If God Made You.

"Sunset sailing on April skies.

Bloodshot fire clouds in her eyes."

-Five for Fighting.

I heard this quote today and it gave me all-around chills. Literally, this is how I feel about so many wonderfully and fearfully made people who I adore completely.

"Some people show off their beauty because they want the world to see it. Others try to hide their beauty because they want the world to see something else."

Hope it makes you rethink how pretty/handsome/lovely you are. Because it is the truth.

Let's get to the Friday Five, yo.

My inspiration as of late? Eleanor Calder. Some of you may be puzzled as to who this undercover beauty queen is. Well, her boyfriend happens to be pretty darn famous. Ever heard of a little group called One Direction? Yes, Eleanor dates Louis and boy, does he have good taste! Here are some of my favorite outfits worn by Miss Calder herself...

Simplicity is key in Eleanor's wardrobe. This black crop tee paired with an angelic, white hi-low skirt is easy yet classic.

Miss Eleanor wore this white-on-black ensemble to the KCA Awards. From the sheer, collared blouse to the clog-like ankle booties, she has the trends from then all right.

Best dressed couple, much? Although you can't see much of the look, Eleanor is a pretty Olympic spectator in a multi-colored tweed blazer and an butter yellow mini.

This blurry concert pic of Eleanor still makes her look classy in this floral sheath dress. Absolutely adorable.

An all-white outfit always looks classy. Eleanor shines in a sparkly, white crop top with high-waisted trousers.

Hey Pretty Girl.

"Hey pretty girl,

let's build some dreams.

And a house

on a piece of land."

-Kip Moore.

I've been celebrating a beautiful, summer day all day long. I saw a couple old friends who I miss and love dearly. So many good memories with those two boys that I wouldn't replace for the world. And the best part? They haven't changed their kind-hearted ways and they still make me smile.

I basked in the sunshine while lounging around in my grandparent's pool. I think I'm finally realizing I love being in the water. I almost wish I could breathe underwater because it's such a cool phenomenon to see everything beneath the surface. I also love the effects of chlorine to my blonde hair and tanned skin. 

I had my first raspberry lemonade on the summer. The first of many to come and I love being able to say that. Normally, if someone liked to drink something, they would have it all year round. But I wait until my favorite time of the year because it allows me to celebrate how good summertime really is. 

The kids I volunteered with had their open house tonight. Boy, do second graders say the darnedest things. I love them so much for their irrational wishes and their imaginative stories. Every time I go to something like this where kids show their creative sides, it makes me second guess my career path. Which in all reality, may not be too much of a bad thing...but we'll see where it all goes.

Almost Friday...keep dreaming and being kind.

The Way.

"I got a bad boy,

I must admit it.

You got my heart,

don't know how you did it."

-Ariana Grande.

Ever have one of those days where everything seems to fall right into place? Best feeling, for sure. I don't really know why I'm floating on a cloud. Heck, I woke up to the likings of an earthquake, so the odds haven't exactly been in my favor. But I don't mind. I'm just happy to be...me.

I feel so comfortable being home because as much as I have changed and others have as well, everything seems just where it needs to be. Some may call it a rut, I just think of this mundane cycle as a routine. I like keeping things as they are and after a month of living in my hometown once again, the pieces just fit. There may be other small delights, but every girl has to keep some secrets, don't we?

A standard in my daily life is watching Ellen. I LOVE ELLEN. That show is always hilarious and it just makes my day! Per today's show, Ms. Ariana Grande took the side stage to perform her new single. This song used to be on the top of my "hate it" list. I could not stand her and Mac Miller trying to come off as "cool". But when it comes down to things, that girl can SAAAAAANG. I haven't heard pipes with that much vibrato and beyond soprano runs like...ever. She's just got it. And that's amazing to me.

So take a second out of whatever kind of day you're having and just dance it out to my new favorite jam. BOOMTOWN.

Never Gonna Give You Up.

"We've known each other

for so long.

Your heart's been aching, 

but you're too shy to say it."

-Rick Astley.

My friends are the coolest people on the planet. Or at least I believe them to be. 

Per usual, Nicole and I baked the afternoon away with one of my biggest inspirations, Mrs. Sagisi, who also happens to be my best guy friend, Matt's, mom. Win win situation, am I right? Also the norm, we talked about life and faith and the future and told stories from our past that were once just moments and now have become laughs. It's so therapeutic to be able to just be myself and say what's really on my mind. Having a second mom definitely has its perks.

Now, Matthew and I have been friends for years now. 13 years, in case you were wondering. We've literally grown up together as kids and that boy has never gone a day without making me laugh until I'm in tears or rolling on the floor. Not only is he downright hilarious, but he is everything a person should be. He is genuine and sincere. He has charisma and is one of the most talented individuals on the planet. He is intelligent and kind to all and never really gets angry. (I've only seen it happen once or twice...but it takes A LOT.) He has manners and is outgoing and just breathes happiness. Gosh, I love that kid. 

I'm so grateful to have a best friend like Matt. He and I have been through it all and he's been one of the few to stick by my side for as long as we've known each other. I mean, we're practically brother and sister at this point. We fight and make fun of each other. We harass one another, but no matter what we have that family love for each other. And I am beyond thankful for the friendship we have created and kept for the past 13 years.

Matthew, you know I love you, kiddo. Party blood and throwing sandwiches and all.

Crazy In Love.

"When you leave, 

I'm begging you not to go.

Call your name

two, three times in a row."

-Emeli Sande.

Saw Gatsby again. In love with that film once again. Pure, grand genius. 

I'm having a bit of a reflective time as of late. I'm trying to figure out my life and where I want to be headed. As simple as that may be for some, I change my mind about five seconds at a time every day. Some days, I lean one way and others, I think I'm heading nowhere fast. It sounds a tad corny, but as I was lounging around and watching Dear John this morning, it brought back a fond dream of mine inspired by that movie. I used to relate closely to Amanda Seyfried's character, Savannah. I don't really drink. I don't smoke. I don't sleep around. I don't curse. I'm as "goody goody" as it gets for the most part. And also like her, I have this pipe dream of creating some sort of camp for kids with mental or physical disabilities. I love working with children and I have such a passion for the Special Education department everywhere I go. Those kids deserve the world and the best life ever. Their happiness makes me genuinely so ecstatic and joyful. 

Just another thought to ponder on. But boy, I'm starting to realize I need to either keep my mind wandering to find out my true passion or I'm going to lose my way sometime soon. Who knows which road is better.

Don't Let Me Fall.

"Sometimes loving is letting go,

and I'll be fine."

-Liza Anne.

Please check this pretty girl and her music out. I have the great honor of knowing such a talented and truly inspirational lady. 

Goodness me, I am so thankful for where I live. Sure, the wind gets a tad too blustery and the gossip spreads around faster than you know it. But I'm still beyond blessed.

I spent the majority of the afternoon discussing trashy reality TV and random animal shoutings with what I like to call "The Blond-tourage". My girls, Katie and Shannon, have been two of my greatest friends for about 7 years now and we have made the best of memories. I swear to you, I can never leave a chill session with them without laughter tears rolling down my face. We may be separated from San Diego to Colorado to Nashville, but life always puts us back together like a puzzle. I mean, we are the three best friends that anyone could have...

Even though it wasn't exactly my choice, my family dragged ourselves to a rival school graduation (rivalry between high schools is HUGE here...especially because the schools are literally across the street from each other) and despite being out of place, the response was wonderful. It's so good to see a familiar face you haven't seen in a while. I grew up with this boy and you could say he was my first date. But his family is ours and we always have love for the memories we made with them. I'm still laughing, thinking back to Barbie Jeep drives and diner kids meal competitions. 

I had the best childhood. I'm surrounded by golden people. I'm so lucky and grateful for getting to live out the greatest life full of love and laughter.

Nothing To Lose.

"All my life, I've been looking

for someone like you,

falling head over heels

saying what could I do."

-Josh Gracin.

Back roads take all the stress away. A little bit of sweet, downhome country music and a winding street through farms and fields puts my mind back into perspective. Although it may not always seem it, I'm a country California girl. I was born and raised in the land of oak-grilled BBQ and FFA leaders. I'm a daughter of the strawberry fields and the smell of broccoli in the air. All I've ever known is winds kicking up dust and cows roaming along the sides of the freeway. It's my way of living.

Today, as I went a little bit too fast and swerved a little too much, I drove in my comfort zone. I looked around at the beauty of my hometown that some people would call the boondocks and others would say is high society. But to me, it's where I come from and where my heart beats true.

In addition to my hickville adventure, my mom and I were invited to a southern-style bridal shower. Place of venue? A trailer park. Well, hee-haw, I am actually the most excited ever for this wonderful event. It represents so much more knowing that these are my people and this is how we roll. 

Back roads work wonders on the pressures of the soul. Crank up that radio, roll the windows down and take a ride. I can guarantee happiness restored in the reality of your life.

Here's just an idea of what I get the privilege of driving through:

All This Time.

"You can't live your life in fear.

I know it's hard to move on.

You've just got to forget it.

Cause baby, the sky is clear."

-Joe Jonas.

Nothing makes my heart smile more than helping out in the Special Olympics. Their pure excitement brings me joy and happiness knowing there are genuine people out in this world. God bless the Special Olympics.

Friday Five, yes?

This week, I've been hooked on Demi Lovato's new album. That girl can SING. And I swear to you, she is one of my biggest role models. She's had her struggles, but she's open and honest about how horrible her past was. Now, that's truly inspiring and I applaud her for everything she has done. Despite the spotlight and the troubles, she remains graceful and beautiful. In honor of her new CD and her wonderful personality, I'm dedicating this post to my favorite five of her looks in the past years. Hope you get as inspired as I am...

This candid outfit is easy, breezy and completely beautiful. Demi stuns in a faded chambray shirt with a casual white tee mixed with a floral hi-low skirt. Obsessed.

I remember seeing Demi flow down this red carpet for the first time and I just remember thinking how breathtaking and glowing she was. Radiance in her nude gown by Maria Lucia Hohan.

Inside scoop: I'm inwardly a huge goth girl. I have always wanted to dye my hair black and wear all black for the rest of my life. When Demi wore leather, studs and black in one, I died of jealously of her look in the "Remember December" video. Still one of my favorites.

You know me...addicted to cutoffs forever. Demi rocking the best pair of shredded cutoffs looks simple with a cigar-brown top and sky-high black booties. She's just beyond rad.

Blondes do have more fun, don't they? Demi looks strong and confident in this leather and glitter, black-on-black ensemble. Could she get any prettier? I THINK NOT.

Turn My Swag On.

"Hopped up out the bed.

Turn my swag on.

Took a look in the mirror,

say, 'What's up.'

Yeah, I'm getting money, oh."

-Soulja Boy Tell'em.

I can't help my addiction to stupid rap songs. They bring out the embarrassing in me. And you know when one comes on, I'm going to be screaming it at the top of my lungs. Especially this song in particular. In which case, I will admit I did this morning while getting ready for the day. Quite a sight to see, if you ask my roommate. 

Cannes Film Festival is still painting the entertainment world red and the most fashionable night of the event week was tonight. I'm going to take you through my favorite looks of the amfAR Gala and see who really was the hottest in fashion for the fabulous charity event hosted to bring awareness toward the chronic disease of AIDS:

Red-hot Jessica Chastain never fails when it comes to looking like perfection. This scarlet gown by Saint Laurent is effortlessly gorgeous.

Goodness gracious, Alessandra Ambrosio. You are just stunning in that flowing, light nude Zuhair Murad dress. Your hair adds even more beauty to your goddess look.

Karlie Kloss is one of my absolute favorite models, let alone maybe favorite people in the fashion industry as a whole. America's Sweetheart pulls a different card for the gala in a cropped (and peek-a-boo) Louis Vuitton suit.

One of the new faces of H&M, Joan Smalls, takes a risk on the carpet. This half-floral, structured mini, half-sheer maxi skirt is a huge success and adds a bit of girly edge to the event.

Petra Nemcova has that classic, girl-next-door beauty. This royal blue, beaded Elie Saab confection definitely proves this statement to be true. And that pendant? The perfect touch to an old Hollywood ensemble.

Follow Me.

"You don't know how you met me.

You don't know why

you can't turn around

and say goodbye."

-Uncle Kracker.

What a classic, don't you think?

Today, I played housewife. No, not like that, you dirty-minded fool. I actually lived life like a stay-at-home mom. Might I say, it was like my dream come true. I made myself a fresh pot of coffee and indulged in some Live With Kelly & Michael. I proceeded to continue the day cooking, cleaning, running petty errands and keeping the normal routine of tanning and Jeopardy all in one. 

If you haven't gathered it from me yet, I love love love to bake. I think it's such therapy to mix and heat and serve up a good dessert that comes with a touch of love and care. Today, I did just that by creating a dish from an old cookbook via my alma mater. Yes, I made (for the millionth time) Reese's Peanut Butter Bars. And they are quite a treat if I do say so myself. An unhealthy addiction, but oh so worth it. Here's the recipe with instructions below if you want to transform yourself into a Rachael Ray for the day...

Bon appetit!

1. Melt together in a saucepan:

1 cup butter

2 cups peanut butter (creamy or chunky, the choice is yours)

2. After peanut butter mixture becomes somewhat smooth, add:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 cups crushed/crumbled graham crackers

3. Pour mixture into a 9x11 tin and set aside.

4. Melt together in a saucepan:

2 cups chocolate chips (your preference of chocolate allowed)

2/3 cup peanut butter

5. When smooth, take off stove and pour immediately on top of tin mixture. 

6. After all chocolate is covering the first layer, put tin inside the refrigerator. Store until bars become hardened. Cut into slices.

Voila! Best dessert ever.

Say OK.

"Let me know

that you'll keep me safe.

I don't want you

to run away."

-Vanessa Hudgens.

I'm sorry, but if you're my age and you still don't absolutely love this song and/or music video, you're just plain wrong. Guilty pleasure, now and forever.

Anyways...if you've been keeping up with the entertainment news lately, you must know that Cannes is the latest event to hit Hollywood. Well, Europe Hollywood, I should say. Cannes is not just about beautiful scenery and amazing films. Oh, no. It's about who is wearing what and to which films. Cannes is a time to make a huge statement in a classy manner. That's right; I'm going to pick out some of my favorite looks from the festival so far and break down the beauty within them. Enjoy...

Ah, Mrs. Timberlake. All of this tweed and black + pink makes me oh so happy for a sophisticated, chic look. Jessica Biel wows the festival in this chic Christian Dior piece.

Zoe Saldana can pretty much do no wrong in the fashion world. Keeping things on a black, monochromatic note with a midi-high-low dress by Lanvin. Perfection, might I say.

Hate to have a repeat celebrity, but Jessica Biel looks ravishing in my favorite red-carpet designer, Marchesa. This modern feather number is breathtaking and the accessories give it an extra fabulous punch.

Mmhmm. Jennifer Lawrence, my number one girl crush. (Pretty sure the whole female population can agree with me on that one.) The black-and-white trend looks simply classic on J-Law in a Christian Dior gown. Side note: I WANT HER HAIRCUT NOW.

From first glance, I had no clue who this was. But with a dress like this, I NEEDED to know. Cheryl Cole looks completely stunning in this beaded maroon gown by Zuhair Murad. Too much gorgeous, too little time.

P.S. All my love, support, and prayers going out toward all who were affected by the tragic tornadoes in Oklahoma. America loves you and we are here for you every step of the way back to making the towns what they were before the storm. Stay strong and know we are all thinking the best of thoughts about you and your families/friends.

Young and Beautiful.

"Will you still love me

when I'm no longer

young and beautiful?"

-Lana Del Rey.

Ah, The Great Gatsby. How I adore thee, with all your mighty grace and glory. What an extravagant, eloquent film it was. I bow down to all of the actor involved in this glamorous project and to Mr. Baz Luhrmann, for creating such a masterpiece in motion. Although at times scenes were gaudy and over-the-top, I'm realizing that's the main point of Gatsby. It's to be fabulous in order to keep your distance from the harsh reality of the 1920s. And my oh my, it was one grand affair.

I urge you to see this movie in its entirety due to its lavish costume designs and elegant sets. Its use of the book as a script made the atmosphere even more so vintage in a modern twist. And boy, was that acting superb? The cast members embodied the characters with their whole beings. I'm one impressed lady over here.

Please, go check out the film of one of the greatest novels known to the world. I can guarantee you won't be disappointed.

Treasure.

"You're everything I see

in my dreams.

I wouldn't say that 

if it wasn't true."

-Bruno Mars.

Literally so disappointed by the Billboard Music Awards. I look forward to every show in which musicians are honored for their contributions to one of the greatest industries in the world. But how have they reduced themselves to lip syncing and awful dancing? I mean, really, Taylor Swift? You're 23...don't wear unicorns on your shirt. Justin Bieber, just stop. I admire and praise Ed Sheeran and Kacey Musgraves for taking this to an acoustic level, bringing back some sort of hope to the humanity of the music world. If only people would recognize your talent beyond the stunts and lights being pulled by every other artist tonight. Normally, I would just smile and go on my way, but I can't believe this is music to us now. Bring back to the instruments and meaningful lyrics.

Another thing I love to analyze and criticize? Pre-show carpet fashion. Here are my top looks from the BBMA Carpet:

Even though sometimes she can get a tad insane for me, Miley Cyrus pulls off the coolest look of the night in this black-and-white checkered jumpsuit by Balmain. Too cool for school.

Is that velvet with cutouts, I see? Emmy Rossum stunned in this gorgeous black gown by Zuhair Murad.

Bow down to you, Shania Twain. You steal the show in this greyish white dress. She has never looked so fresh and beautiful, I can say that.

At first, I'll say I hated this look. The hair was wrong, there was a bit too much skin. But then I thought about how white hot Selena Gomez looks in this Atelier Versace number. The neon adds a pop of summer color. 

This metallic, bubblewrap confection by Rami Al Ali is so futuristic fashionista on Miss Kelly Rowland. Always a favorite on the carpet, for sure.

Burning Down The House.

"Hold tight,

wait 'til the party's over.

Hold tight,

we're in for nasty weather."

-Talking Heads.

Spending the weekend with your entire family is a lot of work. There can be fighting and sarcasm and awkward moments. But the past two days in SoCal with the people I love the most always makes me smile.

Congratulations to the newest member of the US Army, my brother. I'm so proud to be the little sister of a 2nd Lieutenant. You rock.

Oh yeah, and my nephew is the cutest thing on the planet. Oh my goodness, I can't even help myself.

I Hate You, Don't Leave Me.

"I'm addicted to the madness.

I'm a daughter to the sadness.

I've been here too many times before."

-Demi Lovato.

Songs like this one get me inspired to start writing again this summer. I'm so excited to spend the sleepless nights dreaming of lyrics based on this past year's events. Too much material, too little time. But the songs will be in ink...

Main point: Friday Five, anyone?

I have a bit of a fashion crush on Lauren Conrad's style. She absolutely influences how I dress probably the most out of anyone. She mixes the California cool with a touch of Hollywood chic and the classic All-American girl in one package. Today I'm picking my favorite looks she has ever had.

Even though this look was worn awhile ago, LC's navy jumpsuit looks tres, tres chic. Jumpsuits are so on trend at the moment and her matching tan belt and sandal heels keep this ensemble cute and casual.

Lauren's sunkissed skin glows with this white lace mini. The piecey pony and neutral heels keep the accessories muted in order to make the dress be the perfect statement.

Studs, florals, and high-waisted shorts are all on the top of my go-to fashion list. This modern take on a 50s beauty queen takes me a la Sandy and Rizzo mixed together. LC looks gorgeous for summer and bike rides.

LC just does neutrals so well, I guess. This toned-down colorblocking number is effortlessly pretty and I just think this outfit is perfect for many occasions.

Love me some leather. Lauren puts an edgy twist on her typical girly look by wearing this black leather frock with higher-than-heaven black heels. Sexy yet sweet.

Okay, I may have to do a part two of this...I just love too many of her outfits and this was so hard to choose.

Seasons Of Love.

"In daylights, in sunsets,

in midnights, in cups of coffee,

in inches, in miles,

in laughter, in strife."

-Cast of Rent.

We said goodbye tonight to one of the greatest comedy shows ever tonight. The Office has had its run and what an amazing one it's been. I have been in love with this show for years and I thank it ever so much for its jokes, one-liners and antics that have left me smiling.

As they signed off on the show, some of their parting words struck a chord with me. It brought me back to about a year ago when I had to leave the people I had loved and lost and laughed with for the past 13 years. Boy, that was one of the hardest moments to walk away knowing I would never have those years back. Years that I spent so many hours being embarrassing and dumb and young in. Sure, I'm still young, but elementary school was where the cool kids were at. 

The one that hit me the most was when Andy profoundly said this great outlook:

"I wish you could see that it was the golden years during the golden years."

Buddy, you're telling me. I grew up hating this place. I hated who I was here. In fact, there were times that I hated everyone including my friends and family. I dreamed of the day I could run away to a giant city and get swallowed up in its magnificence. I hated this small-town living and everyone that was involved in it. But now, I see why it all matters. The moment I stepped off the plane to the big city where I would spend my next four years, I saw what I thought was always missing.

Home truly is where the heart is. 

I guess I lost sight of that when some people here got me down or turned my thoughts into cynical ideas. Maybe I should stop blaming all these conspiracies on others and focus on the fact that I wasted my time and attention toward the obvious truth. My last 18 years of my life have been truly and absolutely golden. I've had rough patches like anyone else has, but it makes the best times even greater than I could imagine.

So as The Office left its television airings forever (or at least for a few months), I am left sitting alone in my bedroom, feeling a bit of emotional nostalgia in the air. I long for the days that I could go back or at least be put in a moment to honor and recognize that the moment will matter later on. It's important to cling to your past and memories because they are some of the most valuable and priceless items we will ever know. 

Cheers to The Office for nine wonderful seasons. And for giving us laughter. And teaching us that even the most simple and ordinary days play such a significant role in who we are and where we're going. Bravo.

P.S. Oh yeah, and Michael Scott came back. I LOVE YOU AND YOU ARE THE WORLD'S BEST BOSS. (That's what she said...)

The Beat.

"And the nights move forward.

Don't they just move on.

She's on a mission, baby.

And she's almost one."

-Ben Rector.

As I ponder upon the shivering thought of giving up my free time to get a summer job and earn some sort of income, I've been thinking about how lasting a first impression can be. It may be wrong and superficial, but when it comes to getting the right job based solely off of one interview, attire and presentation is key. It matters to look sharp because the employer/interviewer will be judging the book by its cover for at least the first 30 seconds. 

In order to pass the test and go in well-dressed, here are some professional looks that can't be beat.

Monochromatic is always an easy route to take while trying to keep it classy. On top of that, black goes with pretty much everything. Keep things together with one solid color from head-to-toe to avoid any crazy distractions during an interview. Note: make sure the hemline of your dress or skirt isn't showing off a little too much skin.

To me, a woman who can pull off a flared trouser is strong and confident. A crisp button-up adds to the menswear gone feminine. Add a neutral blazer to complete the full effect and remember to keep colors simple and easy.

This look is a throwback to the 60s to me and the vintage flair will give your personality a kick right off the boot. A full, midi skirt is always appropriate and the boatneck makes sure that you won't be bearing any unwanted cleavage.

Even though interviews have a pretty strict dress code, don't be afraid to show off who you are through your outfit choices. This look above would be my go-to pick because the yellow skirt is fresh and a trench coat is a classic staple. A shorter heel also gives off a professional vibe but with a twist of chicness.

Blazers can make an outfit perfect. The red skinnies help you as a candidate stand out, but not in a flashy or annoying way. The white chiffon necktie blouse has a pretty, delicate touch to an outfit made for a power woman.