Book Haul

Winter is my favorite time to read.  I just find it so relaxing during all the hustle and bustle.  Plus what a better to spend a snowy night.  So I recently decided to buy some new books.  It's been awhile since I did a haul so I thought this would be the perfect time.  Maybe you will discover some new books.  I will link to a summary so nothing gets ruined.  What books are you loving?  Let me know!

First up is Girl Online Going Solo by Zoe Sugg.  This is the third and final book in the series.  I just love Zoe so of course I had to have the book.  I'm currently reading the second one so I can't wait to read this.  For a summary click here.

This is Two By Two by Nicholas Sparks.  I mean do I really have to explain???  His books are my obsession!  I have read every single book.  This one looks like a total tearjerker just by looking at the cover.  For a summary click here.

This is Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert.  I can't say too much about this but if you want to find out the secret make sure you follow my blog.  It will be revealed next week!  For a summary click here.

This is Bloom: Navigating Life And Style by Estee Lolonde.  I love Estee SO much!!  She is probably my favorite Youtuber so when she announced her book I immediately bought it.  I can't wait to read this.   For a summary click here.

Lastly is Good As Gone by Amy Gentry.  I had heard nothing about this book until I stumbled on it.  It was compared to Gone Girl which is one of my favorite books.  Plus this cover just draws me in for some reason.  For a summary click here.

♥My November Ipsy Bag♥

I never thought I would sign up for any monthly subscription bags or boxes.  I just never saw the point.  Finally two of my friends convinced me to try Ipsy.  I am now obsessed!!!  I've been getting bags since August but I finally decided to share what I get.  If you don't know what Ipsy is then let me explain.  For $10 a month you get a bag with 5 beauty products.  The bag equals around $50-$60 worth of products so that's an amazing deal.  When you sign up you take a beauty test so your bag is customized for you.  It comes every month and you can cancel anytime.  Let's see what is in my bag!

Let's start with the bag.  Every month is a new design and I'm in love this one!  You will either get silver or gold constellations.  I think the gold looks better though.  It is slightly metallic which I love.  The zipper is also a gold star.

This is the Adesse New York Brightening Base Coat.  You put this on before painting your nails or just use it on it's own.  It prevents your nails from being yellow it also makes your polish last longer.  It is also cruelty free.  I'm very excited to try this product.

This is the Luxie Rose Gold Small Duo Fiber Brush 524T.  This brush is SUPER  soft!  It can be used with powders, creams, or liquids.  It's easy to blend with and it is great for sensitive skin.  Plus who wouldn't want this adorable brush in their collection?

This is the Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream.  This is for anti-aging.  You put this on your face after you've washed your face in the mornings.  I'm not sure if I will use this or not.  I might give it to my mom but you never know.  It's never too early to work on anti-aging and wrinkles.

This is the STARLOOKS Cream Eye Shadow in Rose Gold.  I've never used a cream shadow before but I really like it.  You can also use it as a liner.  It is metallic which I love.  It is very long lasting and very blendable.

Last up is the theBalm Cosmetics Mad Lash Mascara.  I love this!!  Mascaras are my favorite product anyway.  The wand is curved to really give your lashes volume.  It grabs every single lash.  This is also a cruelty free product.

Overall, I loved this month's bag.  It had a nice range of products which I like.  Also the bag design won me over.  My favorite product is probably the base coat because I constantly have my nails painted.  Do you get an Ipsy bag?  If so, what was your favorite product?

Cooking Corner: Monster Cookies

I've been craving cookies lately!  A couple weeks ago my mom made me some Monster cookies.  I had never had them before but I LOVED them.  So I thought I would share the recipe with all of you!  This is the perfect way to use up any extra Halloween candy because you can put pretty much anything in them.  If you make these be sure to tweet me pictures!  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

3 eggs

1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar

1 cup white sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon honey

2 teaspoons baking soda

1/2 cup butter

1 1/2 cups peanut butter

4 1/2 cups rolled oats

11.4 ounce bag M&M'S

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

In a very large bowl, beat the eggs.

Add the remaining ingredients in order, mixing well.

Scoop the cookie dough on to an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes.

4 Last Minute Halloween Costumes From Your Closet

Most of us will probably be going to some sort of Halloween party this weekend.  There is no reason to go spend $80 on a costume because all you'll need is your closet.  If you are like me then you probably have no clue what to be.  Don't worry I've got you covered!  I came up with 4 costumes that you already own.  Let's get to it!

First up is a scarecrow.  All you'll need is a plaid shirt, preferably red, some ripped jeans, and brown boots.  You can add makeup and a straw hat if you would like.  All you need is a braid and your look is complete.

Next up is a witch.  All that you will need is a black dress and black boots.  Any dress will work as long it's black so just pick your favorite.  The only thing you'll need to but is a witch hat which is less than $5.  If you are crafty then make your own.

Next is a flower goddess.  You'll need a flowy white dress, sandals, and a flower crown.  Think Coachella vibes or the Snapchat filter.  This my favorite for sure.

Last up is a fitness girl.  All you need are yoga pants, a exercise top, and sneakers.  This is probably the best one.  You can go straight from the gym to your party.  Plus you will be super comfortable all night!

Well that is what I came up with!  What was your favorite?  Also, let me know what you are going to be for Halloween in the comments!

My June Playlist!

I can't believe June is over!  It hasn't been the best month for me.  Luckily next month is my birthday!!!!  I hope to start blogging more as well.  Be sure to check out my May playlist because I'm still loving it.  The songs for this month are really good too.  I discovered a ton of new music.  What are you guys listening to?

1. Brand New by Ben Rector
Favorite lyric: Like when I close my eyes and don't even care if anyone sees me dancing Like I can fly, and don't even think of touching the ground Like a heartbeat skip, like an open page Like a one way trip on an aeroplane It's the way that I feel when I'm with you, brand new Brand new

2. Messin' Around by Pitbull feat. Enrique Iglesias
Favorite lyric: I heard it from a friend, who Heard it from a friend, who Heard it from another you've been messin' around I'm hoping that your friend too Told you about me too Cause I'mma tell you straight up, I've been messin' around

3. Sit Still, Look Pretty by Daya
Favorite lyric: Oh, I don't know what you've been told But this gal right here's gonna rule the world
Yeah, that is where I'm gonna be because I wanna be No, I don't wanna sit still, look pretty You get off on your 9 to 5 Dream of picket fences and trophy wives But no, I'm never gonna be 'cause I don't wanna be No, I don't wanna sit still look pretty

4. Me Too by Meghan Trainor
Favorite lyric: I thank God every day That I woke up feelin' this way And I can't help lovin' myself
And I don't need nobody else, nuh uh If I was you, I'd wanna be me too I'd wanna be me too I'd wanna be me too If I was you, I'd wanna be me too I'd wanna be me too I'd wanna be me too

5. One Dance by Drake
Favorite lyric: That's why I need a one dance Got a Hennessy in my hand One more time 'fore I go
Higher powers taking a hold on me I need a one dance Got a Hennessy in my hand One more time 'fore I go Higher powers taking a hold on me

6. Like I Would by Zayn
Favorite lyric: He won't touch you like I do He won't love you like I would He don't know your body
He don't do you right He won't love you like I would Love you like I would, like I would

7. Treat You Better by Shawn Mendes
Favorite lyric: I know I can treat you better than he can And any girl like you deserves a gentleman
Tell me why are we wasting time On all your wasted crying When you should be with me instead
I know I can treat you better Better than he can

8. New Obsession by Frankie
Favorite lyric: I got the tricks if you want to lock lips I got the moves if you want to come cruise No I don't want to be your best your friend Just let me be your new obsession I'm on the ups if you want to get down You think your tough, but I figured you out No, I don't want to be your best your friend Just let me be your new obsession

9. Play It Again by Luke Bryan
Favorite lyric: She was like, "Oh, my God, this is my song. I've been listenin' to the radio all night long. Sittin' 'round, waitin' for it to come on and here it is." She was like, "Come here boy, I wanna dance." 'Fore I said a word she was takin' my hand Spinnin' me around 'til it faded out And she gave me a kiss And she said, "Play it again, play it again, play it again." And I said, "Play it again, play it again, play it again."

10. Send My Love (To Your New Lover) by Adele
Favorite lyric: I'm giving you up I've forgiven it all You set me free-ee, oh Send my love to your new lover Treat her better We gotta let go of all of our ghosts We both know we ain't kids no more Send my love to your new lover Treat her better We've gotta let go of all of our ghosts We both know we ain't kids no more





xo,
Jerica

My March Playlist!

I thought this month would never end!  If you haven't followed this blog then you won't know that I was in the hospital.  I was sick basically all month so I'm ready to move on.  Thankfully Spring is here!!!!!  I've missed the warmth and sunshine!  Since I was sick I really didn't discover anything new.  So there are only 5 songs instead of 10.  I have been loving February's Playlist so go check it out!  What songs have you been loving?


1. Let It Go by James Bay
I had seen everybody talking about this song on YouTube.  I didn't really pay attention until I heard it on the radio.  It's such a good song!  I love his sound and the lyrics are amazing.  I'll have to check out his other songs.  He's not really my type though but I might like it.  Favorite lyric: So come on, let it go Just let it be Why don't you be you And I'll be me? Everything that's broke Leave it to the breeze
Why don't you be you And I'll be me?

2. We Don't Talk Anymore by Charlie Puth feat. Selena Gomez
If you don't have this album then you are missing out.  It's SO good!  This song is catchy and slightly techno.  I instantly loved it because the sound amazing together.  I just love him!  I hope this is his next single.  Favorite lyric: Don't wanna know If you're looking into her eyes If she's holdin onto you so tight the way I did before I overdosed Should've known your love was a game Now I can't get you out of my brain Oh, it's such a shame

3. Piece By Piece by Kelly Clarkson
I've been a fan since the very beginning.  This song is extremely emotional which is what I love about her music.  It's always so real and raw.  I relate to this song a lot because I didn't have a father growing up either.  I like how she makes it empowering and not pity her.  She's just an amazing artist and I respect her.  Favorite lyric: But piece by piece he collected me Up off the ground, where you abandoned things, yeah Piece by piece he filled the holes That you burned in me at six years old And you know, He never walks away He never asks for money, He takes care of me 'Cause he loves me
Piece by piece he restored my faith That a man can be kind and a father could stay

4. Youth by Troye Sivan
This song is my obsession right now!!  I play it at least 20 times a day.  I was shocked that was Troye Sivan because I've only seen him on YouTube.  It's just such a fun song!  I also love the lyrics.  I want to buy his album now.  Favorite lyric: My youth My youth is yours Trippin' on skies, sippin' waterfalls My youth My youth is yours Run away now and forevermore My youth My youth is yours
The truth so loud you can't ignore My youth, my youth, my youth My youth is yours

5. New Romantics by Taylor Swift
I couldn't find a link for this song but trust me it's amazing.  I first heard it at her tour and loved it.  It's really catchy and a fun song.  It's part of my morning playlist now.  I hope she makes a music video soon!  Favorite lyric: Baby, we're the new romantics Come on, come along with me Heart break is the national anthem We sing it proudly We are too busy dancing To get knocked off our feet
Baby, we're the new romantics The best people in life are free






xo,
Jerica

Life Update: New Series Is Coming!!!

Guess what?  I'm sick AGAIN!!!!  This time I have strep which really sucks.  Did I mention it's also finals week?  Welcome to my life!  I figured I would write an update since all week I've been sleeping and drinking juice.  I wanted to let you know about a new series coming to this blog.

I haven't come up with an actual name so leave suggestions.  It's basically going to be life/beauty/girl hacks.  Any topic you want hacks for I'll do for you all.  I want to do topics you want though so this is where you come in.  Send me an email with topics you want hacks for.  Also let me know how often you want them posted.

That's all for now!  I'll be back next week.  I'm going back to bed with my soup and juice.  Talk to you guys later and I can't wait for your suggestions.




xo,
Jerica

HUGE Clothing Haul!

I told myself I wasn't going to buy anymore clothes for awhile.  I totally failed!  I got a bunch of emails with a ton of sales.  I just couldn't resist!  I'm a girl and shopping is just my guilty pleasure.  I know you girls understand me.  I bought from Boohoo and Kohls.  These are my go to stores.  Everything I bought was on sale plus extra percentages off.  What stores do you love?  Enjoy!

We'll start with Boohoo first.  I've been wanting a leather jacket for a super long time but I refuse to pay $300.  This was only $37 and it's AMAZING quality.  If you saw my My Galentine's Day post then you can see how I paired it.

Sunglasses are my life!  Last year I wanted a round pair but also a mirrored pair.  Good thing I waited because this is both in one.  I'm obsessed!

The last thing from Boohoo are also sunglasses.  I love the gold frame a lot!  Plus the lens change different colors when you move.

Next up is Kohls.  I really wanted dressier tops because I have a few formal events.  I love the print and it really isn't a color I wear a lot.  I'm expanding!

I'm a sucker for graphic tees!  Ninja Turtles just reminds me of childhood.

I'm obsessed with crochet clothing right now.  I also have no striped clothing so I picked this up.

Notice a trend yet?  I loved this color and it looks super cozy!

This my favorite thing I bought!  It's faux leather and the sleeves are sweater material.  I've seen these everywhere but they were not in my budget.  This was only $22!

Who doesn't need sweats?  I love the sequin detail though.  It just makes them more classy.

I love peplum anything but I just never buy it.  I liked that this was casual but you could dress it up.

Basically my motto in life!

I wanted a nice dress for Easter and I thought this print was perfect.  It's great for spring as well.

Lastly I bought three of the same racerback tanks.  Bright colors are my thing!  These are perfect for summer.  Plus they were only $8 each!

xo,

Jerica

Cooking Corner: Strawberry Milk No Bake Cookies

Valentine's Day is only a few days away!!!  I'm actually going to a party so I needed treats to make.  So I headed to my favorite site Pinterest to find something yummy.  I found two so come back tomorrow for that one!  Today's recipe requires no baking so it's going to be super easy.  Today's recipe is Strawberry Milk No Bake Cookies.  I did Healthy No Bake Chocolate Cookie awhile ago but these are pink and more festive.  If you make these tweet me a picture so I can see.  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

2 cups Sugar
3/4 (1 1/2 Sticks) Butter
2/3 cup Milk
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
1 – 3.9 oz pkg Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
4 cups Minute Oats
3/4 cup Strawberry Milk Powder Mix

Directions:

Melt butter, milk, and sugar in a large pot on medium-high heat.

Let boil for two minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in remaining ingredients until evenly blended.

Drop large spoonfuls on wax paper to cool and harden.

xo,

Jerica

Cooking Corner: Non Sloppy Sloppy Joes

One of my favorite meals has always been sloppy joes.  They are just a classic dish but they are very messy.  My mom found a recipe that I like to call Non Sloppy Sloppy Joes.  I'm obsessed with them!  I have two small nieces and these are perfect for kids.  I figured I'd share since the Super Bowl is coming up.  These would be perfect for any party though.  If you make these send me a picture on Twitter.  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef, cooked, drained

1 can (15 oz) sloppy joe sauce

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 can (16.3 oz) Pillsbury Grands refrigerated biscuits

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (2 oz)

Directions:

Heat oven to 375° F. In large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until beef is thoroughly cooked, stirring frequently; drain. Stir in sauce and chili powder; simmer 5 minutes.

Press each biscuit into 6-inch round. Spoon 1/3 cup meat mixture and about 1 tablespoon cheese onto center of each round. Fold dough in half over filling; press to seal. Place on ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake 9 to 14 minutes or until golden brown.

xo,

Jerica

My December Playlist!

It's New Years Eve!!!!  Can you even believe that tomorrow will be 2016?  I hope you all celebrate safely and have fun.  I'll just be here eating pizza and watching TV.  This year went by SUPER fast!  It's been a good one though and I'm ready for 2016.  Be on the look out for a post about my New Year's Goals.  I did this playlist differently because I've been playing A LOT of Christmas music.  So there are 5 regular songs and 5 of my favorite holiday songs.  I'm still obsessed with my playlist from last month which you can check out here.  What songs are you loving?


1. I Know What You Did Last Summer by Shawn Mendes & Camila Cabello
I have been loving this song!  I discovered it on Instagram and I'm so glad I did.  Camila is my favorite member of Fifth Harmony and I'm a big fan of his as well.  It seems like a completely different sound for them both and it works.  I like that it slightly darker but still catchy.  Favorite lyric: He knows Dirty secrets that I keep Does he know it's killing me? He knows, he knows D-d-does he know Another's hand have touched my skin I won't tell him where I've been He knows, he knows, he knows

2. Love Yourself by Justin Bieber
I finally did it you guys.  I bought the Bieber album!!!  I heard this song and I just couldn't resist!  I can not stop listening it.  It reminds me of old Bieber but still more mature.  It's also the perfect break up song in my opinion.  I'm officially back to being a fan and I REALLY want to go to his concert.  Favorite lyric: My mama don't like you and she likes everyone And I never like to admit that I was wrong And I've been so caught up in my job, didn't see what's going on But now I know, I'm better sleeping on my own Cause if you like the way you look that much Oh, baby, you should go and love yourself And if you think that I'm still holdin' on to somethin' You should go and love yourself

3. History by One Direction
Of course I had to include a One Direction.  This is honestly my favorite album and I play it every single day.  I've been obsessed with this song this month.  It's just so bittersweet and made for the fans.  I've been a fan since the beginning so it just makes me have a lot of emotions.  It's also just a great song.  I hope the hiatus goes quickly!  Favorite lyric: All of the rumors, all of the fights But we always find a way to make it out alive Thought we were going strong Thought we were holding on
Aren't we? You and me got a whole lot of history (oh) We could be the greatest team that the world has ever seen You and me got a whole lot of history (oh) So don't let it go, we can make some more, we can live forever

4. Hello by Adele
I have a love/hate relationship with this song.  I'm not a fan of hers but this song just gives you chills.  It gets overplayed though which is annoying.  I'm still trying to figure out what it's about.  On Christmas I may have had too many drinks and sang my own version.  Thankfully nobody recorded that!  Favorite lyric: Hello from the other side I must have called a thousand times To tell you I'm sorry for everything that I've done But when I call you never seem to be home Hello from the outside
At least I can say that I've tried To tell you I'm sorry for breaking your heart But it don't matter it clearly doesn't tear you apart anymore

5. Hide Away by Daya
I've liked this song for awhile but I never knew who sang it.  I've never heard of her but I'm obsessed with this song.  Every morning while I get ready I listen to it.  I can't get enough!  I like the message of finding a good guy to date.  Young girls need to hear that for sure.  Favorite lyric: All the money and the time that it takes To be fly as a mother Got my both eyes out for Mr. Right Guessing I just don't know where to find 'em But I hope they all come out tonight Hey! Where do the good boys go to hide away, hide away? I'm a good, good girl who needs a little company Looking high and low, someone let me know Where do the good boys go to hide away, hide away?

6. Santa Tell Me by Ariana Grande
I never knew this existed until this year.  I was missing out!  You guys know that I love her so I'm very happy.  It's so cute and catchy!  It's a new favorite added to my Christmas collection.  Favorite lyric: Or if it's true love that he thinks of So next Christmas I'm not all alone, boy Santa, tell me if you're really there Don't make me fall in love again if he won't be here Next year Santa, tell me if he really cares 'Cause I can't give it all away if he won't be here Next year

7. Christmas Love by Justin Bieber
I play this all year long and I have no shame!  It's such a cute song.  It just makes me feel so happy.  Favorite lyric: Hey angel in the snow I'm under the mistletoe You are the one You're my very own christmas love Tell Santa I'm cool this year My present is standing right here Thank God above for my very own christmas love

8. All I Want For Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey
This is a classic!  I don't know a single person who doesn't love this song.  It's just SO good!  Favorite lyric: I won't make a list and send it To the North Pole for Saint Nick I won't even stay awake to Hear those magic reindeer click 'Cause I just want you here tonight Holding on to me so tight What more can I do? Baby, all I want for Christmas is you

9. Baby, It's Cold Outside by Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey
This is my favorite version.  I'm a HUGE fan of Jessica Simpson so obviously I own this album.  I can't get enough!  Favorite lyric: I ought to say no, no, no, sir - Mind if I move a little closer At least I'm gonna say that I tried - What's the sense in hurting my pride I really can't stay - Baby don't hold out Baby it's cold outside

10. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays by NSYNC
This just takes me  back to my childhood.  I'm SO sad NSYNC isn't together anymore.  I still have hope!  I play this song all year as well.  Favorite lyric: It's a wonderful feeling Feel the love in the room From the floor to the ceiling It's that time of year Christmastime is here And with the blessings from above God sends you his love And everthing's okay Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays





xo,
Jerica

Cooking Corner: Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

It's Christmas Eve!  Today is the last recipe in my holiday series.  If you missed my last recipe I shared was Chocolate Fudge.  Today's recipe is my new favorite.  My cousin actually gave it to me.  I'm eating one right now!  It's Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies.  They are super easy to make too.  If you make them tweet me pictures!  Happy Holidays!!!!!

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons butter softened

2 ounces cream cheese softened

2 eggs

1 package Red Velvet Cake mix

Powdered sugar, for rolling

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a stand mixer, cream together butter and cream cheese. Add eggs and beat until well incorporated. Slowly add in the red velvet cake mix.

Remove cookie dough to a small bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour so the dough stiffens up a bit.

Once chilled, roll the cookie dough balls into small 1-inch balls. Roll each ball into powdered sugar and place onto a parchment-lined sheet tray.

Bake in the oven for 6-8 minutes or until cookies puff up and begin to crack on the tops

xo,

Jerica

Cooking Corner: Chocolate Fudge

I'm very excited for today's recipe.  In case you missed it, I'm sharing a holiday recipe every Thursday through Christmas Eve.  Last week I shared a cookie recipe for Oatmeal Scotchies.  This week I'm sharing Chocolate Fudge.  My grandma makes this every single Christmas.  I look forward to this every year!  This isn't her recipe but it's similar.  If you make this tweet me pictures!  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

2 cup white sugar

1⁄2 cup cocoa

1 cup milk

4 tbsp butter, or margarine

1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

Grease an 8 x 8 inch square baking pan. Set aside.

Combine sugar, cocoa, and milk in a medium saucepan. Stir to blend, then bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer. Do not stir again.

Place a candy thermometer in the pan and cook until the temperature reaches 238 degrees F (114 degrees C). If you are not using a thermometer, then cook until a drop of this mixture in a cup of cold water forms a soft ball. Feel the ball with your fingers to make sure it is the right consistency. It should flatten when pressed between your fingers.

Remove from heat. Add butter or margarine and vanilla extract. Beat with a wooden spoon until the fudge loses its sheen. Do not under beat.

Pour into prepared pan and let cool. Cut into about 60 squares.

xo,

Jerica

Cooking Corner: Oatmeal Scotchies

I'm back with another holiday recipe!  In case you missed it, I'm going to share my favorite holiday recipes every Thursday until Christmas Eve.  Last week I shared Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole so go check it out!  This week I'm sharing Oatmeal Scotchies.  These are my all time favorite cookies.  It is basically a chocolate chip cookie but instead of chocolate chips you use butterscotch chips.  My sister bakes them every Christmas and they last about 5 minutes.  They are so good!  If you bake these send me on Twitter so I can see them!  I hope you enjoy!!!

Ingredients:

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 cups quick or old-fashioned oats

1 2/3 cups (11-oz. pkg.) Butterscotch Chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375° F.

Combine flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in oats and chips. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.

Bake for 7 to 8 minutes for chewy cookies or 9 to 10 minutes for crisp cookies. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

xo,

Jerica

Cooking Corner: Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole

It's December finally!  That means eating lots of yummy treats.  I've decided to share some of my favorite recipes that I eat around this time of year.  First up is Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole!  If you love cinnamon rolls then you must make this!  This would be perfect for breakfast on Christmas morning.  It's very easy to prepare.  My cousin and I made this and it was SO good!  We ate pretty much the entire thing.  If you make this then tweet me pictures!  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

2 12 oz tubes of cinnamon rolls cut into quarters- divided

4 eggs

½ cup whipping cream

3 Tbsp maple syrup

2 tsp vanilla

1 tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp nutmeg

Directions:

Spray your crock with cooking spray.

Place a layer of cinnamon roll pieces to cover the bottom of your slow cooker completely. (Reserve icing packets)

Beat eggs, cream, maple syrup, vanilla and spices until blended well.

Pour evenly over the rolls in the slow cooker.

Place remaining roll pieces on top and spoon one packet of icing evenly over rolls.

After about an hour of cooking stir well so everything cooks evenly.

Cover and cook on low for 2½ to 3 hours or until sides are golden and rolls are set.

Drizzle remaining icing over top and serve warm.

xo,

Jerica

Movie Review: Inside Out

I have been SO excited to see this movie!  Everybody I know was talking about how amazing it was.  Last week I went out and bought it on DVD.  I fell IN LOVE with it!

If you don't know what it is about then I'll try to explain it.  It focuses on a young girl who has five different emotions controlling her thoughts and feelings.  The emotions are Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear.  I thought it was fantastic!  I'm not gonna lie there was some crying involved.  I thought it was too complex for kids.  Maybe they saw it differently than I did.  It really makes you think about life and your emotions.  I was not expecting it to be that deep!  Maybe it was just me that felt that way.

My favorite character was sadness.  It made me realize that it's ok to feel sad sometimes.  It's a normal emotion to experience.  I most identified with fear.  I always think about the worse possible situations that could happen.  I highly recommend this movie.  Have you seen it?  Tell me your thoughts!





xo,
Jerica

Book Haul!

I've got more books!  I have been really into reading lately.  It's been awhile since I did a book haul so I thought I'd share what I got with you guys.  I got lots of good choices.  What are you guys reading?

I'm VERY excited about this book.  It's Girl Online On Tour which is the sequel to Girl Online.  I did a review on that which you can check out here.  Zoe is one of my favorite YouTubers and I actually preordered this.  I can't wait to see what happens next for Penny and Noah!  Here is the description: The sequel to the number-one bestseller Girl Online. Penny joins her rock-star boyfriend, Noah, on his European music tour. Penny's bags are packed. When Noah invites Penny on his European music tour, she can't wait to spend time with her rock-god-tastic boyfriend. But, between Noah's jam-packed schedule, less-than-welcoming bandmates and threatening messages from jealous fans, Penny wonders whether she's really cut out for life on tour. She can't help but miss her family, her best friend Elliot . . . and her blog, Girl Online. Can Penny learn to balance life and love on the road, or will she lose everything in pursuit of the perfect summer?

I love Nicholas Sparks and have read pretty much all his books.  So of course I bought his newest novel See Me.  I'm actually half way through this book so be on the look out for a review soon!  I'm not including a description because I don't want to ruin my review.

I have heard SO many things about this book.  It's Down The Rabbit Hole by Holly Madison.  It's very interesting and I can't believe all the secrets she shares.  I'm not finished yet but I really love it!  If you watched Girls Next Door then you will love it.  Here is the description: A former girlfriend of Hugh Hefner describes how her years inside the Playboy Mansion went from a fairytale of A-list celebrity parties to an oppressive regime of strict rules, scheduled sex, and a total loss of identity, so much so that she even contemplated suicide.

My friend and I wanted to start our own book club.  We decided to read 1st To Die by James Patterson.  It's the first book in a series called Women's Murder Club.  If we like it then we have a whole series to read.  Here is the description: Four women-four friends-share a determination to stop a killer who has been stalking newlyweds in San Francisco. Each one holds a piece of the puzzle: Lindsay Boxer is a homicide inspector in the San Francisco Police Department, Claire Washburn is a medical examiner, Jill Bernhardt is an assistant D.A., and Cindy Thomas just started working the crime desk of the San Francisco Chronicle.  But the usual procedures aren't bringing them any closer to stopping the killings. So these women form a Women's Murder Club to collaborate outside the box and pursue the case by sidestepping their bosses and giving one another a hand.




xo,
Jerica

Cooking Corner: Frankenstein Treats

Halloween is only 9 days away!!!!  I'm actually getting super excited.  Today I thought I would share a really cute and easy treat.  This would be perfect for a party or just to enjoy yourself!  I'll probably be enjoying these while I carve pumpkins with my nieces.  Tweet me pictures if you try them out!  Also let me know if you want more Halloween themed posts in the comments.

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons of butter

10 oz of marshmallows

6 cups rice krispie cereal

10 drops yellow food coloring

10 drops blue food coloring

Melted chocolate

Candy eyes

Directions:

1. Melt butter in a pot and add the marshmallows.  Stir until all melted.

2. Add food coloring and stir until the mixture is green.  Add cereal a little at a time and stir until combined.

3. Press cereal mixture evenly into a greased 9 x 13 pan.  Let it cool for about 30 minutes.

4. Cut into squares and remove from pan.

5. Melt the chocolate in a bowl and dip the tops of the rice krispie treats in it.  Set on wax paper to harden.

6. Put some melted chocolate into a ziplock bag and snip off one corner.  Use this to stick on eyes and draw the mouth.

7. Let set for about 20 minutes.  Then enjoy!

xo,

Jerica

Fall TV: What I'm Watching

I am a TV addict!  I watch at least 3 shows a night which is probably not healthy at all.  One reason that I love this time of year is all the new shows.  I rarely saw any previews for this year but I still found some really good ones.  I thought I would share what I've been watching this fall.  Some are new but some are shows I've been watching for awhile.  What shows are you watching?  Let me know!

Returning Shows:

I'm obviously watching The Voice.  I've been watching since Season 1 and it just never gets old.  It's too early to choose a favorite but I'm liking Team Adam best.  Team Pharrell is pretty good too.

If you are new to my blog then you may not know that I recap Dancing With The Stars.  I'm obsessed with this show and have been since Season 2.  My favorites are Nick Carter (obviously) and Bindi Irwin.

I love this show!  Scorpion started last year and I was instantly hooked.  It's about a group of geniuses that work for the government to solve massive problems.  I really like the character dynamic.

I'm so glad that CSI: Cyber is back!  They did a half season last year and it just started back.  It's basically just like CSI but they are cyber crimes.  It's very interesting if you like computers and technology.  I never realized all the crimes hackers can do.

At first I wasn't sure I would keep watching Nashville.  This season just started and I'm hooked already!  It's all about the country music scene in Nashville.  Lots of drama occurs which I love!  The music is really good too.

Last season was hard for Grey's Anatomy fans.  I thought I would hate this season but so far I really like it.  I've been watching since high school so it's hard to quit.  If you like medical dramas you will be a fan,  Catch up on Netflix first or you'll be very confused.

I'm in love with How To Get Away With Murder!  I talked about this show in my Fall Favorites Tag so go check that out.

I have a love/hate relationship with Scandal.  I was obsessed in the beginning but now I feel like it isn't as exciting.  I'm giving it one more season to convince me.  So far I'm still bored but we'll see.

I started watching NCIS: New Orleans last year with my mom and grandma.  It's the same as NCIS but set in New Orleans instead.  I really like the characters and the stories.  This season is a lot better and intense.

I love The Mysteries of Laura!  This is one of my favorites because it has a good story and it's also really funny.  Laura is a cop and mom of twin boys.  The way she solves crimes is so different and that makes the show stand out.

Blue Bloods is by far my favorite cop show.  The entire family is either a lawyer or cop.  It's more than your typical cop show.  It also deals with family issues.  I can get intense but I love the characters.  Also, I love Donnie Wahlberg.

New Shows:

I think Grandfathered is such a cute show!  It's about a guy who finds out he is a father AND a grandfather all in one day.  John Stamos does a great job!  The stories are just adorable as well.

I was very intrigued by Limitless.  It's based off of the Bradley Cooper film so check that out first.  Basically when they give Brian a pill his brain works at 100%.  Now he uses that to solve crimes with the FBI.  I really like how it's going so far.

Blood & Oil is the new Revenge.  This show is about the oil business and how dirty it really is.  I love all of the backstabbing that goes on.  Lots of crazy stuff has happened already and I can't get enough!  I wonder who will win?

I saved the best for last!  Quantico is my OBSESSION!  Somebody in the the FBI is framing an FBI recruit as a terrorist.  Now you are trying to figure out who is the actual terrorist.  Every episode just keeps you guessing and I just want more!

xo,

Jerica