Friday Fours

Happy Friday everyone! This was such an odd week as I had Monday off and then Tuesday ended up being cancelled because of the so called polar vortex... Needless to say, it was kind of a crazy past couple of days! Here's what I've been up to:

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Since my 2014 motto is to "try new things," I went to one of my favorite restaurants and ordered something completely crazy: the fruit waffle. Usually I opt for my favorite blackened salmon salad (I am a creature of habit after all) but decided to change it up, and oh my goodness, what a difference it made! Who knew a waffle could be so pretty, and delicious! 

:: two ::

If you read this post then you probably already know about my latest find, the Rayban Clubmaster look alike! I seriously cannot wait to have an excuse to wear them and for once, I actually love how they look on me. If you are in the market for a new pair or are in the mood to treat yourself, I seriously recommend them - they look super expensive!

:: three ::

Ohh the to do list. When will this stress relieving method not do the trick? Since Sunday is my day for getting everything set and ready for the week, I've started making one every week of what I want to accomplish throughout the day. It's definitely done wonders - I've been more productive and have crossed things off that I've been meaning to for weeks!

:: four ::

Lastly, I know this is a repost but I just had to share my favorite seasonal category of fruit with you: the citrus fruits (#obvi)! I've literally been eating way too many grapefruits and oranges to count and have been loving every minute of it. They are so good for your body and make you feel so cleansed and refreshed throughout the day. If you're not really a grapefruit or orange lover, try clementines! I promise you will become addicted. 

Well that was my week, how was yours?

Any fun plans for the weekend? Do share!

xoxo,

cYa

Recent Purchases

Even though it's been difficult, I've been really trying to make fewer, smarter purchases this year. Instead of mindlessly purchasing things I think I'm going to wear, I have been really thinking about how I'm going to wear things and realistically, how often. Below are a couple fun things I've picked up recently!

Remember this post about wanting new sunglasses? Well, I gave that some thought too. After thinking about it, I came to the realization that I am not exactly the most careful person in the world (#oops) and that I will most likely end up breaking, smashing, losing, etc. an expensive pair. Then, when I took a trip to the J.Crew Factory store, I spotted these literally identical men's glasses that look exactly like the Rayban clubmasters! And for only $14, you could definitely call it the deal of the century. I also bought this super pretty white lace top there as well and think it is the most perfect thing for my upcoming trip to Florida. 

I also stopped in Old Navy after seeing so many cute pieces on Pinterest. Oh my goodness, I came across the most precious coral vest on sale and knew I had to have it. It looks perfect with navy, white and even the neon pink workout top I had on when I bought it! Additionally, I ran to Gap a few weeks ago as well and bought this fun baseball inspired tee. I had been looking for something like it for a long time and am in love with the one I chose. 

Have you bought anything worth chatting about lately?

xoxo,

cYa

A Quick + Healthy Dinner for the Girl on the Go

During the week, I quite frequently find myself with lots to do and little time to eat dinner, much less make it something healthy. So far this week I've really been proud of my more nutritious choices (aka saying no to three cookies at lunch) and when I had off on Tuesday because of the #polarvortex, I decided to whip up something fun for lunch! I literally made this up off the top of my head with things I had on hand and think it is perfect for those meals when you are really in a rush.

And it was absolutely delicious, might I add ;)

Here's what you do:

1. Heat up a saucepan with olive oil and add some chopped onions. Let this simmer until the onions begin to get a little bit brown.

2. Add pre-cooked noodles (I used multigrain Barilla ones because they are really high in fiber).

3. Sprinkle in shaved carrots to your liking.

4. Dump in already steamed broccoli and stir ingredients around, making sure everything is being cooked.

5. Add however much salt, pepper and garlic you like.

6. Taste test to make sure everything is warm and cooked - feel free to add more olive oil if it is too dry!

And viola! It's that simple. This pasta tastes great on top of greens if you need more vegetables in your diet and has lots of beneficial nutrients. 

What are your healthy go-to meals when you are short on time?

xoxo,

cYa 

Outfit: Polka Dot Snood

snood (similar) // jacket // bow ring // tortoise cuff

With these freakishly cold temperatures lingering a bit too long for my liking, I've been going back to three main things: a quilted jacket, my warm snood and (of course) hot chocolate. The combination allows me to step outside without getting frostbite and if I must admit, I think it's  pretty stylish! I've been loving to add a fun stack as well to bring a little more color into the outfit. So tell me, if you are experiencing this polar vortex as well, what are you go to's?

Stay warm friends!

xoxo,

cYa

*photos by the blonde prep*

Resort Wear

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With Spring Break approaching (somewhat) quickly, I've loved seeing all of the new resort wear lines coming out. Simply scrolling through pictures of pretty clothes in warm temperatures and clear skies is enough to put me in a sunny state of mind, even though it's another one of those negative twenty degree days here in Wisconsin (like seriously, haven't we had enough?!). I've been planning out my outfits in my head for my trip to Florida because it's never too early right? Are any of you taking any fun trips soon? If you have room, feel free to pack me in your suitcase ;) 

xoxo,

cYa

What I'm Loving

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When I first joined Pinterest a year ago, I had no idea what I was getting into. I thought it would be one of those things that I would start but never really continue or become, well, addicted! Like every other girl, Pinterest is my source of inspiration, whether it be for outfits, recipes or interiors. But the one thing I never realized was how many fun items I would find. Take that pretty pink and white weekend duffel for example. How incredible is that? And for only $35, I wouldn't mind adding it to the shopping cart! 

Are there any fun things you've found on Pinterest lately?

xoxo,

cYa

Friday Fours

Well, I don't know about you, but I think it's been a long but super fun week. I've had a lot going on but that just made it all the more enjoyable! Here are some exciting things in my life at the moment:

:: one ::

Today I'm asking my preppy guy bestie to Sadie's, and of course I had to do the preppiest way possible: a Vineyard Vines whale sign! I saw this idea on Pinterest and knew I just had to do it. I'm even wearing my J.Crew whale sweater for a "whaley" fun touch ;)

:: two ::

Boy oh boy, blogging sure does bring a lot of amazing things with it, doesn't it? I love sharing the monogram love with you all and had a fabulous time hosting a giveaway with Marley Lilly, my favorite place to buy all things monogrammed. I would never have gotten to the point I'm at without all of you guys, so I thought it was time to thank you with a giveaway! I'll be announcing the winner of the clutch very soon so stay tuned! 

:: three ::

I've been trying to dress up my outfits a little more lately because I feel like I've gotten into a bit of a casual slump. Velvet cords, a cashmere sweater + booties are my favorite way to do so! 

:: four ::

Lastly, last weekend Fran and I shot a few outfit posts together because I was dying to see her new camera. I've been wanting a high quality one for the longest time so I can take my photography and blog to the next level, and since my 16th birthday is coming up, I think it might actually happen! #fingerscrossed

I know I don't say it enough, but I'm so so thankful for all of you. I can't imagine what my life would be like without blogging and your endless support! You are seriously the best. 

Did any exciting things happen to you this week?

xoxo,

cYa

3 Classic Earrings Every Girl Should Own

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Now that I've had my ears pierced for three months, I've begun to stock up on a few pairs of classic earrings that I'll wear for years to come. Like I am with clothes and other accessories, I think I'm going to be one of those people who has a few pairs of nice earrings that will last for a long time. Pearls are my number one go to because they are so simple and classy. Knots are my second favorite (I got a pair of gold and silver for Christmas and love them) - they're super nautical and add a preppy touch! Lastly, you have to have a fun pair right? These hot pink studs from Kate Spade are too fun and they come in ten more colors! I definitely recommend going to check out all three of these because I promise you will love them! 

What are your must have earrings?

xoxo,

cYa

Giveaway: Crossbody Clutch

Remember the precious crossbody clutch I shared with you yesterday? Today I'm so excited to announce that I've partnered with Marley Lilly to giveaway one clutch of your choice! There are so many colors to choose from and it's the perfect bag for all occasions. Enter below and good luck!

Citrus & Style Giveaway

Which color would you choose?

xoxo,

cYa

Outfit: The Perfect Day to Night Bag

When it comes to handbags, I definitely stay with the classics. There's nothing better than a simple, streamline bag that you can use for different occasions whether it be running errands or going out for a nice dinner. So when I first spied the Luxe Crossbody Clutch, I knew I had to have it! The classic shape and fun monogram are the perfect mix, made for all events, am I right? I chose the navy and white combination (obvi) because I knew it would match with everything and that is definitely the case. I've been using it a bit more than I care to admit and have gotten so many compliments on it. And with the affordable price, you'd be a fool not to scoop up one of your own! Plus, it looks absolutely divine with a fun arm party (this bangle is a perfect addition). 

Do you have a crossbody clutch?

P.S. Come back tomorrow because you may even win one of your own!

xoxo,

cYa

Shop the look right here: 

Sarah Jessica Parker's Shoe Line

Oprah's best friend, Gayle King, interviewed SJP the other day on the Coveteur and I knew it had to be shared. The fact that the real life Carrie Bradshaw designed a shoe collection excites me so much - I mean who can pull off an outfit better than Carrie herself?! The story behind part of the design is too cute to mention as well. As a little girl, it was a tradition for Sarah and her sisters to wear grosgrain ribbons in their hair so in her collection, she's included a few little ribbon details. Isn't that too cute? You can't miss this video either (the end is my favorite!). The line comes out exclusively at Nordstrom February 28th. 

Are you a SJP or Carrie Bradshaw fan?

xoxo,

cYa

Friday Fours

After a seemingly endless week of late nights, early mornings and a lot of work in between, you can probably guess I am glad it's Friday (then again when don't I say that ;). I've found that I've barely had time for blogging and that may explain the rather quick posts this week, besides this series launch that I'm super excited about! Now let's get down to business, shall we?

:: one ::

Last weekend my mom and I ran a couple errands with my 83 year old uncle, a simple outing that turned out to be so fun. One of the most stylish and witty people I know, my uncle turned the trip to the grocery store into one of the most entertaining things ever (plus hearing him chat up the bakery lady was pretty hysterical as well). It definitely goes to show you that the little things really do make all the difference! These flowers I spotted during the trip were stunning and a must share. 

:: two ::

Remember when I talked about finding a "signature scent" a while back? Well, I was so thrilled to receive the Ralph Lauren Big Pony perfume for Christmas and I have been wearing it nonstop. Definitely a great one for anyone in the market for a new perfume!

:: three ::

Oh-em-gee. So, by now you've probably heard about my latest Target purchase - these stunningly chic pencils from (yes) the dollar section. Saying this was one of the best purchases I've made so far this year would be an understatement. The quality is great for only a dollar and the amount of compliments I have received on them is incredible. If you haven't bought a set yourself, hop to it! 

:: four ::

So... how many days until Spring Break? I've been planning what to do and wear while I'm at the beach in a few weeks and the idea of warm weather and sand between my toes is getting me super excited. I seriously cannot wait for March to come!! 

Hope you all had a fantastic week!

xoxo,

cYa

How to be Healthy January

Hellooo everyone! Today I am starting a fun new series called "How to be Healthy January" where I will be posting ways to create healthier habits in your life. For this first post, I will be talking about what I do to live a more nutritious lifestyle and then I will have two more posts coming up where I interview a few of the most fit people I know. January is definitely the month people stress out about eating nutritious foods and exercising more, so I thought this would be a great series to kick start your resolutions!

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The first thing I want to start with is a little motto for living an active lifestyle: 

I think it's super important to get excited about being a new healthy person because when you're enthusiastic about something, you're more willing to stick with it, right? Keep in mind how much better you will feel after a few days!

Going along with this idea, I have 5 easy tips for you to live a healthier lifestyle:

Stock up on fun supplies to get you started.

Whether it be some new workout shorts, a monogrammed yoga mat (you seriously need this) or a pretty headband, buying a couple things to get you pumped about working out can be really helpful in getting you excited. Lululemon, Target and Thomas Kelly are my absolute favorites for workout wear and fun accessories to go along with it. 

Find delicious and nutritious snacks.

Studies are starting to show that eating more, smaller meals throughout the day is better than three larger ones. Eating wholesome snacks during your day will keep you focused and energized, plus who doesn't love taking a little mental snack break once and a while? A few of my favorites include: yogurt with granola and fruit, almonds and a clementine, an apple with peanut butter, a strawberry banana smoothie, or carrots and humus, amount countless others. Pack one or two for the day and you will be set! 

Set a bedtime routine.

They don't call it "beauty sleep" for nothing! It is essential to make a set time to wake up and go to sleep everyday, and do so as regularly as possible. Getting more sleep will keep you energized and less stressed. If you have trouble falling asleep (it happens to the best of us), I like to snuggle up in my bed with a few magazines and a warm drink. 

Drink water.

I know I have mentioned this several times before (see here) but I cannot stress this enough: drink water, and drink it often! On a daily basis I try to drink at least 64 ounces of it. By drinking more water, you will flush out toxins in your body, get more energy, aid in digestion, etc. Try to drink 64 ounces or half of your body weight a day!

Figure out your favorite way to exercise.

Exercising should not only be a great workout but something you actually enjoy! While I personally love running on the treadmill and going on the elliptical at the gym, most people have other ideas when it comes to shedding calories. Spinning, jazzercise, yoga, tennis, you name it! Determine what you love and stick with it. 

 I hope you enjoyed this first edition of How to be Healthy January!

Are there any things you would like to see in the future posts?

xoxo,

cYa

Looks We Love

J.Crew's Looks We Love outfit ideas always serve as incredible inspiration for me. Their pairings of new arrivals are absolutely spot on, and are often put together in ways I never would have thought of. For example, I never considered wearing patterned flats with shorts, an oversized sweater and a baseball cap. But, it totally works! Above are 4 of my favorite outfit ideas they came out with this month and see the other ones right here!

xoxo,

cYa

Investing in Sunnies

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After having my monogrammed sunglasses for a good year now, I think it's time to invest in an expensive pair that will last for years to come. Don't get me wrong, I love my monogrammed ones but it's always great to have an option or two, right? I've been looking for a little bit now and with my birthday coming up (the big 1-6 haha), it's the perfect time to splurge! Finally, I think I've narrowed it down to a few options - check out my favorites below!

I need some input... which brand should I go with?

xoxo,

cYa

5 Magazines You Should Read

As much as I love Pinterest (don't get me wrong, I have an addiction!), there's something about opening a crisp new magazine for inspiration. I love being able to feel the pages rather than search endlessly on a computer screen. Plus, it's so fun to rip out pages and stick them on a bulletin board for a little eye candy!

While I don't subscribe to any magazines at the moment, here are 5 of my favorites to buy once and a while.

Real Simple // for organizational tips and yummy recipes

HGTV // for interior inspiration and diy's

InStyle // for fashion interviews and beauty ideas 

Lucky // for fabulous finds and photography

People Style Watch // for great deals and new trends

Which magazines do you subscribe to? 

I love hearing new ideas!

xoxo,

cYa

What is Your Hair Routine?

A while ago my blogger friends and I were having a discussion on what our hair routines are and more specifically, how often we wash or use heat on our hair. It's such a popular topic and it varies so much for each girl, which can be frustrating or simply interesting to hear everyone's opinions!

Personally, my hair is super moody. In the summer I hate using heat on it because I'm afraid I'm going to do too much damage to it, but it lasts days without getting greasy. In the winter it gets oily so quickly that I have to wash it every day or every other day. I normally blow dry my hair after I wash it and occasionally straighten it in the morning if I have time. The one thing that annoys me the most is that in the colder months so much static builds up - every time I touch even a strand of my hair the whole thing puffs up! If anyone has any helpful ideas on this topic, please comment below!

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I thought this would be a fun topic to discuss since every girl can relate so please, comment below and let's get the conversation going!

What's your hair routine?

xoxo,

cYa

Friday Fours

This week was definitely a strange but fun one. Monday and Tuesday I ended up having off because of extreme wind chills (perks of living in Wisconsin my friends) so my break was extended. An odd surprise but nevertheless enjoyable! 

:: one ::

Last weekend I ran into Lululemon for the first time ever. I've heard the best things about it but since I don't have one really close to my house, I never had the opportunity to stop in. Oh my goodness, I have definitely been missing out! The look of the store is absolutely beautiful and so are all of the products. I left with the cutest heather gray headband and am excited to go back when there's something I really want! 

:: two ::

Winter is the season of citrus fruits and boy have I been enjoying it. Everyday I've been eating at least 4 clementines (#guiltypleasure) and the grapefruits have been delicious as well. They offer tons of great health benefits aside from their yummy taste, so I definitely recommend eating them daily!

:: three ::

New year, new calendar, am I right? Target's Sugar Paper collection is absolutely spot on, especially their calendars. I couldn't wait to put my new one up and think it adds the cutest touch to my walls.

:: four :: 

I've been finding more of an exercise routine lately and with lacrosse starting soon, I probably won't have time BUT I really am wanting to start yoga again. It was more of a summer thing for me but I think it could really help alleviate stress and my overall flexibility and happiness. Should I join a class? I'm thinking about trying hot yoga! Thoughts?

Hope you all had an incredible week!

xoxo,

cYa

Getting Organized for the New Semester

Like many of you, this is my first week back at school. I can't say I'm really excited or really dreading going back, but let's just say I'm going to try to ease back into this week as best I can!

If you've been reading my blog for a while now, you probably have figured out what the organizational freak I am. When it comes to school in particular, I like knowing exactly how I'm going to arrange everything, whether it be what I have in my backpack, how I organize files on my laptop, or simply which pens and pencils I keep in my pencil case. I've gotten everything down to a system that I like and since it is a new year and a new semester, it is the perfect time to clear out your old binders and start fresh!

Here are a few steps on getting set for the new semester: 

:: Clean out your drawers :: 

Both going through and rearranging your desk and dresser drawers is something I love to get out of the way. It helps you find things more easily and who likes having extra junk lying around anyway? Cleaning these out will give you less anxiety about losing things as well.

:: Empty out your backpack ::

If yours is like mine, then your backpack is probably like a black hole. I often cannot find important things like my calculator for weeks because so much stuff piles up! Remove everything and take inventory of what you have, what's missing and what you need to buy more of.

:: Clear out old binders and folders ::

But make sure to keep everything! I like to file papers from previous semesters in accordion folders and keep them near my desk so that I have them but they aren't taking up the current semester's space. If you use them, I recommend buying new binder dividers so they aren't ripped or bent.

:: Go through your pencil case :: 

Ok, this step isn't necessary but I love starting off the semester with a few new pencils and pens! When I buy school supplies at the beginning of the year, I store some extra supplies so I can restock fresh ones when mine get old and beat up. Make sure you only have writing utensils that you actually use in your pencil case!

:: Organize your electronic files ::

After a few weeks, my computer desktop usually collects a few too many files stacked up on one another (you know what I'm talking about?). This clutter drives me crazy so I make sure to place items I don't need in the trash and then correctly file documents that I still need. See this post for how I use desktop folders to file things!

I hope this post was helpful and that you have a great new semester!

What do you do to start the year off on the right foot?
xoxo,
cYa

Stylish Decorating On a Budget

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When it comes to decorating, especially when you're younger and aren't going to be living in the same place for twenty years, I think it's important to find fun yet inexpensive pieces to decorate with. Who says you need to spend $300 on an accent pillow anyway? Not this girl! That being said, I ran into Target the other day (per usual) to pick up a picture frame. I know that store like the back of my hand yet somehow never made it through the interiors area. Let me tell you, I have a new obsession! I found tons of cute goodies that if I had my own apartment, I know I could decorate it on Target products alone. Moral of the story here, if you need an accent table, pillow or rug or two, Target is the place to check!

Are you a Target fan as well?

xoxo,

cYa

Links I Love

Happy Tuesday everyone! First of all, I apologize for not posting many outfit pictures lately. It has been absolutely freezing and windy here (hence the 2 day extension of my winter break) so I thought it would be better to wait until it is actually safe to be outside #wiscoprobs. I don't know about you, but I have been in a real funk lately. I'm missing my routine that I have during the school week and feel too lazy to do anything productive, other than a super fun DIY I'm working on! That being said, I thought a few fun links were a great way to get your mind working again so you can focus and start the new year off right. Enjoy! 

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Kind of obsessed with this cute little camera. (The color is to die for too!)


One of the best mantras I've heard for the new year.

After seeing everyone's stunning vacation pictures (Gracey, Sloane and Bess' are my favorites!), I am really in the mood to head somewhere warm for a few days.

I'm in love with this top from the Lilly Pulitzer sale. Buy it today before it's gone!


One of my favorite bloggers, Blair Eadie, was featured on the Coveteur the other day. Her impeccable taste is something I've always admired her for.

Anything you are particularly loving as of late?

xoxo,

cYa

Cold Weather Fashion

Considering my winter break was extended today due to extremely low wind chills here in Wisconsin, I felt like this post was much needed. I'm assuming most of you are experiencing this cold front as well so I thought it would be perfect to start off this chilly week! Here are a few things you can wear that are sure to keep you warm.

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Wear a warm coat with a fur hood. Some may think it is a trend no one has donned since the 90's, but I think this kind of outwear has definitely made a comeback this season! 

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Buy a warm hat and an oversized coat that you love. You don't have to spend a fortune to find a chic jacket - places like H&M and Gap even have great options that won't break the bank and will still keep you toasty! Make sure to layer thick sweaters underneath for extra coziness.

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Lastly, if you live in a snowy climate, warm boots are a must. Whether they are riding boots or winter boots (these are my absolute favorite!), snug footwear really makes the difference when you are walking outside. And don't forget to add a pair of J.Crew camp socks too!

I hope you are all staying warm in this weather! 

What do you wear when the temperatures drop?

xoxo,

cYa

Stylish Sweeties: Peyton & Madison

I'd be lying if I said I didn't have a teeny girl crush on Peyton and Madison, the stylish ladies behind the blog Identical Ideals. Their chic style and sisterly bond is something I am totally jealous of and they make me want a twin sister of my own (a red haired one preferably)! Madison and Peyton don lots of blues, whites and neutrals and throw in some fun patterns for good measure. Their blog is so clean and unique, unlike any other site I've seen before, complete with stunning photographs of their life in Charleston. If you haven't checked out the blog these darling girls run, go check it out and see how beautiful it is! 

Please tell me I'm not the only one who is considering a red dye job now...

xoxo,

cYa