2015 Year in Review and 2016 Goals

I'm not a person who is huge on resolutions, however I am a big list maker. So I'm writing this down as basically a "to-do" list for 2016.

 

Work up to the gym 5x a week. 
I'm currently at a minimum working out twice a week, but on average three times a week. I really want to push it to five days a week, but I'll start at hoping for four times per week.

Cut back on the weeknight drinking.
I like wine....a lot. So do my friends, roommates, and boyfriend. So it's easy to crack open a bottle with the intention of one glass and end up finishing the bottle (easily) on a week night. I want to reign in the weekday drinking a bit. It'll be better for my waistline, sleep, and hydration.

Monitor my eating better.
I've been off and on using MyFitnessPal, but I just bought an adorable planner from Blogilates and I want to use it every day! This way I can monitor my eating better. I keep catching myself indulging meal after meal, and want to limit on one indulge dinner/lunch per week!

Apply and work with more companies and brands via my blog.
Okay I obviously can't list goals without a blog related goal! I've been accepted into a few more brand communities and I need to improve my pitches. I want to comfortably be able to reach out to companies and pitch to them (successfully!) and develop a better voice in reviewing products and seamlessly integrating those posts into something you will want to read!

2015 has been a whirlwind of crazy things, and I'm happy that it all happened but also a bit happy that it's over.

January:

I went to San Francisco and Santa Cruz and made overly ambitious reading goals.

February:

I tried my hand at a homemade pie crust.

March:

I tried to start running and gave up after a couple weeks.

April:

I went to Vegas, talked about Weight Watchers, and bought my domain "alannaandcompany.com"!

May:

I broke up with my boyfriend, traveled to Nashville that same weekend to visit my two best friends from high school, and moved home to my parents.

June:

I hit my six month blogging anniversary.

July:

I realized that I have a resting bitch face and scare a lot of people away and started to move on from my break-up.

August:

I binge watched a lot of TV and hosted an Instagram photo-a-day challenge with some other awesome blogger co-hosts.

September:

I started a new job and joined a fantasy football league for the first time in my life.

October:

I picked up hosting Humpday Confessions and started dating my current boyfriend.

November:

The month that I redesigned my blog and started my reading list for 2016.

December:

I turned 25.

What are your goals for the New Year? Are you happy that 2015 is almost over?

 

2

Signs Your Fitbit Has Taken Over Your Life

1. You wear it constantly, except for in the shower.

 

2. You get stressed when you have to charge it because that's precious time that it's not tracking you.

 

 

3. If you're not in a challenge, there's no point to hitting 10K steps a day.

 

4. When you forget your Fitbit there's no point to doing anything that day because it doesn't count.

 

 

5. You obsessively track your sleeping habits.

 

6. When you want to go out and wear a nice watch or bracelet that would clash with your Fitbit, you find ways to wear your Fitbit on other places than your wrist.

Don't be like crazy Fitbit Alanna, be free from your Fitbit life. Enjoy the holidays and don't worry that you're only getting about 2k steps per day between walking to the fridge, going to the TV, and then back into bed.

Happy Holidays and hope you all had a good Christmas if that's what you celebrate.

 

50

Easy Lasagna for the Lazy Chef

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #YesYouCAN #CollectiveBias

I would like to preface this by saying that even if you aren't a lazy chef, this recipe is great too. Like you know, I tend to avoid recipes that have 10 + ingredients, so often I stay away from lasagna because there are usually way too many ingredients to buy that I don't already have in my kitchen. However, I was really craving lasagna the other day on a rainy night, so I decided to give it a whirl and see how it goes.

Since I always have cans of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, I tried checking out Hunt's Pinterest (Yes, they have a pinterest!) for a lasagna recipe. The recipe I adapted was from straight from Hunt's recipe collection. You can find the recipe and other great, easy-to-make recipes, there too!

If you don't have all the ingredients already, you can stop by any local grocery store or Walmart to pick up the rest of the ingredients below. I stopped by Walmart on my way home to pick up some extra Hunt's petite diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. You can find it in the grocery section of Walmart along with the rest of the canned vegetables/fruits.

 

Lasagna for the Lazy

Makes one 9×9 dish

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 90 minutes

 

[ultimate-recipe id="1334" template="default"]

 

What is your favorite meal to warm you up on cold nights?

0

Things I Never Grew Out Of

Happy birthday....to me! For some reason I forgot to take this day off and I am currently at work (or maybe riding in on the metro slightly late after brunch yesterday...) and I'm probably regretting every second of it it. So I'm obviously writing to you from the past because I knew I had to schedule this post out far in advance.Anyways, in celebration of my birthday I want to share with you some things that I never grew out of.

Being easily entertained

I literally snapped and texted all my friends the other day when I finally got to ride on a new metro car. It was shiny, the voice was automated, it was smooth! I'd like to think that half of my friends were just like this

But I got absolutely no responses so I'll just have to assume...

Being overly cautious

I know most kids aren't overly cautious and then grow into it, except I've always been over-cautious. I had hoped that I'd be more adventurous at this age, but even hearing someone saying they're going scuba diving gives me the sweats.

Gliding on shopping carts

There's just something so exciting about getting a little running start and gliding down the aisle to where you need to pick up more chicken stock.

Naps

Licking the baking bowl.

I could care less that I could get salmonella. I gotta test it before putting it through the entire process of baking it.

Counting with my fingers

Oh yes, you better believe that I counted on my fingers during my GRE. Fool-proof ways of adding.

So hope you are all having a wonderful Monday and aren't nursing a hangover like I am (most likely). What are some things that you never grew out of?

 

2

Trendsend Subscription Box Review

So I've been big on getting Stitchfixes every time I get some credit in my account. I've reviewed them before, I like them, and some I don't like. But about a month ago Chelsie wrote about a newer service called Trendsend and I was totally intrigued. So of course, I signed up for them ASAP.

Here's the scoop. You fill out a style profile, like Stitchfix, and enter in all of your information, your likes, your dislikes, etc. The fun part is that they also ask you to take photos of yourself and send it in so they can see your physical body shape too!

Initially, I was so excited because it seemed like Stitchfix but without the $20 styling fee. What a steal? I could send back everything without having to pay a cent. Then I got an email last week saying that they are now implementing a $20 styling fee :( Sorry, gals.

The other differences between Stitchfix and Trendsend are:

-Trendsend offers clearance and sale items.
-Instead of receiving one item and then giving you suggestions of what to pair with it, Trensend sends you full outfits.
-You have five days to try and return your items with Trendsend instead of three days.
-With Stitchfix you can decide the exact day you want to have your fix sent to you by. Trendsend says they will send you your fix "within 14 days," however mine took 16 days to send. So I just had to wait around and hope I was at home when it arrived.
-They send you more items per package. I got seven, where Stitchfix only sends you five items.

Now to segue off that last point, I had no clue when my package was coming and my apartment package delivery is pretty wishy-washy about alerting me if I have a package. So I received it on a Wednesday and then went down to check on a Saturday if I had a package. Yep...Three days ago. Luckily, I had five days to send it back but it wasn't enough time to photograph all the clothes with me wearing them. #badblogger. So here are just the images from Trendsend/Evereve's website of the items that they sent me.

Ezra Ponte Tunic Dress - $78

I love the idea of the dress, I loved the fabric, the pattern, however the style of this type of dress is absolutely awful on me. Since I'm so petite, where the drop waist lands is on my hips and the length of the dress is almost to my knees. If it was petite, I would have got it for sure. Verdict: Returned

In addition to the dress, they sent a black cami with it. Fine, that makes a whole outfit, but a black cami for $28? No way. I have camis already, and if I needed new ones, I'd go to target and buy them for $5. Verdict: Returned

Dark Evelyn Top - $78

Again, the same issue. I loved the style of the top and the material however it was way too long on me. The shirt entirely covered my butt and it just made me look frumpy. Verdict: Returned

Vegan Leather Seamed Legging - $108

Oh boy, this was an interesting one. I didn't mind the idea of it, especially since htey were intending to style it with the above top (which was long!) They felt comfortable enough but hugged in all the wrong spots (i.e. crotch.) Unless I wore this with shirts that completely covered my front and butt, I would never walk outside wearing them. Verdict: Returned

 

Hanna Tee - $59

I really did like this tee, it fit well, and I love blue. However it was pretty see-through and I wasn't sure how the material would hold up in the long run. If it was cheaper I would have kept it, but it wasn't worth the $59 to me. Verdict: Returned


Krista Ankle Skinny with Raw Hem - $169

So first of all, I told my stylist, specifically not to send me jeans because I have so many already that I love. She acknowledged that in her letter to me and said that "these jeans were one of a kind." That's for sure. Okay take a peek at the hem line. They were completely frayed. Absolutely, not my style. They fit well, and they were comfortable but I'm just not sure what my stylist thought when looking at my style profile.Verdict: Returned

Cozy Cabled V Neck - $78

It's pretty funny looking at this picture because it's not how my sweater fits me at all. I guess I truly am petite. The sweater is so much longer on me, but it is everything I wanted. The sleeves are a bit long so if I'm cold they cover more of my hands. It also is just oversized enough but not too long to look like it is too big. The material is perfectly soft. The night that I got the box, I wore it out. Verdict: Kept!


My overall opinion of Trendsend is just okay.

Clothing: 4/5. Great options, cute styles, materials felt durable.
Styling Process: 2/5. I wish they listened better to what I requested and focused on styles that would work for petite.
Prices: 4/5. I think most things were priced well. I would never spend that amount for jeans or leggings but the tops and dress were just at the right price point.
Overall Process: 3/5. I wish they told you exactly when you would be receiving the fix or updated you of the tracking information when it sent out, so you can anticipate when it will arrive. The five days to decide is much better than only three. I'm still a bit confused on the return process (so I'll have to follow up with you on that later), I just put the stuff I returned back into the bag and mailed out, but there was no online "check-out" like there is for Stitchfix. I just left feedback for the items. So we will see when I get charged? Not much instruction on this part.

I might give them another try again, however I'm a bit discouraged because they added on the $20 styling fee. (and I have some credit with Stitchfix, still)

Have you tried any clothing subscription boxes? Which are your favorites?

26

Humpday Confessions | A 70 Degree December

Happy Humpday Confessors! It's been a crazy year hasn't it? I can't believe it's almost coming to an end so soon.

I confess...

that I went to go see the National Christmas tree for the first time....ever. I'm probably a bad Washingtonian for not ever going to see it before, but it was just never on my priority list.

I was going there for a purpose. I had to get photos for my parent's holiday card. So of course, I cart out there with the boyfriend, the dog, my camera, my remote and tripod. What ever was I thinking? We got yelled at my secret service for having a tripod because everything needed to be "on" or "with" you at all times. So we had to set up and then run away quickly after getting a few snaps of us with the White House behind us. Then trying to get a good photo without 100 people in the background was definitely difficult. I got so frustrated at one point that I just took down the tripod and just started asking people to take photos of us. #Cuethecropping

Totally doesn't look like it's December...

that we did get some great photos and it was an amazing excuse to walk around the city like a tourist for a day (and play with my camera). Starla definitely loved it because there are nice fat squirrels who didn't run away because they want to get fed.

Starla also scared a whole ton of people with the squirrel chasing because as we were walking around she would quickly try to dart off the side of the road and one poor guy on a bench eating ice cream was so startled and jumped right off the bench. #sorry!

I went to a tacky sweater party on Friday night and it was so hot that I was sweating and debating taking it off. #indiansummerFTW

that this post is turning into a weekending post and I'm not even sorry. This weekend was amazing.

I still haven't been able to get out and ride the bike that I just got a few weeks ago. It's calling my name every day but I am not riding in the dark and the damn sunset is at 4:30 now!I've been hitting the body pump classes pretty hard and this damn new release is killing me. Is anyone else with me.

 

I thought that I recently developed a vibrado while singing but I just realized that it's me driving over potholes.

All gifs from Giphy

Now onto the link-up with Plucky in Love and I!

Here are the ground rules for the link-up:

• Each Wednesday create a post about what’s going on in your life and confess!


• Grab the button and include it in your post or include a text link back to the link-up.


• Link up with either me or Sarah, so we can see what you're confessing this week.


• Comment on at least one other blogger’s post from the link up.


• Feel free to share on social media with the hashtag #HumpdayConfessions and I'll retweet.


• Enjoy!

Linking up with #HashtagHumpday

0

Seven Books That I Couldn't Put Down

So thanks to Goodreads and reading challenges, I have realized two things: I don't read as fast as you people! and the older you get the harder it is to find time to read books. Seriously! I am shocked by how many people's reading updates include over 10 books per month. I was struggling with one book each month. This year was also the year I've traveled the least since probably 2009, and I read a lot on vacations. So there's my terrible excuses for the year.I'll start by recapping my Modern Mrs. Darcy reading challenge.

A book you’ve been meaning to read: Bossypants by Tina Fey

A book published this year: Inside the O'Briens by Lisa Genova

A book in a genre you don’t typically read: Far From the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy

A book from your childhood: Wild Magic by Tamora Pierce

A book your mom loves: Wicked 

A book that was originally written in a different language: IQ84 by Haruki Marukami 

A book “everyone” has read but you: Big Little Lies by Lane Moriarty

A book you chose because of the cover: The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

A book by a favorite author: Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

A book recommended by someone with great taste: Girl Boss by Sophia Amoruso

A book you should have read in high school: Lord of the Flies by William Golding

A book that’s currently on the bestseller list: The Martian by Andy Weir

 

Related Post: Review of Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man

So not too bad considering that I'm reading Light Between the Oceans right now. Out of all 21 books that I read this year, these were the books that I couldn't put down for the life of me. Links lead to Goodreads pages for each of the books.

Where'd You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple

I think a lot of people did read this book. Did you? I loved the mystery, the dark humor, and how relatable the main character, Bee was.

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

I'm a bit of a sucker for fantasy books. This book was just the right amount of fantasy without making me struggle to keep up. I loved how it was a romance told in an alternative way. This book kept me wanting more even after I finished it.

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

Are you a fan of dogs? Then read this book. It's cute, quirky, and fun. The best part is that it's told by the perspective of a dog. I typically try to stay away from dog books/movies because I expect at the end that most likely the dog will pass away, but this one has a great, uplifting, happy ending.

#GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso

I'm not a huge fan of  autobiographies/manifestos but I wanted to read this because of how young Sophia is with such great success. She teaches you how to apply lessons that she's learned into any situation and gives you no bullshit about hard work, either.

Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

The character building in this book were astounding. I felt like I was part of Jane/Celeste and Madeline's life, too. It tackles important issues in a way that was entertaining and well-written.

Wicked by Gregory MacGuire

Again, a fantasy sucker. I've read this years and years after it first came out, but I'm actually glad I waited to read it. There are so many adult issues and complexities in the book that I probably wouldn't have grasped if I read it in when it first came out. It definitely starts off slow and is a bit longer, but all the details are worth diving into Wicked headfirst.

Still Alice by Lisa Genova

I read this in one night. Given it's a small book but so interesting. Lisa Genova is an expert on the topic of Alzheimer's, and writes an astounding book. It was poignant and eye-opening to a different side of a disease that most people might not know or realize.

What books did you read this year that you couldn't put down? P.S. Be friends with me on Goodreads!

 

71

Winter Styles with Firmoo

Disclosure: I was provided this free product in exchange for my review of these glasses for Firmoo.com. Any opinions are 100% my own.

A little while back I got some prescription glasses from Firmoo.com. I love wearing them, they're perfect for nights in when I want to take out my contacts and relax my eyes. They're also super durable. So when Firmoo contacted me a second time, I was more than happy. Since I now have two prescription glasses, and  I was in need of a new pair of sunglasses I opted for a style that would work as sunglasses.

Not only could I chose to have whichever frame I wanted, I can choose to have the prescription (or non-prescription) lenses tinted and I could choose the color of the tint and how tinted I wanted them to be. The glasses did take a little longer to arrive than the non-tinted lenses. The only negative thing I can say is they do get smudged much quicker than other sunglasses that I've had.

Related Post: Firmoo Eyeglasses Review

Ordering the glasses are super simple, however be aware of the size you want to order. I would suggest measuring the size of a pair that you already have and then go from there so you don't get a pair that's too wide or too narrow for your face. Each pair lists their exact measurements and pictures of other customers wearing them.

Firmoo.com has a great search feature that allows you to narrow down your choices based on color, frame, size, material, gender, shape & price, and even prescription type. If you're still not sure, you can virtually try-on the glasses! You just need to upload a picture of yourself and then you can "try-on" a pair.

For sunny winter days when I walk to work, these glasses are perfect to throw into my purse with the hard-shell case and dust-jacket. I've definitely ruined a few sunglasses in my day by putting them into my purse without any protective covers. All in all, they're light-weight, durable, stylish and I'll definitely go back to Firmoo again for more of their glasses.

 

How's this warm, sunny December treating you so far? Are you still rocking your sunshades?

 

0

Humpday Confessions | #HashtagMadness

Happy Humpday Confessors! So just some housekeeping alerts for you guys. The holidays are getting a bit hectic and it's tough for me to write as I go so I've scheduled a bunch of posts for the rest of December. With that being said, I will not be hosting Humpday Confessions on December 23 or 30th. I just don't know how busy I will be. However, you can still link up with all the other Wednesday gals.

I confess...

My GRE test is on Friday. I'm about as ready as I can be at this point but I've definitely been studying vocab like a crazy person. Wish me luck.

 

I'm so not comfortable in front of my camera. I really need to get better for a few pictures of myself here and there because, HELLO, my blog is my brand and my brand is me. I have to take some holiday photos of myself this weekend, so if some of them turn out good I might share them here. We'll see.

I'm still surviving off Thanksgiving leftovers that I froze and have now unfrozen. #Turkeyforweeks

My menorah broke last year and I haven't fixed it, so I haven't been lighting any lights. #BADJEW! Whoops, Can I arrange my B&BW candles in a row and say it's a menorah?

Speaking of holiday decorations, I'm loving everyone's! I like mine and my roommate's too. It's a pumpkin still filled with Halloween candy. #Wesuckatdecorating

I just realized how many hashtags I've used. Laura, you should be proud of me. I usually can only find ways to incorporate one or two hashtags into posts, but this week I'm going wild!

My birthday is now only 12 days away! What are you all getting for me? Should I have written a gift guide of what to get me for my own birthday? #NomoregiftguidesI'm trying out this new brunch spot for my birthday brunch in Chinatown that just opened a couple weeks ago. $15 bottomless drinks and a killer menu. I can't wait to go. #countdownison!

 

I really do try to take my own photography however these types of posts require gifs, and I need to attribute sooooooo.......

All gifs from Giphy

Now onto the link-up with Plucky in Love and I!

Here are the ground rules for the link-up:

• Each Wednesday create a post about what’s going on in your life and confess!


• Grab the button and include it in your post or include a text link back to the link-up.


• Link up with either me or Sarah, so we can see what you're confessing this week.


• Comment on at least one other blogger’s post from the link up.


• Feel free to share on social media with the hashtag #HumpdayConfessions and I'll retweet.


• Enjoy!

 
Linking up with #HashtagHumpday

0

Festive Drinks for the Holidays

With the holiday season approaching, instead of blasting the Christmas/Channukah music, I opt to pull out my holiday recipes instead. There are definitely some foods and drinks that always remind me of the holidays and I tend to only make them around that time.So today, I've teamed up with Alexis from Chemistry Cachet to bring you our favorite holiday recipes.



 One of my fondest memories as a child was the joy I felt getting to bake sugar cookies with my mom, decorate them, and then the excitement of FINALLY getting to set out those cookies for Santa. I can still smell the cookies and feel the giddiness when I close my eyes.

Needless to say I think Sugar Cookies are a Christmas staple, but it doesn't have to be all about cookies. What about a frosted sugar cookie tea? YES! For real, this is one of the best, coziest teas I have ever made. Even if you don't like tea, that's okay! This is made with herbal tea and has no after taste, or tea like bitterness. This is truly a treat for everyone to enjoy!

I have been buying this tea for at least eight years. I cannot have a Christmas without it! If you buy one new tea this season, I highly recommend this one for sure!

Creamy Frosted Sugar Cookie Tea

• 2 bags of sugar cookie sleigh ride tea


• 8 oz of boiling water


• 1/4 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk


• 1 tbsp frosted sugar cookie creamer


• 1/8 tsp butter extract


• tiny dash of nutmeg

Directions:

Steep the tea bags in boiling water for about 4 minutes. Meanwhile, in a mug combine the milk, creamer, extract and nutmeg stirring well or shaking it up to make it foamy. Slowly add the hot tea!This taste fantastic with cookies, scones, or any Christmas treat!

Chemist Tips: extract is the BEST thing to add for flavor. This butter extract creates that true cookie taste. If you don't have this, substitute vanilla extract :)

 

For me, cider definitely makes me think "Holiday Time!" So here's how I spice (spike) up my cider drinks.

Spiked Cider with Salted Caramel Drizzle

 

Spiked Cider

• 6-8 oz glass café mug


• 1/2 oz. Fireball (or any hot cinnamon whiskey)


• 1/2 oz. Bourbon (I used Jim Beam)


• 1/2 Cup Hot Cider


• 1 Cup of Heavy Whipping Cream


• 1 Tbsp Cinnamon and 1 Tbsp white sugar, mixed


• Salted Caramel Sauce

1. Heat apple cider stove top or in microwave to a light boil.


2. Add Fireball and bourbon to the café mug and top with the heated cider.


3. If you are using premade whipped cream, skip this step. Otherwise, pour 8 oz or 1 cup of heavy whipping cream into a mixing bowl. Whisk the liquid until it begins to thicken. Be sure not to whip stiff, leave the contents thick and pourable.


4. Mix 1 tablespoon white sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon together in a small bowl and add over whipped cream.

Caramel Drizzle

• 1 Cup White sugar


• 5 Tbsp Butter


• 1 Cup Heavy whipping cream


• 1 tsp Salt

1. Place a heavy sauce pan on the stovetop and set the burner to medium high .  Add 1 cup of white sugar and stir frequently until the sugar dissolves and turns an amber or golden brown.  Be sure all lumps have dissolved and remove the sauce pan from heat.  Let the sugar sit for 1 minute and then add 5 tablespoons of butter stirring constantly until all of the butter has melted and blended with the sugar.


2. Add 1 cup of heavy whipping cream slowly and stir the caramel sauce the entire time while adding the cream. The sauce should be a creamy light brown and smooth with no lumps.  Add a teaspoon of salt and mix it into the sauce. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to thicken the sauce. Pour contents into a squeeze tube or piping bag.


3. Make your drink base and spoon the 3 tablespoons of whipped cream on top. Dust top with sugar and cinnamon mix and create a unique holiday design with salted caramel.

 

Ta-da!

I hope you like get the chance to try either of mine or Alexis's drink recipes. If you do, let us know how it works out. 

For more awesome recipes and tips follow Chemistry Cachet on Facebook | Bloglovin | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Hometalk

1

My Tattoo Stories and My Tips To You

I have three tattoos. Two are pretty large and one is small. I was thinking about it the other day because the small one that I have is a simple flower I have on my foot that I got a week after I turned 18 years old. I got it as soon as I could get a tattoo based on the parlor's availability and legal age minimums.

I was laying my legs over my boyfriend last week and just looked at my foot and said, "Wow, I've had this for forever." And it's definitely seemed like it, so much so that I think of it as part of my body now, not something I elected to get permanently etched into my skin.

I wanted a second tattoo right after my first tattoo and I wanted it to actually mean something to me. So I researched, pinned ideas, and brainstormed for months before I came upon the idea of a hamsa.  It was unique (at the time), represented my Jewish heritage, and I found a beautiful, feminine design. I had settled on the idea and then it took me four years to actually get it on my body. I graduated college, had my first full-time job and decided that I could get one that wouldn't negatively impact my career. The second reason I waited so long was to find a tattoo artist that I trusted. My friend had gone to a tattoo artist who had done his whole back and sleeves, and did an amazing job. After I had done a little research and emailed him my ideas, I set a date and drove down to Virginia Beach to get it done.

The tattoo artist did work in a studio, but since we were friends, he took us in his home (don't worry, it was totally set up and sterilized) to get the tattoo. His last appointment was running late, it was a girl who was freaking out about her shoulder tattoo and he had to keep stopping. I didn't mind, so I just ran across the street to get some food and pick up a red bull for him. When I came back, the girl getting tattooed tried to distract herself by talking to me about how many tattoos she's had and which hurt the worst. She wailed, "This one hurts the most, but I've heard ribs are the absolute worst!" I nodded and agreed with her, silently cursing her for freaking me out because I was, of course, getting a large rib tattoo.

After that whole ordeal passed, I was set up, we drew out the idea, worked on it a bit, and then got prepped to start the tattoo. I had to uncomfortably lay on my side with one arm extended over my head for the whole thing. And yes, rib tattoos do hurt. I took a couple xanax to help me relax and blasted music on my headphones while watching Inglorious Basterds. Three hours later it was done.

It was only one year before I went back for my most recent, and favorite, tattoo. I wish I had been smarter the second time around, but I'm a fool and was scared. I drank about five strawberitas (ugh, why?!), took a rumchata shot, and then xanax on top of that. I was completely blacked out on my second tattoo. I'm kind of glad that I don't remember it because it was a watercolor tattoo and my first tattoo with any sort of shading/color, however, I would do it differently my next time around. The tattoo should have only took about five hours and instead took seven because I couldn't keep my leg still. I feel so bad for my tattoo artist. He's a trooper though and gave me the best tattoo of my life, and even improved on my original idea.

I absolutely totally love my tattoos and I wouldn't go back and change them ever. Even the silly flower I have on my foot from when I was 18, I still love and appreciate it because I'll always remember when I got it and what it meant to me at the time.

Anyways, if you are on thinking about getting a tattoo, here are my tips for you.

Carefully decide on what you want to get, wait, and then come back to it.

Getting a tattoo can be spontaneous and fun, however, I have had some friends completely regret the decision. This is going to be on your body for the rest of your life. If it's that important to you, waiting for a month (or more) won't hurt.

Research a good tattoo artist and talk to them before you schedule.

I will totally only go to the same tattoo artist now that I've gone to him. We have a relationship and I like his work. Asking friends who have had tattoos (and if you like their tattoos) is a great resource. It's also important to chat with them about what you want before you book something. Maybe you want a watercolor tattoo and their specialty is classic black and white. At that point it might be good to find another artist that is more comfortable with your style of tattoo and will get you better results.

Listen to the artist's suggestions.

They're the professional. For my elk tattoo, I wanted the elk to be running towards the outside of my body and my artist made a good suggestion that most tattoos look better symmetrically pointing towards the center of your body. He also suggested the silhouette of the trees on his feet. One of my favorite parts of my tattoo. Lastly, if you have concerns about the design or are unsure about an aspect of it, talk to them. They won't (shouldn't) mind going back to the drawing board with you.

Be prepared to pay for the quality of your tattoo.

Tattoos are not cheap. Generally, a good tattoo artist is going to charge a heftier fee. That should be worth the extra couple hundred to you. My hamsa tattoo cost me around $300 and my elk/northern lights tattoo cost me over $500 and it was totally worth it for me.

Take good care of them afterwards.

Tattoos can get infected and it's pretty disgusting if they do. Listen to the artist's aftercare instructions or read this for some good aftercare instructions.

Any questions for me about tattoos? Do you have any tattoos, and what are they?

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Humpday Confessions | It's DECEMBER YAY!

Happy December! I'm so excited. Let's get right to confessing!

I confess...

That December is seriously the best month of the year. Channukah is about to start, my birthday countdown is on, Christmas is coming and then NEW YEARS!



I just finished Saint Anything. I was a huge fan of Sarah Dessen when I was in high school. It was a bit predictable but it was the perfect read for Thanksgiving break.

I already bought my NYE tickets and am going to the Newseum. I might have splurged and bought the VIP tickets, but I don't feel too bad because I used a discount code on it that saved me $20, and this way we'll get in an hour early, faster check-in lines, have access to all the floors and exhibits, and get to access the rooftop to take some amazing photos with the Capitol building behind us. #justifyingtomyself

Speaking of New Years, I need a new dress. I think I'm finally going to try rent the runway. I've had dresses that I keep re-wearing for new years and I kind of want to spice it up this year. Have you all ever tried Rent the Runway?

I need to get a new menorah because mine broke last year. I literally don't know where to buy one around my area. I guess Amazon? #badjewproblems

I've had a couple people be really sensitive towards the fact that I'm Jewish during the holidays, but honestly, it's all fair game to me. I've always been raised with a Christmas tree because it was a tradition my Dad refused to give up for me. I'm not a huge fan of all the Christmas music but I do love a good tree.

I am super thankful for my job which gives me a stipend to spend on a wellness equipment. I just bought a new bike! I know it's cold outside but the $$ doesn't roll over at the end of the year so I had to spend it by the end of this month. I feel pretty snazzy.

I'm also endlessly impressed by Starla. When we were at my parents' house last week she took on so many deer. She was so proud of herself.

 

Now onto the link-up with Plucky in Love and I!

Here are the ground rules for the link-up:

• Each Wednesday create a post about what’s going on in your life and confess!


• Grab the button and include it in your post or include a text link back to the link-up.


• Link up with either me or Sarah, so we can see what you're confessing this week.


• Comment on at least one other blogger’s post from the link up.


• Feel free to share on social media with the hashtag #HumpdayConfessions and I'll retweet.


• Enjoy!

 

Linking up with #HashtagHumpday

 

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Why I Won't Be Marrying My "Best Friend"

We've all heard it before. Some of you have probably even said it. Some of you probably believe it. "I'm marrying my best friend!" I see it on Facebook, hear it on TV shows, everywhere. I'm happy for you all. I truly am. However, I will never utter those words and here's why.

My best friend and I went through college together, we've grown up together, and have supported each other through tough times in our lives. I've seen her through dating her first few boyfriends and moving to Seattle with her current boyfriend. She's seen me date a handful of losers and has been there when I've called her crying at 1 a.m. in the mornings. I understand that I haven't found "the one" yet, but he will never replace her.

To me, I 100% trust both my boyfriend and my best friend, but there are some roles that each of them play in my life that can't be shared. For example:

When I'm having a terrible period and I need ice cream stat. Boyfriend


When I need to consult on female body issues. Best friend


Tell me if the dress I'm wearing is flattering. Best friend.


Pop the pimple on my back. Boyfriend



Complain to someone without them wanting to fix it. Best friend


Model my lingerie to. Boyfriend


Complain about how my boyfriend is driving me nuts. Best friend


Complain about how my best friend is driving me nuts. Boyfriend


Let me inner mean girl out without fear of judgement. Best friend


Help me hang photos for my gallery wall. Boyfriend

Of course these are totally subjective. Maybe your best friend would man up and pop that pimple on your back (Ariel, don't worry I won't make you do this) or maybe your boyfriend is totally cool WebMD'ing your embarrassing girly body issues. But this is how I feel about it.

Another point to mention is what if you that person isn't available? What if my boyfriend is at work and I'm having a panic attack over something insignificant per usual? Guess what, I can call my best friend! Or vise-versa. If I can't call my best friend because of the time difference of Seattle to D.C. I can always call my boyfriend. Also, who's going to be your maid of honor if your best friend is your fiance?! Okay, I'm getting a bit carried away here...

Have you ever had a guy tell you that they need "guy time"? Guess what, it's the exact same situation. He needs his man friend time to talk about poop, farts, and football. or whatever else guys talk about when us women aren't around...I don't know. And that's okay! I think a boyfriend/fiance/husband can be a best friend but for me, they will never be "my best friend." That role is reserved for my best (girl) friend and always will be.

Side note: I'm not getting married any time soon so only time will tell if I end up marrying Ariel...

How do you feel about this issue? Did you marry/date "your best friend"?



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Subscription Boxes Faves and Fails

Who out there has never tried a subscription box? I'll wait....oh right, pretty much no one. They're so prevalent now. I swear there's always a new one that I hear about each week. I've definitely tried a few of them and there have been some great ones, and some not so good ones.

Here's what I thought of the ones I've tried.

Faves

Barkbox

I love Barkbox, it's awesome. I actually don't subscribe to this anymore because I get a lot of my treats from Chewy, but they were a great subscription. I signed up when I first adopted Starla and had no toys or treats for her. They always sent cute, durable toys and healthy snacks for Starla to try. She fell in love with banana chips her first box. You can customize your box based on the size of your dog. The price depends on how many months you sign up for. It's $21/month for six months.

Stitchfix

 

It's an addiction. I've had three fixes so far and need to go back for another one because I still have $25 in credit. It costs you $20 for a styling fee and then you get sent five pieces of clothing (or 4 pieces and one piece of jewelry). You can keep everything and get a discount, or you can pay per piece. For most of my fixes, I end up keeping about half of the box. They're really good at listening to your concerns about sizing, styles, etc. So just make sure to be very descriptive when you sign up and I'm sure you'll get some good fixes too.

 

Popsugar

Disclaimer: I haven't actually received a popsugar box, but my roommate gets them every month and I live vicariously through her! I love the weird mix of stuff you get in the box. It can go anywhere from books to pillowcases to board games to beauty products. It's $39 a month and you can get $5 off your first (and my first...) box by using code MUSTHAVE5.

Hello Fresh

 

This one is a bit different because it is all about food! One box gets you three meals for two people each. They send healthy options (including veggie options!) that are easy to prepare. For someone like me who is bad at meal planning and creativity in the kitchen, HelloFresh is a great option. They're also flexible, so if you want to skip a few weeks, you can and pick back up when you're ready. You can also trade out meals in your week if it's something you don't like. It is $69 per week. So you can decide for yourself if it's worth it. I think I'm going to go for two weeks a month and do grocery shopping for the other weeks.

Fails

Julep Maven

In my box I received two nail polishes, a lipstick, and a gloss. The lipstick and gloss are great. The shade works perfectly for my skin and I wear the lipstick almost every day. I love that it has a magnetic container, so when I close the lipstick it magnetically closes. But that's just me being a nerd and liking magnets. The fail part about the box is that Julep focuses on nail polish. They sent me two dark polishes (fine, it's Fall) but when I removed the nail polish it not only stained my nails but my hands too! It took a whole day before my hand wasn't blue any more. If you're curious which one it was, it was the Elise nail polish that stained my hands. I haven't had the courage to try the other one yet.

Birchbox
I tried this a longggggg time ago before I was even into reviewing a lot of products on my blog. They're alright. I wish they switched up some full size products with the samples. Also, I wish that they had included a little make-up bag or fancier packaging. With the small products, the box looks a bit empty and left me feeling a bit disappointed. It's nice that it's pretty cheap, but I would pay an extra $5 for a make-up bag to be included or a full-size lipstick.


Trendsend
Okay I'm being a bit harsh here. I haven't actually received my trendsend box yet, but I ordered it two weeks ago and they haven't send it yet! I searched around on their website for a while before noticing it says it can take up to 14 days to send out, so I just reached out to their customer service department to get an update. That's basically the only downfall of Trendsend so far. At least with Stitchfix you can choose the exact date you want it to arrive and can anticipate it. Especially when you have a deadline to return the clothes!

What other boxes should I try?


Linking up with Life with Rosie and Because I Said So.

 

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