Happy Friday!

Happy Friday Everyone! Don't forget to enter the fabulous giveaway and have a wonderful weekend!

Up for grabs is a $150 Nordstrom gift card, a Harrods tote bag from Marie's recent travels abroad and a Lilly Pulitzer Pink beach towel from the LillyforTarget craze! Brought to you by these lovely bloggers! Jill from Capri+Co || Amanda from Meet @ the Barre || Helene from heleneinbetween || Biana from Blovedboston || Pamela from Sequins & Sea Breezes || Rachel from Small Town & City Lights || Kate from Life as Kate || Kristen from See You In a Porridge || Kay from The Kay Times|| Marie from Twin Living Blog

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thursday Trend: Rompers

I know rompers, jumpsuits, playsuits, whatever you would like to call them have been around for seasons on end. I have had several rompers and even recently took the plunge into the jumpsuit of wide leg pants. Which I find to be, in the words of Catherine Guidici/Lowe, "grown sexy." I love the simplicity of getting dressed and the look of this trend. I was lucky enough to score one of the Lilly for Target jumpsuits, which will be perfect for throwing on in the Florida summer to combat all of that air conditioning and it is machine washable! Which is a huge win in my book.




I rounded up some of my favorites below. I am really wanting to take the plunge on a tie dye romper (the long sleeve one is calling my name) but I keep asking myself how many rompers is too many rompers?? I may or may not be the girl in a romper every Saturday night.

Are you sporting this trend?

Wanderlust Wednesday: Carnival Victory Recap Round 1: The Ship

Like I mentioned yesterday, we are back from a wonderful vacation. I was really struggling through the work weeks and this vacation was so refreshing and fun! We turned our phones/ computers off for 5 days straight and I am feeling so rejuvenated!

We love to cruise. We went on a Royal Caribbean cruise last September for 3 days and I have been on a few prior Carnival cruises with friends. I will do a whole post if you are interested in what I think the differences of these two lines are and I would love your input on any other lines you have tried! We want to go on an Alaskan cruise next so tell me all the inside info on those too!

We took the Carnival Victory out of Miami to Grand Cayman, BWI and Ochos Rios, Jamaica. I was a little disappointed because we had our excursions all booked and ready for Montego Bay, Jamaica and at the last minute Carnival had to change the itinerary. Unfortunately they did not have the exact same excursions at the new port but we had a blast regardless. Really, how disappointed can you be when going to Jamaica?!

The thing I love about the Carnival fleet is the dedicated activity areas in the boat. There is a full time piano bar, a karaoke lounge, a theater, a comedy club, arcade, casino, a nightclub etc. This makes it so you can get a quick familiarity with the ship and always knows where to find the activities.  The inside of the ships always give off a Las Vegas vibe and they are so fun.

We like to board the boat early, take advantage of the lunch buffet and explore the boat to get our bearings. Which is just what we did on the Victory. It doesn't hurt to give yourself some extra time for the pre-sail away nap either ;)

This is outside of the comedy club..see what I mean about the Vegas vibe?

I took several pictures of the inside of the ship to share with you all. The Victory was very well kept and felt very modern in the common areas. As with all ships I have been on, the rooms were pretty dated (re: pink tile in the bathroom and quilted bed linens I think my grandmother used to have in the 80s) but I have all the room details for another post.

This ritzy little area was a cute dessert, gelato and specialty coffee bar. The items here were not part of the inclusive package but the decor was so adorable. We didn't try any of these items because Carnival has the BEST chocolate melting cake you could ask for and naturally we were full from that every night.

This photo and the one below are both of the comedy club. Carnival did host other events in this area but every night, without fail, you knew where the comedy show would be. Carnival teams with George Lopez to bring the funniest comedians on the ship. We were in tears each night and took in 4 comedy shows on the 5 day cruise. We were fortunate that the comedians switched at the second port so there was plenty of fresh material to go around. Carnival offers family friendly shows during the day and adult comedy shows later in the evening. People were lined up about 30 minutes early each night to get a seat because these shows were so good. We got there pretty early which is how I snapped these pictures with an empty room. 

 This gives you an idea of the entire room for the comedy club.

 Outside the casino the Victory had this neat bar. It was really spacious and there is a piano/band playing out there too, essentially all your grown up needs in one compact area. I love the decor, it makes for such a fun, carefree atmosphere.

This lounge was mainly for karaoke. They also hosted various events during the day in this room such as an island shopping seminar. Carnival will provide you with a map of all the recommended shopping and they even have a dedicated shopping "expert" to take you around if you need help negotiating or finding your way.

One of my favorite things in life are piano bars. Dueling piano bars even more so. I think they are so fun and no one can possibly have a bad or boring time at one. This piano bar was lively almost every night we were on the ship. It is hard to tell from the photo but the actual bar is shaped like a piano and they have seats all around for patrons and the musician sits in the center. I loved this and each Carnival ship I have been on has had a dedicated piano bar. 

Overall the Victory felt very updated, clean and fun. I know cruising is not for everyone but it is such a relaxing vacation and we had the best time. I love that all of these activities are on the boat and you can just wander from one to the next without much effort. The added bonus is that if you need to stop "home" to change your shoes or your dinner outfit, it is absolutely no problem. Carnival puts on quite a fun show, lots of family friendly activity with a side of the typical American spring break experience. The ships are exciting and they make the activities very accessible. I give major credit to the cruise director because I determined he likely gets zero sleep and puts on quite a performance each day!

Check back next week for more on the food, rooms, excursions, and ports of call!

Have you taken a Carnival cruise? What did you think?

I am Back!

Hi Everyone! We are back from the most wonderful vacation and I apologize for my absence. I will have the start of our vacation recap up for you tomorrow! For now I leave you with this fabulous view of Miami at sunrise from our balcony and a great giveaway!

Up for grabs is a $150 Nordstrom gift card, a Harrods tote bag from Marie's recent travels abroad and a Lilly Pulitzer Pink beach towel from the LillyforTarget craze! Brought to you by these lovely bloggers! Jill from Capri+Co || Amanda from Meet @ the Barre || Helene from heleneinbetween || Biana from Blovedboston || Pamela from Sequins & Sea Breezes || Rachel from Small Town & City Lights || Kate from Life as Kate || Kristen from See You In a Porridge || Kay from The Kay Times|| Marie from Twin Living Blog

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday Inspiration

I get the Sunday blues in the worst way. It is like the weight of the world finds me around 3 pm and I can't let go of it. My work weeks are stressful and I know so many people feel the same way. I have been really trying to leave work at work and enjoy the moments I am not there. Being happy is a choice and I am trying to make that choice always. I thought this quote was good inspiration of what I am striving for.

Happy Sunday!

Via

Favorite Affordable Finds

Sorry for my lack of consistency lately. The week really got away from me and there are lots of changes going on around here! I promise I will be back with regular posts before too long. I was running around this week looking for some wardrobe supplements that would not break the bank. I hit Old Navy and Target and found some super cute affordable pieces that I love. Lets get right to them..

I snagged this dress for just $15 in store. It is a perfect, washable, throw on and go dress for summer! They had it in an adorable peach stripe and some solid colors as well.

 I also purchased this peplum top for about $15. It is really light weight and breezy for summer. I paired it with some metallic sandals, a Kendra Scott Rayne necklace and a gold clutch for an outdoor dinner with the girls on Friday night. 

I have been eyeing a good pair of mules lately and they are so on trend right now. But I was not sure that I wanted to spend $100 + dollars on a pair because lets be honest, I don't wear heels often and I am not sure they will be in heavy rotation. I snagged these at Target for just $35. They also come in black. I cannot wait to pair them with white jeans and bright tops.

With wedding season approaching I also needed a versatile pair of strappy neutral sandals. I think these will be perfect. At just $30 if the dreaded drink spill (s) land on my shoes, or even if I forget my shoes when I inevitably take them off and opt for flip flops (tell me I'm not the only one this has happened to?), no one can be too upset. These will go with a lot of dresses and they seem super comfortable so far!

What are your go to affordable stores?

Wish list Wednesday: Mother's Day Edition

With Mother's Day right around the corner I thought I would spend this Wish List Wednesday finding some picks for Mom, Grandma, Mother-in-Law and the other wonderful women on your list! I tried to round up some goodies included in the ShopBop friends and family sale . Now is a great time to get that gift and cross it off your list!

Candle // Coasters //  Cashmere Travel Scarf // Bag  // Watch 

Who wouldn't love a champagne scented candle in that gorgeous tin? One of these also happens to be on it's way to my house ;)

You can't wrong with a cashmere travel scarf, I would love to be gifted one and feel confident that anyone else would feel the same!

A classic watch is always a good choice!

I think these coasters are so funky and different, a perfect choice for the edgy/ quirky Mom!

A classic and fashionable handbag is a staple and another wonderful choice! Just right for the stylish Mom.

I love to be gifted items that are different, possibly impractical and things I would not (on a day with good self-control) purchase for myself and I think these items fit the bill!

What are your Mother's Day go to gifts??

Whimsical Accessories

My wardrobe and accessory collection are largely on the practical end. I gravitate towards classic, staple pieces that I know will go with everything or never go out of style. Sometimes it is fun to have a piece that is only meant for certain occasions. I have been eyeing a Kate Spade cruise ship shaped clutch for many months, perfect for that every 3 year cruise vacation, possibly some beach vacations, and other water venues but not very good for everyday. I have my fair share of Lilly Pulitzer clothing pieces and I'd love to wear some random accessories and bright colors everyday but thats just not in the cards for me professionally. I think a fun outfit can really put you in a better mood! How can you be in a bad mood when your bag is shaped like a snail?! I have rounded up some of my favorite whimsical/fun accessories.

Do you gravitate towards fun pieces or wardrobe staples?

Thursday Trend: Sneakers

Today's Thursday Trend is sneakers. I realize this is not necessarily hot off the press but I think it is a trend that has some staying power.  A few seasons ago, retro-runners were all the rage. Needless to say, I quickly jumped on board with some New Balance runners. I am not a high heel girl, unless it is the most special of occasions. I am about flats all day long. Lately I have seen the more traditional runners turn to slides in an equally comfortably-chic take on this trend. I really like the effortless put together look of these sneakers. Not to mention the added bonus of not having to worry about your feet hurting all day. I think these are particularly great for commuters and running around on the weekends. You know I am dying for this gold perforated pair!

Are you sporting any fashionable sneakers these days?

Wanderlust Wednesday: Bucket List Edition

I love traveling. Growing up we moved all over North America and my dad traveled all the time for work. A 3 year old me once infamously asked how many suitcases I could bring on the plane for vacation and to my horror I was told we were driving. I couldn't comprehend we would actually be going someplace in driving distance. That is likely when the monster love of travel was born.

[a dreary day in Stockholm (My favorite city!)]

In college I was fortunate enough to spend a summer studying in Luxembourg. I was even more fortunate that my best friend and I lived with the same host family. This is before the days of anyone saying YOLO but that was in fact our unofficial mindset. We purchased some Eurail passes and made the most of that summer, hopping on a train after class on Thursday and not returning until Sunday evening. We once paid 17 cents for a flight to Venice for the weekend! (thanks to the fabulous tip from our host brother and Ryanair) with taxes that 17 cents turned into a whopping $34 dollars. Perhaps my only regret is not spending more time in Luxembourg or maybe that I could not convince 19 year old me that spending an entire year or semester abroad was a good idea.

[The key to European budget travel: Ryanair]

In law school I focused on getting in all the required classes and much to my surprise when my third year rolled around I was largely done. A few requirements remained but nothing I needed to fit in while in Florida. With that realization, I quickly applied to spend the Autumn in London and off I went. This time I was much more torn as I was in the midst of falling in love and had to adamantly insist I was leaving for 5 months. Thank goodness for Skype and AT&T having an international texting plan! All that aside, I once again made the most of this experience. I traveled as much as possible, even though being in the UK and not mainland Europe certainly presented less opportunity to jet set than during my days in Lux.  I really immersed myself in London, took every local day trip, wandered around the city, interned for a local non-profit, learned the bus system like the back of my hand, and it really felt like home. I often crave being in that city to the point where I remember exactly how it feels.

[London-isn't she beautiful?!]

And this is where the Wanderlust comes from. I love to travel, see new places, meet new people, do things that I would not ordinarily do, gain a new perspective, and really take it all in. Studying abroad has given me the urge to travel to more exotic destinations and a never ending bucket list. Here are my top 10 travel-inspired bucket list items:

1. Ride an elephant in Thailand
2. See the Northern and Southern Lights
3. Stay in an ice hotel 
4. Drive across the Bosphorus Bridge (from Europe to Asia)
5. Cruise Alaska
6. Sail the Greek Islands
7. Set foot on every continent
8. Go on Safari in Africa
9. Cruise the Mediterranean
10. Climb the Great Wall

Do you love to travel? What is on your bucket list?

Follow me on Instagram @lifeaskatel

Walmart Beauty Box Review

About 9 months ago I came across the Walmart Beauty Box, maybe I was living under a rock but I really had not heard about it. The cost is low, "free" but you pay $5 shipping and it ships quarterly so just $20 per year. These boxes tend to be more practical items but there is always at least one item that is worth more than the $5. I have also found that there is always one item I really like and others that I will definitely use!

The Spring box just arrived, I believe there are usually 2 or possibly 3 different boxes and you don't know what you will get, but here is mine…

The box comes with some travel size items, usually at least one full size product, a variety of samples, and some coupons. Way more than a $5 value! (can you tell I think this is a good deal?)

This is my 4th box and in 3 of them I received travel size shampoo and conditioner sets. I definitely welcome this because those items add up and I am always the one running around the travel aisle right before a trip to gather those last minute necessities! I also like to keep a little jar/drawer of toiletries in the guest bath so this helps keep that fully stocked! 

Each of my boxes has also come with a perfume sample in the typical sample size.

In this box, for me, these are the best items...

The shampoo and conditioner set paired with the body wash are perfect for our vacation! This one also came with some Neutrogena facial cleanser which is also a product I will use.

And the full size product from this box is this Rimmel Lash Accelerator mascara. I actually needed some new mascara so I was happy to see this show up! I have never tried this product but I do love Rimmel (I wish they carried more of their products in the US drugstores!) so I am very excited to test this out, it claims to grow your lashes as well! Has anyone tried this product?? So far I have noticed that it does not clump which is wonderful.

In other boxes I have received Revlon lipstick, gloss sticks, and my all time favorite full size Secret deodorant (my all time favorite, thanks to the box).

What do you think of the Walmart Beauty Box, will you give it a try? What other subscription boxes are you loving?

Follow me on Instagram @lifeaskatel

Friday Favorites!

Woo! Friday is here!! I feel like I am constantly working for the weekend which may not be a good thing but we are two weeks out from our vacation and the anticipation is building! I hope you all have a great weekend, lets get right into it….

Linking up with Amanda today!

Favorite Purchase: Travalo

I realize I'm late to the game on the perfume atomizer situation but I am obsessed with this. I am always wanting to travel with my favorite scent but clearly am not going to buy duplicate bottles so typically I throw in a tester from Sephora and call it a day. I purchased the gold Travalo (that gold metallic obsession again) and it is seriously so easy to use, so convenient and something I now must have! Have you tried these?

Favorite Recipe: Twice Baked Cauliflower Casserole

How good does that look? I love twice baked potatoes and we are on a  big cauliflower substitution kick. I can't wait to try this out. Seems like a definite weekend tester.

Favorite Workout: Beach Walking

Unfortunately I have been having some serious back pain and discovered that I have a bulging disc. So while that heals (itself, hopefully) I am limited to walking and some ab routines. Fortunately for me this beach is right across the street and it is now light outside after work so I can get in a few miles each night.

Favorite Beauty Product: Kat Von D Tattoo Liner

I got this as a deluxe sample and never even opened it until a few weeks ago. I am not typically a liquid eyeliner girl, but as the Florida humidity sets in I need a product that will stay put and this is it! I like to blend it out with a brush or some crayon liner on top but this pen is easy to apply and I will certainly purchase one when this runs out!

Check back next week for some beauty box reviews, bucket list items and the usual Thursday Trend!

Thursday Trend: One Piece Swimwear

This week I'm talking about the one piece swimwear trend. I have noticed these suits all over magazines, stores, and of course blogs. I think the great thing about the one piece suit is the combination of comfort and chic. This is something that arguably never goes out of style but is not always at the forefront. These suits are great for water activities, playing paddle ball on the beach etc. I am all for the bandeau to avoid unsightly tan lines but once in a while fashion and function are nice to have on hand. Here are some of my top picks for summer. I picked up the blouson style J.Crew suit in black and if you read yesterday's post you know that Trina Turk Kon Tiki is my new favorite! (I hope you are not sick of seeing it yet!)


What do you think about this trend?

Wishlist Wednesday!

I am thrilled that it is Wednesday again! I feel like when Wednesday hits the week is on the downhill and it seems much more bearable! Just me? Lets get right into this Wishlist Wednesday… some of these items are on their way to me thanks to the Bloomingdales sale (friends and family sale until 3/29/15!)…

That NARS multiple has been tempting me for months now. I just can't decide if I would use it enough to justify the purchase..what do you guys think??

 The Trina Turk one piece is on its way to me! I ordered it in white originally and love love the fit, this is one flattering suit but I am going to swap it out for the black. However, I will say you must size up, which is a big downfall for the vanity factor. I typically am a 4/6 and I needed the 10 in this.

 Because I love that one piece so much I suddenly feel like I need to be sporting a sarong. Which is so not typical of me but it seems very island chic?!

 I love the colors on that Lilly shell, perfect year round.

 That watch. I have been eyeing it ever since I saw a woman wearing it on a plane last year. This sale was just what I had been waiting for!

I stopped by JCrew factory last week to snag those sandals but our store did not have them yet. The perfect hint of leopard. I love it.

What is on your radar this week?

Sephora Treats

I hope everyone is having a good week so far! On Friday I had a particularly fun mail day. I needed to get some skin care items and decided a little Sephora order was just what needed to happen. Here is what I picked up

 I had heard great things about the Benefit Cosmetics It's Potent eye cream. It is supposed to reduce fine lines and eliminate those ever present dark circles. I can use all the help I can get in that department. I'll let you know how that goes!

I also got this Origins a Perfect World White Tea Moisturizer this has SPF 25 and is  an "age delay" formula. As my twenties draw to and end I am determined to take better care of my skin and my body in general and this is one of the simple ways I am trying to start.

The fun and completely non-essential purchase was this Josie Maran Coconut Water Color Eyeshadow. I purchased the Rio de Rose Gold color. I tested this out this weekend and really love it. I am loving that bronzed glow look for spring/summer and this is so fun. If you apply with your finger it dilutes the formula quite a bit, for a more dramatic/metallic look you can use the applicator that comes with the bottle.

I was super excited to snag a deluxe sample of Benefit Cosmetics Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow foundation. I have been eager to try this and I think I will be able to get a few uses out of this sample to see if I want/need to add the full size to my rotation.

What products do you love? What should I try next?

Kendra Scott Haul

I have been loving Kendra Scott lately. I have a few pairs of her large earrings that I love for fun occasions but I was itching for some of the more practical pieces for me to wear everyday. They recently had a too-good-to-pass-up coupon code on Instagram so I finally took the plunge and purchased two every day pieces and got one gorgeous, fancy bracelet as an added bonus. 

Elisa Pendant Necklace // Tessa Stud Earrings // Cassie Bracelet

The Elisa Pendant is perfect to spice up my usual solid color work shift or plain black suit. The Tessa Studs are a little more funky than the traditional pieces I typically opt for and I love that they jazz up my  generally conservative wardrobe in just the right way. The Cassie was a gift with purchase and I had a really hard time choosing from all the color options. I ultimately went with the clear iridescent because I think it will look great dressed up with other baubles and will still be a nice addition to my typical weekend wardrobe of leggings and a long t-shirt/tank top.

Each piece comes in a cloth bag for safe storage and it also doubles as a polishing cloth. They were individually bubble wrapped and shipped (very quickly!) without any damage.

This ring, these earrings, and this bracelet are also on my list! Do you have some of her pieces? How do you style them?

Friday Favorites!

TGIF! I am sure we are all ready for the weekend! We don't have too many plans except for polo with friends for the last time before the season ends and soaking up as much time outside as possible! I turn into a pumpkin once those Florida summer temps really set in.

Linking up with Amanda!

Favorite Beauty Product:

This Real Techniques Sponge is amazing. I know everyone is in love with the beauty blender and to be fair, I cannot compare them because I cannot bring myself to pay $20 for a makeup sponge. This little gem is $5.99, supposed to be the equivalent of the beauty blender, goes on BOGO at Ulta and works wonders for your application routine. The major bonus here is you don't cringe when after a few too many washes it is time to dispose of the sponge. I insist that you try it!

Favorite workout:

As I mentioned last week my schedule has been hectic and getting in a workout at all is a big win in my book. T-25 gets you moving and you certainly feel the workout in just 25 short minutes. I particularly like the ab interval DVDs and will often pop those in for a solid ab routine. I know Shaun T is a bit much for some people but I am not particularly bothered by his method and he seems to really get results!

Favorite Purchase(s):

As anticipated, Loft had their typical 40% off everything sale and I snatched up the scalloped shorts and this cute top. I also snagged this double tassel necklace from Prep Obsessed which I love. I am so excited to wear this combo and all the pieces separately as well.

Favorite Recipe:

Via

This blueberry moscow mule recipe sounds delicious. I have not put it to use yet but I having been loving the mule lately and can't wait to make these!

Random Favorite:

Via

I spend a lot of time writing notes, calendaring, doing client intake etc. We are only allowed to use blue pens in our office which gets pretty mundane. I also like to color code my calendar so that when I see something in red I know its a bigger deal or that I really can't forget it. I ordered these cute Stabilo pens and they have really been spicing up my office (there are about 4 shades of blue in this set) and the other colors have been sprucing up the blog notebook. I also love that they come in this container that looks like a giant pen. It sort of brings me back to the days of gel pens!

Have a great weekend everyone!!

Thursday Trend- Coordinate Sets

This Thursday Trend topic brings us to the ever growing presence of the crop top coordinate sets.  I have been seeing these for a few seasons now I think and they are just starting to pop onto my shopping radar. I saw this really gorgeous Mara Hoffman set on Mallory's blog and it is just my style. Unfortunately it seems to be sold out.

I love the chic simplicity of the matching set but the added intrigue of it being two pieces. These sets come in all pant, short, skirt combinations for all occasions.  I love that they transcend all genres as well. There are full floral skirts for the more conservative woman and fierce and fun animal prints for the more adventurous. Here are some I rounded up for you…

I really like the white pom pom set and the middle black and white set. What do you think of this trend? Are you sporting a coordinates set this summer?

Wanderlust Wednesday: Cruise Edition

With spring break here, or nearly here, and our own cruise vacation right around the corner, I thought this week's Wanderlust Wednesday would focus on some cruise tips. I have been on just a few cruises and absolutely love it. I know it tends to be a love or hate situation. What I love about it is the carefree and stress free vacation. There is very little planning once you are on the boat, we book our excursions in advance and the rest of the time just go with the flow. You don't have to decide where to eat, how to get there, what hotels to stay in etc. The other great thing is that with beachy destinations, there typically is not a large agenda that must be fulfilled.  In my opinion, cruises are especially great for group vacations. While I am not an expert and I am sure many have cruised much more frequently than I, here is a list of tips  I have learned or wish I knew before boarding!

 I mean who doesn't love these views? (St. Thomas, USVI).

1. Bring a water bottle- this may seem basic but water and other drinks are not available all over the boat and it can be a pain to run back to the buffet area to get a glass of water. This is also helpful to fill up before you head out of the boat at a port of call. We waited in line for about 30 minutes in Starbucks to get a bottle of water on our last cruise, which could have been easily avoided by the water bottle. This one will be joining me on our trip. I believe you are also permitted to bring cases of water on board with you but depending on the amount/means of travel you have before arriving at the ship that may not be the most convenient option.
2. Bring small bills. We heard from friends that it is best to leave a few dollars each day for your room steward as a token of appreciation. You want to have small bills on hand to leave tips at the end of your vacation as well. You can do this on your onboard account as well but everyone likes a little cash.
3. Bring sunscreen, SPF lip-balm, a hat, and all other sun essentials. You can always get these onboard but there will certainly be an up charge and you won't want to waste your vacation running around the ports of call trying to gather these items. I always forget the SPF lip balm and my lips always burn.
4. Board the ship early or very late. I know there are two schools of thought on this. I abide by the first, board the boat as early as possible, eat lunch, sneak in a pre-sailaway nap, and enjoy yourself. Otherwise you will wait in line for hours on end and you will be agitated when you finally board. Or choose to board late, not too late that you miss the boat, but late enough that you have missed all the traffic of families and groups boarding.
5. If you are going to do excursions, book them before you board. We have done this every time and it makes it so easy. By the time you are onboard you have a rough agenda and no issues with excursions being full, not having any plans (unless you prefer that) and not waiting in lines or stressing out when your relaxing trip is underway. The line at the excursion counter on our last cruise was about a mile long the first morning of the cruise. No. thank. you. (I guess I may as well add that I hate waiting in line).
6. Bring a bottle of wine or champagne. On most cruise lines adults are allowed to bring one standard 750ml bottle of wine or champagne. If you drink this at dinner they will charge you a corking fee (assuming you bring the bottle with you, even if they do not open it), if you drink it in your room or around the ship (not at a dining location), no one will care.  Carry this on the ship with you and you will have no problems. I cant wait to be sipping some non-cruise line priced mimosas from our balcony!
7. Make friends. Especially if you are seated with strangers at dinner, enjoy the company and chit chat. This can sometimes be awkward but in my experience, everyone is on vacation and up for some fun. It is amazing what you will learn from the variety of cruisers and it is fun to see each other throughout the ship and in port and borrow each other's tips and tricks for the week. Embrace it.
8. Carry your luggage off the ship. If you can, do this. It will eliminate so much of that dreaded wait time. We decided to carry our own luggage and originally had planned to sleep in but we were up early and then just jumped off the ship early with no waiting, no traffic, and we were so happy. Added bonus: zero chance of lost or confused baggage.
9.  Bring hand sanitizer. This probably doesn't need a lot of explanation but bring some. Keep it in your beach bag.
10. Check the daily itinerary the night before. On most cruises this is delivered to your state room at night with the turn down service. Make sure to plan dinner around the shows etc. The comedy shows are usually hysterical and often have a few show times. The itinerary also has things you may miss, dance lessons, rock climbing times etc. A lot of activities have time restrictions so this helps make sure you get to fit in everything you want with no disappointment!

Needless to say, I am counting down the days to crystal clear waters, relaxation, and being completely unplugged!

Do you avid cruisers agree with these tips? What are some of your own?

Whitening Lightning Review

I recently purchased this Dial A Smile Professional Teeth Whitening Kit from Whitening Lightning. I had seen a few other reviews of these kits and it was on sale for around $40 so I figured I would give it a shot. I am totally guilty of drinking too much coffee, tea, and other "staining agents" and had some very high hopes for this kit.

When you first open the box this is what it looks like….

Then you empty the rest of the contents and you have all of this…

This kit comes with pretty clear instructions but there are a few steps. Initially you want to use the dial to determine the yellowness of your teeth. Honestly, I found this difficult to do on my own and it probably would help to enlist a second opinion so you can see what results you obtain. This is important so you can tell if your teeth are legitimately whiter when the 20 minute treatment is up.

When you are ready to start, you use the teeth wipes to dry your teeth, followed by the vitamin-E swabs to protect your gums. At that point you put some of the whitening gel in the provided cap and brush it on your teeth. Then its time for the blue light, 20 minutes and you are good to go.

A word of absolute caution, when you are ready to remove the light you definitely want to be over the sink. A lot of saliva generates during those 20 minutes! TMI I'm sure but seriously.

In all honesty I was not sure if this kit actually worked or not on the first go. They say it brings you up 3-4 shades on the dial but I would say more like 1-2. I used it again 7 days later and think that in total my teeth are probably 4.5 shades whiter than before I used the kit. You get 3 treatments out of the gel so I would say this kit is worth a try! There is no sensitivity like you have with white strips and it is an easy process. If you follow Whitening Lightning on Instagram they are constantly posting coupon codes so be sure to check there before purchasing!

Have you tried this kit or any other great whitening products?

Weekend Recap!

I hope everyone had a great weekend! I feel like this weekend was so well spent. We got in some trips to the beach, time with family, all our errands and some afternoon naps. What else can you ask for!?

Friday night was very low key. Ross and I had some frozen pizza for dinner, watched a movie and called it a night. Saturday we slept in and then headed to the beach.  With spring break upon us, you can count on your trip anywhere in town to take twice as long. Tons and tons of traffic!

 There is always some serious sand sculpting and this guy made a leprechaun taking a nap on a four leaf clover. How cute is that? I forgot my phone so this is the only photo evidence of the beach trip. Saturday night we went to dinner at my sister's house and enjoyed some family time.

 As with any good weekend there is brunch. I had some serious fails this weekend with remembering to take photos and this is the only one from brunch. We went to the cutest little rustic place on the water that has amazing fish tacos. Snapper, guac, feta, cole slaw, and some secret house sauce. My mom and I are obsessed. This place even has a semi-authentic gondolier and you can take a ride on the water right out the back of the restaurant. 

I apologize about the photo but you can sort of see the cute patio atmosphere.

After brunch we made some rounds to Marshalls and the grocery store. We were hunting for some baby gifts, easter basket items, and birthday gifts, so Marshalls was just the post. I loved these blue and white pieces on clearance but since we don't have a set home yet I am trying to refrain from investing in too many decor items (who knows what nooks and crannies we will actually need to fill later on!) We managed to snatch up something for everyone on our list and headed home for the much deserved Sunday nap. I love when weekend errands are productive!

What were your weekend highlights?? I am already looking forward to Friday!

Don't forget to follow me on Instragram @lifeaskatel

Friday Favorites!

We made it to Friday! I hope everyone has a great weekend! I am excited to relax and soak up some sun!

Linking up with Amanda today!

Favorite Purchase:

My mom and I stopped by Lilly Pulitzer this week to do a little resort chic shopping. I picked up a cover-up ( I can't find this one online anymore but here is a similar one) and some shorts for our April cruise. I love the beaded detail on the coverup and its great to throw on for a day on the island. They were out of my size at our store but this jumpsuit was on sale, promptly located in my size and will be making a happy home in my closet soon! I am super excited to wear these on our cruise and when my besties come to visit me at the beach next month!

Favorite Workout:

I have been swamped at work so the at-home workout is my go to these days. I picked up this Pure Barre DVD set after Christmas and while I much prefer to visit the studio for the music and motivation, these get the job done just as well.

Favorite Recipe:

Cauliflower Bites. These are delicious and perfect when you are craving something bad for you but don't want to overindulge. I make up a Greek yogurt based ranch dip and call it a day. Even Ross loves these and says they taste just like wings!

Favorite Current TV Show Binge:

Nashville.

I watched this a lot in seasons past but had gotten away from it. I recently rediscovered by love for this show and have been binging on abc.com. I am not quite caught up so no spoilers please!  If you don't watch it check it out, the love triangles and relationship twists will suck you in.

Have a great weekend!!

The Backpack Comeback

Another trend I have been noticing resurfacing is the backpack. Practical and these days, stylish. I can remember the days of the mini backpack, I think I bought mine at Ross and it was a flannel Navajo print. Unfortunately I couldn't find any photo evidence of that.

I know in college and law school there was always the debate of fashion over function and I opted for the tote bag unless serious studying was going to take place and then a North Face backpack it was.

Some of these leather backpacks are adorable and I think they would be great for travel. There is nothing worse than having to go back to the hotel because you forgot something or, even worse, getting rained on because your cute crossbody could not hold your umbrella.

What do you all think of this trend? Are you sporting a trendy backpack these days? Check out some of my favorites below.