2014 READER SURVEY

We are reaching the end of 2014, so that means it's time for a reader survey! The best gift a blogger could receive is, hearing from their readers! This blog is truly for you beautiful readers to always enjoy and be inspired by! There are a few questions below, I would love for you to answer, and I promise to try my best to follow your advice for the new year!

The Heart Of It | Introverts

Being an introvert is a topic I know I've touched on, but I wanted to express a little bit more through a coffee talk post! The discussion between introverts and extroverts had me thinking a lot and how it plays out in a persons life. This topic is so close to heart because I am an introvert. For a very long time I was never content with being an introvert, and in fact I tried very hard to be more like an extrovert. Well until I realized I couldn't be. I'm not very out-going, I feel uncomfortable around a crowd of people I haven't meet before, and I enjoy me-time! A few bloggers were also bringing up this topic along with sharing a few of their stories and how being an introvert has impacted their life. With reading everyone's stories, I wanted to learn more about the life of an extrovert and introvert, hoping it would help me!

In our society I feel like being an introvert is such a bad thing. It's wrong to not want to socialize and spend your weekends away from home and being out with friends. Having alone time is lame, and not being able to post a photo with five other friends is just sad. This message has constantly been shoved in my face, and I got tired of it very fast. I think it's sad that people cannot accept the fact that people like alone time. A time to re-charge and relax. Or even respect the fact that people are introverts instead of discouraging it. I've been told that being an introvert is a trait that should be worked on, and fixed. That it's a bad habit and something that isn't always valued. How will you make friends? How can you get out and know what the world is like? How will you be able to handle certain situations if you don't like people?

Well I hate to burst your bubble people but just because someone is an introvert doesn't mean that they don't like people, or they won't know how to socialize. Introverts know how to be just as outgoing as extroverts the only difference is that introverts prefer to associate with their own crowd, whereas extroverts will find any group and start talking. In fact being an introvert is nothing to be ashamed of, and I had to learn that the hard way! Introverts hold unique and beautiful qualities like being wonderful listeners, express true sympathy, and have deep relationships with close friends. We tend to reach out to those who are sitting alone, or the ones nobody thinks is cool. Instead of having 20 so-so friends, we are perfectly content with 3 solid friends.

Thankfully I was able to pick up a couple of books that have really helped me through this emotional and confusing journey. Introverts in the Church by Adam S. Mchugh is a book that teaches people how to find their place in an extroverted culture. I'm almost finished reading the book and I love everything he has to say. It's been so healing to read and it has definitely made me see a completely different side to what it truly means to be an introvert and an extrovert. I highly recommend the book Quiet by Susan Cain as well. I loved all the statistics and information Cain gave me, but I found it to be overwhelming and a little mind boggling. Therefore I only read the first few chapters before returning it to the library. Cain definitely took a different approach to the topic which I liked very much, but I enjoyed the Christian aspect of Mchugh's book! I didn't find it helpful for my lifestyle for the more secular aspect Cain wrote about, but I did find a her personal story to be a good resource for me, and her little tips here + there were great. I loved the fact that Mchugh's book is all about how to embrace being an introvert in the church. Using all the abilities us introverts have compared to extroverts and using those gifts in the church body.

Extrovert or introvert, either one is not terrible or better than the other. Each has their own unique and powerful qualities that I think everyone needs. It could be boring to just have introverts in the world, and it would be too crazy with just extroverts in the world. We need both. Both can be useful and greatly appreciated. Even introverts can be extroverts and vise versa. I like to call myself an "extroverted introvert," because I am very loud and outgoing among my own group, but would rather re-charge alone. I love sitting in a quiet coffee shop. I enjoy reading a good book all cuddled up in my bed. I'm not fond of dance parties, or group events. I like my own friends, and peaceful atmosphere's. And I'm okay with that! I'm so glad that I was able to find such helpful resources through that time of figuring everything out! Without them I think I'd still be uneasy about the whole thing. Thankfully I've completely accepted the fact that I'm an introvert, but I confess at times I still have to remind myself that it's not such a bad thing. There are still areas in my life that could use a little change, but it's all apart of the journey!

5 Ways to Beat Gloomy Days

In the winter time I tend to be more on the lazy and uninspired side. This winter I've been enjoying the rainy days we've had so far, but I dislike the gloomy feeling it leaves me. So I've come up with a few activity ideas to keep you busy and content when it's a wet and gray kinda day!

1. Stay Social. This one works like a charm every time. I am constantly needing to be surrounded by my friends, to get out and have fun. It's the perfect way to take a break from whatever it is you have that week and it gives you something to look forward to.

2. Remember Me-Time! It might seem simple, but I understand that it's hard to carve out time. Not everyone buys an excessive amounts of beauty products to treat yourself, but a hot bath or a facial mask will do the trick.

3. Keep Your Space Clean. Even though your environment might be dark and gloomy doesn't mean your room, office, or space has to be. Try to pick up the mess and keep things organized. This helps me to stay refreshed and not so overwhelmed.

4. Indulge Yourself. Treat yourself to a coffee, or your favorite spot around town. If you read my blog on a weekly basis you will know that a coffee shop is my favorite and almost always my go-to spot! Plus shopping is also a great options, whether it's online or out and about it always lifts me up!

5. Get into the Holiday Spirit. Pop in a Christmas movie, decorate your space around you, bake some cookies, or anything that helps you get cozy. For the first time ever, I've actually been liking Christmas music, and I have to confess it's all because of Justin Bieber and David Archuleta's Christmas albums. So both albums have been on repeat all day! :)

BLANK CANVAS

At the moment my mind is like a blank canvas. I don't have much going on in my life besides an overflowing amount of homework, tiring days at work, and late nights with friends. I have nothing profound to say because lately I haven't had any time to think about profound topics. Believe me I wish I had something to say of some importance, for talking about the weather or school is so tiring to hear about. I suppose it's just writers block. But I hate it when people around us or even in the blogging community is always expecting us to have interesting lives, and saying profound things about life and heavy topics. I hate to burst your bubble, but bloggers don't have any more of an interesting life than you do! Just a little reminder as you are constantly seeing creative and productive photos through your social media feed! I admit this small reminder is something that I plan on discussing a bit more in detail in a future post, but for now my thoughts are all over the place and I cannot bring up anymore, therefore I leave you with this outfit post!

So remember my last three outfit posts (including this one)? Well I was able to make an entire video of 4 hair styles and outfits for the fall season, on my YouTube channel!! This is my very first seasonal video, so be sure to check it out! Subscribe and give it a big thumbs up! Any ideas you'd like to see for a winter video? Because I'm working on one right now, and I could use your inputs!

GIVE THANKS

Thanksgiving is tomorrow and this month has been so inspiring and uplifting in so many ways. I decided to tape a piece of paper to my wall in my room, and write everything I am thankful for. Big or small. Every blessing. Finding joy in all that I have, and counting it as a blessing in my life. In my busy life I tend to forget all that I have, and the people around me. I take certain things are granted, instead of cherishing them like I should. This month with Thanksgiving and being surrounded by family I not only wanted to share what I'm thankful for as we go around after our feast at the dinning table, but truly be thankful in my heart as well. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of Hod in Christ Jesus for you." Adding to this list everyday for this month has made me realize how much I have to be thankful for, and to find joy in everything.

Through blogging and the social media atmosphere I can become so wrapped up into what everyone is doing or owns that it takes away from what I am able to do, and have. I know this discontent feeling can be shared with most of you as well, but I hate the way it makes me feel. This November I've been able to have a different out look on things, and it's helped me feel more content as I'm able to remind myself of all the blessing I wrote on my piece of paper. I hope to always remember this list, and keep it near at all times for I never want to forget. I encourage you too, to make a list of all that you are thankful for during this time. I promise you, the list you write will impact you in so many ways! Psalm 100:4-5 "Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to Him, bless His name. For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations."

Glow

Thanksgiving break is now here for me, and I'm so looking forward to the time off. I'm planning to do lots with friends and trying some new activities which is much needed. Blogging has been slower, but I'm trying to make up for it on my YouTube channel this week! So stay tuned for a fun fall video. Filming has been such a fun challenge. It's difficult but growing in different skills is exciting! Leave a comment letting me know what you'd like to see on my channel, and I'll most likely add it to the list :) If you haven't yet, make sure to subscribe to my channel because weekly videos is something I'm trying hard to work on!

JAM Nation Tour Concert

This past weekend I went to my second concert of the year, the JAM Nation Tour! So many different artists: Jeremy Camp, Colton Dixon, Hillsong United, Ever Found, New Song, Francesca Battisteli, & Disciple! Every single artist did an amazing job, and put on such a performance! It was in Long Beach, Ca and in the arena there was about 13,000 people! It was so amazing when Hillsong United sang because I don't think there was a hand that wasn't raised. 

My first concert I ever attended was Kari Jobe, and that was just two months ago! So now concerts have been my new obsession, I just love feeling the energy from the crowd, being able to worship, and hear live from my favorite artist! My friend Nicole tagged along and I just had to share a few photos from the night even though they are a tad blurry, and if you want to check out a video from the concert as well, follow me on my more personal instagram account @abeautifulheart07 because I posted a little video on that account instead of my actual blog profile! Now counting down until my next concert!! 

BACK ON TRACK

As you can probably tell things have been slowing down here on the blog, & my content has been lacking. I needed a "blogger vacation" if you will, to sort through my thoughts and future ideas for this blog. I love blogging with such a passion, and cannot imagine my life without it. It has blessed me in more ways than one, and I've been able to connect with amazing girls and get to know them on a total different level! The blogging community has always treated me kindly with open arms, and I love that about the blogging atmosphere. I've grown as a writer, and photographer. The most important thing about this blog is the way that I've been able to reach out to girls and help them through trials, or witness to them about the Lord. In fact that was the whole reason I created this blog: to reach out to girls and provide a little corner of the internet world, where they could feel empowered, encouraged, and inspired in their life goals/dreams, and also with their walk with the Lord.

It's taken me a long time to commit to the changes I've felt like I need for this blog, but I've decided that a new fresh route would do me and this blog some good. A few changes will be that I want my blog to be more posts that are centered around coffee talk posts, bible studies, and my everyday life. I love that blogging is an online journal of someone's life through photos, and I've seen myself grow more and more further away from this concept. I don't want to lose what my original purpose was for this blog. I'm tired of keeping up with the new hip stuff that bloggers are participating in, or fighting for the spotlight interviews from big companies or Modcloth, or worried that if I don't have more than a thousand followers my blog isn't important. For me blogging isn't about posting five times a week with different outfits, and baking all day to display some fun recipes. Blogging is about sharing my life through photos and writing about my life changes and personal obstacles through trials, or exciting adventures that come my way. I want to inspire my readers through things I've learned and felt.

When someone views my blog I want them to be able to fully know the girl behind the site for my passions, desired, beliefs, and dreams. Not for my fashion taste, or favorite beauty picks, or how I feel about the weather. I'm so over talking about things that don't matter, or things that will only last for a few days. Instead I want to create content that can be memorable, and meaningful. Of course a few fashion posts will appear on this blog from time to time, or a delicious recipe during the holiday's, or a latest video update from my YouTube channel. But for the most part, I want to be more of a lifestyle blogger, not necessary a fashion blogger. So here's to a fresh start!!

Life Lately + Fall Bucket List

So fall is here, and the past few days in Cali it's actually felt like it too! Granited our trees haven't shown off their gorgeous bright colors like Washington, or Colorado, but at least the 70 degree weather is a change! Scarfs still aren't an option, so sad but I'm hoping it'll come by Thanksgiving!! Below is my fall bucket list, which I'm really hoping to complete with my besties these next few months! Be sure to leave a comment below telling me where you'd like to go this fall, or any special plans you'd like to put together!

Loving: Okay can we please just talk about fall drinks? So I've recently tried the pumpkin spice latte, and I actually didn't like it (big shocker, I know). I've been wanting to taste it for a while now, because it seems to be the big talk this fall, but it was so rich and pumpkin-y! Bummed, but I found something better...a chai iced latte! If you like chai tea, then this latte should be right up your alley. Just loving holiday drinks, aren't you?

Waiting For: Thanksgiving break, because a break from school is what I'm needing right now! My classes have been super difficult this year, so I'm having to put out so much energy. Also, Thanksgiving with my family is always so special.

Dreaming Of: Apple picking! Above is a photo I made with some of my goals I'd love to complete this fall, and of course apple picking has to be one of them! Every fall we try to make it up the mountain to our favorite little spot, Riley's Farm! I've posted about it a few times before on this blog, but this time I'd love to try a few new things!

CHECK THIS OUT

1 // Head over to my current new favorite board on Pinterest!
2 // Maiedae's coffee talk weekly post all about their favorite books...makes me want to go pick them all up!!
3 // LOVE this video! Just great for the fall time and how to stay cozy in your room.

TOP 3 MASCARA PICKS

Mascara has always been tricky for me, because I feel like there are a thousand different brands to chose from, and every single one has something different about them. Whether it's the size of the brush, price, color, extends your lashes, or makes them fuller everyone offers something that another brand won't! When I was first introduced to makeup at the age of 13, I only wore eyeliner and mascara and during my Jr. High years I barely even wore mascara because I felt like you couldn't tell I was wearing it anyways. But over the years as I've felt more comfortable playing around with more makeup looks and applying it, I have realized how important mascara can be. No matter how black, long, or full your eyelashes are I think mascara can still complete the look to any eye.

With that being said, it's so difficult finding a brand that suits you and your eyelashes. Today I am going to share with you three of my top favorite mascara's and each one if from a different brand, and (bonus) each mascara specializes in how they work for different eyelashes!

Rimmel London Extra Super Lash is my favorite drug store mascara because I works great when your on the go, or in a hurry! This isn't the best for making your lashes look long, but they definitely make them look dark and black! That is extremely important to me when trying new mascara's because my eyelashes are already so dark, that like I said before sometimes you can't tell I wear any, therefore the Rimmel London does a great job with that! I also love that I can apply two coats to each eye without feeling like I need to save it and make it last because of how cheap it is!

MAC is probably the best brand you could ever buy! Every single one of their mascara's are incredible, and last for a long time. This mascara is amazing because it doesn't flake, or dry up, rather it lasts all day and when it's allergy season and your eyes are watering you won't have to worry about your mascara smearing!

Clique lash doubling mascara is definitely my all time favorite! This mascara is the only one that actually makes my lashes look long and full compared to the others I've tried! I also love using their lash building primer mascara because that just really makes my eyelashes look bold and long! The brush is super nice and long, and not too big and fluffy!

The Heart Of It | Change

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about change. Specifically how a person changes along with life changing moments. Change has never been easy for me, in fact I hate it. I enjoy routine and structure, and having roots. As I am a senior in high school and almost off to college, the thought of change has crept into my mind more than I'd like. The idea of my life completely changing scares me. The new beginnings with my location campus, teachers, friends all moving in different directions, driving, working, and the fact that I'm no longer a teenager anymore, but rather more like an adult. Not only is my life going to change but I know I will in the process.

I think we as humans become upset at change because we become so stuck in our old way of doing things. We wish certain friends wouldn't grow apart, or our favorite bands didn't switch up their direction with their music. When we've been following a blog for a few years and enjoy their content the last thing we want is for them to create a whole new vibe and feel to their blog. Therefore we see that in people also, we don't want them to change because we love who they already are. But I'm constantly having to remind myself that growth isn't all bad as it sometimes can be played out to be.

So as my life continues to change, shape, and mold me and my character I pray it only changes for the better. I want to grow and push myself out of my comfort zone. With that being said, I want to embrace change and growth because through it is learning for the better. I know that just through high school I've changed in more ways than one. I'm not the same girl I was two years ago when I started this blog. I have more skills, and dreams, and experience now than I ever did before. I have to admit my blog will always change in some way, shape, or form because the girl creating the content will continue to change.

I love where I am now, but I can't stay here forever. Forward motion has to be made, and I'm excited to experience new opportunities. Change will always be in my way, but I'm trying to not let that fact control my emotions. I will miss high school and the easier way of my life. The freedom that comes with less responsibilities, but there is a season for everything. Fighting against change will only make things worse, therefore embracing it is the only option I have left. "Don't be afraid of change, you may loose something good, but you may gain something better."

25 FACTS ABOUT ME

I believe it's time I got a little more personal here on the blog, and share with you some random facts about me and my life! Blogging is my daily online journal, life photo snaps, and my corner of inspiration. I've expressed many times before how much I love pouring out my thoughts through the coffee talk posts, so I thought it was time to share not just my opinion on things, but rather about me personally! It's so easy to get caught up photographing beautiful outfits, and beauty shoots, without including how I feel, or what's new in my world. The past few months I've been able to learn more about the bloggers behind my favorite blogs, so I hope your able to do the same with me and my blog. So without further ado...

1. My middle name is Leigh. So I love it when people call me Jenna Leigh, especially by my grandparents.

2. My favorite meal is probably a classic hamburger!

3. I'm gluten free, because of health reasons. I can't lie, it can be a struggle when gluten is placed right in front of me, but I've had to realize that it's better to feel good than to take a bite of something that won't last, and make me feel sick!

4. I graduate high school in 2015 yay! Being a senior has been so much fun and definitely worth the long years of waiting. My friend recently just made me a senior survival kit with everything you need to "survive" your senior year such as essentials and fun items! So far, that has been a huge highlight, and I'm so blessed by her sweet gift!

5. I am the oldest in my family, with only one younger sister who I'm very close with!

6. You probably wouldn't think this at first but I enjoy a very large range of music! Country, Christian, Pop, R&B, and the list goes on.

7. I dream of visiting Paris, sitting in a little coffee shop with a view of the Effie Tower.

8. I'm a born and raised California girl.

9.  I so badly want to go to college, and become a dental hygienist!! Say Whattt, your probably thinking yuck! Ha-ha, amirite?

10. My favorite quote is, "Live in such a way that if anyone should speak badly of you, no one would believe it."

11. I'm not much of a morning person, and I have no idea how I'm able to wake-up for school, but I'd admit half the time I literally have to roll out of bed.

12. My ideal night would be watching a good movie with a bowl of chocolate ice cream.

13. I'm a sucker for all things that shine! I'm kinda in love with glitter.

14. Candles that smell like vanilla or anything sweet, is a huge obsession of mine.

15. I love surprises!

16. Coffee shops are my favorite place to sit and chat with a friend.

17. I hardly ever wear earrings. Studs, yes. But I always seem to forget about dangling ones.

18. Give me a leather jacket and heels and I will feel like I can take on the world.

19. I hate seaweed and I'm scared to death of heights!

20. I love my long hair and swear that I'll never cut it, but every time it reaches the length I like it, I decide to chop it off again! It's safe to say that I change my mind all the time.


21. I'm a sucker for adorable packaging!

22. I believe Anne of Green Gables will always be my favorite movie, & I need to get my hands on the book because I've heard it's of course better than the movie.

23. Creating different looks with my make-up is slowly becoming a hobby. If I could work at Mac, or Bare Minerals I think I'd loved it!

24. I have so many nail polishes that I don't have any more room in my cabinet. I think it would be a good idea to buy a shelf that way I would display them all oh so beautifully!

25. I love taking photos everywhere I go, or when I'm with friends! I guess I could blame that on being a blogger, but I have to admit being able to capture special moments and being able to look back on them over the years is the best!

BROWN SUGAR HONEY SCRUB

I've always been hesitate towards sugar scrubs because I tend to have very sensitive skin, and anything that would dry me out wouldn't work! I've found great recipes for coffee, vanilla, and even coconut scrubs but I figured this brown sugar honey scrub would be the best one for my skin! When I made this it was perfect because I owned every ingredient already, which is one thing I love when I'm baking, or DIY-ing! With the coconut oil my skin becomes so soft, and the way it moisturizes my skin is the best. Coconut oil is pretty awesome for any use of beauty products; I use it on a daily basis for removing make-up, and healing/soothing my skin! It was so fun trying a sugar scrub for the first time, and I will definitely be keeping my eye out for some different ones to try!

BROWN SUGAR HONEY SCRUB
serving size - one small mason jar

Ingredients
1/2 cup of brown sugar
2 tbsp of coconut oil
5 drops of honey
1 tsp of vanilla
1/4 tsp of cinnamon 

Directions 

1. Pour all the ingredients into a medium size bowl and stir thoroughly. To make it easier, I melted the coconut oil in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, so that it becomes liquid and the more it can absorb through the mixture.

2. I put my mixture in a mason jar, because the lids work the best for me, but you can also but it in a jar with a air tight sealed lid, or a bowl with a lid. Scrub all over your body, and then rinse it off in the shower!

Organic Olivia // GIVEAWAY

Today I am so excited to host a giveaway for my amazing readers/supporters! I have teamed up this incredible Etsy shop-Organic Olivia, and she is sponsoring one of her beautiful necklaces! Below is a photo of my two favorite pieces in her shop, but be sure to give it a look for yourself!! The winner is able to chose any necklace + free shipping!

Here are a few details/rules for the giveaway! This giveaway ends the 14th of October that way you can have plenty of time to enter, and once I select the winner then that person has 48 hours to respond to my email, and if not, then I will have to select another winner!

This is a group giveaway, so this time I have teamed up with some amazing bloggers! So thank you girls for joining the giveaway I put together. Be sure to give them a big follow down below in the raffle-copter!

MEET THE GIRLS:
*Hannah from The Braided Bandit
*Elizabeth from Book of Leisure
*Leah from Eat Pray Wear Love  
*Jenna from A Beautiful Heart
*Iris from Love, Iris 
*Carlee from Little-Sloth 
*Karissa from Karissa & Company




a Rafflecopter giveaway

Last First Day

School has kept me busy, but I'm enjoying my classes, which is huge! I took these photos a few weeks ago, like literally the day before I started school! I wanted to post something in honor of back to school, but this post is more for me, in a sense! I love documenting my life right here on the blog through photos and my journal thoughts in between, so this just had to be one of those types of post - my last first day of high school! Last year I posted an outfit similar to the idea of this one now, and It's crazy to see how I've changed in small areas, or how I've devolved my style, and grown as a blogger! One year can make a huge difference! Here's to my last year of high school!!

           shirt/Forever 21 :: shorts/American Eagle :: sandals, travel cup/Target :: backpack/Tilly's :: sunglasses/Maui ::

BACK TO SCHOOL STUDY TIPS

As a senior I believe I've mastered some awesome study skills! Last year when I did a few back to school posts with an outfit, what's in my backpack, hair styles, etc I got a lot of response from that, so I thought I'd kick things off with a Back To School study tips post! All of these tips help me so much, and I will be using them all the time this year! If you have any of your own tips you'd love to share then don't be shy and leave them in the comments; I'm always on the hunt to try new ways to study! Everything helps right? 

1. Use a Timer
What I like to do, is set a timer for every subject. I usually have homework that takes one hour for every subject. So on my timer (I use my phone) I will set it for an hour, and then this way it helps me stay focused on what I need to get done.

2. Create a Study Sheet and use Color
Okay so this is my favorite study tip out of them all! This is the most helpful for exams and tests. So what I like to do is create a list of everything I think is important to know regarding that certain chapter. So for example In Anatomy I will put everything in categories like "Terms," "Question," "Images," etc. For each category I use a different highlighter/marker to write my notes in. When i'm done my sheets sometimes looks like a rainbow threw up all over my page! But seeing a lot of color helps my brain remember certain things.

3. Drink Water
I have a super hard time following this tip, only because I'm not a super "water" girl. But I find during tests or siting in lectures this helps me a lot with feeling refreshed and awake.

4. Have Snacks
I love eating snacks when studying in my room or having beside me during lectures in class. I find that the healthier the food, the easier it is to pay attention and not feel so icky. So I will take some grapes, pretzels, an apple, or some granola bars.

5. Have Neat Notes
Whenever I'm in a rush I tend to write sloppy and messy. And afterwards when I get home I always regret doing that, because than I can barely read it, or i'll not write everything down like I needed to. So when taking notes try to write neat and be precise. Believe me, you will thank yourself later!

6. Use a Day Planner
I love having a day planner because it keeps me on track with everything I have. Whether its big tests coming up, or a busy day with friends it keeps me organized with my time. I love reminding myself when certain things are due...because I am always needing reminders!

7. Get Comfy
When I come home from a long day I will grab my yoga pants and t-shirt, and put my hair up in a messy bun, then plop on my bed. I hate studying in jeans I find that it's uncomfortable and irritating.

8. Study Out Loud
I do this every time I have to memorize something. I always repeat everything out loud to myself. It helps me memorize more easily and it takes me less time than trying to crame in everything by starring at the page and repeating it over and over in my head.

9. Listen to Music
I love doing this when I'm writing notes from my text book, or writing a paper. It's a little reward I give myself when doing some busy work. This motivates me to get my work done, and have fun while doing it.

10. Move Around While Studying
This is a huge factor to studying. I will move around place to place around my house, or outside sometimes for each subject. This keeps me awake, and keeps me focused.

11. Write in different Fonts
Yes write in different fonts!! I love using this technic, it helps so much. I will write some terms in different fonts and it helps me remember the term that I wrote on the paper. This way I'm able to visualize what I wrote.

12. Chew Gum
This works wonders for me. I always chew gum during lectures, or when studying for something important. Plus I read that if you chew the same flavor when you were studying, while taking a test it helps you remember everything! And it worked for me. Plus it keeps me so awake and alert. Because sometimes I can fall asleep when studying. (oops!)

13. Be Organized
Be organized with your binders, and scattered notes. The neater your materials are the easier it is to focus on what needs to get done. I also try really hard to keep my study area cleaned up (bed, chair, side table).

14. Make Lists
If you have to post sticky notes all over your mirror or wall, so you can remember when things are due. This is similar to having a day planner but I find that when posting it around your room works better for more less important things you have to do that day, instead of some reminder for future events coming up.

15. Reward Yourself
Lastly, reward yourself! When that timer goes off, give yourself 10 minutes of freedom. I usually go on my laptop and blog, or scroll through Instagram. Sometimes I will clean my room, or get stuff done I know I need to! This helps me to keep going and when you break up your studying it doesn't seem so dry and boring.

3 WAYS TO CAPTURE EMOTION IN EVERY PHOTO

When taking photos, I love showing a different side of me, through my emotions! It's fun to be creative and to try new things! It's nice to switch things up a bit, so I am sharing with you 3 simple and easy tips on how to capture emotion in every photo! Not everyone is a natural in front of a camera lens, and when forced to smiles, so these tips should cure the camera shyness! If you have any tips yourself, share in the comments below because I always love trying new ideas and taking photos a different way! 

Take lots of photos. Sometimes its awkward to stand in front of a camera and make silly faces, to allow yourself to feel comfortable and ready by taking many warm-up photos before hand.

Capture in-between moments. For me, the best photos taken, are the ones I wasn't expecting! It's when my smiles are relaxed, not focused on the camera lens, and I have more of a natural pose. When taking photos of others, or taking them yourself with a tripod, always been ready with the camera in your hand keeping an eye out for those moments when your subject would lest aspect a photo!

Experiment with a full range of emotion. I love trying new poses, and silly faces. But I've noticed when I experiment with more variety of emotion, it breaks the ice; I become more fun, serious, flirty, happy, and even sad! And depending on your outfit, usually your able to capture these emotions perfectly with the way you feel!

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER PROTEIN SMOOTHIE

Protein smoothies are great when running on-the-go and yet you need something more filling than a granola bar. There are so many different recipes for smoothies, there are no rules, and it includes a lot of experimenting! Adding fruit, spinach, and everything green and healthy are all great ingredients for the perfect morning drink. Although I find myself going back to this chocolate peanut butter banana smoothie most of the time! This smoothie takes less than five minutes to make, so it's perfect for waking up late, jogging around your neighborhood, or running to school/work! Have fun experimenting!!

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER, BANANA SMOOTHIE
serves 1 full glass - recipe ( my mom) 

Ingredients
1 ripe frozen banana
1 tbsp peanut butter
1 cup almond unsweetened vanilla (or coconut milk)
2 scoops of your favorite protein powder

Directions 
1. Literally pour every ingredient in the blender, and mix until it's all smoothly blended, then pour and enjoy!