Resolutions

I hope everyone enjoyed the countdown to the new year! Most of us have put some thought into our resolutions. Mine is to take more pictures. Reasonable enough, right? You see, we always want to make our resolutions kind of generic (i.e. exercise), but we have a hard time maintaining them because we are so generic. I say we all try something realistic and reasonable. Lets have a great last day of 2012!

xoxo
K

Top 10 To The New Year: Top Place

Well, the Top Ten is finally coming to a close! With this last entry of the countdown, I'm using it to describe the top place of the year: the Galápagos Islands. I went here this past summer and it was simply wonderful.

Top 10 To The New Year: Top Teams

Sport is a way for family and friends to get together and get active or watch people get active. Here's my top two teams.
1. New Orleans Saints (football)- I'm from Louisiana, so it basically is mandatory of everyone here to love them.
2. LSU tigers (college football)- refer to top.

xoxo
K

Top 10 To The New Year: Top Songs

Music can be a lovely way of expression. It can relate to any situation. 2012 has provided us with some catchy songs. Here's the top 3.
1. Home by Phillip Phillips
2. I Won't Give Up by Jason Mraz
3. Some Nights by Fun.

Top 10 To The New Year: Top Books

Reading has always been an escape for me. Here's my top 4.
1. The Perks of Being A Wallflower by Steven Chbosky
2. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
3. Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks
4. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

xoxo
K

Top 10 To The New Year: Top Movies

Cinema has always been my true love. The going to the theatre. The over-priced merchandise. The sitting down in the creaky seats. The total darkness the theater achieves right before the movie begins. Here's the top 5 movies.
1. The Perks of Being a Wallflower- my all time favorite book was done justice through the movie this year. I read the book 4 years ago, and it has stuck with me since. I've read the book five times in the past 4 years, so I was anxious for the movie. The beautiful storyline and the amazing actors truly portrayed the loveliness of the novel.
2. Pitch perfect- this movie. Oh my gosh, I love it. It is so perfect in so many ways. There isn't an acca-awkward moment anywhere. And it got me into learning the cup song (I've mastered it, y'all). So basically it's pitch perfect.
3. Les Miserables- so much love for this play, and the movie is quite perfect. The heart-wrenching story of Fantine is simply the reason Kleenex will have higher sales production for the next month or so. I cried like a baby. More like sobbed. I have no shame. Okay, a little shame. I hid my face until everyone left the theatre.
4. The Hunger Games- the whole concept is completely innovative. When I read the book, I was in love. When I went to the midnight premiere decked in Katniss attire (remember the whole no shame thing? I had no shame here. Seriously.), I was in love.
5. What To Expect When You're Expecting- this movie is flat out hysterical. The actors in actresses are the big name comedians and divas of our time are in it (and Rebel Wilson is in it, so that should make you see it).

xoxo
K

Top 10 To The New Year: Top Shows

I love T.V. However, I tend to be too busy to watch it. I do love Hulu, though, so I'm always caught up! Here's the top 6.
1. F.R.I.E.N.D.S- you know what? I don't care if it is not running. Number one in my heart, forever and ever.
2. Boy Meets World- same reason. But it is behind Friends, solely because I can only have one. But "Mr. FEEENNYYY" will always be loved.
3. Glee- OMG, Glee. I am obsessed. Since the very first episode, I have been a loyal fan. I've cried, I've laughed, I've sobbed uncontrollably (ahem, Finachel, Klaine, Britana). Altogether, it is my weak spot.
4. Gossip Girl- you know you love me, xoxo, gossip girl. High fashion, New York, and drama. I'm so in love and so sad to see it end.
5. The Bachelor/Bachelorette- Too. Much. Reality. T.V. The cat fights, the torture, the never-ceasing bickering, the fake love. Ugh so good, I just can't stop. I need a life. Desperately.
6. Keeping Up with the Kardashians- this alone pretty much screams that I have a problem. Too much drama for one family unit.

Merry Christmas!! Hope you all have a wonderful, blessed, and joyful holiday. Eat well, love big, and be merry. I love everyone of you.

xoxo,
K

Top 10 To The New Year: Top Events

We've had an exciting year, huh? Here's the top 7.
1. The Sandy Hook Shooting- Very upsetting situation, but hopefully one we can all learn from.
2. Hurricane Sandy- devastating, but the northeast has learned to overcome.
3. Channing Tatum winning sexiest man alive- does that really need a comment?
4. The 2012 presidential election- our country has the capability to become stronger than it has before.
5. Whitney Houston's death- a star has died, but it's memory shines forever.
6. The establishment of this blog- my top 7, it's going on here.
7. The Olympics- the guys, the drama, the intensity-who wouldn't love it?

I hope that your Christmas is filled with joy and love. May this time of year bring the best in you. Merry Christmas Eve everyone.

xoxo
K

Top 10 To The New Year: Top People

Oh the people of 2012!
Here's my top 8. They have all shaped our year to great one, whether it was by entertaining, inspiring, or both.
1. Viola Davis
2. Tim Tebow
3. Ellen DeGenerous
4. Ryan Gosling
5. Adele
6. Jennifer Aniston
7. Oscar Pistorius
8. Kate Middleton

xoxo
K

Top 10 To The New Year: Top Fads

The moment you've been waiting for: the media. How many times did you talk/laugh at these things this year? Here's the top 9.
1. #YOLO- Oh. My. Goodness. Ever since "The Motto", this saying has been around. You only live once. Kind of a modernized carpe diem. Still, after a while, this got annoying. So people added the hash tag to get it trending...
2. Er mer gerd- er mer gerd thers nerver gerts erld. I'm kidding. The er mer gerd girl is possibly the meme of the year.
3. Everything Honey Boo Boo says- I'm going to be completely honest. She makes being from the South hard. Y'all. Not all of us act like that.“I like to get down and dirty redneck style.” — Honey Boo Boo. I...don't even know.
4. Election- Oh so political. Everyone I know gets so into it. Me? Yes, but I'm not going to start a huge fight over it. I just want America to find a level of civility where the views of others can be expressed with the courtesy of not being rude about them. There is such thing as polite expression.
5. Angry Cat- I love cats. Okay? I love all animals, but cats are the easiest to make fun at. Their narcissistic, mean attitude brightens my day.
6. Sarcastic Wonka- Again, I love. That is all.
7. Bridesmaids/pitch perfect- I can quote these to no end. Maybe this should all fall under Rebel Wilson, but nonetheless, these two movies impacted our media this year.
8. Gangnam Style- Heyyyy sexy lady. No one knows what it means. No one cares what it means. The beat, the video-it makes everyone want to dance and laugh.
9. Hunger games- Because of the movie release earlier this year, this was on a rampage, from Peeta to Katniss.

xoxo
K

Top 10 To The New Year: Top Fashion Trends

So to countdown these glorious last days of 2012, I've decided to have a countdown of our own: The First Annual Top Ten To The New Year. Today's subject is Top Fashion Trends. This year has been one filled with new things, from #YOLO to Honey Boo Boo Child. However, today we are focusing on the world of fashion.

1. The Peter Pan Collar- A personal fave of mine. The simplicity yet true elegance this brings to an outfit can definitely make a statement. It shows a child-like innocence while still being a very classic piece. From dresses to shirts to tanks, the Peter Pan collar made a mark in the 2012 fashion industry.

2. The High-Low Skirt/Dress- The mullet that is acceptable in the fashion world. This particular style of skirts and dresses was a very different approach to classy yet trendy. This brought a more fun, updated vibe to the simple maxi. Business in the front, party in the back, high-lows came out for attack (please excuse my excessive need to rhyme and be corny).

3. The Peplum- A modern addition to any piece of clothing. This style can flatter any person of any size, flattering the lower half of the body while still complimenting the upper half. It was still a controversial outfit choice for a few celebrities (aka Kim K.). However, when done right, the peplum could portray a womanly, hour-glass body in just seconds.


4. Bright Colors- All the colors. This particular fad was extremely popular in the summer. From playful warm colors to bright cool colors, theses colors could bring a sweet vibe to the outfit. The trend was most definitely a favorite for many people and will probably continue to summer 2013 (fingers crossed).

5. Lace- Lovely, lovely lace. I have always adored lace. The femininity yet sensuality the fabric brings could not be brought by any other fabric. It's sexy while still being classy, kind of like Marilyn Monroe. The lace fad was particularly strong in the dress department, but shirts, jeans, jewelry, and skirts also participated in the trend. This fabric flatters every woman in the world. I am not over generalizing this because it does. If you think that it doesn't, it's all in your head. I promise.

6. Infinity Scarf- A fall/winter favorite. I think what I love the most about the scarf is the fact that it is not going to fall out of the positioning I put it in. Plus, they keep your neck super warm. Scarves always bring that little extra you need for an outfit, but the infinity scarves can do say and stay in place for the whole night. A win-win situation if you ask me.

7. Maxi Everything- Oh, Maxi, j'adore. But seriously. Being only 5'2, I thought maxi was completely off the list due to the fear of making me look like a tree stump. However, with the perfect pair of heels or wedges, this summer go-to was the highlight of my wardrobe. Bringing it to the fall and winter time was a challenge for me, but as I started experimenting, little booties could work perfectly for maxi skirts. This is quite daring, but I promise you you will rock it.

8. Statement Necklaces- I understand that this has been around since the beginning of the fashion industry. But 2012 brought it to a whole new level. Every store I went into-big, chunky necklaces. When it was too hot for a scarf or I needed a more dressy attire, I would adorn myself with a statement necklace. This a perfect way to bring something extra to the outfit without it being too much.

9. Animal Print- Cheetahs, leopards, zebras, oh my! My personal faves are definitely cheetah and leopard related. Oh and snakeskin. It can be flirtatious and trendy. I always feel very boho when I wear this. Bringing a tribal perspective to the outfit, this can set you a part from everyone else. A very daring choice, but a very doable one at that.

10. Crosses- This fad recently came about with the sideways crosses during the summer. Now, the print is all over, from dresses to shirts to jeans. I believe that it is simply another design, but I do not believe that it will be back for the end of 2013. Why? Well, it just seems like it will be over-played. Kind of like the peace sign in 2005 or the highlighter colors of 2007. Still, though, there is a chance that it will be back. We will just have to see for ourselves.




**This countdown will be continued through the weekend, so feel free to stop by and check out what else has made the Top Ten**

xoxo
K

Just Some Reflections

yummy peppermint tea

Well everyone, I think that it has finally hit me that 2012 is coming to a near close. Maybe that the world is ending Friday. Maybe it's all of the nostalgia I've heard these past couple of days. I don't really know what it is, but I have had time to reflect on this year. Not just the usual "oh well for New Year's I'm going to run every single day for about a week until the whole resolution fad fades." I'm talking about thinking of what I did good and bad this year and how I can improve. 2012 was definitely not the easiest year for me. Early on, I had issues that became lessons to be learned for the middle of the year. Other than the rocky start and middle, I am determined to make the end very sweet. I can honestly say that this year has changed me for the better. I have a better mindset and attitude about the beauty of life. The lessons I have learned this year can only lead me to think that 2012 was a preparation year for me. I am not sure what I am preparing for, exactly, but whatever it is, I am ready. Take the time to reflect on your 2012. Let the happy moments be great memories and sad moments be great lessons. Sometimes, it takes a new year to bring out the new you. I hope the new you brings love and joy to others as well as yourself. You are worth every happiness that comes your way. If you had a great 2012, bring the same positivity to 2013. If you had a rough 2012, find meaning in 2013-I assure you it is there. Have a great Thursday.

Sweet Serendipity

The kind of happiness that keeps you floating throughout the day. The love in your heart you feel for everyone around you. That's how I see serendipity. Things may not be going well for me that particular day, or maybe not even that week. But some joke or sweet thought could still make me feel serendipitous. It's like sweet serendipity doesn't have to be a big thing that happens at the right time. It can take you by surprise and brighten your day. Hope you all feel serendipitous today :)

A For Effort

Stress: a state resulting from a stress; especially : one of bodily or mental tension resulting from factors that tend to alter an existent equilibrium.

Okay so it's midterm exams. Most wonderful time of the year (not). I think the coffee shops get more money from me this time of year than any time of the year. I don't know about you guys, but my stress is self-inflicted. I try my very hardest to make the best grades solely to prove to myself that I can. I mean, I could care less. But I don't want to. I want to be successful. I have dreams and plans for myself, and caring less will not get me there. But I tend to lose myself in this train of thought. I want the A's, the honors, the recognitions. I also want less stress. So I've come up with this plan. I am going to compromise with myself.  I will make myself see that I am not defined by the grades I make or the classes I take. I don't know if this applies to any of you, but when it all comes down to it, we should want to be known for our good acts rather than our good grades. In the end, that is what we will be remembered by. You have more worth than a grade that will mean nothing to you when it comes down to it. Have a great day!

xoxo
K

Oh So Kind

Practice Random Acts of Kindness and Senseless Acts of Beauty
Happy happy Monday everyone! I hope your week goes as fabulously as it can get. Well, since I have midterms, my posts have been planned and written for the next week. So recent news of this week will be put to next week. Anyways, while I procrastinate (I mean, study), I want to talk about kindness. Let's be honest. How many of us go out of are way to be kind and not have any second thoughts about it? Like "will they think I'm weird/nosy/stalker-ish/a freak/etc.?" Okay, maybe not to an extreme level, but at least have a second thought about it? You see, I'm kind of like that. I am very analytical about my self, but when it comes to me being analytical of others, I really am not. I tend to see less fault in others than myself. So with me being nice to everyone, I sometimes have those thoughts. Why? Because we live in a world where kindness has become distorted. If a stranger came up to you and complimented you, wouldn't you be flattered but a little perturbed, too? I would. It's just what we have grown up with. I'm trying my hardest to get out of this habit. I mean, kindness should not be something that comes with negativity. Kindness should be simply kindness. The distortion comes from what the secular society has taught us: kindness should come from the familiarity, not the unfamiliarity. But we can change this. We must change our mindset and live out without doubt that kindness will help us through life. Not kiss-butt, people-pleasing kindness. Show kindness with knowing where you stand. Do a random act of kindness today. It'll uplift your spirit.

P.S. I want to personally send my regards to the city of Newtown, Connecticut, and all of those who were affected. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. To see innocent lives be taken from this world is not an easy thing to see, but I do believe that these lives will inspire us to take a stand against the violence and negativity our world posses. Even if the lives of the children were short, I believe that they are in a better place and are watching us. It is so sad how our world is falling apart. We need strong, kind people to save society. I challenge everyone to be strong and kind, for we may become the saving grace our world needs. Let's prove everyone wrong and help the world become a better place, one step of kindness at a time.

xoxo
K

Tackies R Us

Friday everyone! Since it is the holiday season, I do want to tell you of the importance of the holiday staple for your closet: the tacky Christmas sweater. No, I have not lost my mind. I have just taken my thoughts to a new level. I know I've talked about my great love for these sweaters, but I must bring it up again. The joy I have when I see someone (aka my mom) where these sweaters around town during Christmas. It just gives me a warm feeling inside that I cannot compare to with, say, a fashionable, normal sweater. Why be thankful for a sweater? It's not so much the material item I am after. It is the joy that it brings to people of all ages. It's a sweater with a story, and since Christmas is a great holiday, the story is probably very good. Let's be thankful for the happiness the season brings. Have a great weekend.

xoxo
K