16 Lessons Learned My 16th Year

I see all these tweets that read, "20 Things I Learned By 20" or "15 Things Every 15 Year Old Should Know," etc.  It inspired me to create my own list of 16 things I've learned this year.  My birthday is in July, and given June will be a busy month of traveling, I decided I'm close enough to 17 to write this list.
17.  It is unbelievable that I am almost 17 years old.  My 16th year was not the year many young kids dream of it being.  It was interesting to say the least, and I most definitely grew as a person, which is more than most can say, so for that I am grateful.  I learned a lot, and after much thought I came up with the 16 most important lessons I've learned.

1. Cherish high school.
     I do not say this lightly.  While junior year was challenging given the classes I took, it was a very special year that I wish I cherished more.  Finally, it's the year you're an upperclassmen, but you aren't a senior yet.  It's the year to make real friendships and live in the moment.  High school is only four short years, so despite the stress and drama, enjoy being young while you can.

2. Get a job.
     I am so happy I got a job when I was 16 and that I am working in high school.  It teaches responsibility and discipline, and I have made some really great friends because of it.  I love making my own money, and there is something so satisfactory about receiving a paycheck.

3. Spend time with all your family.
     Yeah, all of them.  My grandparents were generous enough to fly me to California for spring break and I am grateful I got to spend that time with them.  I even kind of enjoying hanging out with my parents and brothers now.  The reality that I will be leaving for college who knows where in a year is starting to sink in.  Spend time with them while you can.

4. Be careful who you trust.
     Unfortunately, not everyone is trustworthy.  Many do not know where to draw the line between what they can share with others and what must be kept personal.  People will listen and pretend to care about what you're saying.  Be careful with who you allow to listen.

5. Play a sport.
     Or join a club or something if sports aren't your thing.  I played tennis sophomore year and continued that into junior year and I am ever so grateful I did.  It's fun, you make friends, connect with the coaches, and can get some exercise all at the same time.

6. Never set expectations for anyone but yourself.
     You can set goals for yourself, but as they say, expectation is the root of all heartache.  If you expect that Sally will be your best friend forever and Joe will love you forever, you will be disappointed.  I have seen it happen too many times.  Expect nothing from anyone and you will never be disappointed.

7. Sleep.
     My lack of sleep this year was astronomical.  I felt exhausted nearly all the time.  Sleep comes first.  If you're up until one o'clock studying, just accept the C grade and go to bed.  Not sleeping is so bad for your health and it is important to build habits now.

8. Help your friends, always.
     Even if they do not help you.  It's that simple.  If they are crying or sad or need advice, you are there for them.  Be that person.  Do good, and do not expect anything in return.

9. Fake it until you make it.
     If you are down in the dumps, put a smile on your face anyways.  One day you'll realize you aren't even that sad anymore, and the smile is real.

10. Enjoy the good days and allow the bad ones.
     There are going to be days where you are on top of the world.  You will be so happy that nothing can bring you down.  There will be other days where all you want to do is sit around and be sad for whatever reason.  Do not deny yourself the right to be sad, but do not let it control you.

11. Discuss ideas, not people.
     If you realize that you are only friends with someone because they gossip with you, then realize that it is not a healthy or genuine friendship.  If you can talk to someone about your thoughts and ideas and they reciprocate with equally interesting ideas, then you have something special.

12. Be friends with people of all ages.
     Being able to connect with people older and younger is valuable and will help you in your future.  Learning to relate to people from all walks of life is important and is something you can learn a lot from.

13. Think about the future.
     Do not fear or stress for the future.  But think about what you like to do now and what kind of person you are.  What careers will be available to you in the future and what are you interested in doing?  Where do you see yourself in 5, 10, and 20 years?

14. Listen to your parents.
     I am still working on this one, but I have recognized that it is so necessary.  Our parents have been around longer than we have and their advise has value to it.  Listen to the story your grandparents tell and appreciate them.  They were born in a different time and what they have to say can be pretty fascinating.  They won't be around forever, and one day you'll be old and you won't have your parents around anymore.  Do not take them for granted.

15. If someone says they love you, believe them.
     Maybe teenagers do not know what true, unconditional love is.  But, if they say they love you, then in their mind they do.  Whatever they feel or believe love to be is how they feel towards you so just accept it.  Love is powerful and very special.

16. Love yourself.
     There it is, the biggest cliché of all time.  Love yourself.  It seems so stupid and simple, yet it is one of the most difficult things to do.  High school is a trying time, and you will be compared to others and judged and ridiculed no matter who you are or what you do.  It is the unfortunate but inevitable truth.  Value yourself as a human, set high standards, and do not allow anyone to treat you less than you deserve.


Those were just 16 lessons I learned my 16th year.  While there were others I learned, these seemed to be the most beneficial to all.  What list would you come up with?  Until next time xxx.

Summer Music Playlist

With summer rapidly approaching I have been creating a summer playlist to listen to while on airplanes, during long car rides,  sitting out to tan, working on summer homework (gross, I know), on the 4th of July, on my birthday, and just dancing with friends enjoying the long summer nights.

Here are some of my current favorites that I know I'll enjoy throughout summer.  Oh, and I guarantee this will be the most random collection of songs you've ever seen.

Video Games (Club Clique for The Bad Girls Remix) by Lana del Rey

I love everything about Lana and her music, but I really like this remix because I think it is great for dancing or just lounging around.

Waiting Game by Banks

This song is from The Longest Ride trailer and as soon as I heard it I loved it.  It is catchy and unique.

Amber by 311
This has always been a classic to me, and it has that summer vibe.  This is great for lounging outside on a summer afternoon with friends or at a barbecue.

FourFiveSeconds by Rihanna, Paul McCartney, and Kanye West
This song is so fun because it combines three unique artists from completely different worlds.  I loved this song when I first heard it on the radio.

Electric Love by BØRNS
This song has that effortless and cool feel where you just want to stick your head out the sun roof and coast down PCH.

West Coast by Lana del Rey
What can I say?  I am a fan of all things Lana.  Since I'm paying a visit to the west coast this summer, I find this song to be suiting.

I Want You to Want Me by Letter to Cleo
Ever seen 10 Things I Hate About You?  This is that big song played at the very end when everything is all perfect again and everyone is in love.  This song just makes me want to get up and dance.

From Eden by Hozier
I love this song and I can not even place exactly why I enjoy it so much.  I love the instrumentals in it and, of course, Hozier has an incredible, unique voice.

Seasons by Chase Coy
This is a tragic and romantic song but it talks about summer (because it's a season obviously) so that has to count for something right?

Such Great Heights by The Postal Service 
Something about it just seems very carefree and summer-like (and the chorus is gold).

I've Got You by McFly
I am pretty sure this song was in that movie with Lindsay Lohan and Chris Pine, but I've loved it long before I saw that movie.

Glamourous by Fergie and Ludacris
This song is a classic and just makes you long to be on a private jet flying to some super exotic summer destination.

Riptide by Misterwives
Vance Joy is great and all, but this acoustic cover has got to be my absolute favorite.

I'm Yours by Jason Mraz
This song has been a summer staple since 2008 (at least I think that's when it came out).

Summer by Calvin Harris
It is Summer in a song… also I learned to play it on the piano last summer.

You Know You Like It by DJ Snake
This song makes me want to dance as well as every other song on this playlist.

See You Again by Wiz Khalifa
This song's got to make you tear up a little bit.  "Every road you take will always lead you home," really gets me.

Bad Blood by Taylor Swift
If you ever get angry just listen to this, sing along, feel better.

National Anthem by Lana del Rey
Whoops, another Lana song.  In my defense, this is the ultimate 4th of July song.

Us by Regina Spektor
This song makes me want to go for a walk in a park and have a picnic.

Sweet Disposition by The Temper Trap
This is classic.

Home by Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros
This song belongs on any playlist ever.

Nine in the Afternoon by Panic! at the Disco
This song is best to listen to at nine in the afternoon.  It just has that carefree vibe.

Tongue Tied by Grouplove
This song also belongs on all the playlists.

Little Numbers by BOY
I can not remember the last road trip I was on when I didn't listen to this song.

You've Got the Love by Florence + The Machine
This song makes me want to dance in the ocean.

Flightless Bird, American Mouth by Iron & Wine
I love this song sooo much and I always will.  Doesn't it just make you want to stargaze or take a nice afternoon walk and watch the summer sun set?

Dancing Queen by ABBA
I dance everyday, so if you are not the dancing queen (or king) over summer are you even living? (Appropriate for all parties, small gatherings, or dancing alone in your room).

Don't You (Forget About Me) by Simple Minds
Given The Breakfast Club just celebrated it's 30th anniversary, I found this necessary.  And, come on, you've got to watch the movie at least once on a summer road trip.

Closing Time by Semisonic
This is the type of song you can scream at the top of your lungs when you don't have a care in the world, and that's what summer is all about.

No Sleep by Wiz Khalifa
This is one of those semi-old songs that whenever you hear you sing along too and pretend to know the raps.

Maps by Maroon 5
This song is the perfect summer song because lots of people travel over summer and what do you need to travel but a map!

American Boy by Estelle (and Kanye)
I will probably listen to this as soon as I've just touched down in London town.

How to be a Heartbreaker by Marina and the Diamonds
I listen to this all the time on road trips because it's catchy and exciting (and makes me want to dance).

Black Skinhead by Kanye West

This song brings me so many memories and is perfect for going on an afternoon run or early morning workout… or causing late night shenanigans.

Blood by The Middle East

I love this song more than I can express, and it is perfect for a chill day spent at home.

Reflections by Misterwives
Okay, for real.  If you say you don't dance or at least squirm in your seat every time you hear this song, you're lying.

Full Moon by The Black Ghosts
A classic to listen to while cruising down a lonely road.

Shut Up and Dance by Walk the Moon
DANCE DANCE DANCE.

Anna Sun by Walk the Moon
I have loved this song since it first came out.  It just reminds me of the sun setting and a fun night ahead.

A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay
It makes me want to get a big blanket and lay out of the grass to look at a beautiful night sky (full of stars).

I really hope that was the weirdest collections of songs you have ever seen and that you at least enjoyed some of them.  Summer is not complete without the perfect songs.  Until next time xxx.

The Ultimate Makeup and Clothing Haul (Spring & Summer 2015)

To say I have been a bad blogger lately would be a huge understatement.  Life gets busy, and these past few months have been jam packed with so much I can hardly put it into words.  While a lot has been happening, I have finally finished my finals and wanted to dedicate some time to this blog.
 
So it's summer, and you know what that means.  Time for R&R and some fun summer adventures.

This summer I will be visiting Europe for the first time ever (and certainly not the last time) and heading back to the golden coast once again to look at colleges!  I will celebrate my 17th birthday, work, spend time with friends, and get ready for my senior year of high school.  So crazy how the time flies.

All this talk of summer vacation has got me to thinking.. what does one wear in Europe?  What should I pack for my college tours?

Something I also have a passion for is makeup, so I will definitely be bringing plenty to Europe and California.  Lately I have been thinking of my favorite makeup products that are essential for summer, and also all the different clothing styles I have been falling in love with.   All of the opinions on the makeup and clothes are my own.
I wanted to share them with you…


Makeup

There is something to be said about the magic of makeup.  So, so much can be done with makeup, from a simple day to day look, to a glamourous prom look.  I love makeup and have been loving so many different products from different brands.  Click on the names of the products and you will be directed to a site to purchase.

1. Chocolate Bar Eyeshadow Palette by Too Faced, $49

This eyeshadow palette is one of my favorites because each shadow is made with actual cocoa!  So, anytime I am putting on my eyeshadow, it smells like chocolate.  With names like "Salted Caramel" and "Pink Champagne," it is absolutely adorable.  There are matte colors and also more shimmery ones, perfect for blending and highlighting.  

2. Naked2 Eyeshadow Palette by Urban Decay, $54

The metallic shades in this palette are truly to die for.  It even comes with a fluffy eyeshadow brush that is perfect for blending.  "Tease," is a neutral, matte color that I use with almost every look.  In my opinion, "Half Baked," is the perfect gold color.  I love the entire palette because shades range from the more golden tones to the silvery ones.

3. Roller Lash Mascara by Benefit, $24

Moving on from eyeshadows, this mascara works wonders.  I really love the brush and think it does an excellent job of holding on to every lash all while lengthening and thickening.  

4. Naked Flushed, by Urban Decay, $32

Contouring and highlighting are so important for any look!  For a more intense look, go a little darker with the contour.  For a light, day look, go with a little more highlighter and blush.  Personally, I never use the blush that comes in the Flushed palette because it is too pink for my skin tone.  It would work wonders on a person with a fair skin tone.  Yet I find the highlighter to be absolutely perfect and the bronzer is really pretty as well.

5.  5-in-1 BB Advanced Performance Cream Eyeshadow, by bareMinerals, $18

This 5-in-1 cream eyeshadow is perfect for so many reasons.  For one, it is shimmery and beige, so it can be used alone.  It is pretty and subtle, and I have definitely used this for more natural looks.  I mostly use it as a primer for my other eyeshadows.  When I layer another eyeshadow on top of it, it lasts all day if I use this BB cream!  

6. Complexion Rescue, by bareMinerals, $29 

This complexion rescue is truly amazing.  It is so light and blends on so nicely.  There is a variety of shades as well that can match nearly every skin tone.  I've used Ginger 06- Spice 08, all depending on the tan and shade the rest of my body is.  I really love the coverage it provides.

7. La Crème Color Drenched Lipstick, by Too Faced, $22 (in Honey Bear- Toasted Mauve)

The "Honey Bear" shade of the La Crème Color Drenched Lipstick collection is so beautiful and can really work on anyone.  I love it because it definitely gives color, but also is not too bold.  I have also tried the "Taffy Pink Marshmallow Nude" and it is a nice pink shade.  They have shades like "Rasberry Red Jelly Bean" and "Lollipop Violet with Orchid Shimmer", which are bright and bold colors.  It goes on silky and keeps lips soft and colored!

Clothes (all from H&M because it is my recent obsession)

1. Jersey Jumpsuit, H&M, $9.95

What I call a "romper," this jersey jumpsuit is so comfortable, versatile, and affordable.  It can go with a cool pair of Keds or Converse and a jean jacket.  It can be worn with strappy sandals and a cardigan.. the lists goes on!  It is so comfortable, I have even fallen asleep in it.  I love the simplicity of it because it can be worn with unique jewelry or just by itself to lounge around in.

2. Pleated Skirt, H&M, $17.99

I love this skirt because, while it's a little on the long side, I think it's super fun and cute.  I would wear it with sandals or wedges, and could only imagine how fitting it would look in the streets of London.  It's neutral and could be matched with a plain shirt or something with a pop or color.

3. T-Shirt Dress, H&M, $17.95

If there was a dress to describe "comfortable and casual," it would be this one.  With the cool baseball sleeves and nice color, it could go with a variety of shoes and accessories.  I love how plain it is because it's perfect for traveling.

4. Short-Sleeved Dress, H&M, $34.95

When I first saw this dress in stores I automatically thought, "Paris!"  I love the ruffled details at the top and the nice fabric it is made from.  The cute belt that ties in front is a nice addition.  It is a pretty dress that is suited for summer and spring.

5. Jersey Top, H&M, $4.99

Jersey tops are essentials and at $4.99 why not buy one in every color?  I have learned that when you can find nothing to wear, you wear a jersey top and jeans.  I sometimes will accessorize with cool rings and a simple necklace.  They are the perfect top and so comfortable!

6. Chinos High Waist, H&M, $34.95

These may at first appear ugly, but I think they are a stable piece everyone should have in their wardrobe.  These are great for walking around the city in and for those cooler summer nights.  Dress up or dress down, they are versatile and reliable because they can go with nearly anything.  I would put these with some strappy sandals, a floppy hat, and a striped t-shirt.

7. Knit Cardigan, H&M, $12.95

This is probably one of my favorite things in my wardrobe right now.  It is soft and comfortable and I can wear it with whatever if I'm in a rush.  I'm definitely bringing this on vacation because it's light and I can throw it on if it gets chilly in the streets of Amsterdam.

Well, that is all for now.  Those are some basics everyone should have for the rest of spring and the start of summer.  I am so excited for the next upcoming months and can not wait to share my adventures with you!  Until next time xxx.