a new bookshelf, kinda

For a couple months now, I've been inspired to redo my bookshelf! There are tons of cute bookshelves on pinterest that continue to inspire me, so I decided to do my own little project. It honestly was a bigger project than I anticipated (mainly because I knew nothing about wallpaper beforehand) but here's a little look into my project :) You should check out Sarah's post from Yes, Teacher! about bookshelf projects that may get you inspired too!

• Project duration: A few weeks [because I'm a college student + it takes me forever to do anything other than school work. True story]
• Cost: $20, I couldn't resist buying the textured wallpaper! I have enough to do my other bookshelf as well, so technically $10 for this project
• Mess factor: Extreme. The glue from wallpaper is ... gross and books all over my floor for weeks, oops!
• Outcome: Much happiness + satisfaction from this college student!

I was able to clear out some books that I wasn't reading anymore and set them aside to resell to a bookstore in Raleigh. Last time I got some good store credit, so I'm hoping to again. These bookshelves were handed down to me and after visiting Ikea a few months ago, I thought I "needed new bookshelves." I was nearly about to drop $100+ on some [ridiculous, I know]. Instead, I redid them and couldn't be more happy! Now these babies will last me (hopefully) awhile!

I love upcycling!
I have a few more diy projects on my list, so as long as I can get through these next few weeks of school, maybe I can actually implement them.

Do you have any upcoming home improvement type diy projects?

Thrifty Seeker

A month ago, I ran across a little website named ThriftySeeker.com where I bought my Pink Lemonade mustard yellow rosette headband! Pictured below. Guess how much I got this headband for? $5. No joke. Now I will share with you how.

ThrifySeeker.com are for those who are always on the lookout for great deals that you just can't beat. Items that are easy on the wallet, but are one-of-a-kind.A few times a week they will post amazing new deals that are always 40-90% off! This website isn't for the consumer, but also for the shop owner. By selling larger quantities than normal, both customers and merchants can benefit.

Okay, but how did you get your headband for $5?!Well, just by signing up, you automatically receive $5 credit! That's how my headband went from $10 to $5. Just can't beat it. You can also earn points for referring friends and by purchasing products.


Other things to note about Thrifty Seeker:

• Thrifty Seeker is a National Group Deal Website
• Are you a shop owner and want to have your product featured? Contact info@thriftyseeker.com and if you want to feature a service, contact mark@dibsondeals.com

For more information on all things thrifty, check out their Facebook and Twitter.

So what ya waiting for? Sign up for your free $5 and check out all the great deals going on right now! Support shop owners and abide by your wallet's rules :]

Disclaimer: I did receive compensation for writing this blog post, however, all opinions are my own.

a letter for November

[ This photo was taken four years ago, right outside my dorm freshman year with my point and shoot camera. I can't believe it's already been four years! Probably one of my favorite photos.]

Dear November,

You are the month that always likes to sneak up on me. I get so preoccupied in the month of October that I almost always forget about you, which is sad because you are a great month - especially this year. I always love when you come around because I get to wear all my favorite coats, which you know I'm obsessed with, and you always make sure I spend time with my family. You are always filled with sales, beautiful drives down the mountain and scarves. This year you have made school a huge priority, but I think it's because you know I'm ready to tackle it! These next two weeks will be pretty hectic and filled with more planning, writing, studying and late nights than ever before, but you know I can handle it :) After that you will reward me with a whooping ten days at home. See, you truly know how to be a great friend.

Stereotypically you are known as the month of giving and giving thanks, but even though you make me realize I need to thank the people around me and the opportunities that have been given to me, I never really get to thank you. So thank you November. You are one of the sweetest months because you always put things in perspective.

As far as the blog goes, look out for some great posts in November. I'm hoping once things settle down a little in the academic world, I will be able to devote a little more time to my blog because I've got some great things in store to share with everyone. Just sit tight. Hopefully November will stay a little longer than usual :]

An aDORAble Halloween!

Finally!
The Halloween costume is revealed! Ta-da! Introducing Dora the Explorer! At first I was going to be Kourtney Kardashian so I could have a reason to wear "classy" clothing and red lipstick, but since I decided to work this weekend, I needed something family friendly, comfortable and inexpensive. The orange shorts and pink shirt was bought at Goodwill, pink socks at Wal-Mart and the backpack was purchased in Charleston this past summer [thanks to my Aunt!]. I just added eyes and a mouth :) All the kids kept saying "Where's map?!" and I had to tell them he was too tired and stayed at home (even though honestly I was too lazy to make one haha)

Enjoy the pictures!
Hope everyone had a wonderfully safe Halloween. Can't wait to see pictures of everyone's holiday.

What has been your favorite Halloween costume?

Giveaways to check out!

+ Gentri is hosting a giveaway from the lovely, "Secret Life of Bees!"

an award or two

Who has the best blogging friends in the world?

I think I do!

Okay, okay. That may have been a little biased.

I truly can't believe how many amazing people I've met through blogs. Those of you who are less excited about the internet and sharing personal information publicly probably wouldn't understand how you could "trust" or find "friendships" through blogging, but I'd beg to differ! Anyway, the point of that was to segway into these two awards that two of my sweet blogging friends (and one of them I actually know - in real life - haha) awarded me! I'm a little late with replying to these but hopefully you'll forgive me :]

Angela from Simply Simple Me was such a sweetheart for extending the "The Kreativ Blogger Award" to me! We're both participating in the Package Pal project hosted by Gentri and if my memory doesn't fail me, I think that's how we met! Can't wait to get to know her a bit better :) We both have a love for food, wine and blogging!

Rules of the award: To share seven things about yourself and award seven more bloggers this award. Be sure to let them know you awarded them so they can pass it on! [Hope I don't bore you with too many random things about me haha]

Seven Things

1. Favorite color: Mustard Yellow
2. I'm a public relations major and love it!
3. I'm "organized chaos."
4. I may or may not have four jobs.
5. I graduate in May [Eeeeek!]
6. I'm going to Thailand on May 20.
7. I am desperately trying to grow out my hair. It has been/will be a long process.

Now to pass on the award to: Danielle, Katia, Isabel, Lauren, Caroline, Sarah and Laura.

These ladies rock and are inspiring. Check out their lovely blogs!

Emily from Life of Emily! has graciously given me the Versatile Blogger award [a month ago] and now I get to share it with other bloggers! Thanks Emily for awarding me this :] You rock as a fellow Her Campus App State member & blogger.

Rules of the award: Just like the Kreativ Blogger Award, you must share seven things about yourself and award seven other lovely bloggers to pass it around! Let your bloggers know you awarded them!


[Another] Seven Things
1. I don't go anywhere without my planner + moleskine.
2. I am constantly making to-do lists.
3. I collect vinyl.
4. My home is made of wood paneling.
5. I am in the process of working on my Flickr account for my photography.
6. I only like to use certain kinds of pens.
7. I don't like colored pencils.

Passing along this award to: Rachel, Ashley, Renee Redd, Lena, Meghan, Beth and Danelle B.



Thanks again to Angela + Emily. Check out their blogs and all the other wonderful bloggers.