I'll keep this post short and sweet because the concept is nothing new-2015 has come and gone and we are about to embark on a new year filled with new adventures, new challenges and, perhaps, a new outlook on life. 2015 was a tremendous year of growth for me, both personally and professionally. I endured hardships and roadblocks, as well as some really spectacular celebrations. As I head into the new year, I want my personal journey of growth and improvement to continue. Onwards and upwards as they say! So here is my list of New Year's REALsolutions-small improvements I will be making throughout 2016 that will, hopefully, aid me on my quest to continually better myself. 

Remember: goals aren't meant to be daunting or impractical. If you are contemplating some resolutions for yourself-keep them REAL. Set goals that are within reach and won't set you up for failure of disappointment! Baby steps, people!!

As a college junior, you would think I finals week wouldn't really phase me anymore. I mean, this definitely isn't my first rodeo, and the stress of preparing for multiple exams is almost second nature. However, no matter how many finals I've conquered, I still find my anxiety sky-rocketing come the end of the semester. So, I've compiled a list of ways I try to combat my nerves and deal with the end-of-semester stress.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the busy holiday season, it's remember to still take time and treat yourself to a few goodies. With that being said, who doesn't love a good deal?! Today, I'm bringing you some of my newly listed poshmark items that might just be exactly what you need to treat yourself during this chaotic time of year! Here are some of the new pieces I've listed on my site, all of which have been significantly discounted and are in perfect condition! Take a look and let me know if something catches your eye! You can shop my full poshmark closet HERE.

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I know, I know. The word "miracle" is about as gimicky as it gets. But don't discredit this post just yet! The past few months, I've been in a bit of a beauty slump. To say I've struggled to find a foundation worth keeping is an understatement. It seems that every product I try fails me in either shade, formula, coverage or longevity. I had almost given up my search when a friend of mine who works for sephora suggested I try CoverFX. She informed me that for those with uber sensitive skin, prone to aggravation and reaction from products (uhhh HI, that's me!), CoverFX is wonderful because of the brand's focus on natural ingredients that are meant to help heal the skin. Ok, I know what you're thinking...that sounds gimicky too. My thoughts exactly-until I tried what might just be the best "foundation" I've ever used.

It's officially August, which means it's only a matter of time before I (and many others) will be heading back to campus for University. As I leap into my junior year, I feel more confident in expressing my style on a day-to-day basis. It's easy to get caught up in the college grunge uniform (aka sweatpants, workout tanks and tennis shoes), however I am a firm believer in the "dress well, test well" attitude. Plus, in a place as overwhelming as college, it's nice to feel true to yourself in style. Here are my must-haves for this upcoming season!

Like most, I've had my skin ups and downs. There have been times when I've been really proud of my skin! However there have also been plenty of times when my skin has been my biggest insecurity. I have pretty sensitive skin that is easily irritated by new products, a change in my environment and hormones. Last time I went to the dermatologist (about 4 months ago), my doctor explained to me a few ways people commonly contribute to their acne and skin irritations without realizing it. I had to share with you all because I find this information incredibly valuable, especially for anyone who can be a little let down by their skin.

I feel almost embarrassed to have been absent from my blog for so long, however I think anyone who has a presence online can understand the feeling of burnout. When I began my blog, I decided that it would be my own personal escape to discuss any little happening in my life that brought me joy. By no means is my blog a "must-read" of the internet or a popular traffic source, however as my audience began to grow, I felt more pressure to deliver. Pressure can be a good thing, as it promotes work ethic and quality, but it can also force you to produce content that doesn't feel quite as original. As soon as blogging felt like a chore, I knew I needed to step away. I'm hoping my brief break from blogging was the recharge I needed to get back to my roots and blog about what truly brings me happiness. Thank you for sticking with me, here's to a better blog ahead!

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I am 100% the definition of a foodie. There are few things in the world that get me as or more excited than a delicious recipe. This summer, as mentioned in my "summer activities" post, one of my goals is to hone in on and improve my skills in the kitchen. What good is being a die-hard foodie if you aren't that great at preparing the delicacies yourself?! I've taken to my favorite board on pinterest and found the first three recipes I'm dying to try out! Here we go...

As much as some of us might hate to admit it, we live in a society that is pretty dependent on our mobile devices. (*cringes in self disgust*) Nowadays, there are thousands of apps on the market that claim to do this and promise to do that, and quite frankly-it can be super overwhelming. I've compiled a list of the 5 apps on my phone that I find to be the most useful & ones I think everyone needs!

It's official-June is here and once again, the previous month has flown by. I wanted to put together a little "series" on my blog that would highlight a few of my favorite items of the month. You could categorize this kind of post as your typical monthly favorites, but I'm hoping you will see it a little differently. Instead of highlighting a group of products from the month before, I just wanna chat about anything and everything that made an impression on me during the time. I'd love your feedback, so feel free to let me know what you think in the comments!

Upon a moment of weakness (and a killer cash-back sale at Sephora), I treated myself to a few new makeup goodies that I thought I would share with you all! There is something so exciting about receiving new products to try, especially when they come all packaged up and dropped so generously on your doorstep! On my wish list were a few old loves and a few new bits and bobs I've been meaning to get my hands on. 

Today's post is something a little out of the ordinary but also pretty exciting! Lately, I've been on a huge mission to clear out my closet of anything and everything that no longer has a place in my day-to-day life. Whether it's an item that doesn't fit or hasn't gotten much (or any) use, I have decided to list some of my items on Poshmark, for those who might be interested!

One of my favorite spots in my bedroom is the top of my french dresser. I know, I know, it's bordering on too much, but I can't help myself! I love elegant little decor pieces that pay homage to vintage inspirations. I thought in this post, I would give you all a glimpse at some of my favorite pieces atop my dresser. (Psst: if you love those mercury glass jars as much as I do, check them out here!)

As I was perusing the aisles of Sephora the other day, I stumbled upon a product that I had tried months earlier and absolutely loved! The Boscia luminizing black mask was a freebie sample I had received years ago and had given little to no thought to. About six months ago, I decided it was time for me to give the sample a try. I mean c'mon, it had only been sitting in my drawer for about a year and a half. I'm not usually a face mask girl, but when I tried this sucker, I was HOOKED. This mask made my skin feel soft, supple and had really cleared away the dirt and oil in my pores. Not to mention, the peel off factor of this bad boy is amazing!! It feels incredible and was virtually pain free!

I am by no means a makeup or beauty expert, but I do love dabbling in the latest and greatest to find products that serve my everyday routine well. I've rounded up a list of items that have caught my eye and the attention of many bloggers on the inter web. If you have tried any of these products (or similar ones), I would love to hear your opinions down below!

I don't know about you, but I am guilty of setting my expectations for summer super high, only to be let down and defeated by the lackluster reality. As wonderful as summer is, it can be a bit boring if you haven't planned ahead, finding ways to spend your endless amount of free time. Here are my five ways to jump start summer on the right foot (and to get my lazy butt out of bed!).