Showing posts with label lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lifestyle. Show all posts

[ A GENERAL GIFT GUIDE ] : FOR YOUR DAD

Well, here we are. Father's Day is on Sunday .. That means it's practically summer, and that summer snuck the f up on us. Weren't we talking about Mother's Day like a week ago?

Regardless, your dad's big day is around the corner. Now, I don't know him personally, but something just tells me he'll appreciate at least one of these gifts.

These guys get dressed up more than you think, and they can never have too many ties. Our family favorite is Vineyard Vines, and well, American flags. But they have something for everyone...

Dads love their music. Maybe yours is going deaf, or maybe he just jams really hard. Either way, a nice speaker suits him well.

If you were a guy, you'd be wearing a belt every minute of everyday. Give some variety to his collection, or give him one that's perfect for every occasion. From the office, to the golf course, and into the club house. (;

For all the golf they play, all the long drives they make, all the fishing trips they take, and everything in between, they need a good pair of shades.

A nice dress shirt is definitely a luxury, and one he will appreciate. These Brooks Brothers ones are top notch quality, and come 3/$229. Your dad would like that economical mindset.

This personalized card box is just downright cool. What's your dad's game?

Wishing everyone and their dads a wonderful weekend!

THOUGHTS AT A MUSIC FESTIVAL

who: me. mary grace. music enthusiast. not-a-fan of large crowds.
what: governor's ball music festival. also my 16th birthday.
when: june 5th, 2015.
where: randall's island. yum.
pre-festival -- Have I drunk enough water today? How much water is enough water? Aren't we in a drought? Wait, but my phone isn't charged. Don't let Dad know your phone isn't charged. AIRPLANE MODE, NOW. Ok, water, check; phone, check. Erm, I don't think I can wear this new Hermes bangle? Mom? IT'S RAINING?! I don't have a raincoat. Ok, ok, I'll wear my Mt. Gay hat .. but what if I lose it? DON'T LOSE IT. Is my mascara going to run? F it. Let's go. Let's party. I want you and you and you in my Snapchat Story. This selfie lasts for 24 hours, MAKE IT GOOD LADIES. Yeeeeessss.
en route to festival -- It stopped raining. Did it really stop raining? My phone's at 89%. That's really good, if I do say so myself. Let's go. We're walking, we're talking. I LOVE YOUR OVERALLS. Ah, do you think she'll be my friend? Maybe fate will bring us back together later. Yes, fate. This day relies on fate. Fate that includes me not dying, or crying, or peeing my pants. I JUST LOVE ALL THESE PEOPLE SO MUCH. Either I'm crying or it's raining again.
at festival -- Lines, I hate lines. Never mind, this line was deceptively short. I'M IN. I'M HERE. I'VE MADE IT. I HAVE ARRIVED. Soooooo where do we go? I'll just follow. I can be a follower today, that's fine. Oh, friends! Hugs!! Selfies!!! Take our picture, pleeease. Do I look ok? Does my hair look ok? Did my mascara run? Why won't my Snapchat post? Jumping, I'm jumping now. Half laughing half crying. Yes, Dad, I'm alive. Ok. Sitting, I'm sitting now. Wow, I'm tired. Music?! More friends!!! Pictures!!! Let's switch sunglasses!!! I love your jean shorts!!! This band is my fave too!!! Oh, now you're on his shoulders. Wow. PICTURES, SO MANY PICTURES. Why won't my Snapchat post? Ugggghhh. Favorite song!! Where are all my friends? Friends!! Pictures!! Jumping?! Cold. I'm cold. Why won't my Snapchat post? Food?! Tacos. Water? Water. Yes, Dad, I'm alive. Friends? Friends!!! Pictures. Hugging. Why won't my Snapchat post? Dancing. Crying. Again, I'm crying again. Pictures of me crying. It's dark. I'm cold. Can you lend me your sweatshirt? I'm gonna sit down. Why won't my Snapchat post? PHONE'S DEAD. Ok, now friends? JK, can't find friends with a dead phone! Let's try anyway! Oh, strangers. You're not my friends. Byeeeee. FRIENDS. Friends!! Time to go. Let's go. Run. We're leaving. Leaving, now. Leave. Just leave. Goodbye.
post-festival -- FINALLY, I can get my Snapchats to post!! Oh, my phone's dead. Home, I want to be home NOW! Wait, but also -- Yes, Dad, I'm alive. Ok. Water, lots of water. Um, I skinned my knee. Disinfectant please!! Should I shower? I'm sooo tireddd. I think facewipes are enough right now. I need more water. CLEAN UNDERWEAR. What a luxury. A REAL TOILET. America, man. MY PHONE'S ALIVE. MY SNAPCHATS POSTED. Pictures. 203 pictures. What should I post? Ok, which filter? Caption?!! Where's the geotag!! THIS PIC IS GETTING SO MANY LIKES. Look at this filter! Should I post tomorrow? Oh my goodness, her Snapchat Story. Wait, were you there when --? Ah!! So many giggles. I'm asleep. JK, yes, Dad, I'm alive.

Happy festival season !! Dress the part..
xx MGR

UPDATE | 6.8.15


The past two weeks of my life have been quite busy, but exciting! With only two more weeks of school left, teachers are loading up on work and review packets. I am ready to be finished with school and reading and not having wake up at 6:40 am. Definitely going to try and post as much as I can over the next two weeks .. but no promises :) 

This past weekend I went to governors ball, which was amazing! Although my knee was the size of a soccer ball, due to my ACL surgery, it was worth it. If Florence + the Machine is ever playing near you, go see them! She was so cute and I love all of her music. I hope to see her again soon, because we weren't as close as I hoped to be. Hopefully next year I will be able to go all three days ... fingers crossed.

On another exciting note, I am heading to the London the week after school finishes. I am super excited, because this is my first time in the United Kingdom, and during this time Princess Charlotte will be Christened. It is definitely going to be so much fun -- shopping, eating, and taking plenty of aesthetically pleasing photos. If you have any recommendations of where to go to shop, eat, or anything else to do in London please comment below! Would love to hear from you all :) For now I will be daydreaming of Prince Harry and studying different types of DNA technology.

xx, 
CMK

THOUGHTS DURING A JUICE CLENSE + ADVICE

So my mother finally convinced me to do a 2-day juice cleanse with her and here is the story behind this adventure...
Plan: Do 2 days of drinking 6 juices, chewing lots of orbit gum, and drinking lots and lots of water.

Background: My mother has been doing the 3 day juice cleanse from Blue Print about every 6 months since 2010. I've had sips of the "green juice" or the "spicy lemonade juice". I have, also, gone on multiple runs to the city to pick them up that were usually followed by my mothers last supper, which is frozen yogurt from Tasti-D-Lite. After my surgery, I felt disgusting and out of sorts. My knee was getting rid of toxins and I could only go on the bike for 15 minutes at a time. My mom wanted to go on a cleanse since she too was feeling gross and I decided to try it out with her. Knowing my very weak will power, we split a 5 day pack of Foundation Cleanse. I started eliminating processed foods and caffeine the Friday before so I wouldn't get major headaches or tummy troubles during the cleanse. The night before I prayed the the gods I could make it at least 24 hours until giving into food...

Monday May 25th, 2015

11 AM: I'm assuming that waking up with your stomach grumbling is not a good way to start off? Dang of course the day I can't eat food there are bagels in my house. First juice of the day is the green juice, well here goes nothing.... *taking a sip and suddenly gags at the taste* WHAT IS IN THIS!? Carefully reads over ingredients for a second time. I like all these foods, but why do they taste bad together, maybe it is the kale. I'll just wash it down with water. For the next thirty minutes, I take 1 sip of green juice for every glass of water. Thank goodness that is over, now what should I do today!

1PM: I think I've drank about 7 8oz. glasses of water in one sitting, which means I will be about a thirty gallons in about 20 minutes. I can no longer sit in the kitchen and do nothing because I will either want to a) eat anything b) drink a diet coke or c) bite my nails down to stubs due to boredom. I think I will finish that needle point I started.

3PM: 1 belt and 2 needle point keychains later, it is time for my 2nd juice. Cashew, vanilla, cinnamon doesn't sound too bad. Hmm tastes like cinnamon toast crunch. Chugs juice in about 5 minutes and wipes off the mustache that comes with it. I can do that again no problem. Guess I'll go back up to my room where there is nothing but water, gum, and needle pointing.

3:30 - 6PM: Don't go to a movie with anyone who is not on a cleanse. My mother and I decided to get out of food central and go see The Woman in Gold. Our mistake was bringing my popcorn loving brother with us. Temptation was sitting right next to us, but we resisted the urge and told him to leave halfway during the film since we could no longer tolerate the smell. I felt weak at this point although at this moment I'm pretty sure I heard Ryan Reynolds whisper, "You can do it Caroline". I had to stick with it because, duh Ryan Reynolds told me too. We were stayed faithful to our cleanse for the rest of the movie.

6PM: FYI The green juice doesn't get any better, even if it is your second one.

8PM: The past two hours have been spent needlepointing, doing math homework, and shopping as per usual. I head down for my final juice at the wrong time. It was dinner for the rest of my family, but I was having the lemonade juice, which according my mother is the best one. She was right! Sadly I devoured it in about a minute, which is upsetting because it took me thirty minutes to drink a green juice. Immediately after finishing, I head back up and pray that the next day will be easier.

10PM: Stomach Rumbling please stop doing that I'm trying to sleep here.

Tuesday May 25th, 2015

7:10AM: The only benefit of drinking a juice for breakfast is that I get to sleep in about 20 minutes. The downside is that everyone is eating breakfast, which includes cereal and apples. I decide to sit in the car for about twenty minutes till the family is ready to head out to school.

7:50AM-3PM: I decide to not bring a juice to school because I don't have anywhere to refrigerate them, so I will be surviving off of gum today. School was not as difficult and temptation is easy to avoid because you can sit in the library where, in my school, food and drinks are prohibited. I had to sneak in my water, but it was a good spot to chill during lunch and my free. 

3PM: The green juice still doesn't taste good and it still takes thirty minutes to drink.

4PM: Mhm the cashew milk juice is my second favorite out of the three and motivates me through the homework and studying of this evening.

6PM: The final green juice doesn't go very well, so I drink about half of it and then dump the rest in the sink, but it was my 5th one I drank over the two day course. So maybe the green juice was not my favorite, but it probably was the healthiest of the 3 drinks and probably flushed the most toxins out of my body. 

8PM: Only one more sleep till food and the final juice of the cleanse, which was the lemonade. I saved best for last and enjoyed my drink while watching an episode of Mad Men. The perfect way to end a day in my opinion. 

As I'm writing this, I'm in the final hour of the cleanse process, but here are some tips if you try to do a juice cleanse, which I totally recommend! 
                                                                                           
DO'S
- Stay busy and stay active throughout the day.
    
- Keep a bottle of water around and stay hydrated.

- Gum is great to replace the action of chewing actual food! Highly recommend chewing it when not drinking the juice.

- Drink your Green Juice! Multiple times I wanted to skip over it, but it is the best juice you drink in the cleanse and it will help your body the most during those 2 or 3 days.

  DONT'S
-  Don't sit and chill because you'll get bored and want to eat.

- Don't drink your juices around the same time as meals in your household because temptation is difficult to ignore.

- I regret doing the cleanse on a day I didn't have school because I found myself bored and hungry, while school kept me occupied. Don't do the cleanse during the weekend, but instead during the week.

- Don't do it alone! Do it with a friend or family member because not only do they feel your pain, but are there to motivate you when you feel weak.

The overall experience is something that I hope to do again because I felt very focused during school today and had lots of energy throughout the day. Next time I hope to do it maybe three days, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday? I have reached my goal, which was being able to go 48 hours without food and drinking all the juices given in my pack. Again, Blue Print Cleanses are my moms favorite so that is the only one I know of, but if you know of any other good ones please comment below.
Have you ever done a juice cleanse and what did you think of it? Would you do one? 
xx,
CMK

FOLLOW ALONG WITH MY NEW BEDROOM

I could talk [ write ] for hours about my room. Why I love it, why I hate it, what's old, what's new, what's needed, what absolutely needs to go. I could talk [ write ] for hours about the room I'll be moving into. What I want it to look like, what I want it to function as, what I want to do with it. I, to save you time and not force you into a perpetual state of boredom, will do the latter rather than the former.
Here's some before shots. My sister and I successfully painted half the room two months ago. The painters are on their way to finish our work. (; Once it's painted, I'll move in!

So far, I have the essentials. We [ thank Jesus, Mary, and Joseph ] found a headboard at Home Goods yesterday for $150 [ mind. boggling. ]. It's bamboo and I'm considering painting it a high-gloss navy. I also have a small brass side table, similar to the one below, except lacking a top and probably in need of a fresh coat of paint. I think this navy one would be it's perfect complement and I hope to scoop it up soon. I'll be using my current dresser [white, Ikea, assorted Anthropologie knobs], desk [white, parsons], and desk chair [lucite, blue monogram].
headboard | euro shams | pillows 1, 2, 3

The appearance of my bed is essential to my happiness. My pintuck duvet cover, a la West Elm, holds my heart, and I'm considering the matching Euro shams. To counter the stark white, I dream of colorful pillows. Actual, genuine dreams. I haven't been able to find just the right one to use as a jumping off point, until I found that center-placed gem on Etsy last night. It turned the direction of the room towards Chinese motifs, bamboo and pagodas, blues, oranges, and greens. I am, without a doubt, perfectly okay with that. But we'll just see where it all ends up...

I hope to make some more progress over the next few weeks to share with you all! LMK [as my mom would say] if you have any resources or recs, I'd love to hear!
xx MGR

SPRING [ BIRTHDAY ] PARTY DECOR

Last week I shared one of the most genius things I've ever come up with .. A DIY Paperless Post invitation. My brain conjured up that little idea in preparation for my sixteenth birthday party, which is now just about a week away. No, I won't be featured on MTV's 'My Super Sweet 16,' but that's still a sensitive subject, so let's not...

Actually, no, let's. Because I'm quite certain -- in the least narcissistic, self-righteous, and egotistical way -- that my 'sweet 16' would be the classiest one that show's ever seen. Ok, fine, I guess my certainty is a little ironic, being that this party planning has barely even gotten started. But my vision is so good, that the actual thing would have to try really hard to be bad. Ya know?

I'm really, really drawn to the idea of a patio, with very bright florals, bistro chairs, twinkly lights .. So, I hunted for a good week and a half for a restaurant equipped with the necessary things and holding the potential for the rest. Nothing seemed quite right, except BOBO, which, alas, charges $5k for its 50-person private patio. My mom and I said, 'No thanks!'
Instead we landed on our suburban country club. Which, low and behold, has a patio, and after my sister's November wedding, has proven to deserve an A+ in the party department. Obviously, however, my heart broke into a million tiny pieces when we found out the patio was booked. A private dining room is fiiiiiiine, I guess, but I'm still really banking on some twinkly lights. Like really, really banking and begging for those twinkly lights.
I think my goal here is to turn this rinky-dink backroom full of 16-year-olds into a garden party. I want to bring the outside in, I want to keep the spirits high. I think there's a few key things I need to do to ensure those two things happen : A | keep it colorful [ with flowers, poofs, and balloons ] / B | keep it bright yet soft [ with candles and those God damned twinkly lights!! ] / C | keep it fun [ with games, favors, music, and conversation starters ].

I want to ask you all for suggestions on all of the above, ie: your favorite flower arrangements, fun candle-holder ideas, things to hand out, things to do, music to play, etc. But, well, first I'll give you some decor.

Alright, your turn. Give me all your suggestions, I'd love to hear!
xx MGR

images via: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

[ A GENERAL GIFT GUIDE ] : FOR THE GRADUATE

I know tons of people who are graduating from college, high school, and even their first year of preschool, which doesn't really count, but it is still fun to buy a gift for. With everything coming to a close, we must eventually face the facts of saying goodbye to our senior buddies or congratulating college graduates who will, most likely, never take an exam again, but instead take their steps into adulthood. Below are some timeless gifts, from a personalized signet ring, to college essentials, a comfy yet cute pair of boxers to lounge around in, to a fun summer must have -- no words can describe how much I adore that Parker Thatch tote. So get a move on buying your gifts because before you know it graduation day will be here! :)


xx, 
CMK

DIY PAPERLESS POST

My [ sixteenth ] birthday is a little less than a month away. It's not my birthday, per-say, that has me all giddy .. I think it's just the idea of throwing a party.

Just call me Raven Simone, because, guys, I have a vision.

That vision includes an airy patio, fresh picked blooms of many variations, a long table with a white tablecloth and bistro chairs, lush green ivy decorated with twinkly lights .. do you follow? Ok, great. And I hope you realize that the only way to make my vision utterly cohesive is to complete it with just the perfect invitation.

Except, well, it's 2015, and who sends out paper invitations, unless, idk, you're getting married? If that?

Paperless Post is my go-to resource for this, but let me tell you that I can't find a single design that goes with my vision. Obviously, this is problematic. And therefore I hacked the system and made my own Paperless Post invite. Just call me #badass, #rebellious, #resourceful, #creative, #etc.

Let me walk you through the process, so you can be just as #badass, #rebellious, #resourceful, and #creative.

STEP ONE
Make your way to Paperless Post. Now, the goal here is to locate an invitation that we'll be able to customize. Do that by clicking in the photo section.
STEP TWO
Decide if you're going horizontal, vertical, or square, and then single- or double-sided. Then you'll want to locate a full-page photo invite .. ie: not one with a ball of yarn on it or permanent writing. You might have to try a few out. I'm going to go with a one-sided vertical invite.
STEP THREE
Now it's time to put your #creativity and #resourcefulness to work. You can use Photoshop, but I'll be using PicMonkey to create the actual invitation. I picked a 4x6 canvas, but the size of yours will depend on the card you chose.
STEP FOUR
I guess I lied, because the last step doesn't require very much creativity. But this one does! Depending on your own personal vision and what it entails, you'll want to find some kind of graphic to add to your invite. Photos, illustrations, etc. Pinterest is a great place to start the hunt. I went for this illustration by Inslee [ and I by no means! am taking credit for its magnificence! ]. I added it to the canvas and began to play with fonts and lay outs. Save your masterpiece!
Those arrows are pointing to where the text and overlay options are. Those are the two categories you'll be frequenting. [ Pro tip : after clicking on that overlay icon, click the 'Your Own' button at the top of the list to add anything your heart desires.
STEP FIVE
Now, back on your Paperless Post tab, click customize on the invite you chose. Delete all the text that may be there, and choose to insert your PicMonkey creation as the photo. You may need to shift it up / down / side-to-side to ensure proper placement. Now hit next!
STEP SIX
Paperless Post will walk you through the rest .. Choosing an envelope and liner, adding guests and their emails, splurging on fancy stamps, etc. This is their speciality, after all. Here's what the preview of my invite looked like:

Just a few disclaimers before I send you off:

first and foremost -- The illustration used on the invitation is the work of Inslee Haynes and was found on Pinterest. I, unfortunately, was not able to find the proper link to the work, but the artist's website is located here.

secondly -- The information used on the invitation was all created in my magical little brain. The address used is not real, nor is Amy's 25th Birthday Party.

I hope you all enjoyed and will use this trick in the near future!
xx MGR

WEEKEND LINKS


- In love with this jumpsuit! It is on the top of my wish list.

- Seinfeld or Friends? Here is the breakdown of these two classic sitcoms.

- DIY avocado piñata right in time for Cinco de Mayo.

- Overalls or bags? We've got both covered.

- Currently daydreaming about owning this trunk.

- How cool are these frames?!

- Which shoes are so last season? Which shoes are in? Find out here.

- Dying to have this chair in my dream summer home.

Good luck to every high school student taking an AP exam over the next two weeks!
xx, CMK

GUILTY PLEASURES

This week has been a bit hectic : from making over 500 flashcards, to hobbling on crutches from class to class, and going to physical therapy. I am constantly finding myself zoning out, especially during class. Hopefully this next week will fly by and I will be finished with my first AP class! Hooray!! Usually, I am pretty good at staying on task during hectic times like these, but sometimes I cheat ... a little. Low and behold, my guilty pleasures.

- Watching six episodes of Greys Anatomy and not doing any homework.

- Spending a solid 45 minutes on Vine.

- Reading a WHOLE book in one night.

- Sleeping in till 1pm ... or 2 pm

- Buying another striped shirt [ even though I own roughly 10 ].

- Getting the child ticket at the movie theater even though I am an adult .. ;)

- Staying up till 1 am on a school night.

- Buying a $300 bikini ... don't tell my mother.

- Licking the bottom of my tomato soup bowl. 

xx, 
CMK

WE'RE ON SNAPCHAT + SOME THOUGHTS

Happy Tuesday! It -- in my personal reality -- is actually Monday night. This weekend brought many exciting things with it, including a head cold, but, more excitingly, the Elephants on Snapchat [ @twolilelephants ]!


I am quite excited to share glimpses of my daily life with you all .. so be sure to add us! Last night, for example, I included a little s/o to my Governor's Ball playlist on Spotify.

Which brings me to topic #2 of today. I'm trying to up my Spotify game, so you should at least try to follow along  [ key word : try, because, tbh, nobody really knows how to work Spotify ].

And lastly, Governor's Ball has been hiiiiigh on my mind as of late. CMK and I are brainstorming outfit ideas [ ie : overalls? off-the-shoulder? fringe? kimono? backpack ? ]. I shared some great inspo from Coachella, and I'm red hot and ready to share tangible outfit ideas with you all, so STAY TUNED! [ PS : Will we see any of you at Gov Ball on Friday? ]. 

We'll, unfortunately, only be there on Friday .. Which is oooook, because I'm most excited to see The Decemberists preform. But, in spite of that, today I had quite a bit of fun discovering some of the other performers in the lineup. This playlist really sums it all up.

And the last order of business for today's post : AP exams. #fun. I'm sure many of you are in similar positions as us, preparing for APs which are approaching rather quickly. CMK takes hers on Thursday of next week, and mine follows on Friday. So, we made the executive decision to sit next week out on the blogging front. It's the most responsible route to take, and apparently, we're becoming quite responsible.

SO, TO SUM IT UP
+ add us on Snapchat : @twolilelephants
+ follow me on Spotify : @bugsregan
+ stay tuned for festival outfit ideas!
+ no new blog posts next week

Questions? Comments? Concerns?
xx MGR

[ A GENERAL GIFT GUIDE ] : FOR YOUR MOM

A few weeks ago, I introduced a new series of posts I'd be putting out .. General gift guides, because the holidays are certainly not the only time of year you need to deliver a brown paper package tied up with string.

Somehow, despite the fact that 2015 started approximately five minutes ago, Mother's Day is in two weeks. How five months has managed to feel like five minutes, I don't know -- but Mother's Day being in near sight warms my cold little recovering-from-winter heart. It means spring is here, and that I get to shower my wonderful mother with gifts, and love, and affection, and spare her of my snarky comments and criticisms for a full 24 hours.

She birthed me, she raised me, she's -- so far -- given me 15 birthdays and Christmases, and an innumerable amount of rides and meals. She's the bomb-freaking-dot-com, and throwing some Mother's Day swag her way isn't even representative of what she deserves. But, well, I'm unforgivingly materialistic, and must've inherited the trait from somewhere, so...

JOKES ASIDE .. YOUR MOM IS AWESOME, BUY HER SOMETHING NICE. Here's a whole bunch of nice things.

Moms deserve a little luxury, and beautifully scented lotion, housed in an even more beautiful bottle is the definition of luxury.

Tote bags are more than practical for moms [ assuming yours is either a little scatter brained, an aspiring Mary Poppins, or both ].

A great bottle of perfume will definitely be put to good use, and this one makes her vanity "on fleek."

Small notebooks are just such a mom thing .. Especially when they say something cheesy, but still manage to look ayy-freaking-dorable.

Moms really do pull off a statement necklace better than anyone else...

Not to mention, a patterned silk scarf.

I bet you your mother will just about die at the idea of a garden in a bag, and proceed to kiss your feet every Sunday-night-dinner that she forgot to buy basil, but, no need to fear! -- she has it growing on her window sill.

Whether or not your mom's a wine-o, she probably loves a cheeky cocktail napkin .. and these are double the fun. (;

What will you be buying your mom for Mother's Day?!
xx MGR

WEEKEND LINKS


- This guide for tipping anywhere in the world is one link to keep.

- Friends & Family at Loeffler Randall! In love with this and this.

- What does Kim Kardashian do everyday? Find out here.

- Just ordered this bikini! Too excited for Summer!

- Wishing I went to Coachella, but it is still fun to see what everyone wore.

- Find a pair of sunglasses for this summer right here.

- Perfect maxi dress for the sunny days ahead.

xx, 
CMK

SICK DAY ESSENTIALS

I'm alive! Mid-last week I went in for my first ever surgery. Going into it was quite traumatizing, but it was not as bad as expected. The next day I woke up feeling like someone was sawing off my right leg ... I have been bed ridden for the past 4 days [ I'm now an online shopaholic ]. I haven't been able to do anything because either I am too nauseous, too tired, too dizzy, or in too much pain. I do enjoy sleeping 20 hours a day and lounging around the other four, I am ready to get back to reality. Here are some of the things I have been using 24/7.
Untitled #39

xx, 
CMK 


MOOD BOARD

I am all for trying new things, including this post. Instead of the typical weekend links or wardrobe, I thought I would try a mood board, which reflects both this weeks vibes along with what the weekend may bring... Man Repeller inspired me in the graphic department, so I thought I would have some fun with that too :)

Untitled #38
Being crippled has led to a lot of difficulties -- including not being able to get my laptop that is fifteen feet away, not being able to carry a glass across the room, and having sore arms from walking on crutches all day... I am trying to savor these last days of spring break before I have to hobble around high school again. This week has been the definition of lazy. I have gotten out of bed to get food, go to physical therapy, and get more food. I have been living off of Doke [ or Diet Coke ] and pizza while watching Friends along with a couple of my John Hughes movies, including Pretty in Pink and St. Elmos Fire. The laziness will continue over into next week along with some pain meds due to an upcoming surgery. Basically, my life for the next month will be spent watching 'flix and in PJ shorts... Good Times. 

xx, CMK

PACKING LIST :: SEA ISLAND

Thursday, April 2, 2015 : 11:27 AM.

I am currently suffering from sleep deprivation, a gnarly dehydration headache, travel anxiety, and the pressures of time.

Today will be exciting for many reasons, but maybe #1 is that I finished packing. I leave tomorrow bright and early -- is the sun up at 5:45 am? -- for my good old southern paradise.

You might remember last year's trip?

I got this floral bikini from Zara [ anybody else totally surprised to hear that they do swimwear?! ] in preparation for my trip and I. am. obsessed. I really really have a thing for a good floral. And it pushed me out of my comfort zone. I'm usually very cool-toned -- read: I like blue and blue alone -- but this suit is getting me very excited for bright yellows, fuchsias, and gardenia reds.

Wishing everyone a wonderful Easter & Passover, and hope you're all blessed with wonderful weather wherever you may be!
xx MGR

[ A GENERAL GIFT GUIDE ] : FOR YOUR GIRL FRIEND

For all my fellow 1999 babies, there's one thing we can all relate to in the glorious year of 2015: 16th birthdays. Yip hip hooray, we're turning 16! But so are our friends. Whether you're attending a party straight out of a 2006 episode of MTV's 'My Super Sweet 16,' a dinner in the private room of a fun restaurant, maybe the occasional house party [ (; ], or a Ben & Jerry's movie night with your best friend who refuses to celebrate her birthday, I sure do hope you have a gift in hand.

I've learned to love buying gifts for people over the years. It's another excuse to shop -- so who wouldn't love it?

The internet loves to provide the public with gift guides during the Christmas and Hanukkah season, but decides to neglect the rest of the year. I know we've all had a birthday or Mother's Day or anniversary and we find ourselves texting and calling and screaming out loud, "WHAT DO I GET HER?!" We've got a blank space, baby, and, no, we're not writing your name -- we're looking for a gift guide. So here's the beginning of an assortment of general gift guides for everyone in your life.

Today, a gift guide for your best gal pals.

These are some examples of my favorite gifts to be given or received recently: 

A fun pouch is useful, and this one is a little pricier, making it kind of luxurious. It can be a make up bag, bag organizer, or a clutch, depending on what the receiver chooses.

A pretty picture frame is always wonderful to receive. Put a picture in it -- presumably of you and her -- and she'll keep it forever.

An expensive candle is something few people buy themselves. A classic scent like Diptyque's Baies is always a favorite. Pair it with fun matches for the perfect gift.

A nice PJ set is always greatly appreciated. Take them to your local dry cleaner to get monogrammed for a personalized touch.

A Polaroid camera is something everyone needs [or wants!]. Don't forget to take tons of pics with your BFF after you give this to her!

What are your favorite gifts to buy / receive for / from your best girl friends?!
xx MGR

4 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR MOOD

Everyone hates Monday... unless you are on spring break! I'm off of school for the next week, which I planned to be practicing lacrosse and sleeping in until 11:00, but will instead be at physical therapy [ I recently tore my ACL, which has, obviously, caused some problems in my life ]. I am scheduled to have surgery in about a week and a half. I am constantly finding myself, both mentally and physically, in the dumps because of this injury. It is quite depressing that I got a 6 month injury during the first week of practice, but I have to make the best of this. Even though I now have practice-free afternoons, I am not looking forward to a month of crutches. Here are some ways I have been trying to get my spirits up!



1 // Fake It Till You Make It
Somedays I feel like talking to no one and blocking everything and everyone around me. Everyone feels this way at one point during their lives, I feel it two to three times a week. Although not listening to anyone sounds like a good idea, it isn't. You just have to, quoting T Swift, "Shake it off." Whatever problem may be picking at you. This is quite a hard thing to do ... you just have to act happy! Smile and say positive things. No more of the "ugh, I hate school" or "I wish this day would be over." Eventually once you start smiling and being happy, you will start to feel happy and soon you won't be able to stop. :) all around!

2 // Do Something Good
I always feel my heart warm up when doing something that makes someone else happy. Whether it is holding the door for someone, giving a compliment, or helping someone with homework. I always find that the people who do good things will have good things come to them. Although this is a tough time in my life, I am trying to do something good everyday. For Lent, I didn't give up anything, but I chose to be a better person. I try and do at least one good thing a day for a friend, teacher, or family. Eventually your kindness will payoff and will come back to you. You can make someone's day by just simply saying hello to them. Kindness is key to living a happy life!

3 // It Could be Worse...
I am very fortunate to have a roof over my head, an education, clothing and food everyday, and a family that loves me. Many people are not so lucky and I have been fortunate enough to meet people who remind me of how grateful I should be for my life. Some people I have met have lost parents at very young ages, can't play sports because they need to work after school, or cannot afford to have lunch. Your drama is not that bad compared to some things people are going through. Again, I am grateful for what I have and everyone should be ... it could always be a whole lot worse.

4 // Distract Yourself
I always find it very relaxing to color a coloring book with music blasting in the background. I am always happy once I have completed a 'masterpiece' ie: Hello Kitty or Elsa. It good to do a non-stressful and fun activity during the day for at least five minutes. Maybe for other people it is doing a crossword, a Rubix cube, a puzzle, etc. Some people find sports relaxing, but I am not one of those people. Team sports come with a lot of pressure. To have a better day, just blast your music and focus on something else that you ENJOY doing. By the time you finish, you will have cleared your head and have a big grin on your face.

How do you Cheer up? Comment Below :)
xx, CMK

TRAVEL BUCKET LIST

Yesterday I turned sixteen, which apparently is a big deal, at least to my mother it was. It is weird to think about how sixteen years have gone by so fast because, as far as I can remember, yesterday I was wearing my light up pink sneakers and ketchup stained tennis whites. For my birthday, I am planning on going to some foreign country this July, after school ends. I just have a slight problem -- I cannot decide where I want to go! There are so many places on my bucket list and it is hard to narrow it down to just one ... Here are the top ten places on my travel bucket list at the moment.

1. London England 

2. Amalfi Coast, Italy 

3. South of France, France

4. Amsterdam, The Netherlands 

5. Mykonos, Greece

6. Cape Town, South Africa 

7. Rome, Italy 

8. Victoria, Australia 

9. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

10. The Blue Lagoon, Iceland 

Clearly there is a theme of beaches and cities, probably two of my favorite things in the whole wide world. I am excited to go somewhere new, whether it is in Europe or Africa! I can't wait to share my adventures with you all! 
Where would you go if you could choose anywhere to go in the world?
xx, CMK

THOUGHTS DURING YOUR FIRST SOUL CYCLE CLASS

Who : me. mary grace. 15. Just finished a series of antibiotics after being diagnosed with Lyme's disease. lazy, but also ambitious.
What : my first soul cycle class.
Where : small suburb just outside of NYC.
When : summer of 2014.
A Soul Cycle opens up in my town. Hell no. Mrs. Down-the-street-neighbor hurt her back from too many spin classes. Hannah Banana in my English class goes every night, though. She's BFF's with her instructors. Seems intimidating. But her beach bod is pretty on point. Oh, Mrs. What's-her-name loves it ... she'll ask me to babysit every time I see her. I don't like babysitting for her. And wait, didn't that guy in California fall off a bike and die at Soul Cycle?! Case closed.

And then my best friend goes. And somehow she convinces me to go with her the next time. What kind of underwear to I wear?! Wait, they give me shoes, right? Should I bring a water bottle? The only one I own is dirty. What about a bag? I think there's a locker room... MOM. Why can't my mom come with me?! Do you think they'll judge me if my socks don't match? Crap, my mom has to sign a waiver. Maybe I should "forget" that part and then I won't have to go. Nope, already paid $34. MOM. Still wish she could come with me.

And then I walked in the place. Oh my God it smells like grapefruit. I always love the idea of grapefruit, so bitter though. What bike did I book?! Where's my friend... This is so high tech. I like those pants. What's my shoe size?! MOM. Wow, Smartwater. Fancy. Wonder how much they charge for it here. How does this locker work? Do I bring my phone in? There might be an emergency. Nah, I'm not that important. Wait, but really, how does this locker work?

And then I walked in the studio. AH. I hope this class isn't full. So intimidating. Yes, Ms. Yellow-Shirt, I need help. So many moveable parts. This is so high tech. Oh, I think I know how to clip my shoes in. Nope. Falling on my ass was embarrassing. What happens if I throw up? I guess I'll have to excuse myself. Wait, these are five pound weights. MOM. Yes, I'd like different ones. I have to pee. Will I pee my pants?Oh, there's a large man entering the room. The door is closed. I'm stuck.

And then the class started. What's third position? I'm going to follow the lady in front of me. Shit, she has no idea what's going on either. It's ok, lady. I guess we're in it together. Saddle??? PUSH UP?! Pedal and push up simultaneously, at the same time?! Ow. I wonder what I'm going to have for lunch. Nope, nevermind. My breakfast is coming back up. Is burping in spin class rude? THERE'S CANDLES UP THERE. Yum. Wait, I love this song. Can I dance? Wooooooooo. Yes. I've got the hang of this. LOL, I should be a SoulCycle instructor. I wish I wore a headband. I bet they'd pay for my headbands if I was an instructor. Can I sit down now? Yum, water. Weights?! Oh, right, I knew that. Ow. Ow. Owww. OMG, is this an acoustic version of 'Latch'?! Wish I could Shazam this right now. Should've brought my phone in. No, I like being unplugged. Ha, I'm such a white girl. Wait, YES, I am too good for all the crap in my life. Yessss. This is so uplifting. My eyeballs are wet. Is that sweat or tears? Yeah, I'm crying.

"THANKS, STRING! SEE YOU ON THURSDAY!"

And the rest is history.

xx MGR
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