Monday, August 31, 2015

My August Playlist!


OMG summer is pretty much over!  I can't believe how fast it went.  I'm ready for fall though.  My month was pretty much uneventful.  It was refreshing though because I have been busy every weekend since May.  I worked a lot on my blog so that was good.  I am very excited about this month's playlist.  It was pretty much full three days in to the month.  I'm still OBSESSED with last month's playlist which you can check out here.  What songs are you loving?


1. She's Kinda Hot by 5 Seconds of Summer
I am so glad they have new music out.  I feel like it has been awhile.  It reminds me of high school a lot because I went through a punk rock phase.  This song totally has that sound.  It's very catchy and ALWAYS in my head.  I can't wait to hear more!  Favorite lyric: They say we’re losers and we’re alright with that We are the leaders of the not-coming-back’s But we’re alright though Yeah, we’re alright though We are the kings and the queens of the new broken scene Yeah, we’re alright though

2. I Don't Like It, I Love It by Flo Rida feat. Robin Thicke
How does Flo Rida make every song a hit?  It works on me every time!  This song is no different because I just love it.  It instantly puts you in a good mood.  I was SO surprised that Robin Thicke was singing with him.  It sounds nothing like him!  I'm very impressed and maybe he'll make a comeback.  Favorite lyric: I don't like it, I love it, love it, love it, uh oh So good it hurts I don't want it, I gotta, gotta have it, uh oh When I can't find the words, I just go

3. My Love by Justin Timberlake
This song is total throwback!  This song was everywhere this month for some reason.  I heard it a lot on the radio pretty much every day.  I did not mind though because it is one of my favorite songs by him.  I played it every morning before I went to school.  Let's be honest I love everything that he does.  I wish he would but out more music soon!  Favorite lyric: Yeah, because I can see us holding hands Walking on the beach, our toes in the sand I can see us on the countryside Sitting on the grass, laying side by side You could be my baby, let me make you my lady Girl, you amaze me Ain't gotta do nothing crazy See, all I want you to do is be my love

4. Lean On by Major Lazer
I actually liked this song for awhile but I never knew who sang it.  I really just like the beat.  It reminds me of an outdoor festival for some reason.  The video is very weird but I just can't stop listening to the song.  I don't think I would like her other songs though.  Favorite lyric: Blow a kiss, fire a gun We need someone to lean on Blow a kiss, fire a gun All we need is somebody to lean on

5. Ex's & Oh's by Elle King
I discovered this song at 3 AM when I couldn't sleep.  She sounds VERY similar to Amy Winehouse who I love.  That is what caught my attention the most.  I'm always humming this song because it's very catchy.  I'm sure what her other music sounds like but I am a fan of this song for sure.  It does make me miss Amy Winehouse though.  Favorite lyric: One, two, three, they gonna run back to me 'Cause I'm the best baby that they never gotta keep One, two, three, they gonna run back to me They always wanna come, but they never wanna leave Ex's and the oh, oh, oh's they haunt me Like ghosts they want me to make 'em all They won't let go Ex's and oh's

6. First Time by Icona Pop
They opened up for One Direction when I saw them in concert last month.  They were promoting their new album and this song was one that they sang.  I loved it right away!  It is just one of those songs that make you want to dance and scream the lyrics.  I like to play it in the morning to help me wake up.  Favorite lyric: Come on and run, run, run with me through the alley Before we get old and all our friends start to panic The first time we got high The first time we got drunk The first time we fell in love And things will never be the same And that's okay

7. Drag Me Down by One Direction
OMG 1D shocked the world by dropping this single without any warning!  Usually they promote it but this time they just tweeted out the iTunes link.  I thought it was a joke at first but I'm glad it's not.  I am OBSESSED with this song!  I honestly like them better as a group of 4.  It gives Niall and Louis more chances to sing which I like.  It was weird to not see Zayn in the video though.  I'm SUPER pumped for the album!  Favorite lyric: If I didn't have you there would be nothing left The shell of a man who could never be his best If I didn't have you, I'd never see the sun You taught me how to be someone, yeah All my life You stood by me When no one else was ever behind me All these lights They can't blind me With your love, nobody can drag me down

8. House Party by Sam Hunt
I'm still loving country music!  I discovered this while I was driving to the One Direction.  All we could get on the radio was country.  This song came on and I bought it right away on iTunes.  It's just such a fun song!  I also just love his music.  Favorite lyric: Cause I'll be at your door in ten minutes Whatever you got on, girl, stay in it You ain't gotta leave the house to have a good time I'm a bring the good time home to you We'll have a house party, we don't need nobody Turn your TV off, break that boom-box out We'll wake up all the neighbors til the whole block hates us And the cops show up and try to shut us down If you're gonna be a homebody We're gonna have a house party

9. Do It Again by Pia Mia feat. Tyga and Chris Brown
This song is my current obsession!  I literally have it on repeat all day long.  I didn't even existed until I saw people talking about it on Twitter.  Finally I decided to check it out and I'm glad I did!  I haven't heard it on the radio yet but so I highly recommend it to you guys.  You'll be addicted like I am!  Favorite lyric: It was nice to, nice to know ya, let's do it again How we did it on a one night stand Boy, I wanna be more than a friend to ya Nice to, nice to know ya, let's do it again How we did it on a one night stand Boy, I wanna be more than a friend to ya Let's do it again

10. Love Myself by Hailee Steinfeld
I also discovered this song when I couldn't sleep.  This is the perfect anthem for all girls.  You all know that I love girl power and this fits perfectly!  I'm so glad she made this song because it could change a lot of lives.  I struggle with body issues so I really love the message.  She did an amazing job on this song!  Favorite lyric: I'm gonna put my body first And love me so hard 'til it hurts I know how to scream out the words Scream the words (I love me) Gonna love myself, no, I don't need anybody else (Hey) Gonna love myself, no, I don't need anybody else (I love me) Can't help myself, no, I don't need anybody else Anytime, day or night (I love me) Gonna love myself, no, I don't need anybody else (Hey) Gonna love myself, no, I don't need anybody else (I love me) Can't help myself, no, I don't need anybody else Anytime that I like (I love me)




xo,
Jerica

Friday, August 28, 2015

My Thoughts On The Pretty Little Liar Finale


I've been waiting to do this post for awhile!  I was waiting so that I didn't ruin anything.  If you haven't watched yet be warned that there will be spoilers.  Let's get to it!

I've been ADDICTED to this show since the very beginning.  They really hyped up this season calling it the summer of answers.  We were FINALLY going to find out who A is!  I thought it was going to be Bethany.  She has been connected to Alison's family quite often plus we knew that A was related.  I didn't have any crazy theories or predictions like a lot of other fans did.  I honestly had NO idea who it was but I was 90% sure that Sara had something to do with it.

I really loved the episode!  It was super suspenseful and it did answer most of the questions that we fans wanted to know.  I did not think that A was going to be CeCe Drake.  When she turned around my jaw literally dropped.  She just hasn't been on the show in awhile.  Some people didn't like the transgender storyline but I honestly didn't mind it.  It actually made sense and I can't believe we didn't figure it out with all the clues!  Also Sara Harvey was red coat AND black widow.  I was on to her!

The end jumped ahead 5 years and showed the girls warning Alison that he was following her.  Who is he?  How can they leave as hanging like that?  Also, did the moms ever get out of the basement?  We won't find anything out until January!  That's too long!  Did you watch the finale?  Let me know your thoughts.




xo,
Jerica

Thursday, August 27, 2015

♥10 Random Questions♥

Hey guys!  Last week I saw a bunch of party questions and I thought they were interesting.  I love questions like these because you can really get know a person.  It's just a fun way to break the ice.  So I thought I would answer them for you.  Also I want to know your answers so leave them in a comment!

1. If you could time travel, where would you go?
I have two answers for this.  First I would go back to the hippie era because I'm a hippie at heart.  I would just love to experience that.  Then I would go to the early 60's.  I love JFK so that's my main reason for that.

2. What is your spirit animal?
I've never really thought about this.  I'm going to say an elephant because they are sensitive and caring.  They are my favorite animal as well.

3. If you could trade bodies with somebody for a day, who would it be?
Obviously Taylor Swift!  I would love to tour the world and hang out with famous people.  I just think she is amazing!

4. What luxury item would you take on a desert island?
My iPod for sure.  I can't survive without music.  I listen to it all day every day so I would need it on an island.

5. If you had to eat one thing forever, what would it be?
Everybody probably says this but I'd choose pizza.  You can do SO many combinations which means you won't get bored.  You can also make dessert pizza.

6. If you had a nail polish, what would the name be?
This is my dream job!  I've always wanted to name nail polishes because they are so clever.  I would do a glitter polish with multi colored glitter.  I would name it Funfetti because it's fun!

7. What skill do you wish you had?
I wish I could sing.  I tell my mom all the time that she ruined my life because she wouldn't get me lessons.  I'm not terrible but I'm not amazing.

8. What language would you like to master?
French.  I find it to be such a beautiful language.  I studied a little bit in high school and I've been learning some on an app.  Maybe someday I'll master it!

9. What is your favorite smell?
This might be really weird but I love the smell of fresh cut grass.  I just love it!  It just reminds me of summer.  I also love the smell after it has rained.

10. If you could live in any city, where would it be?
I've always been obsessed with LA.  It just seems like my type of place.  I also love London even though I've never been.




xo,
Jerica

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Weekly Obsession!


I am constantly looking for new things to be interested in.  This week has been an old obsession that I've revisited.  My weekly obsession is...podcasts!  I have been loving podcasts lately!  I find them to be interesting and relaxing.  I like to put them on while I'm getting ready for the day or while I'm writing blog posts.  I really like TED Talks because it's about 15-20 minutes long.  Plus the topics are SO fascinating.  It's educational but it doesn't drag on so you won't get bored.  I usually just go on iTunes and find something that I think I'll like.  There is LITERALLY a podcast for every topic you can think of.  The best part is that they are free.  What are some of your favorite podcasts?

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Quiz Tuesday: Which Member Of Taylor Swift’s Squad Are You Based On Your Zodiac Sign?


Happy Tuesday!  If you know me then you'll know that I LOVE Taylor Swift!  I've been a fan since the very beginning.  One thing that I wish I was a part of is Taylor's squad.  I mean who wouldn't want to bake cupcakes with T. Swift?  Today's quiz is called Which Member Of Taylor Swift’s Squad Are You Based On Your Zodiac Sign?  I have no idea who I will get but I did go to the same high school as Jamie King.  Not at the same time though unfortunately.  Let's be honest I just want to be Taylor's BFF.  A girl can dream!

I got Selena Gomez!  The description says: You’re high-energy, strive for success, and can be very emotional. Taylor would always be there when you needed someone to talk to, and you’d be there for her. It’s a very well-balanced friendship that would never fade, even if your busy lives made it hard to get together frequently.

This is pretty spot on.  Plus I do really love Selena as well.  Can this please just happen?  Maybe one day.



xo,
Jerica

Monday, August 24, 2015

Cooking Corner: Watermelon Cupcakes

I love cupcakes!  I could eat one every day and never get tired of it.  Awhile back I saw a recipe for watermelon cupcakes and thought it was interesting.  I'm not a huge watermelon fan but I decided to try them.  They are actually really good!  They are the perfect summer treat.  I wish I made them sooner!  If you make these tweet me a picture @jerica_89.



What You'll Need:
Cupcakes:
1 Box of White Cake Mix + Ingredients Called For On The Package
1 Cup Mini Chocolate Chips
1 Package of Watermelon Jello
Red and Yellow Food Coloring

Frosting:
1 Cup Butter, Softened
3 Cups Powdered Sugar
3 Tablespoons Whole Milk
2 Teaspoons Vanilla Extract
Green Food Coloring

Directions:
For Cupcakes:
Preheat oven and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
Prepare batter according to package directions. Stir in jello mix. Stir in red food coloring. Stir in a little yellow food coloring until you reach your desired shade of pink.
Fold in chocolate chips.
Fill cupcake liners ~2/3 of the way full and bake according to package directions.

For Frosting:
Cream butter until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla.
Gradually add powdered sugar a little at a time. Add milk as needed.
Stir in green food coloring until you reach your desired shade.
Spread or pipe frosting onto cupcakes.
Sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top.



xo,
Jerica

Friday, August 21, 2015

10 Random Songs


It's Friday!!!!!  One of my favorite things in life is music.  I listen to it every single day and I instantly feel better.  I feel like songs are the way to really get to know a person.  Today I thought I would give you guys a look into me based off of my iTunes.  I'm going to put it on shuffle and list the 10 songs that play.  I'll even share a memory or a reason I downloaded it.  I want all of you to participate also!  Post what 10 songs come up and talk about what it means to you.  Here we go!


1. Barefoot Blue Jean Night by Jake Owens
This song reminds of Summer.  It came out when I was 22 and I heard it because my older sister told me about it.  It just gives off a really chill vibe which is how I am.  It's great for a beach party or bonfire.

2. Come On Over by Jessica Simpson
I've always been a fan of hers.  This song is when she attempted to go country.  I didn't buy the album but I actually really like this song.  She should probably stick to pop music though.  It works better for her voice.

3. Because Of You by 98 Degrees
I'm OBSESSED with boy bands!  They were SO underrated in my opinion.  Nick Lachey was my love when I was probably 8 or 9.  To be honest I'm still in love with him.  This song takes me back to the TRL days when I would wait to see a 20 second clip of the music video.  It was totally worth it though!  Isn't it ironic that this played after Jessica Simpson?  I loved them together and their reality show was my life.  I actually own every season.

4. Runaway by Ed Sheeran
Who doesn't love him?  His songs always have such a great message.  He is truly one of the greatest singer/songwriters of our generation.

5. Lookin' For A Good Time by Lady Antebellum
I heard this on an award show and thought it was catchy.  I'm not a big fan but I do enjoy some of their songs.

6. Square Pegs by Kelsea Ballerini
I heard one song and immediately bought her album.  I discovered her on YouTube and now I love her.  She reminds me a lot of Taylor Swift.  I've had the album on repeat all summer.  I swear I listen to more than country!

7. Fall For You by Secondhand Serenade
I went through a slightly alternative phase in high school.  We all had laptops that were for "school use only" but we never followed that.  This was on one of my mix cd's that I would listen to in study hall and sometimes class.

8. Tell Me Why by Taylor Swift
I just love her!  She is pretty much my idol and can do no wrong.  I have no other words!

9. Better Than Words by One Direction
If you follow my blog then you know I am obsessed with them!  This song takes me back to the concert last month.  It just made the crowd go CRAZY!  Mostly because there was lots of hip thrusting happening!

10. Close Your Eyes by Meghan Trainor
My mom and I love her.  I'm a fan of 50's and 60's music and she somehow makes that sound modern.  It's the perfect mixture.  She is just great!




xo,
Jerica

Thursday, August 20, 2015

Book Review: All The Bright Places


It's time for a book review!  I have been talking about this book in my last couple of posts and I finally finished it.  It's been awhile since I was this into a book.  I could not put it down!  I read 100 pages in 15 minutes because I just had to know what was happening next.  I actually saw this book on Zoe's YouTube channel and thought it sounded interesting.  I'm SO glad I checked it out!

Here is the description from Barnes & Noble.  Theodore Finch is fascinated by death, and he constantly thinks of ways he might kill himself. But each time, something good, no matter how small, stops him. Violet Markey lives for the future, counting the days until graduation, when she can escape her Indiana town and her aching grief in the wake of her sister’s recent death. When Finch and Violet meet on the ledge of the bell tower at school, it’s unclear who saves whom. And when they pair up on a project to discover the “natural wonders” of their state, both Finch and Violet make more important discoveries: It’s only with Violet that Finch can be himself—a weird, funny, live-out-loud guy who’s not such a freak after all. And it’s only with Finch that Violet can forget to count away the days and start living them. But as Violet’s world grows, Finch’s begins to shrink.

I absolutely LOVED this book.  It really gave a whole new insight on mental problems.  I've never known anybody with a mental issue but I've often wondered how their mind works.  This book made me understand it a lot better.  I thought the character's were very relatable even though I've never went through what they did.  I was not prepared for the ending!  Be prepared for tears!  This book is a YA book but I think anybody would enjoy it.  I'm actually sad it's over!  It is being made into a film but I'm not sure they will be able to capture everything like the book does.  I highly recommend this!  Have you read this book?  Let me know your thoughts.




xo,
Jerica

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Weekly Obsession!


I am all about quick and easy food.  I tend to get bored fairly easy so I like to switch it up.  This week I rediscovered a favorite...sort of.  My weekly obsession is...Hot Pockets!  I've eaten many hot pockets as a kid but I just forgot about them.  It's not just any hot pockets that I'm obsessed with.  I'm loving the four cheese pizza flavor!  I'm not gonna lie I ate 2 boxes in 2 days.  In my defense, there are only 2 in a box.  The best part is the crust because it's garlic butter flavor.  They honestly taste like a pizza but in a pocket form.  These are great if you are on the go as well.  I just can't get enough!!!  What is your favorite flavor?



xo,
Jerica

Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Quiz Tuesday: Are You More Fifth Harmony Or Little Mix?


Happy Tuesday!  It's a rainy day out so it could be a better day.  I'm not ready for summer to be over!!!  If you have followed my blog for awhile then you'll know I love boy bands.  I also love girl groups.  I was the BIGGEST Spice Girl fan ever!  Right now there are two pretty big girl groups and I'm obsessed with both.  That's why today's quiz is fitting.  Today's quiz is called Are You More Fifth Harmony Or Little Mix?  It's too hard to choose!!  You can take the quiz with me here.  Share your results!

I got Little Mix!  The description says: Classy and always sassy. Some people may underestimate you at times, but the truth is that nothing can drag you down. Your closest friends mean the world to you and you’ll never let them fall into harm’s way.

I'm very happy with these results!  I'm obsessed with Little Mix right now!  I have Black Magic on repeat constantly.  I also think the description fits me very well.




xo,
Jerica

Monday, August 17, 2015

Brownie Batter Oreo Review


Just when I thought Oreo couldn't do any better than their S'mores flavor they proved me wrong.  I never thought I would see brownie batter and a cookie combined.  It happened though at it is everything imagined!  I thought I share my thoughts with you.

I'm not gonna lie I was nervous right away because when I opened the package it smells very strongly of coffee.  This is great if you are a coffee fan which I'm not.  Then I looked at the actual cookies and they are SUPER dark.  I think it's because the filling is brown.  I just decided to go for it!  At first it just tasted like a chocolate cookie and I was disappointed.  Suddenly it just changes to a brownie flavor and you are INSTANTLY hooked!  I honestly don't know how they did it!

At first I preferred the S'mores Oreo's better but now I'm changing my mind.  I've had to limit myself to two cookies at a time.  If I didn't I would eat the entire package.  I highly recommend these!  It says limited edition so go get them SOON!  Have you tried these cookies yet?  Share your thoughts!



xo,
Jerica

Friday, August 14, 2015

Lazy Day Essentials (Summer Edition)

We all have days where we just want to lay around doing nothing.  I'm ALWAYS super busy during Summer so I enjoy a lazy day.  I thought I would share some of my essentials.  It's not always sunny during this time of year either so you could even use some of these on rainy days.  What are some of your essentials?


Swimsuit:
I love just laying out by the pool.  It's so relaxing!  Obviously you need to be wearing a cute swimsuit.  I like buying them at Target or Walmart.  They don't last forever but they are good quality for the price.  I prefer strapless tops so you don't have crazy tan lines.

Hat:
I love floppy hats!  There are SO many styles and you can wear them anywhere.  They are really good at keeping your face protected.  Also, you don't have to worry about doing your hair!  Hats are life changing this time of year.

Candle:
I love candles all year long.  I especially like to light them on rainy days.  This is my favorite right now.  I did a whole post on this candle which you can check it out here.  It's amazing!!!!

Graphic Tee:
I am OBSESSED with graphic shirts.  They go with everything and you can also show your interests.  I like to buy a size bigger so when I'm just relaxing it isn't too tight.  You can also throw it on over your swimsuit and go places.  I just love them!

Book:
A good book is perfect for a lazy day.  I like getting lost in another world.  I've always been a big reader though.  I'm currently reading All The Bright Places by Jennifer Niven.  Be on the lookout for a review soon!

Netflix:
I've seen pretty much every episode of Friends.  Lately it's been a little rainy so I've started watching it on Netflix.  It's just a classic!  I never get tired of it and I probably never will.

Snack:
I LOVE ice cream!!!  I switch flavors all the time because I get bored easily.  Right now I'm loving Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough by Ben & Jerry's.  I mean who doesn't love cookie dough?  Don't be ashamed if you eat the whole thing because we've all done it.  Plus lazy days are meant to be unhealthy!




xo,
Jerica

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Movie Review: Insurgent


I have bee waiting for FOREVER to see this film.  I immediately bought it the day it came out!  This is the second movie in the Divergent series.  I thought I did a review of the first film but I must have forgotten.  You can check out my thoughts on the books though.

I'll start briefly on what I thought of the first film Divergent.  I have a love/hate relationship with it.  Some parts were exactly how I pictured it while reading but I HATED the ending.  They completely changed it!  You are probably wondering why I was so eager to see Insurgent then.  I have a reason.

I was really curious on how they were going to continue based on that ending.  It totally exceeded my expectations!  It was SO much better than the first film which doesn't typically happen.  It has been awhile since I read the books but it did seem to follow what I remember.  This was definitely more action packed.  It does get a bit violent at times so be warned.  It's not super graphic though.

Shailene Woodley does an amazing job as Tris.  She is exactly how I pictured her to be in the books.  I'm also in love with Theo James who plays Four.  They just did an awesome job with the casting.  Overall, I loved this film a lot better.  Give it a chance even if you weren't a fan of Divergent.  You'll be really surprised.  I can't wait until Allegiant comes out next year!  Have you seen this movie?  Let me know your thoughts.



xo,
Jerica

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Weekly Obsession!


I'm going to be going back to school next month.  That means it's time to buy new clothes!  Last year my all time favorite store closed.  I was SUPER upset!  It is now back!!!!!  My weekly obsession is...Delia's!  I can't even explain how excited I am that this store is back.  I absolutely love all of their clothing.  I'd say about 80% of my wardrobe is from them.  It is only an online store now but I'm fine with that.  The sizing chart they use is very accurate.  I've never had a problem with my size.  I love the deals as well.  I just put everything in my cart and wait until I feel the price is acceptable.  Last year I put a pair of shorts that were about $32 and I waited and got them for $7!  I'm all about the deals!  The quality is also really good.  My favorite items are the graphic tee's.  I highly recommend that you go check them out!  Be looking out for a haul soon!!!!!  What is your favorite store?



xo,
Jerica

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Quiz Tuesday: Which “Friends” Character Are You Based On These “Would You Rather” Questions?


Happy Tuesday!!  One of my all time favorite shows is Friends.  I mean who doesn't love it right?  A question I get all the time is which character am I most like.  I actually just had this conversation with my mom.  I have an idea of who I think I'm like but I want to see if I'm right.  Today's quiz is called Which “Friends” Character Are You Based On These “Would You Rather” Questions?  I'm honestly so excited about this quiz.  You can take the quiz here.  Be sure to share your results!

I got Chandler!  The description says: You’re the funniest person around so you’re always a pleasure in a group, even when you can’t stop with the sarcasm. No one knows what your job is but you’re happy and comfortable, so who cares?

Chandler is one of my favorites but that's not who I was expecting.  Everybody says I'm most like Phoebe because I'm very random like her.  I do think I fit the description though.  I love all the characters though.



xo,
Jerica

Monday, August 10, 2015

Let's Talk: Periods


This is a series I've wanted to do for awhile now.  There are some topics that people avoid talking about.  They exist so why avoid it?  Today I'm going to talk about periods.  All women have them and I'm not ashamed to talk about it.  There is a reason I chose periods as the first post.

Everyday when I sign on Facebook I always look at the trending topics.  Over the weekend I saw this article.  It's about a woman who ran the London Marathon on her period.  What made this trending?  She ran the entire time without a tampon because she wanted to raise awareness for women who don't have access to tampons or pads.  I have many thoughts on this.

First off, I applaud her for even running the marathon while on her period.  When I have my period, all I want is chocolate, Netflix, and sleep.  Yes, I am that stereotypical person and I'm prod of it!  I like her intentions a lot but I feel like there are better ways to raise awareness.  Social media is the perfect place for this type of cause.  It can reach millions with just one post.  Look at the ice bucket challenge and how many people now know about ALS.  There are thousands of people running the race and I personally would feel uncomfortable.  Not because she was on her period but having it dripping everywhere just seems so unsanitary.  I would have considered other peoples feelings before I made that decision.

What do you guys think?  Would you have done it?  Also, what do you think of this series?  Let me know how often you would want a post like this.  I can't wait to hear from you all!




xo,
Jerica

Friday, August 7, 2015

Cooking Corner: Chocolate Turtle Brownies

I have been CRAVING brownies lately!  It's all I want to eat as a snack which is weird because I'm not a huge brownie fan.  So I went to Pinterest and found a recipe from one of my favorite cooking sites Six Sisters Stuff.  All of their recipes are amazing so check them out!  This recipe is for Chocolate Turtle Brownies.  I can't get enough!  I figured I would post this just in time for the weekend.  If you make these send me a picture on Twitter @jerica_89.  Enjoy!!


Ingredients:
3 cups milk chocolate chips, divided
½ cup butter or margarine, cut into pieces
3 large eggs
1¼ cups flour
1 cup sugar
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup chopped walnuts
20 caramels
1½ tablespoons milk

Directions:
1. Spray a 9 x 13 inch pan with non stick cooking spray. Heat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Melt 1½ cups chocolate chips and butter in a large bowl in the microwave. Stir until smooth.

3. Stir in eggs, then add in flour, sugar, baking soda and vanilla. Stir together well.

4. Spread batter into the greased pan, then sprinkle with chocolate chips and chopped nuts. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set.

5. Microwave caramels and milk in a small bowl for about 1 minute. Stir and then continue to microwave, stirring every 15 seconds until all is melted and smooth. Drizzle over warm brownies.




xo,
Jerica

Thursday, August 6, 2015

Book Haul!

I recently bought a few new books.  So I thought I would share my purchases with you.  I'm not doing so good on my ready goal for this year.  Maybe these books will get me motivated!  What are you reading?


This is Zoo by James Patterson.  My grandpa was talking about the TV show and it didn't seem like my thing.  Then my friend told me it was based on a book.  I do find concept very interesting.  I've heard great things about James Patterson so I decided to pick it up.  Here is the description: All over the world, brutal attacks are crippling entire cities. Jackson Oz, a young biologist, watches the escalating events with an increasing sense of dread. When he witnesses a coordinated lion ambush in Africa, the enormity of the impending violence becomes terrifyingly clear. With the help of ecologist Chloe Tousignant, Oz races to warn world leaders before it's too late. The attacks are growing in ferocity, cunning, and planning, and soon there will be no place left for humans to hide.

Next I got All The Bright Places by Jennifer Niven.  I heard about this on YouTube and I thought it sounded good.  I've actually started this already and I really like it.  I might see if she has any other books.  Here is the description: Theodore Finch is fascinated by death, and he constantly thinks of ways he might kill himself. But each time, something good, no matter how small, stops him.  Violet Markey lives for the future, counting the days until graduation, when she can escape her Indiana town and her aching grief in the wake of her sister’s recent death.  When Finch and Violet meet on the ledge of the bell tower at school, it’s unclear who saves whom. And when they pair up on a project to discover the “natural wonders” of their state, both Finch and Violet make more important discoveries: It’s only with Violet that Finch can be himself—a weird, funny, live-out-loud guy who’s not such a freak after all. And it’s only with Finch that Violet can forget to count away the days and start living them. But as Violet’s world grows, Finch’s begins to shrink.

Pretty much everybody has read Paper Towns by John Green except for me.  I love anything John Green write so I'm sure I'll love it.  All my friends seemed to love it.  I also wanted to read it before I see the film.  Here is the description: Quentin Jacobsen has spent a lifetime loving the magnificently adventurous Margo Roth Spiegelman from afar. So when she cracks open a window and climbs into his life—dressed like a ninja and summoning him for an ingenious campaign of revenge—he follows. After their all-nighter ends, and a new day breaks, Q arrives at school to discover that Margo, always an enigma, has now become a mystery. But Q soon learns that there are clues—and they're for him. Urged down a disconnected path, the closer he gets, the less Q sees the girl he thought he knew.

I loved To Kill A Mockingbird so I decided to check out Go Set A Watchman by Harper Lee.  I've heard mixed reviews so I'm interested to see what I think.  I don't really know what it's about so it should be exciting.  Here's the description: Maycomb, Alabama. Twenty-six-year-old Jean Louise Finch--"Scout"--returns home from New York City to visit her aging father, Atticus. Set against the backdrop of the civil rights tensions and political turmoil that were transforming the South, Jean Louise's homecoming turns bittersweet when she learns disturbing truths about her close-knit family, the town and the people dearest to her. Memories from her childhood flood back, and her values and assumptions are thrown into doubt. Featuring many of the iconic characters from To Kill a Mockingbird, Go Set a Watchman perfectly captures a young woman, and a world, in a painful yet necessary transition out of the illusions of the past--a journey that can be guided only by one's conscience.



xo,
Jerica

Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Weekly Obsession!


It has been SUPER hot here lately.  I mean it's been about 98 degrees every day!  This weeks obsession is a necessity.  My weekly obsession is...Ice Cream.  I just love ice cream especially during the summer.  I've been eating it at least once a day.  I don't even care if it's not healthy.  The kind I've been eating lately is called Birthday Blast.  It is basically me in an ice cream form.  It's a vanilla base with cake pieces and sprinkles.  It is heavenly!  I'm so glad I spotted it in the store.  Eating ice cream really does cool you down quickly.  Plus it's delicious!  What is your favorite ice cream flavor?  I'll eat anything as long as fruit isn't involved!  It just doesn't mix well for me.  Let me know in the comments!



xo,
Jerica

Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Quiz Tuesday: Which One Direction Album Are You?


Happy Tuesday!  Only a week ago I was at the One Direction concert.  I miss it already!!!!  Then on Friday they just put out a new single without warning!  It is everything I've dreamed of!  I'm SUPER pumped about the new album now!  So I decided that today's quiz is perfect.  It's called Which One Direction Album Are You?  I already have a favorite album so we'll see what I get.  You can take the quiz here.  Share your results!!!!!

I got Midnight Memories!  The description says: You love to have fun. You’re definitely the wild child in your friend group. You love to stay up late and have a good time. You don’t sweat the small stuff, and you’re always looking out for others.

The description is very accurate!  I do really love that album as well.  My favorite album is Four though.  Honestly I love everything they do!



xo,
Jerica

Monday, August 3, 2015

4 Tips For Surviving Monday's


Let's be real Monday's can be rough.  It's nobody's favorite day of the week unless it's a holiday.  Unfornately it's not going away so we might as well make the best of it!  I have 4 tips that will make your Monday's just a little bit better.  Hopefully they will help some of you!  Share your tips as well!


1. Create A Playlist
Waking up is always hard for me no matter what day it is.  Somehow Monday's are especially hard!  I have a playlist on my iPod that I set as my alarm.  Pick songs that are upbeat and fun because it will set your mood for the day.  Mine includes One Direction, Taylor Swift, and Maroon 5.  I also have a lot of 90's songs.

2. Have A Good Breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  There are SO many quick and healthy options to choose from.  One of my favorites is oatmeal with fruit in it.  It really is filling and makes me feel more energized.  If you don't have time to sit and eat just make a smoothie.  It works just as well!

3. Plan Your Outfit
Having everything ready for your day will make you feel less stressed.  Rushing around in the morning can make you forgetful.  Lay anything you'll need out the night before to prevent that.  It just makes your day go super smooth.  Plus you can sleep an extra 10 mintues!

4. Tidy Your Space
This is something new I've started doing.  Coming home to a clean room and a nice bed makes you feel releaved.  If you had a bad day you can just come home and turn on Netflix.  You don't have to worry about cleaning because it's already done!  It only takes a few minutes if you do it daily.



xo,
Jerica