2015 Goals Update

Hello lovelies!

Another year is coming to a close, and to be honest I don't know where the year went. Time just keeps speeding up and I wish it would slow down a little.

This year I made a lot of goals, and I achieved most of them, and some I didn't. Because I made so many goals this year I'm not gonna go over all of them, but here's some of them.

Here's my goals for 2015!!!!

Things I Want to Do:

-Open a savings account.

-Buy a new laptop

-Find a pair of glasses and start wearing them.

-Read 60 books.

-Get a job.

-Get my license.

-Look into buying a car.

-Buy a new camera and learn how to use it.

-Nashville 

-Get my hair back to being completely blonde.

-Clean out my closet
-Put more of an effort into finding a church.
-Try Pilates.
-Buy my blog URL.
-Sign up for Google AdSense.

My #1 goal for the year is:

To get my shit together. I'll turn 18 on March 13, it's time to get my shit together!

I think I did pretty good this year, much better than last year.

I'll be back Monday with my goals for 2016!

XoXo,

Lori

Blogmas Day 20: Weekly Inspiration

XoXo,

Lori

Blogmas Day 13 Weekly Inspiration

XoXo,

Lori

Blogmas Day 9: Book Review: Lynette Eason - Rodeo Rescuer

Today I will be reviewing 'Rodeo Rescuer' by Lynette Eason, copy received from Netgalley via Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.

'Rodeo Rescuer' is a romantic suspense novel, it is 288 pages long and it took me about three hours to read. It is available at Amazon (Kindle) for $4.99, and Barnes and Noble (NOOKBook) for $4.99.

About The Book

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Length: 288 Pages

Publisher: Love Inspired, Harlequin

Release Date: September 1, 2015




Book Synopsis
She can't escape!

No matter where she runs, rodeo clown Tonya Waters's stalker always finds her. Now he's managed to track her down on the rodeo circuit. If bull rider Seth Starke hadn't saved her, she'd be dead. But when the handsome cowboy is injured in the ring and Tonya rescues him, Seth seems more determined than ever to keep her safe. But can she risk staying at his Tennessee ranch and bringing danger to his family? As her stalker gets more violent, Tonya and Seth vow to outsmart him before he makes good on his ultimate threat: if he can't have her, no one will.

What did I think?

Like: The ending!
Dislike: Nothing!!!

Would I recommend it?
Yes, I would 100% recommend this book. I loved the first book in this series and I loved this one too.

I think the characters in this book were very realistic and their romance was definitely believeable. I really like that the female lead was a rodeo clown, I've never read a book with a rodeo clown in it before. The ending definitely surprised me, I loved all the action and suspense. The twist at the end was great!

Overall, I loved the book, it was a quick read and I'm really happy that the author chose to add to this series!

Thank you Harlequin via Netgalley for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review!

Will you be buying this book? Let me know below!

XoXo,
Lori

Blogmas Day 8: December Update

Hello Lovelies!

I hope you're all doing well, today I have an update for you. I've been mostly absent for the past three months and I'm trying to get back into the flow of things.

I wish I could say I've been off on an amazing adventure, but that's not the truth. The truth is I was burnout on everything. I was working so hard trying to juggle work, school, and blogging five days a week that I wasn't taking care of me.

To be honest I'm still working on taking care of me, but we're getting there. A few different things have been going on that I haven't been able to share with y'all, so why not get it out in the open now?

Back in June my back started hurting really bad, so I went to the doctor, two x-rays, an MRI, a trip to Nashville, and a neurosurgeon eventually gave me the diagnosis of early Degenerative Disc Disease in August. Right now we're treating with physical therapy, and I go back to the doctor in Nashville next month, if it's not better (which it's not) then I'll probably have to get a steroid shot in my back.

 On top of all that I had blood work done in August and I was anemic, again, my doctor is retesting me next week and if it I'm still anemic she mentioned the possibility of me needing an iron infusion, which I'm really not looking forward to.

To top it all off last night I dropped my laptop (15.6") on my foot and I'm pretty sure I broke my little toe. It really hurts and I'm really not looking forward to putting on shoes!

Reading: Trail of Secrets by Eileen Goudge
I've read this book many times before and I'm reading it again, it's an old favorite of mine.

Watching: Dr.Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas
This is my all time favorite Christmas movie, I watch it year round and I can't get enough!

Listening to: Christmas Music

Dreaming Of: A Wonderful Christmas
Sadly I have to work Christmas Eve, which means I'll miss getting to see my family, open presents, and eating a warm meal. But hopefully Christmas Day will be good even though it won't be the same.

Planning: For the future.
I'm working on a few different things right now with school, work, and blogging. I'm trying to get everything done and I honestly don't have enough time to do any of it.

Trying: A new recipe!
A few days ago at work a woman came through my line and she told me about a two ingredient fudge recipe.

Goal Setting: At least 10 blog posts for December.

I want to have at least 10 blog posts for the month of December, I would love to do more, but 10 would make me happy.

I know I'm a week late, but I'm going to do my best to finish Blogmas and do as many posts as I possibly can this month!

That's all for today and I will definitely have a post up tomorrow!

XoXo,

Lori

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hello Lovelies!

I know I've been absent for the past few months, but I plan on getting back to blogging here in a few days. 

So until then I just wanted to wish all my fellow Americans a very Happy Thanksgiving! Sadly I have to go to work later and I'm really nervous because this is my first Dark Thursday/ Black Friday, I've never worked or shopped the sale so this is a first for me.

XoXo,

Lori

Weekly Inspiration

XoXo,

Lori

Book Review: Remind Me

Today I will be reviewing 'Remind Me' by Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Rogers, copy received from Netgalley via (InterMix) Penguin Group, in exchange for an honest review.

'Remind Me' is a Contemporary Romance novel, it is 273 pages long and it took me about five hours to read. It is available at Amazon (Kindle), for $4.99, and at Barne & Noble (NOOKBook) for $4.99.

About The Book

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Length: 273 Pages

Publisher: InterMix, Penguin Group

Release Date: April 21, 2015





Book Synopsis
As heiress to a media empire Alessandra Sinclair was raised to put family obligations first. But everything changes the night her first love walks back into her life and turns her whole world upside down. Haunted by the memories of a secret romance with a boy from the wrong side of the tracks, she can't seem to get Hudson Chase out of her mind. Once again torn between two worlds, Allie must decide how much she's willing to risk to have the love she's always longed for.

Ten years is a long time to wait, but billionaire Hudson Chase didn't become CEO of one of the country's fastest growing company's by giving up on what he wants. Now that he's got Allie in his sights again, he's determined to make her regret breaking his heart. And this time, he's going to make damn sure he's not so easy to forget.

What did I think? 3 Stars

Like: The ending. Cliffhanger!
Dislike: Too much sex, not enough story.

Would I recommend it?
I think this is one of those books where it comes down to what you like and don't like in books. I can't really give a yes or no answer. The best answer I can give is that you should just read a few reviews to see for yourself if you think it's something you would want to read.

I went into this book thinking I was going to love it and that it would immediately get 5 Stars, but after reading the book I can only give it 3 Stars. I thought this was going to be a sweet second chance love story, instead it was filled with random  explicit sex scenes and not much else.

I don't mind sex scenes or cursing, however I do think it was definitely overdone in this book. Nowhere in the description did it indicate that this book would fit into the erotica category.

I think this book is a lot like Fifty Shades of Grey, but definitely better. However, even though there was a lot I didn't like about this book, I do plan on reading the next book in the series because the ending to this book was very promising. Maybe it will change my mind on the first book, who knows.

Thank you Penguin Group via Netgalley for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review!

Will you be buying this book? Let me know below!

XoXo,
Lori

REVIEW: SLIMQUICK Pure Extra Strength

Hello Lovelies!

Today I will be reviewing SLIMQUICK Pure Extra Strength Drink Mix !

SlimQuick Pure is a weight loss drink mix designed just for women's weight loss. SlimQuick Pure is designed to increase metabolism, reduce your appetite,  boost energy, reduce bloating, support hormones, and reduce stress, which is a big contributing factor to weight gain.

My Thoughts?

When I received this product I didn't know what to expect, but after trying it I really liked it. Plus, before I tried it my mom found the box and tried it while I was at work.

I've really noticed that since I started using this product that my appetite has really diminished, I get full easier and I don't get hungry as often.

I've been using this product for about two weeks now, and since I started using this product I've lost about 4 pounds. On top of the drink mix I've been walking, going to physical therapy, and watching what I eat.

Personally I love the sweet taste and I think it tastes even better when you put it in the freezer and let it get slushy!

Will I repurchase? 

I already have and I'm thinking about trying the gummies too! I got two free gummies in my sample box and I really liked them and I think with my busy schedule it might be easier for me to keep up with the gummies than it is with the drink mix.

What do you think about SlimQUick drink mixes? Will you be trying this product?
Do you have any questions about the product? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori
FTC: Sponsored by BrandBacker and SlimQuick.

Links to Love

Hello Lovelies!

I hope you all have a great weekend. This week I've been busy with work and trying to plan some blog posts for next week, so far I have a blog post planned for everyday next week except Thursday! I'm really happy that I'm finally starting to get back on track with things and get back in to the right mindset to blog.

Until then, here's this week's links to love!

DON’T WAIT. BE HAPPY NOW.


How to get more done—and in less time.

7 Habits to Add to Your Morning Routine

5 Wacky Jobs You Didn’t Know Existed at New York Fashion Week

8 Surprising Productivity Hacks That Will Blow Your Mind (And Help You)

What links have you been loving this week? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Happy Labor Day

Hello Lovelies! Happy Labor Day!

Today, I'm going to be busy planning blog posts and making a schedule, last month I didn't really put much time or work into blogging and I made a lot of excuses for not blogging. 

This month I'm turning things around, I'm done making excuses for not doing what I should do. Yes I work a lot of crazy hours, but I CAN blog and do schoolwork too. I just have to learn how to manage my time and plan things out. S

That's my main goal for this month, I'll be sharing my monthly goals with you tomorrow, so that's all for today, I hope you have a great day!

XoXo,

Lori

Meet My New Puppy - Buddy

Hello Lovelies!

Today I would like to introduce you to the newest member of my family, Buddy! He's a  week old Black Lab and I've had him for two weeks now.

So far our time together has been amazing, I've wanted a puppy for so long and he really is too cute! He's a sleepy boy and I love it. He falls asleep in the funniest positions, he loves sleeping on his back and he likes to bury himself in my pillows. 

Yes that's right I let him sleep in my bed, I couldn't help it. I let him sleep in my bed his first night home to make him more comfortable, but  I've started moving him into his own bed at night. I don't want him to get used to sleeping in my bed, because in just a few short months he's going to start getting huge!

Last Saturday he went to the Vet to get his shots and he got a clean bill of health! He goes back in two weeks for another set of shots.

I'm sure I'll be sharing more about him in the future, today I just wanted to show him off because I'm in love!

XoXo,

Lori & Buddy

Weekly Inspiration

"Set goals and dream big."-Demi Lovato

XoXo,

Lori

Links to Love

Hello Lovelies!

I hope y'all had a great weekend, I've been very busy this week between the new puppy, Nashville, work, school, and now physical therapy, so sorry this is up late! But, better late than never!

Thankfully I have tomorrow off work and physical therapy, so I plan on blogging most of the day. I also have to go see my chiropractor so he can look at my MRI and tell me if he will still see me.

Anyway enough about my crazy week, here's this week's (last week's)  Links to Love!

8 Things You Stop Giving a Sh*t About During Senior Year

This article is aimed toward  college seniors, but I think some of them apply to high school too.

15 Products Allure Editors Always Keep in Their Gym Bags


9 Ways to Make Your Days Simple Again


25 Millennial Women Get Brutally Honest About Their Post-College Reality


How Instagram Is Changing the Way Brands Look at Photography, Online and Beyond

I hope you all have a great week and I plan on having a post up tomorrow, maybe two if I can fit it in!

XoXo,

Lori

20 Little Facts About Me

Hello Lovelies!

It's been a while since I last did an about me post, so I thought it would be fun to do one today!

Here's 20 Little Facts About Me!

1. I can't sleep without a fan.

2. I can't swim.

3. I was born six weeks early and weighed nearly 7 pounds.

4. I'm a pro on crutches.

5.  I've never been to a concert.

6. I can't leave the house without my iPhone.

7. My bookcase is overflowing.

8. Due to #7 I've resorted to storing books in shoe boxes.

9. I own a ridiculous number of cardigans.

10. Pinterest is my guilty pleasure!

12.  I secretly watch Keeping up with the Kardashians! (I'm Sorry!)

13. No one in my family knows I have a blog.

14. None of my friends know about my blog.

15. I love pickles, I can eat an entire jar in one day!

16. I love history, it's my favorite subject in school!

17. Titanic is my favorite movie.

18. Winter is my favorite time of year, I love the snow!

19. I love the sound of rain and thunder.

20. I've never had Starbucks coffee!

I hope you enjoyed today's post, I'll be back tomorrow with my weekly Links to Love!
XoXo,
Lori

Off To Nashville...

Hello Lovelies, 

I know it's been a week since I last posted, but I worked 38 1/2 hours last week and I just couldn't find time to post. I'm hoping I can write tomorrow, because today I'm headed off to Nashville for a doctors appointment.

If you've been reading my blog for a while then you know I love Nashville, so the two hour drive doesn't bother me. I'm ready to get there, see this new doctor and make a plan for fixing my back.

Hopefully I get home early enough to write a post for tomorrow, but if not I'll try to get one up Wednesday. 

XoXo,

Lori

Links to Love

Hello Lovelies!

I hope you're all having a great weekend, I'm having a great day so far! It's hard to believe August is almost over. 3This week was insane, I worked 38 1/2 hours at work and then came home to do homework.

The best part of the week was Tuesday, I got  a new puppy!!! His name is Buddy and he's a black lab! I'm in love!

Here's this weeks Links to Love! Hope you find something you like!

Reba McEntire - Until They Don't Love You

Kate Spade New York 'Deco Dots' Sticky Note Set

Take 5 For Yourself


4 Ways to Avoid Writers Block

5 Ways to Get Over Your Fear of Public Speaking

What links have you been loving this week? Let me know below!

Have a great weekend!

XoXo,

Lori

Top Ten Authors I've Read The Most Books From

Hello Lovelies!

Top 10 Tuesday is a weekly link-up hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.

This week's theme: Author's I've Read The Most Books From.

The truth is I like finding new authors and reading new books. Of course there's a few authors whose books I will always read, which is why I decided to share these 7 authors with you!

Johanna Lindsey
If you've been reading my blog for a while then you probably know Johanna Lindsey is one of my favorite authors in the entire world. I've read so many books by her, easily over 25, and I STILL have more to read!

Sara Shepard
I read the PLL series before the TV show came out and I loved the books, since then the author has released more books in the series, but I haven't read them yet, I have three of her new releases, I just haven't had time to read them.

L.J. Smith
I love L.J. Smith's Night World series and I've been patiently waiting for the last book in the series for nearly 10 years. Honestly I don't think we're ever going to get it, but I'm still hopeful.

Jenny Nimo
I never read Harry Potter when I was in Elementary/Middle school instead I read the Charlie Bone (The Children of the Red King) series. I read every book in this series and I loved it!

Carla Cassidy
I think I've read about 6-8 books by Carla Cassidy and I have loved them all. I just love her, she is such a great author and I always look forward to reading anything by her.

Christopher Pike
I've read 6 books  by Chrsitopher Pike and I really enjoyed them, if you like vampire books then you should definitely check out Thirst/The Last Vampire series.

Caitlyn Duffy
I've read all of Caityln Duffy's books and I can't wait for her next book to come out!
Janice Kay Johnson

What author's have you read the most books from? Let me know below or leave the link to your Top 10 Tuesday post!

XoXo,

Lori

Weekly Inspiration

"It takes time-pace yourself. Everyday is a new opportunity to change your life and be who you want to be."-Demi Lovato

XoXo,
Lori

Links to Love

Hello Lovelies!

I hope y'all have had a great weekend, I spent this weekend working and I am so happy that I get tomorrow and Tuesday off. I was planning on posting this Yesterday, but I was too tired. I worked Friday night 5pm-2am, and then I had to be back at work Yesterday at 10:30am for another shift. By the time I got home last night I barely had the energy to take a shower and once my head hit the pillow I was out and didn't wake up till 1pm.

Thankfully I only work 4 1/2 hours today, so maybe I won't be too tired tomorrow. Tomorrow I have to get bloodwork done and an MRI on my lower back. After that I'm planning on coming home to work on some blog posts for the week and get some homework done!

5 Uncommon Ways to Keep Burnout at Bay

20 Things People in Debt Say (That Will Keep Them in Debt)

Creative Small Space Storage Solutions


Inside Taylor Swift's New York Penthouse

An Instagram Strategy That's Completely Authentic & Effective

That's it for today, since I didn't get to post it today I'll be posting my Weekly Inspiration tomorrow!
What links have you been loving? Let me know below!

XoXO,

Lori

August Goals

Hello Lovelies!

I hope you all had a great weekend! Sadly I had to work and I was also sick over the weekend, so that made working even worse. Honestly I'm still not feeling all that great, but thankfully I already have an appointment with my doctor today, so I won't have to wait too long to see what's wrong.

Before I get into my goals for the month I have some really exciting news! I finally got a new internet provider!!!! No more data caps and no more limited bull crap. I can finally go back to blogging like I used to and I can FINALLY finish my blog re-design! It's been so long since I first started the re-design process, and I'm so happy I can finally finish it.

It won't be finished this week, but I'm hoping that I can finish it by next week or the following week!

Hello August!

Finish College Prep American Government.
Finish College Prep English 3 Part 1.
Finish Algebra 2 Part 1.
Start Studying for the ACT.
Clean Out Closet.
Get Organized.
Read 3 Books.

Open A Savings Account.

Save $100.

August Beauty Ban.

10 Goals!

Finish College Prep American Government.
I think I've finally found a study pattern for this class and so now I'll be able to finally finish it pretty quickly.

Finish College Prep English 3 Part 1.
I just started this class, but I should have it finished by the end of the month. I have the course outlined and I know what I have to get done and I'm gonna make it happen.

Finish Algebra 2 Part 1.
I hate math! I can finish this class this month, it's just hard finding the time and motivation to do it.

Start Studying for the ACT.
Since I've decided to put off college for a year, I decided I'm going to retake the ACT so I can get a better score.

Clean Out Closet.
I really need to clean out my closet, I have so much stuff I never wear and I'm tired of looking at it.

Get Organized.
I really need to get organized this month, my closet, my desk and my bathroom counter are my problem areas.

Read 3 Books.
I've been working so much recently I haven't been able to read, but I want to make time for it, so my goal is to read three books this week.

Open A Savings Account.
This month I want to open a savings account, I really need to start saving money for college. So my next payday (August 12) I'm going to go ahead and get an account.

Save $100.
I want to save $200, but I don't wanna push it, so I'm going to set my goal at $100 and then maybe I'll be able to save more.

August Beauty Ban.

I've been spending way too mcuh money on beauty products recently and it needs to stop. I'm putting myself on ban for this month, except for two things. I have two things I need to order from Sephora (only $28), but other than that I'm not buying anything else!

What are your goals for August?
Let me know below or leave a link to your blog!

XoXo,

Lori

Links to Love

Hello Lovelies!

This week has been exhausting, after my four hours today I will have worked 36 hours this week with only one day (yesterday) off. Honestly though I don't even feel like I had Yesterday off because I was so busy. All I did was go to the chiropractor and then I came home to clean house, do laundry and get some school work done!

My original plan was to use yesterday to catch up on blogging and school, but things didn't go the way I wanted them to. However, I did get a few things planned out and I have a game plan for next week and some ideas for the following week and that's all that matters to me!

Thankfully I have Monday AND Tuesday off next week, I can't wait to be able to actually sleep in and not feel guilty or rushed. Monday I'm actually going to go take the test to get my driver's permit, so technically I won't be sleeping in then, but maybe I can take a nap when I get home!

The Life You Love: Taylor & Katy & Nicki

I love Samantha's blog and this post is one of the reasons why.

The Most Powerful Knowledge A Girl Can Know About Herself
I really love this post, I think every woman NEEDS to read this and really think about it. You have to know your values, limits, mind, "love language" and your vision for your life!

Nicole Antoinette: This One's For The Control Freaks
I admit it, I'm a control freak. Not only am I a control freak, but I also have trust issues!

The 10 Biggest Motivation Killers and How to Fix Them
Infographics are always nice to look at and I think a few of these suggestions are actually worth the read.

Very Erin: How to Make Mornings Easier ( When You Aren't A Morning Person)

I am SO not a morning person, but I can definitely say that a few of these tips definitely work. If I ever HAVE to get up super early I always move my alarm as far away from me as possible so that I HAVE to get up to shut it up.

What links have you been loving this week?
Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

Currently: July 2015

Hello Lovelies!

I was planing on posting this yesterday, but it just didn't happen. I've been so busy lately, I just haven't had the time to get any writing done, thankfully I have Thursday off and I only work four hours Friday, so I'm hoping I can get some blog posts scheduled for next week, then.

It's been a while since I last did a post of things I currently going on in my life, so I decided to do one today. I think I might start doing one every month, but we'll see!

Reading: Remind Me by Ann Marie Walker
So far I'm really enjoying this book and I'm hoping I can get a review up wither later this week or next week.

Watching: Gilmore Girls & Grey's Anatomy
I restarted my Netflix account last week and so I'm continuing where I left off on these two shows!

Listening To: Cool for the Summer by Demi Lovato

Dreaming Of: Fall & Winter!
It's too hot! I can't wait for fall and winter to get here, boots, hot chocolate, pumpkin everything!

Planning: For the ACT.
I'm retaking the ACT later this year. I didn't do so great on it last year, so I decided to retake it so that I can get more scholarships and financial aid.

Stocking Up On: Simple Cleansing Wipes
I've been having trouble finding these wipes here in the US, so when I found some last week I bought two packs!

Trying: New foods.
Last week I tried broccoli, I still hate it!

Goal Setting: Next month's goals!

I'm making goals for August and I'll be sharing them next week

What's currently going on in your life? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

Weekly Inspiration

Hello Lovelies!

"Sometimes...we have to let go."

Learning to let go is hard, but it is so necessary to be able to live your life without worry. I'm trying really hard to let go of my past, I can't change it, I can only learn from it at this point. 

Just let go.

XoXo,

Lori

A Little Bit of Inspiration + A Big Life Decision

Hello Lovelies!
Need a little bit of inspiration? I've got you covered. I've been feeling a bit uninspired lately, so I thought I'd share with you some quotes that always get me inspired.

I've been thinking and I'm tired of putting off things I want to do and I'm tired of settling. I've been working on myself and I'm trying to do better for me, I'm doing what I think is best for me mentally and physically at the moment.

Lately I've been feeling a little bit down, I feel like every time someone asks me about my plans for the next few years all I get is negative feedback or snotty remarks. But I'm done with that. I'm done caring what other people think, I'm going to do this my way and if they don't like it then I don't need them in my life.

I think the biggest decision I've made that is causing me to get the most negative comments from the people around me is that I decided to put off college for a year. I didn't come to this decision easily, but at the end of the day I think it's what's best for me and my health.

I'm going to spend this next year working, saving money, and studying so that I can retake the ACT and get a higher score so that I can get better financial aid and scholarships.

It's taken me a few months to make this decision, but I think I'm finally at peace with it and hopefully everything goes the way I want it to.
XoXo,
Lori

Pinterest Finds

Hello lovelies! 

I'm really happy that I have today and tomorrow off work! I'm even more happy that my new internet is getting hooked up today! Finally, no more data caps and slow speeds!

So if everything goes as planned I should have internet by the end of the day and I really hope I can get some blog posts written!

Here's what I've found on Pinterest this month!

 1. BuzzFeed: It’s Time To Start Throwing Out The Makeup You’ve Had For Years

2. How to Take Notes: From A TextBook

3. 8 Simple Tricks to Improve Your Writing

4. How To Plan For A Productive Week

That's it for today, I'll be back tomorrow with another post!

What have you been loving on Pinterest lately? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

Weekly Inspiration

"Isn't it funny how day by day nothing changes, but when you look back, everything is different..." - C.S. Lewis

XoXo,
Lori

Links to Love

Hello Lovelies!

I've had a crazy week, I worked everyday, including today, except for Monday and Thursday. Next week is going to be an even busier work week, plus I have a doctors appointment, blood work, and some dental work I have to get done. Oh and did I forget to mention school!

Lately I've been feeling disconnected from my blog, now that I'm going to be getting my new internet hooked up on Monday, I'm hoping I can get back on track and better than ever.

Anyway here's this week's Links to Love!

How To Quickly Bounce Back After An All Nighter!

10 Things To Do When You Are Feeling Overwhelmed

The Contentment Challenge 2015 ( I really want to do this, but I just don't know).


5 Tips to Recover From Mistakes in the Workplace


Blogger Book Ideas: 20 Must Read Books For Bloggers


What links have you been loving this week? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

Book Review: Tina Wainscott - Falling Fast

Today I will be reviewing 'Falling Fast' by Tina Wainscott, copy received from Netgalley via Loveswept in exchange for an honest review.

'Falling Fast' is a romance novel, it is 245 pages long and it took me about four hours to read because I was at work and reading this on my breaks and lunch over the course of three days. This book is available at Amazon (Kindle) for $2.99.

Book Stats

Genre: Contemporary Romance, New Adult

Length: 245 Pages

Publisher: Loveswept, Random House

Release Date: June 16, 2015




Book Synopsis
Raleigh West works in an auto shop day and night, trying to put his broken past our of mind. It's been seven years since the fiery crash that landed his teenage sweetheart in the hospital...and him in jail. In an instant, he lost everything: his passion for racing, his hope of escaping his father's shameful legacy, and the only girl he ever loved. Raleigh hasn't seen her since that awful night. Never got a chance to apologize. And never forgave himself, either.

When brave, beautiful Mia Wentworth returns to the Florida coast for the first time in what seems like forever, it's not to see Raleigh. Even so, the moment she arrives  she can feel his presence like a gust of wind that gives her goose bumps. Opening her heart to him again seems impossible. But staying away?That might be harder still. Lucky for them both, Mia's never been the kind of woman to take the easy way out.

What did I think? 5 Stars

Like: Everything!
Dislike: Nothing

Would I recommend it?
Yes, I would definitely recommend this book, I really enjoyed this story and will definitely be reading the second book in this series when it comes out in December!

I think the main characters in this book were very realistic and you could feel the chemistry between them from the beginning. I found the characters to be very likable and I wouldn't change anything about them. The setting was great, I think the beach and sun are very therapeutic for a lot of people, so I think it really fit with the theme of forgiveness and second chances.

I love that the author has decided to make a second book (Falling Hard) about Pax Sullivan, one of the books secondary characters. Even before I found out there was going to be a follow up, I knew that his character would make an awesome story on it own. Plus I really want to find out what happens to Rose!

Thank you Loveswept via Netgalley for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review!

Will you be buying this book? Let me know below!

XoXo,
Lori

Influenster L'Oreal Paris Ultimate Straight VoxBox Review

Hello Lovelies!

Today I will be reviewing the L'Oreal Paris Ultimate Straight Voxbox from Influenster! I recevied this box about a month ago, I've been using it since then and I think I'm ready to do a review.

In this box I received four full size products from the L'Oreal Paris Advance Haircare Ultimate Straight System.

Photo from Amazon.

L'Oreal Paris Smooth Intense Ultimate Straight Straightening Shampoo $4.99

I really like the shampoo in this set, it is my favorite and I've used it the most.  The truth is I already have super straight hair so this product isn't really for me. These products smell great and my hair feels and looks clean all day, which is hard for me to find because my hair is oily.
Normally by the end of the day my hair looks so bad it's up in a ponytail, but that didn't happen on days when I used this shampoo. 

L'Oreal Paris Smooth Intense Ultimate Straight Straight Boosting Pre-Conditioner $6.99.

Honestly I feel like this is the worst product out of the whole system. I don't think it really did anything for me, but if you have dry, wavy/curly hair it might work for you.

L'Oreal Paris Smooth Intense Ultimate Straight Straightening Conditioner $4.99.

99% of the time I don't use an in-shower conditioner, I prefer leave-on conditioners. Sadly this conditioner didn't  make me want to start using conditioner in the shower again. It didn't weigh my hair down and it was easier to brush out, but it didn't wow me.

L'Oreal Paris Smooth Intense Ultimate Straight Leave-In Perfecting Balm $6.99.

I think this was my least favorite out of the whole system, I didn't see any results. 

I think that these products are for girls that live in humid climates like me would love. It's not going to make all of your hair problems go away, nothing will, but overall the products do work.

So that's all for today's post! Have you tried any of the products mentioned above?

 Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

Disclaimer: I received all products for free from Influenster in exchange for an honest review.

July Playlist

Hello Lovelies!

I hope you all had a great weekend, I know I sure did! Luckily I had Saturday off work and I got to go to Bowling Green to my step-sisters college graduation. While we were in Bowling Green we went to the mall and did some shopping!

My favorite part was going into Ulta and getting matched for the Urban Decay Naked Skin makeup collection. I've been wanting to try the products for a while, but I didn't know what shade to order, I ended up only buying the foundation, but I think I'm going to go ahead and order the concealer online! I really like how it felt on my skin and I'll definitely write a review in a few weeks!

Anyway, here's this month playlist! Enjoy!

Christina Aguilera - Army of Me 

Demi Lovato - Cool for the Summer

Tyler Farr - Withdrawals
Reba McEntire - Going Out Like That
Keith Urban - For You
Nickelback - Far Away

Sleeping With Sirens - If You Can't Hang

The Pretty Reckless - Zombie

Ingrid Michaelson - Home
Taylor Swift - Out of the Woods

If you have any music recommendations please leave them below in the comments, I love finding new music and discovering new artists!

What songs have you been loving this month? Let me know below!
XoXo,
Lori

Weekly Inspiration

Hello Lovelies!

I forgot to post this yesterday, so I decided to go ahead and post it today and then I'll post today's blog post tomorrow and so on for the rest of the week. I had to work yesterday and I completely forgot about scheduling this, so, sorry it's late, but here's this week's Weekly Inspiration!

"We mature with the damage, not with the years."-Mateus William

XoXo, 

Lori

Links to Love

Hello lovelies!

I hope you all had a great week and a great weekend. This week was slightly insane, I worked 33 hours and I finished two online classes! The good news is I was able to bring my GPA up .4 points and hopefully when I finish two of my current course,s I'll be able to bring it up even higher than that.

Overall it was a great week, I worked hard, I studied hard, and I finished a book. So on next blog schedule is a book review and a Influenster VoxBox Review! (If  you follow me on Twitter then you already know what VoxBox I received).

Anyways, here's this weeks Links to Love! 

5 Mistakes To Avoid On Social Media

7 Obsolete Social Media Tactics You’re Wasting Your Time On

Quiz: Which Taylor Swift Lyric Best Sums Up Your Love Life?

What American City Should You Actually Live In?

How to Prioritize Your Website Tasks to Make the Most Impact + A Printable Task List

That's it for today, I hope you all had a great day. And I'm sorry this post is up a little later than it normally is, I had to go in to work at 7am, so I just now got home!
What links have you been loving? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

July Goals

Hello Lovelies!

I hope y'all had a great 4th of July weekend, sadly I had to work the whole weekend, but thankfully I have today off. Honestly I needed a break, the past four days have been rough and last night was it for me.

I just want to take a minute and ask all of you to please be nice to cashiers, we go through a lot on a daily basis and have to deal with some really awful people. If you're having a bad day, stay home, don't take it out on us, we're just trying to make a living.

So that's my little rant for the day, just be nice! Here's my goals for July!

10 Goals!

Finish College Prep Algebra II Part 1.
I was hoping to finish this last month, but it just didn't happen, but it will get done this month!

Finish College Prep American Government.
I'm actually enjoying this one, but at the same time I'm ready to move on to my next course.

Start & Try to Finish English 3 Part 1.
I'm just waiting for my final grades to be posted from my last two courses and then I can start this class, it should be pretty easy.

Raise My GPA.
This is a big goal for me this month, last month my GPA dropped to the lowest it's ever been, thankfully once I get my final grades back for my Vocabulary Studies course it should be back to where it was, if not higher. But still I want to get it even higher than it was before.

Read three books.
I think I read two books last month and I bought four. I think I need to read some more!

Save $100.
I was able to save $30 last month, this month I want to save more. I really need to buy a new laptop, so my plan is to spend the next few months saving money so that I can get what I want and that's going to last for years.

Blog Consistently.
So far this is not off to a good start, this post was supposed to be up yesterday, but that didn't happen.

Get Ahead With Blog Posts.
This month I want to focus on getting ahead with some blog posts, I used to schedule my posts 1-2 weeks in advance, but since I started working I've been letting that slip which is why I only had 15 posts last month.

Start Writing Again.
Can I let you in on a little secret? The truth is, I haven't written a single word for my book since December! I have a very serious case of writers blog going on, I thought that maybe if I stopped worrying about it and gave myself a break from writing it would be easier to figure out the kinks, but it's not working. I think I'm going to just move on and try working on another project, I just want to start writing again.

Read & Comment On More Blogs.
Last month I didn't read that many blogs and I didn't leave that many comments either, I hate that. I hate not reading and commenting on other blogs because it makes me feel like a bad blogger.

What are your goals for July? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

Weekly Inspiration

Everything you go through, grows you.

XoXo,

Lori

Links to Love

Hello Lovelies!

I hope you all had a great week! My week was super busy, I worked 33 hours this week and I'm tired. Originally I was scheduled for only 19 hours next week, but yesterday my boss asked me if I could take on an extra shift or two, so now I'm scheduled for 33 hours next week!

I'm really happy I was able to get back on my normal blogging schedule this week, I hated not being able to post last week. I have a few ideas for next week's content, but I haven't made my mind up yet, so if there's anything you want to see, let me know below!

Here's this week's links to love...

17 Ways to Conquer Soul Crushing Negativity

The College Prepster: 5 Ways to Stay Positive

We Tried On Victoria’s Secret Bathing Suits And This Is What Happened

This Autistic Child's Mom Turned Down Every Birthday Party Invitation. Until This One Changed Everything.

Have a great Fourth of July weekend!

What links have you been loving this week? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

Book Review: Jackie Braun - Revenge Best Served Hot

Hello Lovelies!

Today I will be reviewing 'Revenge Best Served Hot' by Jackie Braun, copy received from Netgalley via Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

'Revenge Best Served Hot' is the sixth book in the Men of the Zodiac series. It is 189 pages long and it took me about four hours to read. It is available at Amazon (Kindle) for $2.99, and at Barnes & Noble (NOOKBook) for $2.99.

Book Stats

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Length: 189 Pages

Publisher: Entangled Publishing

Release Date: June 9, 2015





Book Synopsis
Sign: Virgo
He's all business...until he's all hers.

Brody Flynn waited years to get his revenge on Douglass Shipping  for his parents' accidental deaths. Now the company is fumbling, profits are down, and it's the perfect time for a hostile takeover. Vengence. But the former CEO's daughter Kate Douglass has other plans...

Kate's been waiting for her chance to take on a real role at Douglass and prove to her family that she's not the fragile piece of glass they all think she is. There's no way she'll give up without a fight. All she has to do is convine the gorgeous new CEO to hire her...and not fall for him.

But Brody was never supposed to feel attracted to the daughter of his enemy. He was never supposed to want her as hard as he does. And the only thing stronger than his hunger for revenge is his hunger for her...

What did I think? 4 Stars

Would I recommend it?
Yes, I would recommend this book, once I sat down and started reading I didn't want to put it down. I really enjoyed the characters backgrounds and I think that the characters were well developed, however, their romance needed more work.

I do feel like the pace should have been set a little faster, and the chemistry between the two main characters didn't impress me. There weren't many love scenes in the book and I feel like the ones that were included were rushed and not romantic. I like that this Brody's character starts out as a guy set out to get revenge and then he learns what's really important and learns to forgive and let go of the past.

Overall, I really liked the book and would definitely recommend it, if you're looking for a good, quick read. I know my review probably sounds like I didn't like the book, but I really did like it, I just didn't love it, and I think it had the potential to be better.

Thank you Entangled Publishing via Netgalley for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review!

Will you be buying this book? Let me know below!

XoXo,
Lori