Phase is a time where you are, for lack of a better word, awkward.  This time is  different from person to person but I find that the awkward phase is at its peak in middle school and maybe early high school.   What's so awkward about this?  Well it varies from person to person.  For some one it can be that time where your arms were too long in comparison to your body (*cough cough* me).  For someone else it could be that time where you were still waiting to grow into your features.  It might not just be looks either.  Some people go through phases before settling into your own style (example: goth to preppy to punk).  

After discussing this with my friends I realized that everyone has that awkward phase.  If you can't think of one you are probably in it (haha) or your just really lucky!  Conclusion: Everyone has their own weirdness.   Even if you feel like you are the only one trust me you aren't. 

Want a laugh? (you deserve one for reading so much)
I have to make a conscious effort to say: your welcome instead of saying: thank you. 
It would be something like this: Person: "Here is your textbook back.  Thanks."   Me: "Thanks (no, wait) Your welcome."  I have no clue why I do that haha.

Are you awkward?



 

New Tag: Around the World Tag

Hi guys,

I am super excited about this post!  When I first started out I never thought that I would be exposed to bloggers from all over the world!  Since it is one of my dreams to travel the world, visiting blogs from different parts of the world is pretty cool and inspiring!

I have decided to create a tag that celebrates bloggers from around the world who want to travel around the world!

So without further a due I present to you the: 

Where were you born?

Brooklyn, NY.

Where do you currently reside?

Brooklyn, NY

Where have you resided?

Brooklyn, NY

Do you have dreams of traveling around the world?

Yes.  I love traveling and I would love to travel more!

What about traveling is so appealing?

I get to see how life can be so different in other parts of the world.  I love to see beautiful sights.  I love to meet new people.

Do you consider yourself adventurous? 

A bit.

Have you ever traveled? If so where?

Mexico, Aruba, Canada and a few states in the US

Favorite vacation?

Hmmm.... Maybe Mexico, but Aruba is definitely a close second.

Dream vacation?

Somewhere with a nice beach and tons of water sports.

Would you prefer to travel to a warm or cool climate?  

Warm.

Would your trip be spontaneous or would it require planning? 

I would like to be more spontaneous but I can't help but plan things.  I am a planner!

Do you over-pack or under-pack?

I think I am a pretty good packer.  If I had to choose one it would have to be over pack.  If I do over pack it is very slightly.

Would you prefer to travel alone or with friends and family?

With friends and family, I want to share my adventures.

Do you like to visit tourist attractions or local hot-spots?

A bit of both.  I would love to sight see but eat local food.

You are all tagged!!  Here are the Rules

1) Mention who tagged you.

2)Copy and paste the image above (at the beginning of this post), into your post.

3) Answer the following questions.

4) Tag your friends!

Where were you born?

Where do you currently reside?

Where have you resided?

Do you have dreams of traveling around the world?

What about traveling is so appealing?

Do you consider yourself adventurous? 

Have you ever traveled? If so where?

Favorite vacation?

Dream vacation?

Would you prefer to travel to a warm or cool climate?  

Would your trip be spontaneous or would it require planning? 

Do you over-pack or travel light?

Would you prefer to travel alone or with friends and family?

Do you like to visit tourist attractions or local hot-spots?

100 Followers!

Hi guys,

I came home from class today and was happily surprised.  Well, I kind of knew it was going to happen eventually, but it is still exciting (kind of like Christmas haha).   Anyway, if you haven't noticed by the title of this post and the girl screaming in the photo, I have reached 100 subscribers. Yay!  I am happy to have reached this small milestone because I started my blog less than two months ago. 

I have been having such a fun time blogging so far!

Thank you everyone who follows my blog!

And a special thanks to those who comment regularly!

Stay tuned for more posts! I have a special one planned for later this week!

Since you guys are all so great I'd like to open up the floor for to you guys?

What would you like to see on this blog?

Also if any of you would like to do a collaboration don't hesitate to ask! :)

The Meta-blog Post

Hi guys,

It has been a bit over a month since I started blogging; and since I am the type of person who likes to sit and reflect about things (this time blogging), I thought to myself: why not make a post out of it.  So here goes the blog post about blogging or the meta-blog post.

Honestly I have to say that blogging is more fun than I had imagined.  I love checking out all of your wonderful blogs and commenting on all of your wonderful post.  It warms my heart to see you all commenting on my posts.  Thank you everyone!

 Wow this is starting to sound like a goodbye letter (don't worry it isn't, I am just letting out my sappy side).  I just want to let you all know that there are tons more posts to come!

I would like to take this time to say a couple of things:

I really don't mind, in fact I have no problem with follow-for-follow comments.  I would love to support your blog and I would certainly love it if you supported mine.  However, I do have a problem when dishonesty is involved.  For example, someone will comment and say: "I love your blog I just followed you, follow me back."  Yet when I check they have not followed me.  Or they propose to each other but do not deliver.  I understand that sometimes things fall through the cracks, but this seems to be a bit of a trend.  If you would like me to check out your blog just say so, there is no need to lie.  Please keep your promises, or don't make them.  I feel like I speak for most bloggers when I say this.

Once again thank you to all of my followers friends.  Since my blog is still a baby, I would like to open up the floor to you guys!

What would you like to see in an up-coming post?  If you have any ideas let me know, I would really appreciate it. 

Back to School: All About You.

Hi guys,

I have already made a post about what to bring when you go back to school; this post is all about your attitude towards school. This is a bit of a long post so if just want to skim over the bold words and the quote, be my guest.  Let's face it most of us do not want to go back.  If you go back saying: "Oh my gosh I hate school, I hate everything." you probably are going to hate it.  It is a good idea just to accept that it is time to go back and see what this year will bring.  Also there has to be one thing that you are looking forward to about going back (even if it is just showing off your new clothes, or a new haircut).

Going back to school is a great time to make "School Year Resolutions".  

Set some goals for yourself (and try not to fall off of them like many off us do with new year resolutions).  Make your goals realistic, like not leaving projects and studying for the test for the night before.

Try to set apart time for yourself, when ever you can, even if your really busy.  Let's say that you are studying for a big chemistry test, take 15 minute breaks every once and a while.  If you don't take any breaks you are likely to end up wanting to: scream at the top of your lungs and chuck your book out of the nearest window (speaking from experience).  Setting apart time for your self can include social time.  It always helps to have someone to talk to.

Basically, when it comes to school balance is key.  Although you may not achieve the perfect balance (I haven't), it is all about getting close enough.  I chose this quote because thought this quote summed up my post perfectly.

Good luck this school year everyone!

Liebster Award

Hi guys,

I was nominated for the Liebster award by the lovely Charley over at Rambling of a Beauty Blogger. Thanks again for the nomination!

 The Liebster Award is given to up and coming bloggers who have less than 200 followers.  What does Liebster mean?  Liebster is German and means sweetest, nicest,kindest, dearest, beloved, lovely, pleasant, kind,valued, cute, endearing, and welcome. :D  

Here are the rules...

1. Link back to the blogger who nominated you thanking them.

2. Answer the 10 questions you've been asked from the person who nominated you.

3. Create 10 questions of your own to ask some other bloggers.

4. Share the love: Choose 10 other bloggers, with less than 200 followers, to nominate and send them a comment or message letting them know you've nominated them.

Questions and Answers:

1. Where are you from?
I am from Brooklyn, New York.
2. How long have you been blogging?
I have been blogging for about a month.  
3. The all important question: tea or coffee?
TEA! I love tea, especially when the weather starts too cool down and I carry my beloved tea thermos and extra tea bags around the college campus.  I have a sizable tea collection in my cupboard.  My favorite tea is green tea.
 4. If you were stranded on a desert island and could only take three things (beauty or other), what would they be?
Wow.  I would have to say... Cocoa butter (for my lips and my skin if I dry out), a good book and lighter to start campfires and help me cook.   
5. When did you first start using makeup?
At age 14 I started using eyeliner.  I used eyeliner on my bottom lid only the top was too awkward for me to reach (at the time). Haha. After a while I got the hang of it.  
6. Do you have any pets, what are their names?
I have a fish tank of nameless fish at the moment.  At one point I did have a tortise, I let him walk around the house during the day and let him eat lettuce and at nighttime I would put him to bed.   
7. If you could have any beauty product delivered to your door right this second, what would it be?
I would have to say anything from La Mer.  Their products seem very luxurious and magical.
8. Do you prefer summer or autumn/winter polish?
I prefer summer nail polish because I feel that I have more options.  I test out a few colors, but I always end up back with nude-pink shades. 
 9. What is your favorite colour?
Red  
10.What is that one must-have product you own and why?
Beauty-wise I'm going to have to go with my trusty cocoa butter because it is a lifesaver.  Non-beauty-wise it would have to say my laptop because I use it on a daily basis to blog, study or surf the web.

Sharing the love (people I am nominating)... 

1. Ana http://anamascara.blogspot.com
2. Alexandria http://chic-and-shine.blogspot.com
3. Nora http://noradulce.blogspot.com
4. Sasha http://sashadollfashioncloset.blogspot.com
5. Tijana http://fashionabejita.blogspot.com
6. Mary http://layersofchic.blogspot.com
7. Jen http://fashionablyfestive.blogspot.com
8. Haniya http://myownnailart.blogspot.com
9. Laura http://ediestrustfund.blogspot.com
10. Danielle http://embrace-lace.blogspot.nl

My questions...

1.  When did you start blogging?
2.  What inspired you to start blogging?
3.  What 3 words describe your blog?
4.  What 3 words describe you?
5.  What is your favorite beauty product? 
6.  What is your favorite article of clothing?
7.  Other than blogging what are your hobbies?
8.  If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go and why?
9.  Who inspires you and why?
10. Any goals or dreams?

App: Inspirational Quotes

Hi guys,

 

I am not really much of an app person.  I usually use an app (especially games) for about a week or two and then it just sits there taking up space on my phone; this is partially because I don't spend much time on my phone other than texting and calling.  I am recommending this app because I have been using it for a few months. 

 The app is....*drum roll please* "Inspiring Quotes 5000"! 

 I have been using this quote app for whenever I feel down in the dumps and need some motivation.  I have an Iphone, but I am pretty sure you can fine an alternative for android phones.   This app is very simple lets you flip through quotes to your heart's content. 

Beach Beauty

Hi guys,
I'm really in the spirit of summer right now and for me my favorite part of summer is visiting the beach.  I love the beach.  For those of you who plan on heading out to the beach or just want to sport a beach-y look here are some sunny tips (corny I know). :) 

Just look at that beach isn't it just beckoning you?!  It looks amazing!

1. •  Protect your hair.  This is a must especially if you plan on going in the water.  You can opt for an updo, which is perfect because it is uncomfortable to have hair sticking to your back in the hot sun.  and if you really want to protect your hair use a heat spray.  A heat spray that you use when straightening your hair would be sufficient.  Also if you tend to have dry hair it is a good idea to precondition your hair before heading out.  By the way this is a great time to use headbands to keep back any unruly frizz or baby hairs or even frizzy baby hairs! Here are some cool headbands:
   
   
   

     
   

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

   • Wear a minimal amount of makeup.  I know for some of you the thought of going without foundation is mortifying; (but it really shouldn't be :)) no one will really care about your skin at the beach.  The beach is a place to relax so don't worry so much about what you look like.  But if you insist...opt for a tinted moisturizer that will offer light coverage and contains spf.  If you have acne believe it or not the salt in the ocean is great for your skin.  In fact ocean salt scrubs are sold for a pretty penny; so consider this a free spa day!   

   • Suntan lotion! (Duh!)   You may want to use an oil free non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) suntan lotion for your face.  Don't forget to protect under your eyes the last thing you want is tanned on eye bags (I'm speaking from experience here).
   • Paint your toe nails.  I can't even think of going to the beach without painted to nails, but then again that's just me.  Time to whip out the bright colors.  The colors that are very much on trend for this season are bright corals and mint.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     Throw on you bathing suit and some shades and go have fun! 
     

     

     ~Vee