Tuesday, May 27, 2014

#YesAllWomen


I had different ideas for today's post, but this is a topic that I feel really can't be overlooked, especially when current events are coinciding. Feminism is the one thing this world needs more than anything else, it's 2014 and I still have to worry about my safety when walking to my car, even during the day time! I'm sick and tired of men feeling that women are on this earth for their own personal pleasure. Men, er, should I call them boys, have some weird mindset that women are objects for them to play with, with no emotions, opinions, or life for that matter.

We're not objects, we're not toys, we're not here for you.

The amount of women that I've heard stories from of them being harassed or abused by a boy who they may or may not have known is absolutely outrageous. Personally, I've never been targeted, and hopefully never will be, I'm hoping it's my "I could kick your ass if you breathed on me" look. Unfortunately though, my sister, who I shall remind you is only 15 years old, was downtown for a summer festival taking place, and on my way to pick her up, all of her friends had left and she was alone in the park. There were many people around, so she wasn't completely alone. I had only just left the house when she called me, saying that she was scared and wanted me to stay on the phone with her until I arrived. Halfway there and she started panicking, "Oh my gosh, Ashley there are these three guys staring at me." I assured her that I was almost there and to not make eye contact. She went quiet for a moment, "They're whistling at me, what do I do." By this time, I was there. She got in the car and away from the creeps. The fact that 3 grown men were hitting on a 15 year old girl is disgusting and immoral. To make matters even worse, she saw one of our male neighbors there, who witnessed the men calling for her, and shook his head and laughed. He laughed. 

A recent event where a girl was stabbed for rejecting a guys offer to take her to prom. This girl had a boyfriend at the time, and in no way turned him down in a violent or rude manner. We live in a world where girls who don't want to go to a dance with someone, are killed. Also, a case where six girls were brutally killed by a guy because they refused to have sex with him. We're killed for respecting ourselves. Lastly, the most recent tragedy, the shooting in California where a killed randomly shot 6 innocent students, his 3 roommates, and then himself. His anger spawned from women and why they didn't like him.

I could go on for hours as to why we need feminism, but there shouldn't even be a reason why we do. Why can't we treat each other equally? Is it so hard to respect each other? Can we please start by at least not killing or beating someone when they reject you?

Before I wrap things up, I recommend that all of my female readers take a self defense class. As unfortunate as that sounds, it could possibly save your life. Also, buy pepper spray or a stun gun to keep with you at all times, and a whistle could be helpful too. Check out this link on how to break out of a zip-tie.
Stay safe my friends, and remember, you're no ones object, you never will be. You're your own, independent, strong woman, and kick anyone's ass who tries to tell you otherwise.

PS- NO MEANS NO

Let's be pals:

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Style Pick

I don't know about you, but finding a great pair of sunglasses is a daunting task, and I can never be happy with just one color or style. That is, until I found one pair that stole my heart. This month's style pick is dedicated to mirrored sunglasses.
I recently found three pairs of mirrored sunglasses at Urban Outfitters on sale, and bought all three of them (oops?) I love aviators in general, but the flamboyant blue/green lens' can easily give a simple outfit the pop that it needs.  If you're not big on standing out or too much color, there are many non-colored mirror lens' that you can buy. Check out UO, F21, and Ray-Ban for some of my top picks.
PS- the mirrors hide your eyes, so people watching is easier ;)

Let's be pals:

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Blogger Giveaway!



Blogging Concentrated, founded by Dan R Morris, is a worldwide company dedicated to providing information, motivation, tools, tips, and networking for the professional blogger. In 2013 - 2014 Blogging Concentrated focused on bringing educational workshops to cities across the United States.

The mission of Blogging Concentrated is to equip bloggers and business owners with the necessary tools to be relevant and successful in a saturated digital market. Through the use of practical, hands-on examples, strategic marketing plans and in-depth discussions, these workshops are intense days that challenge attendees to create a solid action plan with concrete strategies designed to equip website owners with the tools and knowledge needed to increase income, create new opportunities and expand audience reach.


The Blogging Concentrated team has developed a three event strategy (BC Sequoia, BC Circles and BC Leverage) to meet the needs of bloggers and online marketers. While bloggers who attend one or two Blogging Concentrated workshops will be provided with extensive information, tools and ideas to grow their business, the comprehensive goal of the events is to provide a full marketing strategy and business plan framework for the blogger who attends all three events.
  1. Blogging Concentrated Sequoia embraces the concept of pushing one’s self and website beyond perceived roadblocks to growth and success. Attendees leave the event understanding which areas of their own business that require growth and change. The topics of analytics, YouTube strategy, monetization, ebook creation, outsourcing responsibilities and audience needs.
  2. Blogging Concentrated Circles: Six months after Blogging Concentrated Sequoia takes place, the team returns to the same area to present BC Circles. This day focuses on the idea of the Venn Diagram effect, identifying the overlapping needs and desires of a blogger’s audience and digging into that information to develop a products to meet those needs and serve the audience.
  3. Blogging Concentrated Leverage is an exclusive 3-day retreat for 12 dedicated and driven bloggers with a real desire to succeed. Blogging Concentrated Leverage is entirely focused on search engine optimization and integrating that knowledge into all aspects of every participant’s business.


With the help of @FemaleBloggerRT we're giving away 5 tickets to one of our Circles or Sequoia events nationwide. That means 5 winners!!

Click here to see the list of cities we're currently in. But we're adding cities all the time! Not listed but in the works are Houston, Oklahoma City, Pittsburgh, Charleston, Indianapolis and Toronto. . . The winners will be able to use their ticket now or wait for an upcoming event. The giveaway will close June 3, winners announced June 4!

So, use the widget below to enter! And make sure to check out the great bloggers helping to spread the word! 






See what people are saying about Blogging Concentrated!





Saturday, May 10, 2014

Beach Essentials

Some of my favorite memories have been from trips to the beach, and I'm more than excited for summer to get here so I can finally hit the road with my friends again and make new memories. Packing for the beach, on the other hand, seems to be a daunting task. I always feel like there's something I'm missing and end up having to buy when I get there. So today, I've come up with a list of essential items to bring with you to the beach so that you can relax and have a good time, and also save you from having to buy those ugly beach shop flip flops. 
1. Swimsuit- This one should be pretty obvious. You'll need a bathing suit if you're going to be hanging out on the beach or by the pool this summer. Check out H&M, Forever 21, Target, and Old Navy for cute and cheap suits.
2. Sunglasses- Take a pair of cute sunnies with you everywhere you go if it's sunny out. Protect those eyes in style. 
3. Towel- A printed towel or beach mat will keep you from laying on those hot lounge chairs or sand. You'll also need something to dry off with after a dip in the pool!
4. Cover up- Invest in a chic cover-up this summer, and that possibly could be worn for many more years. How could you possibly feel self-conscious in a cute cover-up?
5. Beach bag- Get a large tote to help carry all of your essentials in! Straw bags don't get as dirty as easily as a cloth bag, plus they're cuter in my opinion ;)
6. Sandals- I know, You're probably thinking "Birkenstocks. Really?" Yes, really. After they died for a few years, they have risen again. Plus they make cute beach to shops shoes.
7. Sunscreen- If you're going to take anything at all anywhere this summer, it should be sunscreen. No questions asked. 
8. A Book- Even when you're with your girls or family, there's going to be a period of silence where everyone's soaking up the sun (or possibly asleep). Take a book to keep you occupied. 
9. Over sized hat- A large hat will protect your face from harsh UV rays. Don't forget- You're face won't be the same color as your body if you tan while wearing it. Just Saying.


Let's Be Pals:


Thursday, May 8, 2014

Anxiety, Stress, and Other Annoying Things

Hi Guys! I hope you're all having a wonderful week so far. We've almost made it to Friday! 
Today's post is going to be a little different from my others, but technically this is a lifestyle blog, so there will be future posts like this one. 
May seems to be a really busy time for everyone. From exams to work to the end of the school year, there's always something going on, and I'm totally relating. During my spare time today I had a look at my planner, and I pretty much have something to do until mid-July! Yeah, that's a lot.
Naturally, my anxiety kicked in, and when I say kicked in, I mean it busted down the door and hit me like a bulldozer. I've had anxiety ever since I could remember, and it's prevented me from doing so much that I highly regret missing out on now. If you have anxiety, you know the feeling of absolute dread and despair in your stomach and throat, sometimes for a silly reason, or no reason at all. The thought of speaking to anyone or going out makes you feel even more sick, and it's like you're being held hostage by your own brain. Having anxiety is very common, a lot of people have it, but to different degrees, that's why someone may tell you "Oh you're fine, you're just overreacting". But that only makes it worse. 
I had a recent case where I was taking an exam for my art class, and the two boys (I'm calling them boys because they haven't proven to me that they're men) in front of me talked constantly. I know this doesn't sound bad, but let me elaborate. They were throwing out very vulgar, racial, and sexist remarks for three.hours.straight. I couldn't take it, and no matter what the teacher said, they continued. I felt like I would've just broken down right there on the art room floor. I shouldn't have drove myself under my conditions, but I did. I was shaking and sweating and crying over pretty much anything that was less than perfect. I'd never had an anxiety attack before then, and it was definitely an experience. Since then, I've researched ways to handle my stress and anxiety, and although it's not gone completely, I've learned to cope and soothe my symptoms.

A few simple tricks:
  • Take a deep breath in. All the way in, until you can't inhale anymore. Then release until you've pushed all of the bad air out of your lungs. This always clears my mind for a moment.
  • Drink some water. Lots and lots of water.
  • Think of an event, place, or person that makes you happy.
  • Listen to music. Carry headphones with you in your purse or backpack.
  • Exercise. Exercise releases endorphin's into your brain, making you happier. Plus, you'll look and feel great after! ;)
  • Tell yourself that you're fine, you will be okay. You're brain is tricking you into thinking you're not. It will be okay, nothing is as bad as you expect it will be. Ever!
If you try these tips, and you still feel overly anxious, please consult a doctor as soon as possible. They'll be able to proscribe a medication for you. Also, check out therapists near you and take a test visit, they're there for you. 
If you have anxiety, depression, or any other mental disorder, I want you to know that you're not alone. There are thousands of others out there just like you. Don't be afraid to talk to someone you trust, it'll help. You are worth it. You can do it. You are an amazing human being. 
If you ever need to talk to someone please don't ever hesitate to talk to me. You can message me on twitter, instagram, or tumblr. I'm always here to listen. Everything between us, STAYS between us. 

For more advice, check out my "helppp" board on Pinterest.

Lets Be Pals:


Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Met Gala 2014

Hi guys! I hope your week is going wonderfully. My laptop has officially died as of Sunday night, right now I'm resorting to my desktop. First world problems, I know.
As most of you know, last night was the annual Met Gala in New York City, which of course, is one of the largest fashion events of the year. The theme this year derived from the artistic works of Charles James. There was a vintage vibe with a lot of the dresses, which I really enjoyed, and I was highly anxious to see the rest, but alas, I was a bit disappointed. Of course there were many that I loved, but overall I wasn't too thrilled.
Here I've chosen three of my favorites from last night. Of course there were more, Taylor Swift and Kendall Jenner looked stunning, as well as Karlie Kloss. Oh, and I can't forget Blake Lively who took my breath away in a Gucci Premier dress. Large ballgowns and crop tops were a popular trend, as well as black and white and floral. 
Let me begin with Cara Delevigne in Stella McCartney. I wasn't surprised at all with Cara's choice in a crop and pants.The sultry top with the clean pants and heels suit her style perfectly, and she looks amazing as always. Next, Tabitha Simmons in Dolce & Gabbana. With so much tulle and flowers, I never thought I would like this dress, but there's just something about it that makes me happy inside. The only thing I'm still confused with is whether or not I like the color, it seems to wash her out. I've already raved over Blake, so last up is Amber Heard in a Giambattista Valli Haute Couture dress with Fred Leighton jewelry. The color of the dress is beautiful and the exquisite jewel details give it a vintage-glamour style. 
Now onto the fun part, the worst dressed. Luckily there was nothing too tragic this year, at least not in my eyes, but there were definitely some that should have never made it out of the fitting room. Anne Hathaway wore a very basic two piece dress from Calvin Klein Collection. It's not that it's a bad or ugly dress, it's just very boring. Add a necklace, wear a shawl, something! It's the Met Gala for goodness sakes, have some fun. Next we have Rosamund Pike in Louis Vuitton. I'm pretty sure I got this same dress from Limited Too when I was ten. Disappointing. That's all I have to say. Lastly, SJP in Oscar de la Renta. The dress itself isn't too bad, but paired with the gloves, and the hair, and SJP herself, I just felt like it made her look like she was 12. Maybe next time?

Tell me what your favorite, or least favorite, look was from the Met Gala!

Let's be pals:


Thursday, May 1, 2014

Kate Moss for Topshop?

The Queen of fashion is back, and she's brought the 70s with her! Kate Moss has designed a line, yet again, for Topshop, which released yesterday. The hype and build up of the line was incredible, and of course I was excited. The glamorous launch party with pretty much any important model or anyone who was anyone was, in my opinion, better than the actual line itself. There, I said it. I was very disappointing with the pieces. There's a definite 70s vibe with a hit of chic sleepwear. And that's exactly what it looks like, sleepwear. Don't get me wrong, they're obviously very nice, quality pieces and they suit Topshops brand very well, but I just can't really see anyone who isn't famous or in fashion wearing this line. 
I chose some items from the line to give you a clue of what the collection is like if you haven't already seen it. As I mentioned before, there's a big 70s influence with comfortable, loose, luxurious fabrics as well as darker prints and studs. Like the majority of fashion lines, there's at least a few pieces that you'd consider wearing, and while I'm not a fan of this collection, there's definitely a jacket or pair of shorts that I might look at, but only if I have $100 laying around one day. Anyone have a coupon?


Let's be pals: