Browsing Category:

Lifestyle

Lifestyle

Fraternity/Sorority Flags from GreekLifeStuff.com

Kappa Alpha Theta flag from Greek Life Stuff

Greek Life Stuff is the go-to place for sorority/fraternity flags! They have almost every single fraternity and sorority represented in their store. In addition, they have flags for co-ed organizations such as business or law fraternities. They even have a few other items available such as lanyards and beanies, but flags are their main product. Be sure to check out their main site as well as their Etsy shop!

Greek Life Stuff was extremely generous to provide me with this Kappa Alpha Theta flag for only $3 (the price of shipping). I am completely obsessed! Whether you live in Greek housing, the dorms, an apartment, or a house, it’s the best addition to any room. (They also stuck a Theta lanyard in the box too which was such a great surprise!)

Kappa Alpha Theta flag from Greek Life Stuff

I got the traditional Theta colors of black and gold, however they have options like pink to customize your flag how you want! There’s other styles available as well such as an American flag style with stripes and one with the crest of the organization.

I would highly recommend buying through them because they ship fast and are such a fun way to show your fraternity/sorority pride!

Fraternities they offer:

Alpha Epsilon Pi || Alpha Gamma Rho || Alpha Kappa Lambda || Alpha Sigma Phi || Alpha Tau Omega || Beta Theta Pi || Chi Phi || Chi Psi || Delta Chi || Delta Kappa Epsilon || Delta Sigma Phi || Delta Tau Delta || Delta Upsilon || Kappa Alpha Order || Kappa Delta Rho || Kappa Kappa Psi || Kappa Sigma || Lambda Chi Alpha || Lambda Phi Epsilon || Phi Delta Theta || Phi Gamma Delta || Phi Kappa Psi || Phi Kappa Sigma || Phi Kappa Tau || Phi Kappa Theta || Phi Iota Alpha || Phi Mu Delta || Phi Sigma Kappa || Pi Alpha Phi || Pi Kappa Alpha || Pi Kappa Phi || Psi Upsilon || Sigma Alpha Mu || Sigma Chi || Sigma Nu || Sigma Phi Epsilon || Sigma Pi || Sigma Tau Gamma || Tau Kappa Epsilon || Theta Chi || Theta Xi || Triangle || Zeta Beta Tau

Sororities they offer: 

Alpha Chi Omega  || Alpha Delta Pi  || Alpha Epsilon Phi  || Alpha Gamma Delta  || Alpha Omega Epsilon  || Alpha Omicron Pi  || Alpha Phi  || Alpha Sigma Tau  || Alpha Xi Delta  || Chi Omega  || Delta Delta Delta  || Delta Gamma  || Gamma Phi Beta  || Kappa Alpha Theta  || Kappa Delta  || Kappa Kappa Gamma  || Phi Mu  || Phi Sigma Sigma  || Pi Beta Phi  || Sigma Alpha Iota  || Sigma Delta Tau  || Sigma Kappa  || Sigma Sigma Sigma  || Tau Beta Sigma  || Theta Phi Alpha  || Zeta Tau Alpha

Check out their site here: http://greeklifeflags.3dcartstores.com/

Check out their Etsy store here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/WindyCityFraternity

I received this flag at a discounted price of $3 when it is regularly $24.99. Greek Life Stuff is an official Greek License Vendor. All opinions are my own. 

Lifestyle

Plum Paper – Your New Go-To Place for Planners (Discount Code!)

Plum Paper

Created by a Chapman University graphic design aluma, Kristina Kardous, Plum Paper produces beautiful, high-quality planners and stationary. Kristina began by making simple notecards and wedding invitations, but her work quickly evolved into something of its own. While their planners are the most popular item, their full line wedding stationary can be found in wedding and stationary stores across the nation.

Plum Paper places an emphasis on customer service – they strive to put smiles on their customer’s faces and help them live a more organized life. The company is always working to improve their products and increase customer satisfaction. (there may or may not be a gift for my readers down at the bottom of this post) ♥

Plum Paper

I first found Plum Paper on Etsy (click here to visit the store!)– where you can actually buy their products. I have a weakness for office supplies and stationary, so I fell in love when I saw the bright, colorful prints and stunning planners they offered. When I reached out to Kristina to write this post, she was more than accommodating and friendly! It is clear that she loves what she does and genuinely cares about the happiness of her customers.

Now let’s talk about the planners themselves because they’re AMAZING!

  • Made out of thick, sturdy paper, metal spiral binding, and hard plastic covers, they are extremely durable.
  • With 12 monthly laminated tabs, a contacts page, and a two-sided pocket folder, it’s impossible to NOT be organized with one of these planners.
  • Plum Paper offers personalization options as well, so you can chose how you want the days broken down, what name or image you want on the front, and what cover design you want.
  • They even offer extras such as notes pages, contact pages, checklists, and added months.

 

Plum Paper planner layout Plum Paper planner notes and extras Plum Paper planner monthly spread

What sets Plum Paper apart from their competitors is their affordable prices (planners range from $15-$35) and the ability to choose from:

Each type is tailored to the customer’s needs. For example, the student planners have the option of having class lists and can be divided by semester. BONUS: the student planners are only $16! Wedding planners have sections for budgets, timelines, and guest lists. There’s really something for everyone here!

Plum Paper is by far the superior company when it comes to planners. I know many people love other brands, but I can say between the affordability of these and the incredible woman who runs it, this is the place to buy them!

Kristina has graciously provided all my readers with 10% off their order! Simply enter the code SMALLTOWN10 at checkout and you’ll get the discount! This offer is only good for a month (expires March 23rd), so be sure to grab your planner now. Even if you already have a planner now, think ahead about next year or gifts for friends. You won’t be disappointed!

 

Visit their Etsy shop here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PlumPaperDesigns

Visit their website here: http://plumpaper.com/

Remember to enter SMALLTOWN10 for 10% off your order! Expires March 23rd.

I was not paid by Plum Paper nor did I receive any free products for this post. All opinions are my own.

Lifestyle

Exploring SoCal: The LAB/The CAMP Antimall

I'm OBSESSED with this murial! This was at "The Camp" near the back, sort of hidden. I loved the organized chaos about it. It's authentic and graffiti-eque. Stunning!

 

I'm OBSESSED with this murial! This was at "The Camp" near the back, sort of hidden. I loved the organized chaos about it. It's authentic and graffiti-eque. Stunning!

I’m OBSESSED with this murial! This was at “The Camp” near the back, sort of hidden. I loved the organized chaos about it. It’s authentic and graffiti-eque. Stunning!

Looking to enjoy some delicious locally-sourced food? Do you enjoy discovering handcrafted jewelry and clothes? Maybe you’re just looking for a fun new date spot.

Personally, I LOVE exploring. My friend, Nikki, told me about this place in Costa Mesa called “The LAB” and then across the street from it is a similar “antimall” called “The CAMP.” I decided to check it out! Between the incredible incorporation of nature into every aspect of the building design, the amazingly unique stores, and incredible food, this place really hits a home-run.

Every path was lined with plants I have never seen before – exotic cacti and beautiful, blooming flowers. Tiny, brightly colored trailers held local shops with handmade products. The stores ranged from the ever-popular Urban Outfitters to the consignment store Buffalo Exchange. Restaurants serving delicious tea and all organic foods were everywhere you looked. I wish I had come with an appetite because I wanted to try everything I saw!

Not only is this the most photogenic and beautiful mall I have ever seen, but it was also the only mall I actually wanted to explore and learn more about. Everything was beautiful, intentional, and detailed. If you’re looking to support your local community, shop somewhere fairly sustainable and “green,” hungry for some fresh, authentic food, or looking for an adventure, I recommend checking this place out. You won’t be disappointed.

Some of the stores and restaurants located here:

Those are just a tiny portion of the amazing shops and restaurants available!

 

My little, Devyn, and I had such a fun time exploring The LAB!

My little, Devyn, and I had such a fun time exploring The LAB!

Here's another picture of my little and I exploring The CAMP by the amazing "Hope" murial!

Here’s another picture of my little and I exploring The CAMP by the amazing “Hope” murial!

This post was not sponsored by The LAB or The CAMP. All opinions and images are my own.

Lifestyle

14 People to Write a Valentine to That Aren’t Your Boyfriend (wait, what boyfriend?)

All too often we get caught up in the romantic side of Valentine’s Day (I’m one to blame!). Many people feel frustrated or lonely during this time of the year, so I thought it would be a great idea to brainstorm some ideas of people you can celebrate this Valentine’s Day that may get overlooked otherwise. Instead of focusing on finding a date on Friday, take some time to show your appreciation for people who bring love into your life on a daily basis. Thanking people in your life will not only make them feel great, but you too! Here’s a list of fourteen people you can write a (non-romantic) love letter to and show your appreciation for this Valentine’s Day:

  1. Your mom
  2. Your sister or brother
  3. Your dad
  4. Your best friend
  5. Your favorite professor
  6. The president of your sorority
  7. The barista that memorized your name and order
  8. Your boss
  9. The coworker that shares your cubicle
  10. Any member of your extended family
  11. The author of a book that changed your life
  12. Your mentor
  13. Your tutor
  14. Your roomie

Valentine's Day

{source}

Share the love! How are you spending Valentine’s Day this year? Share in the comments!

Lifestyle

Make A Dream Board

The New Year is the best time to set new goals! Most people have difficulty following through with their goals, but one great way to stay on track is to create a “dream board.” Even Oprah swears by it! Essentially, a dream board is a collection of pictures, words, and phrases that will inspire you and remind you daily of your objectives! I was shocked that only a few short months after creating one for myself, I had accomplished over half of the goals I set. Images are so powerful and it’s a great feeling to use them in such a positive way!

 Dream Board
Dream board pictures
Want to make your own dream board? Follow the steps below!
  1. Set your goals – Do you want to land a job or internship? Improve your health or fitness? Learn a new language? Want to save money for that Michael Kors bag you’ve been crushing on forever? Make your goals specific and realistic – don’t try to lose 20 pounds in a month, you’ll drive yourself crazy!
  2. Find compelling images – use magazines, Google images, favorite celebrities,       inspirational quotes, etc.
  3. Make a cute collage including all of the pictures you find on a big poster board.
  4. Hang it somewhere you look everyday – think subliminal messaging!
  5. Go conquer the world!
 It can be overwhelming to decide which goals to focus on. Here are some of the ones I chose for my dream board:

  • Take more pictures with a REAL camera and print them out
  • Write more letters
  • Read five books
  • Save $1,000
  • Work out at least 4 times a week
  • Get three A’s spring semester
  • Drink more green smoothies
  • Give more compliments
It’s so simple and rewarding. You’ll be thanking yourself for the daily reminder – it will motivate you to actively work towards your goals. Once you’ve accomplished all of them, save the board as a memento and start a new one!
Dream board

More digitally inclined? Check out Oprah’s online dream board creator: http://www.oprah.com/spirit/O-Dream-Board-Envision-Your-Best-LifeTM

Lifestyle

Easy No-Bake Cookie Dough Truffle Balls

The Ghirardelli covered ones were my favorite! So rich and delicious

I’ve pinned this recipe about a hundred times, but never got around to making it. Finally, with a little bit more free time lately, I was able to whip this up today.

I’ve always been the one that asks to lick the spoon when my mom bakes cookies. I know there’s the risk of salmonella, but I just can’t resist the temptation of delicious, creamy, cookie dough. Luckily, these little marvelous truffle balls are egg-free, so I promise they are safe to eat! I’m not a good cook, so the best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy and fast.

I mainly used the recipe from Food Network’s website as my guide – tweaking it just a little bit.

Don't they look great? The pink ones have the Hershey's Candy Cane Kisses candy and the dark ones have Ghirardelli milk chocolate on them.

Don’t they look great? The pink ones have the Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses candy and the dark ones have Ghirardelli milk chocolate on them.

 

Ingredients

1/2 cup softened butter

3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups flour

1 (14oz) can of sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (I didn’t have any mini ones when I made this, so I used regular sized chips)

(optional) 1 cup finely chopped walnuts

1 bag of Ghirardelli chocolate chips

1 bag of Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses

 

Instructions

Mix butter and brown sugar in a large bowl on medium. When creamy, add vanilla. When thoroughly integrated, gradually add flour and milk – alternating between the two. Mix on medium. Finally, add chocolate chips (and walnuts if desired). With a melon baller or spoon, scoop dough into 1-inch balls and place on wax paper. Put them into the fridge to chill for 1.5 hours. After 1.5 hours, place candy for coating into a microwave safe bowl and heat until fully melted. Every 30 seconds, stir. Roll the balls into the melted candy and then place back on wax paper. Let them sit in the fridge for 1 hour or until hardened.

 

***Tip: After the balls have chilled in the fridge and before dipping them into the melted candy, roll them in your palms to make them perfect balls.

The Ghirardelli covered ones were my favorite! So rich and delicious

The Ghirardelli covered ones were my favorite! So rich and delicious

I love how these ended up pink! They would be great for a holiday themed bridal shower or baby shower.

I love how these ended up pink! They would be great for a holiday themed bridal shower or baby shower.

Lifestyle

A Season of Rest: Turn Off the Phone

I am beyond guilty of this fatal flaw of my generation. We feel compelled to document every sight and post every thought. There’s something to be said about being in the moment – not recording it, not taking a picture of it, and not sharing it with the internet. We need to spend time listening to people when they speak. Making eye contact. Reflecting on our thoughts. Experimenting. Guessing. Adventuring. Being alone. We can’t experience these things if we’re glued to our screens. I really need to work on this this year. I always use the excuse that I need social media for my job and my portfolio, but to be perfectly honest – I shouldn’t allow my job to completely consume my life. Here’s to making positive changes in the new year!

Lifestyle

Rise Above the Negativity

Rise above the negativity

If people try to tear you down, it’s only because they are envious of you or are simply below you. Happy people who are confident in themselves do not try to bring others down. Whatever you do, if somebody does this to you, do NOT stoop to their level. Nobody likes a mean, snarky, or bitter person. Be better. Rise above.

Lifestyle

On Being Patient

8a9f3f93039f9a24e5a52664adeab426

The past couple of months, I have really struggled with becoming frustrated with everybody around me. My roommates, the people in my group project, my best friend – everyone seems to set me on edge. Since I usually pride myself in being very understanding and patient, it’s made me even more frustrated when I find myself becoming this impatient and irritable person. I despised this road I was heading down. So I had to ask myself – how do I turn around?

Finally recognizing that I’ve been gravitating towards these negative thoughts and allowing my anger to overtake me has been the first step in turning around my attitude. Gaining control of my emotional state made me feel much more secure in myself. I started being aware of my emotions and checking myself every time I felt that anger bubbling up inside of me. When I felt myself losing control, I was aware of it. Usually, it was caused by a very silly matter – the members of my group project weren’t responding to my emails or my roommate left her dirty dishes out on the table. Why would I allow these silly, small things have so much control over me?

The biggest revelation for me was grasping the fact that I cannot control what other people do – only my reaction to what they do. Letting go of control of other people allowed me to gain control over myself.

I focused on reacting much kinder and simpler. My mom’s favorite thing to say to me is, “Be calm.” There is no malicious intent behind my roommate leaving her dirty dishes out. She does not mean to harm me or anybody. Taking her actions personally is what fired me up. I found myself becoming defensive and angry at her – which we all know is counterproductive. When I took a step back and reassessed how I should handle the situation, my mindset drastically changed. Nobody wants to listen to the nagging of an angry roommate. When I addressed her kindly, calmly, and nonchalantly, she was much more receptive to my feedback than she would if I had come at her, guns smoking. Treating others with respect and giving them the benefit of the doubt allows many more positive thoughts to flow into your mind and the negativity to be pushed out.

The next simple strategy I used was simply being silent. I am a natural leader – I do not shy away from delegating tasks, confronting people, or being firm. However, sometimes it is more appropriate to sit back and allow others to be in control. In group projects, I usually am the one to assign people jobs, make sure everybody else completes their tasks, and figure everything out. This most recent group project of mine, I sat back and listened as somebody else took on that role. It was excruciating at first, but then it became a relief and I found myself able to relax. When I give up control of what others do, I gain control of myself. I find that listening to people and staying silent instead of constantly sharing my opinion is just as beneficial. I find that when you really listen to people, they like you better. I find that when you give somebody else the reigns, they will usually surprise you and do just as good of a job as you. Being silent is not to be weak; it is to be strong enough to appreciate the silence and the ideas of others. You will be shocked at what you will learn and how much more you hear when you’re not focused on what you’re going to say next.

Finally, I have begun practicing active positive thinking. By consciously forcing myself to have positive thoughts, it has become a habit. I go on Pinterest and search for inspirational quotes. I post them on my Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I share positive news with others. I look on the bright side. I look for the good in everyone. When I hear somebody complaining about something or someone, I try to help them see the positive side of the issue. When I think positive, negative feelings such as frustration and anger have a much more difficult time controlling me. 

6b3f8119af6c7b79bc8d5af6db31f4c5

 

061ce26a89975e9d0cd3a79dd8a888c5