The Twenty Life

Pinterest: Every Man’s Key to a Girls Mind

2012-07-06T12:33:00.000-04:00

Hands up: who goes on Pinterest? Hands up again, who, like me, is severely addicted to Pinterest? Of course you are. Where else would women plan the most extravagant (ahem, imaginary) wedding, or believe we could build our dream homes with nothing but a glue gun and a few mason jars?

Yes, we’re addicted, and guys might find it annoying that we’re constantly pinning this and that. But, what these fellas don’t realize is exactly how they can take a little gander into a girl’s mind just by checking out her Pinterest.

Think about it: it’s an inside look at her interests, hobbies and future aspirations. And for the boyfriends, take note of the Dream Wedding board, because there definitely is going to be some hints on engagement rings and the most romantic way to pop the question. So, with that being said, below are some typical boards that guys can take advantage of and learn a thing or two.

Dream Wedding: This board is every girl’s fairytale. It’s going to hold pictures of engagement rings, wedding dresses and the most delicious (and expensive) cakes. For the single girls, this is a board that isn’t too alarming to guys. But, for the girls in serious relationship, it can be a little wink wink, nudge nudge to the boyfriend.

Girls used to get shunned if they even mentioned the possibility of marriage or wanting kids. Now, though, girls have a way of expressing their dream day, without scaring the potential groom away. With this board, guys can have a much better way of knowing their girlfriend’s taste, instead of trying to secretly get it out of them or her friends.

Style: A girl’s style says a lot about who she is as a person. If a guy were to take a look at this board, he could easily get a little taste of her personality. Is she edgy? Trendy? Hippie-like? It doesn’t seem important, but in truth, it is. Also, when it comes to presents, he has a way of knowing exactly what she would love.

Inspirations: For this board, I’ll pin future goals or quotes that I want to start living my life by. If a guy were to check out this board, he could easily figure out if she lives her life by YOLO or bible passages. Obviously, it isn’t going to fully decipher her personality, but it will give the guy a little taste of morals, goals and hobbies.

So, ladies, keep pinning that same engagement ring over and over again, I think he juusst might get the hint.

By: Sarah Kester | Image: Source

The Match.com Project: Filling Out The Dating Profile

2012-06-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

It is Sunday night, and it’s time to sign up for my new life. I’m so nervous; I imagine this is how someone would feel when they are going to break into a house. But if I want to attract a real-life Armie Hammer, I am going to need to make the best profile ever, right?

Oh, maybe not. Upon entering the sight, there is a banner that reads, “It’s free to look!” And look, I shall. After entering that I am a woman seeking a male. And that I’m 24. And that he is 25-35. And has a college degree. And taller than 6’0”. And wait a minute, I’m creating a profile. NO! What if they know I’m looking?! My fingers graze my pristine keyboard for a about a minute, wondering if I should take the plunge. I finally take a deep sigh and finish answering the questions. It’s okay, right? It’s not like there are a ton of guys lining up for me now.

I try to keep my profile info short and sweet – short enough as not to give away my life story (and scare everyone off), but sweet enough to get them hooked (and pretend that I’m kind of normal). My choice of default picture is simple; it was taken with my webcam and as much as I wanted to use Photoshop, I didn’t do it for fear of making me look… well, not like myself.

I get to the box that asks me to describe myself and what I’m looking for in a man, and I went blank. Describe myself? I think I’m cute, but not gorgeous? Smart, but not a genius? And what I want in a man?

Good grief, I just want a guy that’s taller than me when I wear heels! Is that so much to ask for? After freaking out about my lack of self-description, I casually mention that I’m “fun” and “easy-going” and apparently, super cliché. As I write a few words about how awesome I appear to be, I close my statement with “I want a guy to prove they are not all the same.” Once I finished it, I wanted to gag myself. Who do I think I am – Marilyn Monroe? But it was the truth… I just want one guy to prove that maybe I’ll have a husband, family, nice diamond ring, and above all, love. And this is why I’m single.

After giving Match the bare minimum amount of information possible, I begin searching. After the first two pages of potential matches (displaying ten per page), I took a deep breath and shook my head. Not one of these guys fit the bill – too short, a little too overweight, doesn’t have a college degree, not a Catholic, missing teeth, older than my grandpa, improper use of grammar, types with “u” instead of “you.” This is hopeless already.

I was about to close the window when I accidentally clicked on the next page and saw a familiar face: another high school boyfriend. NO WAY! You mean to tell me that since we broke up years ago, we have dated every person between Texas and New York, only to come full circle and turn to a dating service to find us a match? Oh NO! I didn’t even like him that much the first time, and this is all that my choices have been diluted to. GREAT.

A part of me fears that once he finds my profile, he might think I’m pathetic. But that’s like the teapot calling the kettle black, so who knows? Maybe this is worth giving a shot and even though it’s unlikely I’ll end up back with Mr. Salutatorian 2005, there is a chance for friendship renewal. Of course, the other part of me is saying that my ex-boyfriend-slash-college-sweetheart-slash-love-of-my-life was right about the whole idea and thinks I should stick to meeting people the old fashioned way: awkward first encounters.

Or maybe… just maybe, this new venture may light a fire under someone’s butt to snatch me up before I become Ms. Popularity on Match.

Be sure to stay tuned for the next article coming soon in The Match.com Project.

Image: Source

Should You Keep Your Distance When Dating?

2012-06-14T00:27:00.000-04:00

Instead of the song, “teach me how to dougie,” there should be a song for girls everywhere called, “teach me how to distance.” Ta-ta teach me how to distance – catchy, right? It’s true that when you first begin dating a guy, the whole ‘chase,’ ‘hard-to-get’ factor comes in. But, when you’re in a committed relationship, this can seem like a game.

Yet, if you truly feel like your guy has been pulling away a bit, then girl, it’s time to bring out the big guns. If you want your man willing to run through hoops for you again, like he did in the beginning, then read this article and implement these tips in your relationship, now.

Do your own thing: If you find yourself caring a little more than your boo, it’s definitely time to stop obsessing over it and actually do something. I don’t mean do something drastic about it, unless it’s really serious. What I mean is that you need to go out and live your life. Yes, you have a boyfriend, but who says you can’t take time for yourself, too? One day, turn your phone off and go on a little adventure downtown and shop with your girlfriends. When he asks what you’ve been up to, give a little smirk and move on to other things. The trick is to keep his mind guessing.

Don’t get mad at stupid stuff: If you are constantly obsessing over the little things, you’ll find that you and your boyfriend are fighting a lot. Guys don’t like this. Chill it on the neediness, jealousy and conflict. But most importantly, make him come to you. If you get mad; first, address if it is worth getting mad over it. If it isn’t, drop it and let it go. If it is, then approach it in a way that isn’t defensive or a potential fight-starter.

Limit the calls, texts, and social media: Yes, we all love our blackberries, iPhones, Facebook, Twitter and yadda, yadda, yadda. But constant contact with your boyfriend can be a bit too much. Take time to respond to his texts and give you both room to breathe. Your boyfriend doesn’t have to be in complete and total contact with you every second of the day.

The biggest realization that may help you curb the need to be a little too much with your boyfriend, is to remember what it was like before you dated. You, hopefully, weren’t clingy, jealous or irritated all of the time. It’s nice to be comfortable with a boyfriend but don’t allow yourself to get too comfortable because that’s when those nasty flaws come out.

By: Sarah Kester | Image: Source

Washing Up: How To Stretch Your Good Hair Day

2012-06-13T06:00:00.000-04:00

We all do it ladies – wash our hair once every two (or three, or four) days because a) we need to save time, b) we need to save money on hair products, or c) we are too dang lazy to keep up with it on a daily basis. During my internship in a first grade classroom with Hitler for a supervisor, I spent 110% of my time trying to keep up with school, work and studying for state exams which left me with the decision of either washing and styling my hair or using that time to complete another task.

Needless to say, I found ways to make a hair-washing last for five days. It’s no big deal; in fact, it may just save you that extra 30-45 minutes in the day and a few new shampoo bottles a year!

Day 1: Monday

Wake up early with the mentality that you will tackle all your tasks this week and make it look easy. Begin the week with your hair down and in loose curls. Why curls? First of all, they look pretty no matter what the occasion. They will make you look instantly like a bombshell, giving everyone the “Don’t stand in my way!” attitude. Work it girl.

Day 2: Tuesday

Today, straighten your hair. It is easier to straighten curly hair than to curl hair that has been straightened. Your roots may be a bit oily if you have fine hair like me, so sprinkle some dry shampoo on those roots. A personal favorite of mine is Tresemme Dry Shampoo ($4). Baby powder works well, too! Throw your hair forward, apply your dryer on low heat for one minute, coming through your roots. Toss your hair back, sprinkle on your dry shampoo, tousle it through with your fingers and comb for a soft shine.

Day 3: Wednesday

It has been two days and you may be itching to cave in and wash your hair. If you are worried about having enough time in the day to actually wash and dry your hair, you know what you need to do! At this point, your hair might start to feel oilier than usual and may be a bit lifeless. The solution? Pick it up with a high, bouncy ponytail. Great tip: tease the pony up to get a sexy Bridgette Bardot effect. Rawr.

Day 4: Thursday

We are on day four and weare pushing the envelope. But you know that this is the day you will be rushing through just about everything to meet your deadlines. Quick and easy fix? Braid it! Braids are both stylish and sleek and make you look uber-trendy as braids have adorned all the runways and photo shoots this season. Quick tip: mess your braid up a little to take your look from Helga to Hell-yeah.

Day 5: Friday

TGIF. The start of the weekend and the easiest hairstyle of the week: a classic bun. Kim Kardashian has set the trend of a sleek, high bun using a donut (such as the ones found at H&M) to give the bun both bulk and definition. You can also pull that bun down to the nape of your neck, using a messy side or center part to give a careless “I’m ready for the weekend, yet still a professional” look.

Beware: this weekly project is not for the faint of heart (or finicky girls obsessed with hygiene). You can certainly cut this down to a two or three-day project, but if you anticipate being crunched for time next week, maybe this time-saving trick might be your saving grace! It is Friday night, honey. Wash your hair… God knows you deserve it!

By: Kristina Kniest | Image: Source

How To Deal With A Call Of Duty-Obsessed Boyfriend

2012-06-12T06:00:00.000-04:00

Just when we thought guys couldn’t get distracted easier – low and behold, Call of Duty emerged, or as they call it, COD. Now, in order to get a guys attention, it’s as if you have to strip down, dance around the room and then (to their horror) step in front of the TV screen.

Recently, my boyfriend of six months decided to indulge into the oh, so wonderful (ahem, annoying as hell) world of COD. Luckily, he’s not addicted to the game, but if you find that your boyfriend is spending more time in front of the screen than with you, then here’s some tips to bring your guy back down to earth (no unplugging required).

Playfully Distract Him: Like I mentioned, a classic way of removing your guy’s attention to the game is to step in front of the TV. But if you had brothers growing up, you’ll come to know that guys do not appreciate this. Instead, distract him in cute, playful ways, like jumping on the sofa, kissing him or dancing around the room. He’ll hopefully take your subtle cue that it’s time to unplug and focus on spending time with you.

Do Something Else: Being in a relationship doesn’t mean that you need to be attached to the hip 24/7. So, if he’s doing his own thing, like playing COD, then do your own thing too. Do whatever it is that you consider ‘you’ time.

Play Together: Even though you probably despise the game, as in, even looking at it sparks images of you, a baseball bat and sweet, sweet revenge, it couldn’t hurt to try to play it. It’ll be awesome quality time for him and awesome brownie points for you for trying something he likes (score!). So instead of pouting, stepping in front of the TV and giving him a tough ultimatum, try to play the game. Sooner or later, you just may find yourself becoming a little bit of a COD girl, dorky headset and all.

By: Sarah Kester | Image: Source

Get Your Bake On: Summer Cupcakes for Any Event

2012-06-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

Move over, every other dessert, cupcakes are clearly king.

In case you’ve been living under a rock for the last few years, I’ll fill you in. Cupcake-only bakeries have cropped up all over the place and the craze shows no sign of letting up. From TV shows like Cupcake Wars and DC Cupcakes to the new trend of cupcake trees as wedding cakes, these adorable desserts are the clear winner when it comes to sugary and sweet confections.

They’re the perfect size to take or taste anywhere – no plates, forks, or cake knives needed! – and because they’re so small, you don’t need to feel guilty about going for seconds.

Cupcakes are great to bring to any function, from an office party to a backyard holiday barbeque to a birthday party to a dinner party. They’re easy to make if you can follow a recipe, fun to decorate, and you can mix and match tons of icings and cakes to create a fun, themed treat. Here, thanks to my trusty Big Book of Cupcakes (by Betty Crocker), are two super-sweet cupcake and homemade frosting recipes that will be the perfect complement to any spring or summer function.

Orange Soda Cupcakes

Pre-heat oven to 350 and line 12-space cupcake pan with paper sleeves.

In a medium bowl, combine:

· 2 cups all-purpose flour

· ¾ cup sugar

· 1 teaspoon baking powder

· ½ teaspoon baking soda

· ½ teaspoon salt

· ½ teaspoon grated orange peel (use a cheese grater or zester!)

· 1/3 cup butter or margarine, softened (let it sit out at room temperature for a while, don’t melt in the microwave!)

· 1 cup orange soda

· 2 eggs

First, mix with an electric mixer for about thirty seconds on low speed. Scrape and mix again for about two minutes on medium speed. Don’t over-beat! This will toughen the batter and your cakes won’t rise. Divide batter evenly into cupcake tin; they should fill up the cups about 2/3-3/4 of the way.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the cupcake comes out clean. Cool for five minutes before removing from pan; let them cool all the way before frosting. (If you’re in a hurry, you can stick them in the fridge or freezer.)

Using either a spatula or a pastry bag and frosting tip (you can pick that up at the grocery store; kits come with directions if you’re a first-time froster), top off your treats with this delicious, crowd-pleasing icing.

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

In a large bowl, combine:

· 6 cups powdered sugar

· 2/3 cup butter or margarine, softened

Mix on low speed. As you go, stir in:

· 1 tablespoon vanilla

· 3 tablespoons milk

Gradually beat mixture until it comes to a spreadable consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more milk.

To dress up your cupcakes a little more, try:

· Adding food coloring to frosting and/or batter.

· Topping cakes with candy or sprinkles in keeping with your theme.

· Lining cupcake tin with themed or colored paper shells. You can find ones with all sorts of decorative touches!

· Getting fancy with your icing. Try a cupcake-decorating class or teach yourself with YouTube videos or DIY guides found with frosting kits.

Happy baking!

By: Alyssa Ammirato | Image: Source

How To Throw A Fabulous Housewarming Party

2012-06-09T06:00:00.000-04:00

Recently I happened to finally get my own place – meaning, my own rent, food bills, and oh, my own sweet freedom to throw some killer parties! But, one party that is essential after just moving into your own place, is a housewarming party. With this, you want to show off your new pad in all the right ways (we’re not talking a Project X way). And luckily, here’s exactly how to do it.

Provide some of the booze: It is just courtesy. This doesn’t mean that you’re buying all of it. What you can do instead is have a few cute drinks, like this cocktail recipe. To achieve this drink here, you’ll need to mix:

· 2 oz. strawberry infused Svedka vodka

· 2 oz. simple syrup

· 2 oz. fresh lemon juice

· Top with sparkling wine

· Garnish with strawberries and mint

Then, as gifts, ask your friend if they could bring a bottle of wine or a case of beer.

Clean, clean clean: Just as you’re going to be sparkling in pride, you want the place to shine, too. So before guests come over, clean the place up, and make it look the best it can be. Also, design the room to be your taste and style. You want your family and friends to come over, and be like wow.

Enjoy the night: Yes, it is your place, so you will be responsible for cleaning up the next day. But this doesn’t mean that you have to be one of those crazy hosts, who run around screaming “coaster! Use a coaster!” Instead, relax, and have a good time. Provide nice drinks, food, and a beautiful place that you now call home sweet home.

By: Sarah Kester | Image: Source

Quick Fixes: Freshen Up Last Year’s Looks in 1, 2, 3

2012-06-08T06:00:00.000-04:00

It’s that time of year again where our schedules become fluttered with company outings, summer festivals, endless birthday parties, Memorial Day barbeques and a whole laundry list of other non-governmental reasons to celebrate. And hey, why not?

Despite what certain magazines and online markets may say, you don’t need access to a disposable income to look fresh and fabulous. Wherever your agenda takes you this season, don’t be afraid to embrace last year’s looks with an effortless bout of confidence.

Listen ladies, you can switch up every single ensemble you own in a blink of an eye with just a few fun and carefree minor detail adjustments. Forget running out and buying a slew of new dresses and tops. Accessories go a long way – snag a few of these guys and dazzle in no time!

Cocktail Rings – You can always count on the ever so stylish and wasp-y “Ladies Who Lunch” and pesky socialites (who line pages galore) to be sporting blinding diamonds a dozen on each hand. For us down to earth gals, bold cocktail rings have the ability to breathe new life into any outfit. And they sure are pretty to look at. You don’t have to break the bank to invest in this look. Just pop on into your local H & M and don’t forget to check out DIY websites like Etsy, home to worldwide independent designers that sell handmade pieces at a fraction of the retail world price.

Statement Necklaces – Nothing draws more attention or captivates the eye than a gorgeous piece hanging from your neck. If you aren’t feeling like throwing down some cash, use what you already have around. We all have bundles of necklaces and beaded bracelets stuffed in dresser drawers that just keep laying around. Get creative and cut them up. Use charms, beads, strings and chains to reinvent you current collection. Adding on pieces like old keys also bring originality and creativity to your look.

Clutches – A great clutch has the ability to transform any outfit- without looking like you’re trying. Colored clutches are the perfect quick fix to spice up any maxi dress or all black get-up. Bright reds and strikingly vibrant neon’s are this season’s hottest ticket!

And if you’re feeling adventurous, jazz up those nails of your with some wicked nail art!

By: Kelley Mullarkey | Image: Source

The Match.com Project: Getting Started With Online Dating

2012-06-07T06:00:00.000-04:00

It only took me 24 years, but I’m finally here. And by here, I mean staring at an application for Match.com. To be honest, I never thought I would need to sign up for a dating service because theoretically, I’m a great catch: I am educated, I have somewhat of a job, I am passionate about my work, I don’t belong to a doomsday cult, and I am physically attractive. A 24-year-old woman with these crucial attributes should have no problems getting dates, right?

Wrong. I am hopeless, as is the dating scene. Aside from having two long-term and highly dysfunctional relationships through my college years, I have met nothing but immature, unsure, insecure, unemployed, extreme conservative/liberal, and outright lazy man-boys. Let me give you a quick rundown of the past five years of my hopeless love life.

Dated my high school sweetheart into college, but we only lasted two and a half years of college together.
Met my next boyfriend through Greek life, but dated on and off for four years because he was “never sure.”
Tried to date other people. One of them was a coworker. He was sweet and funny, but used the wrong grammar when texting and told other coworkers about our relationship when we had agreed not to ever talk about it. EVER. The other one was a friend I’ve known since we were just kids; however, he lived in a different city. We had often talked about flying me out to visit him, which sounded like the ultimate romantic getaway… that is, until he told me that flying out to visit him “didn’t mean we were dating.” Well, I wouldn’t spend money to visit a guy I wasn’t dating, so I rolled my eyes, opened my laptop, and got to work.

I didn’t want to tell my friends and family about my decision to join Match.com because I didn’t want to get teased about the depth of my desperation. Those insecurities flew right out the window though when I asked my older brother for his opinion. I said to him that if I didn’t have a good man by the time my 25^th birthday rolled around, I was going to hand my fate to the Match gods. My extremely wise older brother said to me, “Why wait until 25? Do it now! Your clock is ticking or whatever it is you women have.” There it was. Even my own brother fears that I will die alone and surrounded my tons of cats.

I mentioned my Match idea to my most recent ex-boyfriend (the frat boy). He laughed at the thought of me hunched over my computer in the dark, creepily scrolling through hundreds of profiles. When I explained to him that my dating pool has become more of a dating puddle, he said, “You’re a 10! You don’t need this site. You can meet guys on your own.” I cleverly retorted, “It didn’t seem to keep you around.” Check and MATE.

That was it. I had the opinion of two men that meant the most to me. As I drove home from having dinner with my ex, I felt a small inkling of hope creeping into my soul. I have no idea what I’m getting into, but it’s worth giving a shot. All I need is some courage, and a few good profile pictures. Let the games begin.

Be sure to stay tuned for the next article coming soon in The Match.com Project.

Image: Source

Love Actually: The Basic Ten Commandments of Dating

2012-06-06T06:00:00.000-04:00

I was once asked, “Have you ever dated as a sport?” What a question. At first, I thought to myself, why would I date just for the sake of dating? That sounds just cruel! But the person said, “No, I mean, have you ever dated someone with no expectations? Just to see where it would go?” It was a strange question, but after thinking about it, I realized that’s how we’re supposed to approach dating – be open to the experience without having any expectations.

It is similar to the dating advice my parents give to me. My mom always tells me to never place my expectations on someone else, because that can end in huge disappointment on both ends. My dad always tells me to pick my battles. This combination of advice can lead me to believe that I should never put pressure on my guy and never get upset if I think the issue could be considered stupid.

So, like any woman, I have tried to get a grip on dating through chick flicks, Cosmo columns, Sex and the City marathons, self-help books such as The Game and He’s Just Not That Into You, and of course, learning through the horrific mistakes my friends have made and compiled my own list of rules… Rules to Survive Dating.

1. Don’t call him first. It’s very simple: if a man likes you, he’ll call you and nothing will stop him. This is the very first rule of He’s Just Not That Into You, and I swear by it.

2. Give 100% and expect nothing in return. By giving 100%, you will never have regretted it or wondered “what if.” It shows value, respect, and care for the other person, proving that you take them seriously without gimmicks or conditions. When you expect nothing back, anything they give you at all will feel HUGE, and above all, real.

3. Say yes. Take a chance on a guy that doesn’t seem your type at first. It’s unrealistic to think you will find a Channing Tatum look-alike with a soul as sensitive as Ernest Hemingway, so let go of those fantasies and say yes to the possibilities in front of you. Even if there is no chemistry, you may become great friends and you will thank yourself for giving it a shot.

4. Kiss when it feels right. All of those stuffy old-fashioned rules tell you not to kiss on a first date, which makes us feel as though we need to wait until the tenth date to even let him hold our hand. Screw the norm: kiss him when you want to. The butterflies in your stomach can’t deny that it’s right.

5. Don’t play the game. If he says upfront that he’s not serious and is seeing other women, don’t waste your time. Two reasons: he’s either trying to make you jealous (which is not a good foundation for a relationship), or he has no intention of committing to you. Run.

6. Poker face. It is wise to keep a good poker face for the first three dates, so try to hide your disgust when he mentions the sentiment he holds for Barney, reptiles, or his ex. There may be good stories behind those strange habits, and they may not be revealed until date number five.

7. Only say “I love you” when you are prepared to get hurt. All of my sources would probably frown upon this rule, simply because you should wait for the male to say he loves you first. In the event that he never says it, and you are just bursting at the seams, prepare for the blow to your heart and ego when your profession of love goes unanswered. If you can’t handle the rejection, don’t ever say it.

8. Don’t drunk dial. It is common knowledge that drunk words are sober thoughts, so be careful what you say when you’re three margaritas in. You don’t want to make a joke at his expense, nor reveal something you definitely would not say sober. Step away from the phone! This rule also applies to drunk texting.

9. Don’t invite other people into your relationship. When you discover a friend or acquaintance knew your boyfriend before you did, it’s easy to ask them what they know about your guy, or what they said or what they did. DON’T. Resist the urge to dig. If you go digging for dirt, you’re going to get dirty.

10. Trust. Trust may be the ultimate foundation to a healthy relationship, so let the past stay in the past. If he cheated before you, there’s no guarantee he’ll do it again. Give him his Guys Night when he wants it, and know that he will come home to you. Plus, there’s a rumor that men love a secure, confident woman. Take that into consideration!

By: Kristina Kniest | Image: Source

5 Office Wardrobe Staples That NEVER Go Out Of Style

2012-06-05T06:00:00.000-04:00

On the same day you bought six new silk tops, you open up your newest issue of Elle magazine and suddenly the models are wearing sheer blouses to work. It happens all the time: fashion evolves so fast that the second you remove the tags from your new pencil skirts, the new trend becomes long, flowy skirts. It’s enough to make your head spin (and even make you cry into your wallet). But here are five office friendly staples that are classy, timeless, and totally splurge-worthy.

Oxford Blouses

This simple yet distinguished top makes two HUGE statements: a) I respect my appearance, and b) I respect this company. Oxford blouses have had many reinventions over the last decade or so, with my earliest memory stemming from the 80s with my mom wearing a pink silk oxford blouse with a large bow tied at the top. Fast-forward to 2012, and I’ve found a short-sleeved version at The Limited that’s perfect for workdays. To spice up this classic look, pick bold colors, vivid textures, or if you’re lucky, a chic bow to adorn your lovely neck.

Black Mary-Jane High Heels

Many might remember the Sex and The City episode when Carrie had an interview at Vogue, followed by a fantasy tour of the sample closet: “Mary Jane Manolo’s! These are a fashion urban legend!” she screamed. While we might not be able to afford Manolo Blahniks just yet, this gorgeous style is reminiscent of our childhood years – innocent, sexy, and engineered to stay on our feet when we are on the run. Wear them on days when you have an important meeting, a happy hour date, and even a job interviews.

Cardigan Sweaters

In recent years, this closet staple has become more “sexy teacher” than “old librarian.” They are practical and can be found in any store. Make a statement in bright neon colors, sexy animal print, or sprinkled with sequins. Old librarian? How about sexy, independent woman?

Black Skinny Pants

This is just how it sounds: black is slimming, skinny keeps it simple, and pants make it okay to sit with your knees separated. Oh, and they make you look hot, duh! Black is a neutral color, so it can be paired with basic white, pretty pastels, bold neon's or deep fall hues. The slim leg balances out blousy tops and adds to the thin appearance if paired with a fitted blouse.

A Structured Dress

No matter your political party preference, you cannot deny: Michelle Obama brings the heat with structured dresses. This ultra-feminine look is tailored to fit a woman’s body while still being loose enough to hide panty lines, bloated bellies, and sneaky bra straps. The First Lady raises the bar when she shows off those unbelievably toned arms, and you can totally pull this off by choosing a style with a short sleeve or three-quarter sleeves. Can’t find one? Buy a sleeveless style and top it off with (a-ha!) a sequined cardigan. This look is lady-like and fierce, and you will demand all sorts of attention when you enter a room!

By: Kristina Kniest | Image: Source

Spice Up Your Life - Healthy Cuban Cuisine

2012-06-04T06:00:00.001-04:00

Things sure are starting to heat up outside with the warm and humid months of June, July and August looming closely ahead of us. It’s time to break out the bold ingredients and put that spice rack to use! Your kitchen will never smell better. Historically known for its colorful and rich culture, Cuba is a melting pot of inspirations drawn from all around the world, thanks to its Caribbean location.

Aside from the tropical breezes and turquoise ocean front views, the traditional cuisine of Cuba’s culture speaks for itself. Full of sensational flavors infused together from areas of North and South America, Africa, and parts of Europe like Spain, these dishes offer an extra dose of zest to your life. Try these two dishes the next time you cook dinner and keep them on the radar for all those upcoming Memorial Day kick-off parties and summer barbeques.

Avocado-Lime Shrimp Salad:

If weather permits, this is a great dish to prepare via your outdoor space. Using either a backyard grill or your stovetop, cook 1 ¼ pounds of shrimp. Sautee shrimp with a light olive oil and/or Cajun spices. Don’t forget to remove those pesky tails first!

Grab a large salad size bowl and dice and slice up three avocados, three large juicy red tomatoes, one large yellow tomato, and one bell pepper. Mix in a ½ bunch of chopped cilantro, one chopped bunch of green onions, and two tablespoons of fresh limejuice. (Picking these veggies up from a local farmer’s market is a great idea)

Chop up shrimp into pieces of two or three and add to mix. Season with a dash of garlic, salt and pepper. Add in diced jalapenos if you are looking for a spicier dish. Don’t forget to chill/refrigerate for twenty minutes before serving. Recipe makes six servings.

Cuban-Style Yucca:

Commonly referred to as cassava or yucca, this Latin American root vegetable is similar to a potato. Native to both Central and South American regions, this vegetable is eaten around the world and rejoiced for its high amounts of vitamin C and healthy carbs.

Cuban-style yucca is a flavorful dish that can be served alone or alongside rice and/or pork. Easy to prepare and on the lighter side, this dish is a perfect refreshing addition to any meal.

Peel and slice two pounds of yucca and place into a cooking pot. Fill up with water making sure the entire vegetable is covered. Stir in ½ teaspoon of salt. Using medium to high heat, bring water to a boil and cook for 20-25 minutes. Drain and place yucca on a serving platter.

Mix together ¼ cup of light olive oil, ½ cup of diced onion, four diced cloves of garlic, and one teaspoon of fresh lemon juice into a pot. Cook over medium heat for around five minutes. Pour mixture over the yucca and serve immediately! Recipe makes six servings.

Serve either one of these dishes with a round of Cuba’s traditional cocktail, the Mojito, for an extra crisp and delightful meal!

By: Kelley Mullarkey | Image: Source

Easy Summer Makeup: The 5-Minute Face Routine

2012-06-04T06:00:00.000-04:00

When the sun is shining and there’s not a cloud in the sky, the last thing we want to do is spend our time inside getting ready for the day. From blow-drying to flat ironing to putting on makeup, all that primping cuts into your valuable outdoor time. Not to mention that on hot days, all that careful work is melted away within minutes – streaky mascara, no thank you!

The warm season is all about the natural, sun-kissed look, which pairs perfectly with fashion trends like bright colors and floral prints, and there’s no need to rock a smoky eye when you’ve got a great tan. Save yourself time and still put your best face forward this summer with an easy, fresh look that only takes five minutes to put together.

Start with a moisturizer and/or primer like you usually would. Even with the sun beating down you can keep your look lasting all day. Top that with a tinted moisturizer all over your face. (My favorite is Mary Kay’s, but Sonia Kashuk has a great one too, both with SPF!) This will keep you comfortable all day with just a hint of color to even out your skin tone and provide some sun protection. Because it’s so subtly tinted, you don’t need to be as precise as you would with concealer and liquid foundation – just be sure to blend well.

Dust a shimmery bronzer over your cheeks, forehead, and nose to get that perfect, naturally sun-kissed glow. This also helps to set your moisturizer. If you still need that punch of color, a few strokes of a peachy blush on the apples of your cheeks will do. Set everything with a thin dusting of powder.

In keeping with the natural look, you don’t need to do too much to your eyes. If you want a little something going on, sweep a pale pink or sandy-colored shadow from lash-line to brow bone. Pick a shadow with a touch of shimmer for an evening look. Curl your lashes and coat them a few times with lengthening mascara. This will be just enough to make your eyes pop. Lastly, use a tinted lip balm in a soft pink or peachy hue, or leave them natural with just a hint of colorless gloss.

Let your bronzed skin and colorful clothes make the statement this summer. This easy five-minute face won’t weigh you down, streak away, or keep you in front of the mirror for a half hour. A few sweeps and swipes and you’re good to go!

By: Alyssa Ammirato | Image: Source

Logging Out: 6 Tips for Taking a Break From Social Media

2012-06-03T09:00:00.000-04:00

My morning routine is pretty simple: drive to work, grab a cup of coffee, check emails, and for the next half-hour or so, check all of my social media accounts. Rarely, I would take up to an hour to observe all the action taking place not only on Facebook, but also on my two Twitter accounts, my Pinterest, my Tumblr, and my LinkedIn.

And the social media browsing wouldn't stop there. For eight hours a day, and in between writing web content that is, yes, promoted through social media, I would constantly check in to see who's having a lousy day according to Facebook, who pinned something ridiculous, and who tweeted something I just couldn't ignore. If I had to guess, the total time I spent on social media a day, including after-work hours, would be about nine or 10.

In my professional writing and in my freelance work, one topic dominates and is one people love to read about: social media. How it's being used, how it can be used, and how to optimize it to the point your targeted demographic can't ignore the message you're trying to send. Communication has taken on a new face through Twitter and Facebook (no pun intended) and if one message is loud and clear it's this—sign up now, stay engaged, or you'll miss out.

It's that fear of missing a pertinent piece of information that kept me logged in to various sites for literally all day. And it wasn't until an ex-friend accidentally "liked" something of mine on Pinterest that I sat back, took a look at my little online world, and had a sinking feeling no one would have to engage with me beyond stalking my accounts to see what I was up to.

And that's when I decided to take a little time off from social media. Think it can't be done? Think again. Here are five things I've learned (and am still learning) about tearing yourself away—albeit, temporarily—from social media.

1. Consider going cold turkey. And 'consider' is the operative word. You'd be surprised how much of a shock it is to cut yourself off from all forms of social media, so don't be afraid to take things slow. For starters, if Twitter is your go-to outlet, try deactivating your Facebook account for a while, deleting unnecessary Tumblr accounts, and simply make your Twitter private. You can still browse and click on articles, but instead of tweeting your roommate or significant other, pick up the phone or shoot them an email. Plus, you'll feel a bit more secure knowing the Internet in its entirety can no longer stalk your tweets back three years.

2. Clue-in those who need to know about your break. Are you in a relationship, at least according to Facebook? Do you use Twitter for part fun and part for work? Social media has been integrated into many millennials' professional lives and is also a main source of communication between friends and family. That being said, there are a select few in your life who probably need to know you're "going away" for a while, or else a freak-out could ensue. So, let them know about your mini social media-vaca to keep them in the loop. And, keep in mind, people will wonder where you went, so be prepared for the flood of comments once you do dip your toes back into the social media world.

3. Delete, delete, delete. Many social media outlets are redundant, and there may not be a need to be signed up for, say, three Tumblr accounts and a Pinterest. Take a look at how you use each tool, and take it upon yourself to streamline a bit. If your Tumblr was your visual inspiration board prior to Pinterest, kiss it goodbye. If you find yourself posting the same content on both Facebook and Google+, it may be time to deactivate one or the other.

4. Use the time to reflect on why you use social media. We all love seeing pictures of old high school flames and staying in touch with friends and family once we've moved away, but more and more, social media is becoming a gateway for serious issues, like eating disorders and unhealthy doses of jealousy and comparison. If you find yourself obsessing over an ex, stalking a friend who did you wrong, or constantly checking in on someone out of pure curiosity, ask yourself if the issue is deeper than being bored. Often, you'll find you self-validate by comparing yourself to others, whether it's professionally through LinkedIn, socially through Facebook, or even on something as innocent as Twitter.

5. Before coming back, clean house. Sit down and reflect on the fact there are, say, more than 1,000 people on Facebook who have access to not only where you work and where you live, but also what you did this weekend, down to the very margarita you drank. To some, that seems like no big deal, but having your life on permanent display to so many begs the question if it's necessary. Instead, go through your friend list on Facebook, as well as your Twitter followers, and pare them down. Recheck your privacy settings, and consider the message your tweets, pictures, and statuses are sending to the world. Still not convinced social media plays that much of a role in your life? Google your name, and note what comes up. LinkedIn pages, public Facebook profiles, Twitter accounts, and even your Klout score can lead people on a wild string of everywhere you are on the web.

By: Michelle McNickle | Image: Source

Michelle McNickle is a web editor, blogger, and freelance journalist based in Portland, Maine. Follow her on Twitter.

Get Growing: Benefits Behind Indoor Gardening

2012-04-16T01:00:00.000-04:00

When it comes to creating the perfect home life, it’s important that each of our unique little worlds provide both an aesthetically pleasing and overall healthy atmosphere. There’s nothing like feeling totally at ease in the space you’ve put so much time and effort into making your own.

While color and lighting choices have critical impacts on our environments, surprisingly enough, indoor gardening -- no matter how big or small -- provides for an array of benefits that help improve the mind, body and soul.

Put your thinking caps on and reach back to those early days of middle school science class where you first began learning about plants and the process of photosynthesis. It’s a well-known fact that having plants around your home provides for cleaner air.

Plants naturally act as excellent air filters, therefore providing a barrier between tons of extra toxins entering your precious body. They break down contaminants and absorb harmful chemicals caused by surrounding materials (carpeting, tobacco smoke, detergents, household cleaners, hairsprays) and bacteria, then uses them as nutrients. Houseplants create higher levels of oxygen-rich air over time and combat air pollution. Indoor plants are especially beneficial for anyone suffering from breathing conditions like asthma.

Aside from cleaner air, the actual process of indoor gardening remains highly praised and respected throughout the medical field. It’s even recognized as a therapeutic indoor activity. Having a ‘green thumb’ has been known to dramatically reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, reduce seasonal bouts of depression, ward off lapses of anxiety and increase the rate and speed of healing after a period of illness or surgery.

Given the current economic state, indoor gardening also provides a remarkably convenient way to save money by growing certain vegetables right in the comfort of your home. Despite what you may believe, growing small quantities of veggies doesn’t require much space. Kitchen counters and window ledges are ideal spots so your small ‘works in progress’ can get sufficient amounts of sunlight throughout the day.

Another advantage to growing indoors: you can prevent and avoid many of the diseases commonly found in outdoor grown plants due to the soil. Growing indoors gives you complete control over the type of soil used. Outlets like Amazon.com offer great selections of books to help you get started on growing indoors and can help aid you in each step along the way!

Grab a plant and add a breath of fresh air to your home today!

By: Kelley Mullarkey | Image: Source

Another Shot At Love: 10 Tips For Getting Back With Your Ex

2012-04-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

There is a silly saying that goes, “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.” Basically what they’re saying is, don’t date an ex again. Many people say that if it didn’t work out the first time, it won’t work out the second, third, fourth, fifth, etc.

I beg to differ.

I think it’s quite possible to make things work out the second time. What makes it crumble is when we expect the same things to happen that didn’t happen before. But before you march in demanding a reconciliation, read this list to make sure your discussion is both successful and meaningful.

1. Find Out What Went Wrong

When you open up communication again, you need to discuss what went wrong. It is easy to get caught up in those old-time feelings but snap out of it. If you really want this to work, take some time out of your day to talk about the reasons it fell apart the first time.

2. Compromise

Once you have laid it all out on the table, ask each other if some of those things can change. For instance, if you love your nights out in town and he was more of a homebody, ask each other if you can compromise: one night out, and the next night in.

3. Tell Him How It Is

Be upfront. If you dragged his name through the mud while you were apart, tell him now. It may hurt him, but he will appreciate your honesty.

4. Share Your Feelings

The break-up hurt. I know it did. So if he asks you how you handled it, tell him the truth. Look, it’s hard for guys to know how much they hurt you, but I think if you tell him once and ONLY ONCE, he can assess your emotions and know how delicate – or tough – you are right now.

5. Keep Some Things To Yourself

However, don’t tell him about the rebounds. He doesn’t need to know and you don’t need to know his. This can create insecurity and jealousy all over again.

6. Don't Re-Hash The Past

Don’t bring up old fights. I am 100000% guilty of this. There were some things that my heart just couldn’t let go of that hindered the revival of my relationship. Squash it. This is a fresh start.

7. Be Strong.

Don’t cry. Don’t cry. Don’t cry.

8. Take it slow.

You can’t expect this to be like a brand-new relationship. You have history. You know each other. Be gentle. Don’t rush.

9. Accept What You Get

Don’t ask him to change who he is. It’s unfair to ask a man to change his sense of humor or religion. This is who he is, and this is what attracted you to him in the first place.

10. Keep Calm and Carry On

If you feel like you’re still banging your head after all of this, just let this one go. I’m sure your time together meant a lot but there is no use forcing yourself to work out and leaving your heart always wanting more.

By: Kristina Kniest | Image: Source

Décor Essentials for the Twenty-Something Kitchen

2012-04-14T01:00:00.000-04:00

There are a few items every kitchen needs, without argument. Of course you’ve picked out the perfect plates, flatware, cookware and appliances. So you’re in business and all set, right?

Actually, you may need few more things to create a fully complete kitchen that you may not have thought to add to your list. To make the most of the room, you need to decorate it too! Don’t forget these kitchen decor essentials to take your space from being just the home of your refrigerator and dish rack to a room you really love and that represents you.

Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook

This classic kitchen staple belongs in absolutely every kitchen in the world. It’s tried and true and full of the best recipes for everything from salads to soups to dinners to desserts. Chances are, your favorite dishes from Mom – and even Grandma – came from this quintessential cookbook. Whether you cook from it for friends and family or simply stack it up on the counter as a decoration, be sure to grab a copy of this one to complete your kitchen.

Fresh Flowers or Plants

To keep the room looking and smelling fresh and clean all the time, bring some nature inside. Spider plants or aloe plants make great kitchen accents, and fresh flowers’ beautiful aroma will cover up the smell of burnt toast from this morning’s hurried breakfast. Plus, they’re a great way to recycle the air and keep a little life in the place.

Decorative Mugs

Your morning coffee or tea will taste so much better in a special, decorative mug that’s different from the rest of your set. A few funky-colored, oversized pieces perk up the inside of your cabinets and allow you to have that giant cup of joe you know you need some days. Bring some brightness into your kitchen by storing them on your countertop, and grab a few extras to hold little things like rubber bands and bag clips or extra refrigerator magnets.

Something Shiny

…No, seriously. Something that makes you smile – a photo of you and your BFF, a craft your little niece made you, a collage of your favorite things or pictures – should have a home in your kitchen, especially if you live alone. Imagine you’re washing dishes or cleaning up after dinner. Kinda boring if you’re by yourself. Keep a few items around that make your soul smile to brighten up any mundane kitchen task.

By: Alyssa Ammirato | Image: Source

The Other Woman: 4 Tips For Dealing With A Potential Homewrecker

2012-04-13T01:00:00.000-04:00

It seems as if some girls have a radar that activates as soon as a guy gets a girlfriend. Instantly that newly taken guy becomes insanely attractive, and, all of a sudden, homewrecking girls cease at nothing to come between you and your man.

If you have an immature girl who just doesn’t get the memo that a) your man is taken, b) he’s happy, or c) he finds her annoying as hell, then girl, you must take action. Try these four easy steps that will finally banish this homewrecker for good.

Watch first: The first step when you spot a homewrecker is to watch her. You need to do this subtly, not in a bitch-I-see-you way. By doing this, you can see if she actually is a threat to you. So watch what she says, check out her body language, and decipher if she’s flirting or not. If she isn’t doing any of those things, then back off and let it be. But, if she is, then on to step two we go.

Talk to your man: Some guys are oblivious when girls are flirting with them. Heck, my boyfriend didn’t know I was for quite some time in the beginning. This can lead to him unconsciously flirting back with her. If this happens, talk to him about it in a way that isn’t defensive. Stay calm, explain what you’ve seen her do, and ask him to be careful when she’s around.

Take action: If that girl just keeps on trying, then it’s time to pull out the big guns. Even though there have been many times where I was on the edge of starting a bit of a catfight (where I would win, of course) I didn’t. I’ve dealt with a homewrecker in every relationship I’ve been in, so to say I’m frustrated is an understatement.

Physical violence isn’t the answer: It never is – so stay calm. Either a) talk to her in a non-threatening way that says “back off”, b) talk to her friends and see if they would be willing to talk some sense into her, or c) get your boyfriend to stop talking to her completely. It can seem like a controlling thing to do, but if it’s getting in the way of your relationship, then it must be done.

After you use all these steps, this girl should back off for good. If not, take a couple fighting classes and watch some UFC… jussst kidding. Best of luck, ladies!

By: Sarah Kester | Image: Source

Lingering Around: Household Items With Serious Expiration Dates

2012-04-12T01:00:00.000-04:00

We all have those bathroom cabinets and drawers full of unopened bottles of lotion, endless tubes of lip gloss and mascara, barely used shower gels, nail polishes and a stack of foundation samples from those relentless department store sales associates who –gasp – failed to leave you looking anything but orange.

However, the problem doesn’t end there – whether we like to admit it or not, our homes are filled with products long past their expiration dates that just so happen to be lingering around right under our noses. Of course it’s important to throw out those rotten tomatoes and expired gallons of milk accumulating in the fridge, but bidding farewell to these sometimes forgotten about items is just as important!

Sponges – Unfortunately even in these modern ages, not all of us happen to be blessed with dishwashers in our pads. Washing dishes the old fashioned way may take longer, but a little ‘scrub and bub’ never hurt anyone. However, not switching out sponges frequently can. When using sponges in your kitchen, it’s extremely important to never cross contaminate spaces – the sponge you use to wash the dishes in your kitchen never should be used to clean up messes or heaven forbid, your bathroom counter or sink.

Food particles can tend to get trapped in the small crevasses of sponges, locking in bacteria. The average life span of a kitchen sponge is about one month, but if you want to prolong the life of your sponge, popping it in the microwave for a minute or two helps zap bacteria. Still, tossing these softies away on a regular basis will help keep your body clear from sickness and harm.

Toothbrushes –Picture brushing your teeth with a toothbrush that’s got fraying bristles sticking out in all directions - complete nightmare, right? Replacing toothbrushes every two to three months keeps bacteria at bay and guarantees effectiveness each time you brush. It’s also a good idea to toss out your toothbrush if you’ve been sick recently. This will save you in the end – you don’t want to end up with the flu or stomach bug twice in one month.

Shower Liner/Curtain – After a busy week there’s nothing quite like stepping out of a long, hot shower feeling all squeaky clean, calm and relaxed. But before you head to the couch and enjoy a glass of wine or peaceful movie night, keep in mind: while cleaning your bathroom regularly helps prevent the buildup of mildew on tiles and showers/tubs, people tend to glance over the state and condition of shower liners.

Over time, a thin white or black film develops on the liner, a fungus that can lead to headaches and infections. Switching out your old shower curtain every six months or so will help keep that bathroom in tip top shape. If you find yourself to be a little low on the dough, rinse your liner down with a strong shower spray preferably containing bleach.

Mascara – Liquid cosmetics actually contain the highest traces of bacteria because bacteria love dark, wet environments and mascara tubes provide just that. Since our eyes are extremely sensitive, if you are not careful, using a tube of expired mascara can lead to serious infections.

Make sure to toss out any and all old tubes lying around and properly replace yours every two to four months. Also, try to avoid sharing as much as possible. You may love your girl friends, but passing around germs is never a smart idea.

As you go about your fabulous daily adventures, keep these little pointers in mind. It’s not a bad idea to stay on top of regularly washing bedroom sheets, guest blankets, kitchen dishtowels and bathroom towels as well!

By: Kelley Mullarkey | Image: Source

Spring & Summer Hot Fashion Styles: The Fringe Bikini

2012-04-11T10:00:00.000-04:00

Although it may not be summer yet, it’s still oh, so lovely to plan ahead for the awesome season that’s soon approaching. What I love to do is go on Pinterest and start to grab some ideas for everything from cute wedding attire, to the perfect summer BBQ dress, to hot looks for the beach.

While looking at bikini trends, I happened to noticed that the fringe bikini kept popping up everywhere. It instantly caught my eye as a playful, yet sexy take on the classic bandeau bikini. Digging it as well? Below are some cute examples I found of the fringe bikini. It definitely is my prediction for the hottest bikini trend for Summer 2012.

If you are looking to step away from the boring, traditional bikini all together, this style on the left is a great way to mix and match your favorite summer patterns and colors to create a fringe bikini that still plays off of your personal style.

Or, if you want to re-create the look, simply find a cute fringe top in a color that you like, and mix-and-match it with bottoms that you already own.

This bikini (right) is the ideal look for what you want in a fringe bikini - bright, fun and playful. And, if you have a bit of a trouble area right underneath your breasts, then the fringe bikini should be able to cover it. Just be sure to get a fringe that’s long enough to hide anything that you might be self-conscious about.

These are just a few classic examples that I found online, but there are plenty more styles and variations to choose from. Be sure to check out stores such as Victoria's Secret, Everything But Water or even Target to find this summer style. Soon, it’ll be time to shop, so ladies, start planning ahead for bikini season, as it will be fast approaching!

By: Sarah Kester | Image: Source

Avoiding Messy Endings: Acceptable Forms of “Breaking Up”

2012-04-08T01:00:00.000-04:00

“There are acceptable ways to break up with someone and it does not include a Post-It!”

I might sound like a hypocrite because I’ve never broken up with a guy in an acceptable form, and the guys that broke up with me could have taken a better approach to it. There is never a “good” way to break up with someone but there are ways to lessen the blows.

Never do it through text. Not only is it tacky but it makes you sound like a coward. Texts are appropriate to say things like, “I’m running late,” “Just thinking about you,” and “No thanks.” Using a text to bid adieu simply cheapens the relationship you had and that’s a hard pill to swallow when someone is cutting you out of their life.

Phone calls are just as bad. I try not to use phone calls to discuss anything of extreme importance, especially a break-up. It sounds so much like a business call rather than a meaningful goodbye. You did not enter this relationship as a business agreement, so why would you break it off like that?

Facebook relationship status. Don’t laugh. How many times have you summed up a person’s weekend by judging the image of the little heart that says, “So and so is now single”? I know people who discovered they were now single because of what Facebook told someone else. Please save your soon-to-be ex the humiliation and let them know you guys are through before you blast it on Facebook.

Public places are off-limits. Some people choose to break it off in public places to avoid a scene. WRONG. It won’t stop the scene and you may ruin the venue for your soon-to-be-ex with bad memories. Wait.

At your own house. I was once dumped at the guy’s house. Please note that my dignity went out the window when we started having the break-up talk; my emotions burst at the words he used to end it. So not only was I getting dumped at HIS house but his entire family got to see me turn into a blubbering mess.

I swear by this: the only acceptable way to break up with someone is at their own house. This way they don’t have to drive home upset. They don’t have to face anyone on their way inside to cry into their pillow. It’s better that you do this on a Thursday or Friday so they can take a day off of work and avoid going in looking like they were stung in the eyes by angry bees.

At the end of a good night. If you planned on spending one last night out together and it surprisingly turns out good, maybe you should rethink that break-up. After a good night, you’re probably up on a high. So the higher you bring them up, it is only going to shatter them even more when you knock them down.

Please wait a couple of days before announcing to the whole world via Facebook. Give them time to lick their wounds. Don’t give back the things they gave you because it makes them feel like it all meant nothing to them. Part with kind words. And don’t, under any circumstances, promise them you might come back to them. Let them have closure so they may start the healing process.

By: Kristina Kniest | Image: Source

Breakfast in Bed: How to Whip Up a Delicious Frittata

2012-04-07T01:00:00.000-04:00

Lazy Sundays. They’re one of my favorite things in the world. You know the routine: shut off the alarm clock, tune out the world and spend all morning (or all day!) in bed with your beau. Make it even better by treating your guy to a breakfast in bed with one of my favorites, a frittata. (Make him promise to return the favor next weekend, or split up the work and make him join you in the kitchen for a little extra heat!)

A frittata is an omelet-like breakfast that you can whip up made to order. You can add anything you like to it from veggies to breakfast meats to any type of cheese your heart desires. Get your coffee perking and shut off the cell phones – no distractions on Lazy Sundays! –you’ll be back in bed with a delicious breakfast and your delicious man in 30 minutes.

Here’s an easy frittata recipe you can tailor to include your favorite ingredients:

What you’ll need:

· A medium-to-large non-stick oven-safe skillet (and potholders!)

· Six eggs

· A cup milk

· Two tablespoons butter/margarine

· Salt and pepper, to taste

· Any ingredients you’d like to add. Suggestions: bacon, cheese (any variety), ham, proscuitto, peppers (mix up red, green and orange for an extra pretty plate), onions (two onion kisses cancel each other out), spinach, broccoli or anything else you’d add to a quiche or omelet!

Step 1: Combine eggs, milk, butter, salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Add a pat of butter or a tablespoon of olive oil to a frying pan over medium-high heat. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2: Sauté veggies or other frittata ingredients in frying pan for just a few moments, adding salt, pepper or other seasonings to taste. Save any cheese you’ll be adding. Add about half the amount of cheese you’ll use to the beaten egg mixture. Pour the egg mixture over contents of the frying pan or if you prefer, combine all ingredients in an ungreased baking dish or pie plate. Cover mixture with the remaining cheese.

Step 3: Uncover it and place the pan in a 350 degree oven for 25-30 minutes. When a knife inserted into the center of the pan comes out clean, take it out of the oven and let it sit for five minutes.

Slice it up and head back to bed with some hot coffee and enjoy!

By: Alyssa Ammirato | Image: Source

Six Simple Steps For Maximizing Your Closet Space

2012-04-06T01:00:00.000-04:00

There is nothing that can destroy a shopping high more than coming home and wondering how on earth you are going to fit any of your new clothes into your closet. These simple tips on organization will not only create space in your closet but will make certain items more accessible when you wake up late Monday morning and need to put an outfit together pronto!

Redistribute the bulk.

Take all sweatshirts, hoodies and jeans off your hangers. Sweatshirts and hoodies are usually made to keep you warm, thus they are thicker. Alleviate some space in your tiny closet and fold them, stacking them neatly on top of a shelf. Same goes for jeans; if you are a jean-freak like me, you know you can never have enough. Fold them long-ways twice and put them neatly next to your hoodies.

Color coordinate.

It is easier to find a particular top to match an outfit when you know what color you are looking for. Putting like colors together not only helps you hone in on what top to wear, but also reintroduces you to tops you forgot you had. This will either inspire you to wear it again, or inspire you to donate it to Goodwill if you plan on never wearing it again.

Keep work attire separate from weekend attire.

I used to waste at least ten minutes every morning before each day at my internship digging for a shirt that was “first-grade friendly.” It was easier to get ready for each day on the job when I segregated a section specifically designated for high-cut tops, cardigans and blazers. I have just saved you an extra 50 minutes per week.

Group them up.

I have an unspeakable amount of camisoles in my closet, in every color, for every camisole-required blouse I own. However, giving each of these wardrobe staples their own hanger was creating unnecessary bulk and hanger traffic in my closet. This always resulted in the straps of the camisoles getting caught on another hanger. Group your camisoles together (by color, style, purpose, whatever). By grouping at least five camis per hanger, you have saved yourself at least 12 hanger spaces.

Never leave your shoes homeless.

Shoes come in boxes for a reason – to be honored, protected and respected by other shoes. Many would argue that keeping them in boxes would take up more room. This may be true, but it preserves them from collecting dust, gathering dirt from being buried under other shoes and getting lost in the abyss. Organize them according to style: flats, heels, sandals, wedges. It would be wise to stack them underneath their corresponding outfit (i.e., flats stacked under work attire). If you want to go the extra organizational mile, fit two or three pairs of like sandals into one shoe box.

Keep the regulars upfront.

I use the term “regulars” referring to tennis shoes you use to exercise every day, flip flops you slip on to grab the mail from outside or your fluffy, comfy house slippers. Making them easily accessible will prevent the hassle of rearranging boxes to get to the shoes you wear on a daily basis.

No lie – this task is time consuming. Take a few hours out of your Saturday to sort through the piles of clothes from 2001 and decide what is worth holding on to and what is simply a nuisance in your life (or in your closet). Not only will you have at least one part of your life organized, you will gain at least 15 minutes each morning, replacing the “closet-dig” with the leisurely stroll to Starbucks to finally have enough time for breakfast.

By: Kristina Kniest | Image: Source

5 Must-Have Beauty Products For The Spring Season

2012-04-05T01:00:00.000-04:00

Goodbye winter, hello springtime! With the season’s change comes the need to clean out and re-vamp your beauty loot. Make sure you’re set for the warm weather by adding these spring essentials to your makeup bag.

Tinted Moisturizer

Tinted moisturizer is amazing to have in the spring and summer. It’s lighter and offers less coverage than foundation, but still provides enough color to even out your skin tone and enough moisture to keep you comfortable all day long. When the temperatures heat up and you don’t want a face full of makeup to sweat off, tinted moisturizer gives you the best of both worlds.

Most brands come with an SPF 15 or higher, so you’re covered – literally! Set with a sheer powder or dust a bit of bronzer on top to get the perfect summer glow. My favorite is Mary Kay Tinted Moisturizer, but Sonia Kashuk’s brand is a great drugstore find too,

Springy Nail Color

As you move away from the dark purples and reds that were everywhere during the winter, dress your nails in a fun color this spring. Right now I’m wearing Essies’ “E-nuf is E-nuf,” a not quite over-the-top orange-reddish pink that’s bright enough to make a statement. If bright colors aren’t for you, think pastels lavenders and pale pinks. Another great buy is “Versailles Romance” by L’Oreal. The pinky-peach has a slight shimmer that reflects the sun for a hint of flair but is light and sheer enough to be appropriate for any occasion.

Lip Balm with Sunscreen

Ever get sunburned lips? I have, and it is NOT pretty. Or comfortable. When you’re lying in the sun, hopefully you’ve remembered to apply SPF head to toe, but I’m guessing you didn’t put that stuff anywhere near your lips. Think about it: you know to protect your face with sunscreen because that’s what the sun is directly hitting every time you go outside, but your lips are just as susceptible to sunburn. Use a chap stick with SPF 15 or higher, like Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Swivel Stick with Sunscreen.

Waterproof Mascara

Sun + sweat + mascara = raccoon eyes, every time. Avoid this problem with waterproof mascara. Most regular mascara varieties have a waterproof twin, so just swap out your Great Lash or whatever brand you prefer for its no-run counterpart, and you can quit checking your lashes every hour.

Exfoliating Scrub

Get rid of dry, dull skin and get your glow on just in time for sundress weather. Pick up a gentle scrub you can use a few times a week in the shower – one for your body, one for your face. My favorites are St. Ives Apricot Scrub for face (3-4 times a week on a clean face reveals softer, smoother, brighter skin – less makeup required!) and St. Ives Purify Exfoliating Body Wash (with sea salt and a great scent that’s gentle enough for everyday use).

By: Alyssa Ammirato | Image: Source

Get Fresh, Get Healthy: Lunchtime’s Most Delicious Salad

2012-04-04T01:00:00.000-04:00

With our lunchtime hours filled with numerous unhealthy fast food options, sodium-ridden frozen meals, and the false promise of nutritional salads loaded with buttery croutons, it can become a tad bit overwhelming to stay healthy.

Instead of rushing out the door at noon to that Chinese place around the corner or grabbing a chopped salad to go, give this scrumptious little guy a try! Easy to make and filled with deliciously healthy items, you’ll want to bring one with you every day!

A Beautiful Bed of Arugula – Considered to be a “natural superfood” among doctors and nutritionists, arugula not only has a great rich peppery taste, but also can be a great source of vitamins A, C, K and P and improve blood quality over time. Arugula pairs well with fish, tofu, chicken, and red meat, and it blends well with any added spice.

Plump Tomatoes – Tasty and colorful, tomatoes are an essential component in every salad. Not only do these red beauties have a wonderful taste, but they also help decrease the risk of cancer, diabetes, and skin problems. Don’t forget to add a dash of red to your next dish!

A Protein Buddy – Adding a few strips of grilled chicken, lightly sautéed cubes of tofu or some seasoned pieces of shrimp give your salad the perfect amount of protein it needs. Cooking your protein in a low sodium teriyaki sauce or a sweet soy marinade infuses that extra zest you’ve been looking for.

Cheese, Please – The heart and soul of any great salad, cheese has the ability to make or break the whole experience. Tasty and a wonderful source of calcium, cheese is always a must. If you’re trying to lose weight, be aware that cheese can be high in calories, so opting for a low-fat type may work better for you. Gouda and Parmesan cheeses pair well with arugula type dishes, but play around with your options while grocery shopping -- there are tons of options when it comes to cheese!

DIY Salad Dressing – It’s no secret that bottled salad dressings are unhealthy and not the best thing for our bodies. Despite being labeled fat-free or low fat, these store-bought brands can sometimes contain harsh chemicals. Skip them and create a simple mixture of your own instead. Stir up the perfect refreshing and energizing dressing right in your own kitchen– just mix a touch of olive oil, balsamic vinaigrette and freshly squeezed lemon juice together and you’ll be in business!

Grab that Rubbermade container and get packing! A glorious, healthy lunch awaits you!

By: Kelley Mullarkey | Image: Source