A Few of My Monthly Favorites for August 2016!!!

I can't believe August is already over! Summer is almost over, Fall is starting to take over in stores, and I have found a few new loves to cherish forever! Seeing as how I am a caring individual and I love to share, I thought I'd do exactly that with all of you. So without further ado, here are my new favorites that I've learned to love this past month.

First off, let's talk makeup. I have two new beauty favorites that I can now confidently add to my holy grail list! First is my new NYC Smooth Skin Translucent Loose Powder. This retails for about $3 at Target and is a dead ringer for a Laura Mercier Loose Powder dupe. This works amazingly for setting your under eyes AND setting your whole face. Now, it can make your makeup seem like a tad lighter shade than what it is - which makes for brightening up the under eye area - but I don't see much of a difference when setting my whole face, after I've used my blush and contour. I can get a little oily throughout the day - especially with the Summer heat beating down - but with this powder, my makeup doesn't budge. I do get a little bit of shine, but with a quick easy pat of blotting paper (or additional powder) you'll be good to go! The packaging is a little frustrating, because the powder is a tad messy when you open it. This powder comes with it's own 

The next product is my new mascara. I talked about how I was using the Rimmel Wonderlash mascara before (the green mascara in the picture), because it was a Freebie I got from a Target beauty consultant. Well let me tell you, free is NOT always better. After a few weeks of using it I started realizing that my eyelashes were coming out in clumps! Every time I'd go to wipe off my makeup, I'd have mini clumps of my eyelashes coming out. I was mortified! So I threw it away (after this picture) and got a new kind. The L'Oreal Paris Voluminous mascara in Carbon Black is about $5 at Target. This mascara is absolutely awesome. I've been using it ALL August long, without any lashes lost. The amount of volume and length this baby gives you, is awesome! I've officially decided to not switch to anything else. To me, it's very close to the Diorshow mascara, which I have tried. For the price and the quality, I will forever recommend this mascara! 

Sticking with the beauty items, I have two products that I've mentioned before in the past on my blog. The first item is my Up & Up brand Apricot Scrub (the non-salicylic acid version). This retails for around $4 at Target and let me tell you. Not only has it helped clear up any cystic acne that begins, but it's improved my pores and cleared A LOT of my blackheads! I love the texture, the after feeling is so silky smooth, and the quality is unreal. You can see my full review HERE for this scrub. 

The other - and last - beauty item is my all-time FAVORITE body wash EVER! Yes I talked about this brand body wash in a post about clearing my bacne, back in May (see that post HERE) but this month, I discovered the "Cucumber Smash" scent. This is VERY close to the Bath and Body Works "Cucumber Melon" scented body wash. It's not exactly like the Cucumber Melon - nothing can replace that precious smell - but it's a really close second. When I work the Cucumber Smash into my body puff scrub, the aroma that overtakes my bathroom is absolutely intoxicating. I can't even begin to tell you how rejuvenating this body wash is. For around $2, you can own your very own deliciously invigorating Cucumber Smash body wash by Suave!

Onto my food favorites. I've talked about this product very recently (see HERE for full review) and I am still obsessed. I'm talking of course about Trader Joe's Lemonade Stand Lemonade. For around $2, you can have an entire pitcher of perfectly sweetened lemonade. I know it's more of a "summer thing", but trust me when I say, it's going to be an "every season thing". It's not too sour, has lemon "flakes" in it - which I prefer - and doesn't need anything except water. Pure perfection. 

The other food favorite is something I found a few days ago at Costco. I try my best to refrain from using foods you can't find at non-membership stores (Sam's Club, Costco, etc.) but I couldn't pass up this opportunity to tell you guys of my current addiction. Chocolate covered almonds. Unfortunately I don't know the exact price - they were a gift - but I believe it was around $9. They are hunky almonds, covered with a light - but fulfilling - coat of Milk Chocolate. I've had other chocolate covered almonds, but these tasted fresh and blended so amazingly together. With the melting of chocolate and crunch of almonds, my mouth waters just thinking of how scrumptious they are. I have to admit, they are my (not so) guilty secret that I eat whenever I crave chocolate. I also love and devour almonds all the time, so this was a special treat for me. To have such a huge pack of chocolate covered almonds, I am definitely a happy momma!

My last monthly favorite is a book that was released July 31st, but I didn't purchase until August hit and I am SO glad I did. I've been an avid "Potter fan" since I was a youngan and this definitely pleased my inner child. I recommend this book for play lovers, wizard players, and potter heads alike! Click HERE for my full review - with limited spoilers - to see why I recommend!

And there you have it my lovelies! A month of wonderous loves to cherish forever. I recommend all of these products wholeheartedly. I was so incredibly happy with everything I found and of course I couldn't hold back on you guys! I had to share the awesomeness with all of you. 

I actually really enjoyed this "monthly favorites" post and I'm thinking of making this a monthly thing. Perhaps I'll add a "monthly fails" post as well? Let me know what you guys think and if you have tried any of these products! What are your monthly favorites?

How to DIY a Photo Box + Photography Tips for Better Pics!

Let me start out by saying I am in no way, shape, or form a professional photographer. However, I have done a few paid gigs and I've picked up a couple things that have helped me to better create timeless photographs. 

Now I do have a more expensive camera - which I use for holiday photos and special events - but majority of the time I use my iPhone 4s. That's right, the photos you see are simply from an older model iPhone. The reason I use it the most is simply because it's my phone, so it's always with me. I've also been trying to better my photography skills with this particular camera, because I wanted to prove that you don't necessarily need a fancy camera to create gorgeous photos. Does it help? Absolutely. Do you NEED it? No. 

To start off I'll share with you all how to create a photo box. This box isn't one of the nicer models I've made, but that's because it's my mini version. I take it with me when I'm doing tiny photography, mostly for my own gain. For big photos, I simply use one of 3 things. My white bookcase, my brown desk, or a piece of white poster paper (89 cents from Michaels). I'll explain why in a minute. 

This particular tutorial is simply to show you how to create a mini - or big - photo box for your own personal gain. The majority of the time, this would be used to replace settings with absolutely natural light, which is the best for photography. This can also be perfect for focused photography - perhaps if you need to take photos for selling items. 

Before I tell you my key tips and how to take photography without a photo box, I'll share with you all how to create your very own photo box for less than $1.

All you need is:

A binder clip (optional)
Tape
A ruler
Scissors
A cardboard box
A pen
3 plain white pieces of paper or white tissue paper
1 large white poster paper (big or small enough to cover the bottom and 1 side of your box)
3 lights (flashlights, lamps, etc.)

First off, take your cardboard box and cut off the flaps. On 3 sides of the box, take your ruler and mark a straight line on all 4 edges, 1 inch from the edge. Make sure to leave one side AND the bottom of the box intact. The top of the box should be completely clear from removing the flaps. 

Next, take your white pieces of paper -or tissue paper - and tape to the 3 edges you cut squares out of. Now take your white poster paper and clip - or tape - to one edge of your box. The "top" of your paper should be against the bottom of your box, while the "bottom" of your paper should curve and cover the 1 side of your box that you did NOT cut out. Make sure to NOT bend the poster paper. You want it to curve inside the box so you don't show any edges. You're looking for a smooth background with not ends. 

After you've attached everything, take your 3 three lights and shine them into/onto the 3 sides you've cut out and covered with paper. This will give focused light into your photo box. You can also choose to only use 2 lights and play with the areas you shine them through, to create different effects with your item. For example, 1 light on top and 1 light on the left side, or both lights on the sides and none on top. It all depends on how you want your item to be viewed. Trust me, shadows can alter an image. 

And there you have it! One photo box! Like I said the box I photographed for you is my mini box, so it isn't perfect. The best part is that you aren't going to photograph the box, just the item inside. 

Now for the few photography tips that I've learned throughout the years. Mostly for indoor photography. 

1. Use as much natural light as you can. Harsh lights alter your images and blur the photo, which defeats the purpose of capturing realism. Be careful when using direct sunlight though, it can cause harsh shadows. 

2. The best time of day to take a photo is an hour or two after sunrise AND an hour or two before sunset. This won't give you the direct sunlight, but will give you a beautiful glow. 

3. When taking a photo, try to go WITH the light. What I mean is if you have an item on your bookcase - like I often do - and your light is shining through the left side, face the right side when taking your photograph. Of course you'll have to position yourself to not block the glowing light, but you can stand on a chair to obtain the perfect angle. 

4. Photography is beautiful, photographers are not. Just like I mentioned before, you may need to be in odd angels to get a really good photo. This could result in odd bending, laying like a crab, or even climbing on tables. Sorry, but it's true. Some of the best photography is taken in thee most awkward positions. 

5. Use your focus when using a phone and take TONS of shots. Cameras can be finicky little pests, so you need to tap on the screen to focus multiple times. Snapping multiple shots will also help guarantee that you get at least one good shot. 

6. Contrasting colors are your best friend. If you're item is white, don't use a white background. It will cause your image to blend in. Unless of course that is your idea, then go for it. 

7. Practice re-creations. I go on Pinterest all the time and I find photographs that are absolutely gorgeous. My photos don't always turn out like theirs - hence why I'm not a professional - but by practicing, I'm able to get better acquainted with how my camera works and what angels I can use to create certain effects. Sometimes when you're trying so hard to get the perfect one with the item you need to photograph most, you can't have fun with it. You're too busy stressing about the "perfect shot". Practicing will help ease your mind and better equip you to try new things. This piece of advice is NOT to say that you should steal someone's art. It's merely a suggestion to go out and practice!!!

Like I said, I'm not a professional. I don't have a degree in art, nor do I own a camera that costs more than my rent. I'm simply someone who's learned a few tricks and thought you guys could use them as well, because everyone could use a little knowledge right? 

Hopefully this has been helpful for you guys and it inspires you to be creative with your everyday photography! I do know a few more tips and tricks when it comes to taking pictures, but this is a generalized list that I think could benefit anyone. 

So go out there and photograph those memories!

Why I mentally couldn't finish "Every Last Word".

I probably sound like a broken record, but in case you haven't heard, I have massive anxiety. Certain things trigger it worse than other scenarios. The book "Every Last Word" by Tamara Ireland Stone, unfortunately created a trigger I didn't know I had. Reading the inner thoughts of someone who suffered through anxiety. Reading the truth about how you can live a completely different life to the world and be viewed as someone you're not, while inside you are slowly dying from your never ending racing mind. This is what happened in the beginning of the book. This is what happens to me every single day. This was a reality I wasn't quite ready to accept. 

This book focuses on a high schooler's journey as she struggles with who she is inside and out. She learns - like many of us have before - who she truly is, through self exploration, trials, and tribulations. Unfortunately, her mind is still there with it's anxious thoughts. This hit me too close to home. 

The debilitating truth about anxiety is that it can truly render you helpless. Worst of all, anxiety isn't the end of your suffering. Sometimes, it can lead to a severe panic attack, where you feel as if you are dying. For those who have been lucky enough to not experience this, trust me when I tell you it isn't an over-exaggeration. Trust me, I wish it was. 

This book reminded me of how I suffered through my anxiety and depression all throughout high school. It reminded me that even to this day, I feel I can't truly discuss who I am to anyone who knows me personally. I've shared many things on this blog and I have much more to eventually tell. It's therapeutic to me and being positive helps make me happy. Even though I try my best to be open with all of you, I still hold back when I'm in person. 

I am not always calm and composed. I am not always a happy person. I have many memories of pretending to be someone I wasn't, because I was terrified that everyone would think I was insane if they knew the truth. I've feared for who I'd become if people saw me in the real light that shines upon me. Often I walk around feeling like a silhouette of myself, but I know that everyday I work on it is an accomplishment. 

This book is an amazingly detailed story that I do think would be helpful for people to get a glimpse into what living with anxiety can be like, but I can't speak on how the book is entirely. I haven't finished it. 

After a couple chapters, I started getting anxiety attacks and the worried thoughts just living out the book in my mind. It reminded me of what I go through and it triggered my mind into hitting high gear. It caused me to cry on the living room floor, because the forces of anxiety can be much stronger than I can bare sometimes. The only way for me to get through it is to try and eliminate the trigger and thought at that time, focusing on something positive. Most of the time I play some Frank Sinatra or Christmas music, drink some tea, and take some time to regain my strength. After a while I can move on. 

While I do hope to finish this book someday, I don't think I can mentally handle it at this point. I do appreciate "Every Last Word" though, because it made me realize I had more to work on. I have more to work through. Someday I will get there, I can feel it, and when that day comes I WILL finish this book and I WILL finish this review!

In the meantime, please remember this. Those of us who suffer from anxiety are not over dramatic and this isn't just "all in our heads". We have a disability that can truly render us helpless. We have triggers and we can get through this, but we can't have negativity. Please don't see us as helpless, merely a work in process. 

A to Z Food Challenge: R

Ok I have to admit that today's food isn't necessarily the cheapest meal I've done, but it is one of the more delicious ones. I would personally recommend this for a special dinner - birthday's, date night, etc. - and to keep in mind that the ease of this meal, overcompensates for it's lack of "cheapness". 

I am a meat lover. I don't even know how many times I've said that on my blog, but it's so true. Today I decided to try something I've been super cautious about from Trader Joe's. Beef Sirloin Roast, Fully Cooked and Sliced. It's priced at $10.99 a pound - mine ended up being $10.99 - and while I was really skeptical it would suffice for my son and I, we were thoroughly pleased!

Our entire dish consisted of the roast, mashed potatoes - golden potatoes from Trader Joe's, salad - Trader Joe's Herb Mix, and corn on the cob - also from Trader Joe's. With the multiple sides, the meat was more than enough. I ended up eating 5 slices and my son ate 3, which left plenty left over for tomorrow's sandwiches. Like I've said before, anything that gives me leftovers is awesome in my book!

The roast was fairly easy to warm up. Simply take it out of the package, place it in the oven uncovered, and warm up for  minutes. This gave me plenty of time for whipping up the other sides, without feeling like we were waiting forever to eat. This is because it is fully cooked, which is why I said the ease of this meal is worth it to me. Well, that and the left overs. 

First off, I'd like to add that I decided to use a Trader Joe's dressing that I've been testing for a little while now, called Tuscan Italian Dressing with Balsamic Vinegar. I'm a huge fan of Italian dressing, but not necessarily of Balsamic Vinegar, but I thought I'd give it a shot. I have to say, it's a little more pungent than I'd hope, but it isn't exactly terrible. I do think it would pair better with a lettuce mix and not an herb mix, but I still enjoyed it nonetheless. 

As for the meat, it's a little flavorless - which isn't necessarily a horrible thing. I found this to be very versatile, because you could alter the taste to your liking. If you prefer a BBQ sauce to overtake your meat, this would be perfect. If you like simple sandwiches with a mild meat flavor, you'll hit the jackpot here. If you want a salt and pepper taste - like we did this time around - simply add yours and you are set! 

I decided to try out the Himalayan Pink Salt with absolutely no distinct difference in flavor. At least not that I could taste. I understand that it is supposed to be a healthier option for salt eaters and seeing as how it's the same price as sea salt at Trader Joe's - $1.99 - we have officially made the switch. No one could tell the difference and I like that it looks fancy, so Pink Salt it is. 

The meat isn't extremely tender - but what roast really is - and it's very well cut. I love that it comes with plenty of juice to let it cook in. I also poured juice on top of my slices for extra deliciousness. I like the portion as well. I really thought that it wouldn't be enough, but to be perfectly honest with you, I think it would feed 3 - maybe 4 - people, IF you are pairing it with sides. If you're simply just eating the meat, to each their own, I would say that this could possibly feed 2 adults. Again, it's all depending on how much you eat. 

For drinking, we had the Trader Joe's lemonade again. You may recognize it from last week's Friday Food Challenge. It's a concentrate that you pour into a pitcher frozen or defrosted, then add water to create a whole bunch of delicious. We are OBSESSED with this product from Trader Joe's!!! You can see last week's food review - including the Lemonade - HERE.

Overall it was filling and scrumptious. I don't think I will continuously purchase the roast, merely due to the price, but I do think it's a good purchase for a special dinner. I'm actually really excited for tomorrow's lunch, where we will be making roast sandwiches, which are my favorite. I also really like how easy it is to make it. Warm it up and you're greeted with a semi-tender roast that allows you to have any flavor your meat heart desires. 

And there you have it guys, this weeks Food Challenge. I was having a hard time choosing what to do for this weeks challenge, not because there aren't many "R" foods, but because there are SO many. I wanted to just do them all, but funds don't allow for a buffet styled dinner. Besides, how much can one woman and a 5 year old really eat? 

Happy Friday everyone and I really hope you all had a great week! Luckily I've started to feel a little better (see HERE to read about what happened), so I've finally been able to get some rest. I've had some horrible back pain - that's for another blog post - but nothing I can't handle. I can't wait to talk to you all on Monday! Have a wonderful weekend and share with me what you guys are doing, on Instagram! If you use #TWRC, maybe you'll be featured! *wink wink*. 

Stay safe, stay awesome, and stay rockin!

Spending less than $20 for Kindergarten!!!

Another year, another fresh start. At school that is. 

If you're like me, you've recently gone shopping for your little one's big first day of school. Regardless of what grade they are entering, you always try to find good deals on all the necessities they need. Well for my son's first year of school - Kindergarten - we've made the decision to do a homeschooling program. Now this program is a public school and does offer short classes 2 times a week. He also has the opportunity to participate in sports through the school and attend field trips (which I will be accompanying him) with other homeschoolers from the school. We are opting out of classes for Fall, but we will revisit the situation for Spring. As of now though, he's still going to need supplies for when goes on field trips, to document what he's learned for the day, and to prove how smart he's getting. 

With a budget given to us for his school supplies, we headed to Target and I can't even begin to tell you all how much we saved! I know that most kids are in school already - at least where we are at - but for him, he doesn't officially start until after Labor Day. The reason this is awesome for us, is because since most schools have already started, Target is having MASSIVE clearance on their school supplies! 

With a small list in hand, we spent only $17! Can you believe it?! I spent less than $20 at Target for school supplies and more!!! I was so proud of all the coolness we found for so incredibly cheap! I decided to share with you all the awesome finds we found and what we are including in his backpack for his adventure in Kindergarten!

The first thing we found was a Minion pencil case which was marked down to $2.08! It was the perfect size to hold all his writing/coloring utensils and was way sturdier than the flimsy binder inserts. Also, he doesn't have a binder, so this was perfect. The Minion pencils were our next find and only cost us $0.75! He only wanted to include 1 Minion pencil, because he wanted to use his special Spongebob pencil and Darth Vader pencil as well (he won them over the summer). The Crayola crayons were only $0.50! 

The next thing on our list was glue sticks, so he could paste his drawings into a journal for his adventures. These were on sale for only $0.25 for a pack of 2 and the erasers were a pack of two for $0.17!!! The sharpener was marked down to $0.16 as well! I was so freaking stoked, because all his writing/drawing utensils - case included - cost under $4!!!!

After finding all of the writing utensils, we needed the things to write on. He found a Minion binder - on sale for only $0.15 - to keep all his papers/fliers neat and tidy. We are also responsible for showing examples of what he learns, so this folder will be able to keep those things tidy as well! Then we found "Primary Composition" notebooks - something I didn't know they made - on clearance for only $2.08 each! One will be used for him to practice his writing and one will be used as his journal. They are perfect, because they are printed with the "practice writing" lines - the lines that are wide with a dotted line in the center - which will help him tremendously. The drawing paper was $1.99 and will be perfect for him to draw pictures and then glue them into his journal, where he can write a few sentences about what he's learned for the day. All of this came out to a total of $6.30!

The next items are particularly for field trips - and we have a few to attend - all which can be found in the travel section. They weren't on sale, but they were still relatively cheap! The baby wipes - for his messy face and hands - were $0.99, the Band-Aid's - for his scraps - were $1.00, the Eucerin travel sized lotion - for his eczema - was $1.00, the facial tissues - which came in a pack of 4 - were $1.50, and the Carmex - for his dry lips - was $1.00. Everything here came out to be $5.49!

The last item was an item I found at checkout and decided he should DEFINITELY have on hand. He's not a fan of dirty hands, so if a bathroom isn't near by, he now has his very own hand sanitizer - $1.00. Of course since I'll be going with him on his field trips, I could have all of the "travel" items on hand in my purse, but he's told me he wants to have his own. He's extremely independent and seeing as how he will be with the kids - the parents just monitor and chaperon - he will now have the opportunity to do things on his own with his own stuff. It kills me how adorable he's growing, but it's also killing me that he's growing up so fast! 

After we had all his stuff purchased and got home, we packed his backpack - a gift from his birthday - I realized that this is it. He's going to be starting his journey as a Kindergarten in roughly 2 weeks! I can't believe how quickly my little one is growing. I can only imagine how many parents around the world are feeling the same way and mine isn't even going to a full day of class this Fall! Like I said before, he may decide to go to classes this Spring, but it would only be 2 days a week for a maximum of 2 hours each day. 

Also, he DOES have a lunchbox and water bottle, but those were purchased a while ago. I always pack a lunchbox when we go out, because he's a "snacker". The water bottle was from Target's Dollar section and was purchased for $1 a while ago. I even got myself one, because I'm not spending $15 for an "adult" water bottle!!!

Before we start getting questions and comments about why we decided to homeschool, I will just say this, we feel it's the best decision for my little padawan. Long story short, my son will have the opportunity to learn through experience without having to sit down in a classroom all day. He will still get the social aspect and will be able to advance at his own speed. It will give him the opportunity to learn how he feels most comfortable and get an individualized learning experience. 

And there you have it guys! Moral of the story, wait until the last minute to buy school supplies, because everything goes on major clearance! I know this isn't always easy though - especially with multiple kids, clothes shopping, and just wanting to be done - but if you can, try it! You can also try to get absolute necessities first and go back for clearance later! I'm a huge saver, so even though I HATE waiting until the end to complete tasks, it was SO worth it to see how little I spent!!!

Here's to another year of learning without any hitches!!!

All Day Pain.

I can't even begin to tell you guys how much pain I've been dealing with lately. 

A few days ago I began to have this very odd pain in my ear that radiated up my head and down my neck. I didn't know if I was grinding my teeth at night, if I scratched my ear, or if I had water trapped in my ear. Last night I was tossing and turning from how bad my right side was feeling. Finally I decided that I was going to see an ENT as soon as I could. Luckily when I called earlier this morning and explained the situation, they were able to squeeze me in today. 

Found HERE

Apparently my ear isn't raw or infected - thank God for that - but I do have congestion in the far back of my nose. A sort of congestion I hadn't even noticed. I don't quite remember the exact words or explanation the Dr. gave me, but I can say that she generously gave me a nasal spray that should help alleviate the situation.

Because of the discomfort I've been dealing with and the time at the doctors today, I just couldn't get myself to do an awesome post for you all today. I did have a plan on what today's post was going to be about and I was ready to photograph for the post, but dealing with the really harsh pressure on my right side, I just couldn't focus. 

Please accept my apologies for the lack of excellence in today's post, but the good news is I should be having a little bit pressure relief by tomorrow thanks to the nasal spray. I absolutely can't wait to NOT feel like someone's juicing my head with their bare hands. 

Regardless, I will be posting a special something tomorrow and preparing for Friday's Food Challenge. 

On a positive note, I just surpassed 5000 views on my blog page! Thank you for all the love and support you guys haven given me. I can't even begin to tell you how amazing it feels. I really hope I don't ever let you down! Because of all your continuous generosity, I MAY just have to do something super special for you all soon! *wink wink*

Well I'm off to make some tea and get a little rest. I just took my first "nasal spray" dose, so here's to a peaceful night's sleep...hopefully! 

How to Create a Rockin' Business Card!!!

Today was an oh so glorious day for me. My business cards finally came in the mail today! I was so absolutely excited to see the adorable box sitting in my mailbox, I couldn't wait to see the beautiful creations. Of course I had to instantly share them with you all and blog about it. 

I want to be perfectly clear with you guys on this. I don't make money on this. I don't get things for free unless I've stated otherwise - like with my contests, when they were sponsored. I spend my own money, I write my own opinions, I do my own thing. I have my business cards to network with other bloggers or people who are sincerely interested in what I do/write. I also plan on giving them out to potential clients, in case in the future someone does want me to work with them. Regardless of my status with this blog - paid or unpaid - I REFUSE to be a sell out. I really don't mind not making money from this. I do this blog because I love you guys and I want to help. I want to be there in the good times and the bad, and I want you to know that I am a real person who cares. I write about a wide variety of topics, but that's because I don't just deal with one thing every single day. I have experiences that I want to share with you all, so you can gain knowledge and see a personal insight into things. 

Now that that's out of the way, I want to talk about business...cards that is. 

Recently I decided it was time to create a card for myself, so I could share with other people. Granted I do consider myself an "anonymous blogger" in a way, but I still plan on leaving a few here and there to branch out. For example, if I'm doing a review on a restaurant, I will ask permission first. Now that I have my own business card, I can simply hand them the card so they can see the review for themselves. This also is great for marketing if I decide to attend conventions in the future. I still want to keep the mild mystery of who I am, but you may not want the same thing. I have already had compliments from close family and friends about my cards. Since they've asked me how I created mine, I thought I'd share with you guys some key tips on how to create a memorably unique business card for yourself!

1. Make sure it resembles your product accurately. 
If you're a blogger - like myself - you want to make sure your business card resembles what your blog actually looks like. The color scheme, logo, style, etc. This allows others to easily correlate your business card to your business. Consistency is key and it helps represent that you aren't "wishy-washy". With mine, I added the similar colors that I stick to with my blog and social media accounts, plus I included the plant banner that can be seen on my blog. Easily identifiable for others.

2. Add a photo of yourself.
This is more towards bloggers, real estate, designers, etc. 

I didn't do this, but that's because I myself am an "anonymous blogger". I like my identity to remain a bit of a mystery. Perhaps someday I will display my face, but for now this is exactly how I want it to remain. Like I said before, I'm not in this for the fame or fortune. 

For those of you who DO showcase your gorgeous faces, you will want to have a professional headshot - perhaps the one you have on your blog, if you're a blogger - that will show your prospective clients who you are. Putting a face to a business, helps to make things personal and easily allows them to identify with you. 

3. Put your [business] name on the card.
I didn't do my real name, but I did put my blog name. This goes with the "face to business" idea. With your first name easily accessible, it showcases that you are a real person who can be noticed and worked with. This gives your prospective clients the opportunity to further personalize your future professional relationship. A first name underneath your picture would be best, as it keeps all the personalized information together neatly. 

4. Make sure to include contact information.
If you are simply a business owner and not a blogger for example, you can use your email and phone number. This can also go in the vicinity of your picture and name, again keeping personal information together. If you ARE a blogger, you will want to keep your social media contacts to a minimum of 4. Preferably the ones that you are most active and have the most following. This gives enough options for contact and showcases a sort of "portfolio" for your online appearance. It's almost like a mini-resume without all the grave detail. 

5. SIMPLICITY!
I can't tell you how many times I've been given a fancy business card that is practically illegible. It's a gorgeous card, well laid out, beautiful colors, but a semi-difficult font when it came to information. If it takes someone more than a quick glance to legibly understand what information is on your card, they will more than likely be thrown away or forgotten about. People often receive multiple business cards - at conferences or conventions - and they don't have time to continuously try to decipher what is written. This isn't Nancy Drew people, don't make someone act like a detective! Fonts can be useful when it comes to making your cards stand out, but don't overdo it with that absolutely gorgeous cursive that is tightly typed together. 

6. Matte, matte, matte. 
Have at least one side matte. I put "The Everything Blogger" - because that's what I am - but you need to make sure that people can easily jot down a note or two without worrying that their ink will smudge all over the place. Both sides of my card is matte and the back still has plenty of room for any notes someone may need to make. Just in case. 

7. Add a QR code. 
This is completely optional, but I think it's a super cool and easy way to give even easier access for someone to check out your business instantly. I added a simple QR code - which you can make/generate for absolutely free HERE or with a simple Google search, you can find a website you like - that when scanned, takes you straight to my website without having to do anything else. This allows for someone to scan and check out what I'm all about, without any hassle at all. Obviously my website is still very legible to be read, but the easier the better. Plus it shows that you can be tech savvy! 

And there you have it! 7 easy ways to amp up your business card style! I just used Vista Print, but you can choose whatever website or company you'd like. For me, Vista Print is extremely easy to work with and they have the styles of fonts I prefer, along with the color. Of course I'm sure many other websites have the same, but I stick to what I know. Plus their prices are awesome and constantly have deals! Saving money has always been my game, so I jumped right on board.

Business cards are all about giving others an easy understanding of who you are. Like I said before, it's like a mini-resume. You want to be clear on where and how to contact/find you, without being overbearing and bombarding them with decorations and information. Represent your business and yourself with confidence, and I think you'll have great success! After all, you're already rockin' as is!!!

An Inside Look At "Journaling" and How to Get Started.

As an anxiety sufferer, I often dive head first into anything that can keep my mind from reaching it's limit and causing an attack on my body. The key ways for me to keep a clear mind and steady heartbeat, are art and exercise. More precisely, intricate art and easy exercise. Like my food rings and riding a bike with my son's trailer. These tend to ease my anxiety attacks the most, but another form of anxiety relief is a combination of the two. Artistic exercise. 

Journaling can be a very refreshing form of release for our inner most thoughts. It can be used to track the mental well-being of ourselves or loved ones, an adventure diary that showcases the intimate beauty that the owner experiences, or perhaps even a mere dream journal to display the worries and wants our minds hold deep within. My personal journal is all of the above.

A journal is as personal as our very souls, because the actual journal is practically a written form of just that. Maybe not all, but journals like mine for example, truly are. 

I tend to write poetic ramblings that remind me of my days as an anonymous writer, depict the scenery that my son and I surround ourselves with, my nighttime dreams that keep me pondering, and where my thoughts go throughout the day. This helps to ease my mind and keep it a little less crowded with images, worries, thoughts, and wonders. Journaling in this way can really keep me sane. 

Color is also a very important part in deciphering a journalist's journal. It shows you what they're moods, personality, and persona may be the manual to their inner workings. To better explain, mine shows a lot of color when I'm in a place of peace and tranquility. When the colors seem to be so clear and bright. Other times I'll use neutral colors, to resemble my sense of insecurity with the world's changes. 

For some it's hard to journal. You can feel as if it's a chore - just like it was in school - and you seem to struggle with wordy explorations. Maybe you do want a journal that you can hold near and dear, but don't know where to start or what to write about? 

I've decided to provide you all with a few "journalistic" ideas, to possibly help you create a sense of freedom with your writings. 

1. A bullet journal: This type of journal is very straightforward and is excellent for those who require specific and detailed organization. You can make lists of what you've done or need to do, a bullet list about how your moods have fluctuated each day, what you've eaten, or what you've seen on a daily walk. The creativity part can be as little or creative as you'd like, as with all journals. It is yours after all. 

2. An art journal: This is so broad that you could run with it in any such direction your little heart desires. A bunch of pages filled with cartoons re-enacting your days, hopes, dreams, ideas, and adventures. Pictures you've taken with a few written - or non-written - descriptions all around them. Paintings of items that seem to be uniquely created. All of these would make for an amazing journal. 

3. Dream journal: Are you curious to see how your days really affect you your dreams? Perhaps you could combine a bullet journal style with your dream journal, write down key points in your day, and then write down what your dream(s) was/were. You might be surprised on how much insight you can give yourself through simply noting of what movie your mind plays at night. You may even be able to help yourself with decisions or better understand what you really want. 

4. Vision/Motivation journal: Maybe you have this massive list on what you want to do, where you want to go, how you want to experience life. Similar to the "vision board" concept, a vision/motivational journal can be your never ending vision board. You can fill it with ideas, pictures, drawings, quotes, or whatever you'd like, to help keep you motivated in every day life. You could even bring it around with you, so whenever you're having a rough day, you'll have something to look at and remind you what you're truly aiming for. 

5. The everything journal: Like I said before, I use this particular method. I combine all the "types" of journals I mentioned above and add my own as well. My mind is consistently racing and I'm never focused on one thing for particularly too long, without wondering how I could add an artistic point of view on the situation at hand. In including all the types of journals, I find myself in awe, looking back at what I've created and how different I am each day. Someday's I'm overwhelmed with a dream, I've had an amazing adventure, and I'm intrigued in a random thought that I've had. When this happens, I write and draw until I'm completely blank. It really does give me a clear mind. 

There are so many more examples, but I don't have weeks to write this nor do you for reading this. A few more would be adventure journals, mental health journals, personal goals journals, and so on. 

Journals are all about helping you. They are a treasure chest of your most intimate feelings and thoughts. They can help to establish a clear thought process, to better your everyday life. 

Expressing yourself comes in all shapes and sizes. When you exercise, you're expressing the athletic side of your persona. When you eat food with a passion, you're indulging in the world of taste bud pleasure, which is expressing your adventurous side. These are all very important in life, as they help to remember who we really are. After all, it's a big world out there. You may want something to keep you grounded, so you don't get lost.  

A to Z Food Challenge: Q

Today's challenge was a particularly challenging challenge. I really didn't know what I was going to do. I knew I could've gone the "Quinoa route", but my son is NOT a fan. Seeing as how I really wanted to do a challenge that could be easily be recreated for all the fellow parents out there, I decided to take the semi easy route. Quesadillas, but with a minor twist!

I absolutely freaking love quesadillas. They're quick, delicious, and easily doctored to your liking. My son also loves quesadillas, but he's more particular about what goes into his. Recently I experimented with his quesadillas and it turned out to be a huge success! Everyone I've made them for, instantly falls in love with them and wants to know the "big secret" to how I get my quesadillas to be extremely flavorful and the cheese extra creamy inside. 

That's when it dawned on me this morning. Most people might not even think to try the quesadillas the way I make them, which means they are truly missing out! The best part about my "recipe", is that it's literally the easiest alteration you can make to it. The secret? More cheese! Let me explain.

When I originally made my quesadillas, I would simply inset colby jack cheese and avocados in between two tortillas, fry them on a skillet with a little butter, and that was it. But I decided to add a cheese that is smooth and creamy. Laughing Cow's spreadable cheese. You know, the little cheese that comes in a circle tin and it cut into individual triangles? The one's made to be used as dip or cracker spread? That cheese. I prefer the Original Swiss flavor - blue container - but you could use any of them. The thing about this cheese is that it's specifically made to be a soft spread. If you evenly spread this cheese all over one of the tortillas, put your regular quesadilla cheese on top, and cover it with the other tortilla, you'll be gifted with an ooey-gooey, creamy, and rich quesadilla like you wouldn't believe! 

As far as the avocado goes, that's purely optional. It's delicious with or without it. My son prefers his with the avocado inside, I like mine placed on top for each bite, and others choose to go avocado-free. Regardless, it's amazing. 

This started out as sort of an accident. My son was really wanting a quesadilla one day, but I only had enough colby jack cheese to cover half the tortilla. We had a 2 Laughing Cow triangles left - you'll need roughly 2 to evenly cover one whole flour tortilla thinly, so I decided to go ahead and add it to the mix. I just spread the colby jack cheese sporadically throughout and hoped maybe my son would like it. He LOVED it. It was devoured within minutes!

I'm telling you, whenever I make one for family or friends, they always ask "What kind of cheese is this?! It's amazing!" 

The reason this works so well isn't just because it's easily spread, but because it holds its flavor. When you use a different cheese - since the Laughing Cow cheese is Swiss, I recommend using a different kind of regular cheese to pair with it - you can taste each distinct flavor in each bite, BUT they mix in a way that you just can't get enough. The combination gives you the taste of each with it's own twist. The avocado also makes an excellent pair, as it enhances all the flavors. I use a little salt in mine as well, but very little. Just enough for the avocado to have additional flavor.

And there you have it. Simple right?! The best part is that you can use whatever cheese you like, whatever Laughing Cow you like, and whatever tortilla you like! It's just as quick and simple - just add a few seconds to spread the cheese - and you'll be granted a delicious treat that you won't believe. I know it seems like a really easy challenge, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to share this trick with you all! 

Also, I wanted to share this additional tidbit of information. I went to Trader Joe's this past week and picked up this Lemonade concentrate. It's found in the frozen section and only cost $1.99. You simply pour it into a pitcher frozen - or leave it in the fridge to defrost and pour it in like that - and add water. THAT'S IT! It's absolutely amazing and some of thee best lemonade I've ever tasted! No sugar needed! My son and I are obsessed and it's makes for an excellent refreshing beverage for almost any meal! Including these mouth watering quesadillas. 

Have an awesome weekend you guys and try this newly found tip! Let me know what you guys think if you do! I'd love to know you're thoughts. And if you have any additional tips on how you like to make your quesadillas, I'd love to know!!!

Happy weekend!!!!

Story Time: My Never Ending Thursday.

I am freaking tired. 

That right there ladies and gentlemen, is the understatement of the year. I'm absolutely

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exhausted! I struggle with insomnia on a daily basis - luckily it hasn't been as horrible as it was a few years ago - so now, I don't fall asleep until around 1 or 2am. Seeing as how I have to up and ready to go early in the morning because I'm a mom, this tends to be horrendous. I have to drink coffee in the morning to get my butt into high gear, pour water on my face, and avoid sitting down for too long anywhere out of fear that I will literally fall asleep. I'm not an absolute zombie throughout the day - a body in rest tends to stay in rest - but I am tired. The worst part is that regardless of me being so tired, I STILL can't get to sleep any earlier! So when something - or someone - decides to interrupt my already short sleep cycle, I get a little testy and annoyed. Especially because once I'm up and fully have my eyes open, I'm screwed for at least another 2 hours. This is how my day started. 


Last night was absolutely no different with my insomnia. I tossed and turned, struggled for hours, dealt with the heat, had an anxiety attack and ended up falling asleep around 1am this morning. 

At 3am I hear a bloodcurdling scream come from outside, which causes me to jolt out of bed in a panic. Now, I have anxiety, so I am extremely nosy and cautious with anything that goes on around my neighborhood. Nothing crazy happens, but still. I have to have peace of mind or else I have repetitive anxiety attacks that lead to panic attacks. 

I sneak over to my kitchen and carefully peak out the window without being seen, to see a man walking in the middle of the street. He seemed to be holding his hand to his head and screaming "HELP ME, CALL THE POLICE, THEY TOOK MY PHONE, SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME."

I was in an extremely poor mood. Someone woke me up after only 2 hours of rest and I knew I'd be stuck away for 2 more - which happened - and that only left me with a total of 4 hours of sleep - yay. The fact that this guy was screaming because his phone was stolen, was absolutely infuriating. You don't need to scream at 3am about a stolen phone! But after a couple minutes, I realized the guy could seriously be injured from a mugging or something, and is simply asking for help because he himself can't. Someone else must of be woken by his screaming, because not a few moments later 2 police cars were driving towards him with their spotlights on. I couldn't make out what he was telling them and quite frankly, I didn't care. He's with the police, so whatever happened will be resolved, thank God. 

After only 4 hours of sleep, I woke up and went to the kitchen to immediately make myself some coffee. I boiled the water, added some coffee grinds to my French press, and created my beverage. Only this was that when I went to the fridge to pull out my creamer, I quickly realized that I forgot to buy some yesterday, which meant I couldn't have my coffee. I have to have creamer or else I can't stomach it. So, I had to wait for my padawan to finish his breakfast, get dressed, head to Trader Joe's for my creamer, and THEN I was able to have my coffee. I literally brought my coffee in a travel mug and just poured in the creamer in the parking lot.

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Thing was that when I went to Trader Joe's, it wasn't that easy. 

First there was some construction work going on, which led me on this confusing detour - some streets are one way - and I ended up going double the distance. Then when I got to Trader Joe's, someone stole the spot I was waiting for...TWICE! And once I was finally in Trader Joe's, I ran over my toe - I was wearing sandals - with the shopping cart. It was the pinky toe. Awesome.

Finally home and time for our bike ride. Once we get back home, I realize that I locked ourselves out of the house. Luckily the maintenance guy was around, so we were able to be let back in. So not to horrible. 

Lunch comes and I made us some sandwiches and lemonade. It was a hot one, so this was really suiting for us. We even had plans to go eat out on our mini patio. Yeah, that didn't happen. A small swarm of wasps decided to chill right in front of our door. So I had to call the maintenance guy AGAIN and he rescued us with wasp spray. I'm glad we have an attentive and understanding worker in the complex!

Then I decided to take a quick shower to wash off the sweat from the bike ride and try to rejuvenate myself a little. I was really on edge about everything going on and I just wanted to have a little "me" time. My son was playing in his room some trains, so I was able to wash up with the door open - safety reasons - for a few quick minutes. As soon as I stepped into the shower, I slipped taking the shower curtain down with me. So I landed crooked inside the bathtub, bruising my legs pretty bad, bonked my head with the curtain rod, and scraped my arm on the tub's faucet. Lovely. 

I just picked myself up, finished up quickly - without falling this time - and got out. 

By this time I'm on the verge of tears. I'm hot, I'm tired, I'm hurting, I'm hungry, and I just want things to stop going wrong! But I know that this is all temporary. THANK THE LORD!

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The rest of the day wasn't a drastic fail, thankfully. I only ran into the hallway wall, dropped the last glass of lemonade all over the floor, had my phone shut down on me and refuse to turn back on...again, accidentally spoiled the most recent episode of Pretty Little Liars for myself - social media, had my hairbrush break in half, drop my last pair of contacts down the drain, and then stub my toe on the kitchen table. 

All in all I'm a little bruised, absolutely exhausted, and I'm a little hungry. I can't even begin to tell you guys how excited I am for this day to be over. I know I'll probably still be stuck lying in bed for quite a long time, but I don't care. I'd rather be in my bed where I can't do anymore harm to myself - knock on wood - than be up and causing more bruises or spilling more drinks. 

At this exact moment, I look like this horrified air conditioner from a hotel room (see picture). I'm still processing this crap of a day.

Hopefully you guys had a better Thursday, than I did.