What I Actually Learned in College | {Shelbie}

It's senior year and I'm like "where the heck did the time go?" Lately my roommate and I have been remising a lot, and I mean A LOT. Are we having an oh-crap-we-are-graduating-soon life crisis? Maybe. But when we think back on everything we experienced in college, we aren't sad. We are so grateful. I would say I've learned a few more important things than the significance of ancient Greek pottery, or that Ladies' Home Journal was the first magazine to reach 1 million readers.

50 Things That Make Me Happy | {Shelbie}

Lately I've been all about those positive vibes, and sometimes we have to create the positivity for ourselves. Although the list of things that make me happy is infinite, I somehow managed to narrow it down to 50.



1. Waking up early and having a cup of coffee
2. Working out
3. A good home cooked meal, especially when my mom is cooking!
4. Making people laugh
5. Spontaneous getaways
6. Quiet mornings
7. Candles
8. Pasta
9. Hardwood floors
10. Movie nights + cuddle sessions
11. Bubble baths

Fall Bucket List Challenge | {Shelbie}

Hello everyone, sorry for my absence—I've been a little preoccupied with school! Since fall is well underway, and it's by far my favorite season, I wanted to create a fall bucket list. I intend to complete everything on my bucket list, and don't worry, I will keep you guys updated along the way (follow along on Instagram!)

Friday Favorites | {Shelbie}

Favorite Skincare Tip
My new roommate and old friend, Jill, just recently moved in and with her, an awesome aloe vera plant. I know that aloe is used to treat sunburns, but I didn't know you can use it as a daily moisturizer, too! I've used it a few times before bed, and the next day my skin looks refreshed, soft, and clear! I've definitely become a believer that it helps with acne as well. Check out this article about using aloe vera for skin care.

Favorite New-to-Me Artist
Kali introduced me to First Aid Kit last month and I've been in love ever since. My favorite song, and likely their most popular, My Silver Lining, was featured on the 2015 US Open! So, it seems they are becoming more popular. I'm not sure how to categorize their sound, but I'm obsessed. Other great songs by them are Stay Gold, America, and Master Pretender.


{photo via}
Favorite Workout
This summer I've made it a goal of mine to lead a healthier lifestyle, which of course involves going to the gym. I like working out, but let's be honest, most people dread going to a crowded gym! When it's extremely busy at the gym, I search for workouts that I can do away from the crowds. I also try to mix up my workout routine regularly in order to keep my body guessing. One day I decided to search for a kettlebell workout for two reasons. One, so I could do it basically anywhere in the gym, and two, because I had never done a kettlebell workout before. I found my solution thanks to the Tone It Up girls—love them! I incorporate it into my routine every two weeks or so. It isn't extremely difficult, so I usually do it the day after a really tough workout. Get the workout here!


^ Mahi-Mahi Tacos
Favorite Healthy Eat
In effort to stick to my summer regime, I'm constantly searching for healthier meals to try out. I have come to LOVE fish, especially mahi-mahi, and I also love tacos. Turns out, these two things are a match made in heaven! This recipe does take some preparation, but I promise, it's totally worth it!


{photo via}
Favorite Person
Another one of my obsessions lately, and I'm sure everyone else's, is Khloe Kardashian. I've always followed the Kardashians, but lately Khloe has just been straight killing it! May she forever be my fitness inspiration.

Hinterland Festival | {Kali}

This past weekend, I headed to Des Moines, IA to go to the Hinterland Music Festival with Shelbie and my friend, Elizabeth. It was originally supposed to be at Water Works Park, near downtown Des Moines. A few days before the festival, they decided to move it to the Avenue of the Saints Ampitheater in St. Charles, IA (about 30 minutes south of DSM) due to flooding at Water Works.



I was pretty torn between going to Hinterland and the Grassroots Music Festival which was in Council Bluffs, IA (way closer to me). But, gotta say, after hearing about what a fail it was, I think I absolutely made the right decision! (Um my source of entertainment the past few days miiight be looking at all the posts on their Facebook wall..yikes!).



Shelbie and I had actually been to Avenue of the Saints once before, a few years ago, for the Better Than Ezra, Vertical Horizon, and Sister Hazel concert (I blogged about our outfits here!) While I was disappointed at first that they were moving it out of Des Moines, it actually ended up being the perfect location. And, they provided free party buses from Des Moines to St. Charles, so I definitely couldn't complain about that! The event was actually extremely well-organized, especially for it being moved to a completely different location just a few days before!



We only went on Saturday, although I would have loved to see Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes on Friday night! On Saturday, we got there right in time to see Lucius perform. I had never heard of them before—but now—big fan! I was extremely impressed by them. My new favorite song is Two of Us On the Run by them.



I was most excited to see Brandi Carlile. When Hinterland announced the line-up, I had heard of her, but I didn't really know many of her songs. So I started listening to her a lot during work via Spotify and completely fell in love with her!



Brandi (and the twins) were even better than I had expected. Being able to see an artist live really makes you appreciate them so much more. You could just tell they were SO happy and so excited to be playing there, which really made the audience (and me!) love them even more! My favorite songs by her are The Eye, Wilder (We're Chained), Hard Way Home, and of course, The Story. She also brought out Lucius for a cover of "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun", which was awesome—so much girl power on stage, which I loved!


^ She also brought out Old Crow Medicine Show for a cover of "Going to California".



After seeing her at Hinterland, I'm even more depressed about missing her and Gregory Alan Isakov at Red Rocks on August 15. Dream concert! I wish I would have found out about it sooner and planned for it! I am beyond jealous of anyone going to that.



Old Crow Medicine Show was awesome! I knew almost all of the songs in their set list, which made it more fun. They definitely brought the energy and the crowd was loving it! Seeing Wagon Wheel played live also did not disappoint!


^ You know it was a good night when you wake up the next morning with glow sticks on!



I'll definitely be back next year, Hinterland! Oh, and please bring Brandi back. :)

5 Healthy Summer Drinks | {Shelbie}

Things that define my summers: the outdoors, getting a tan, traveling, hanging out with friends and family, and (let's be honest!) drinking. I try to change up my drinking habits from season to season. This summer, I've made it my personal mission to try new cocktails whenever I get the opportunity. The summer heat usually makes me crave fresh and fruity drinks. So today, I wanted to share with you my top 5 favorite healthy summer drinks to try this summer!


{image via}
Cucumber & Melon White Sangria
Recipe from EatingWell

Lately I've been absolutely obsessed with cucumber flavored-everything! This recipe isn't only refreshing, but also healthy. For those of you trying to watch your summer figure, this drink would be a great option.

INGREDIENTS
1 750-mL bottle Gewürztraminer, dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc
1/2 cup dry vermouth
2 cups diced honeydew melon
1 cup diced cucumber
1/2 cup torn fresh basil leaves
1 cup chilled plain seltzer
Ice

MAKE IT!
Combine wine, vermouth, melon, cucumber and basil in a large pitcher. Refrigerate until cold, about 4 hours. Just before serving, stir in the seltzer. Serve over ice.


{image via}
Strawberry Margarita Punch
Recipe from Dinners, Dishes & Desserts

I've always loved everything strawberry and, of course, everything margarita-related! Margaritas in the summer are definitely a staple of mine. This fun punch will definitely "punch" you in the taste buds—in a good way! Although this might not be the healthiest drink on this list, I had to add it because it's perfect for summer!

INGREDIENTS
8 oz frozen strawberries
1 can frozen limeade concentrate—thawed
1 cup orange juice
3/4 cup tequila
1/4 cup triple sec
1 bottle sweet sparkling wine (strawberry moscato is preferable, if you can find it)

MAKE IT!
With a blender, blend together strawberries, thawed limeade and orange juice until smooth. Pour into a large pitcher. Add tequila and triple sec. Mix well. Refrigerate until cold. Pour in sparkling wine to serve. Serve over ice.


{image via}
The Skinnygirl American Virgin
Recipe from Food.com

I used to be an avid Real Housewives of New York fan, so I've always kept up with Bethany Frankel. She is the creator of Skinnygirl cocktails. I think this drink is a must-try!

INGREDIENTS
2 ounces peach vodka
2 ounces club soda
splash orange juice
splash lemonade

MAKE IT!
Well, this one is simple. Mix it all together, add ice and garnish with a lemon wedge.


{image via}
Ruby-Red Grapefruit Cocktail
Recipe from EatingWell

Some people think grapefruit is an acquired taste, and that's fine with me—more for the rest of us! This fun-colored drink is so bright and vibrant—it could definitely be dressed up for parties. Plus, who doesn't love pretty drinks?

INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cups red or pink grapefruit juice, preferably fresh-squeezed
1 1/2 cups plain seltzer
1/2 cup gin
2 tablespoons Campari
Ice cubes
Grapefruit wedges or slices for garnish

MAKE IT!
Stir grapefruit juice, seltzer, gin and Campari together in a pitcher. Pour over ice. Garnish with grapefruit, if desired.


{image via}
Skinny Asian Mojito
Recipe from Shape

This mojito is fresh, crisp, and from what I've heard, addicting! Keep your waist small with this naturally sweet drink. I haven't tried this one yet, but I plan to soon!

INGREDIENTS
2 ounces TY KU Sake
Fresh mint
1 splash citrus seltzer
1 squeeze citrus (lemon, lime, or orange)

MAKE IT!
Combine first 3 ingredients in a glass over ice and add a squeeze of citrus.

I hope you all have a healthy, fruity and refreshing rest of the summer. Cheers!


{image via}

Life Lately | {Kali}

^ Delicious margarita at Zocalo at the Plaza in Kansas City.
Hi friends! It's been awhile—but, it's summer and we all seem to get super busy in the summer with things going on almost every weekend. Let's back up a few weekends to Father's Day weekend. Megan and I headed to Walnut, IA on Saturday to help our mom with her Barnyard Boutique booth at the Walnut Antique Show. There were so many awesome vendors there—I wanted to buy everything! However, I was looking for something very specific. I need a mirror to go in our updated main-floor bathroom, and I'm looking for a vintage frameless oval mirror. I thought I'd for sure find something there, but no luck. I'm also not having much luck finding anything online either that's not crazy expensive. If anyone knows where I can find one, let me know—until then, my search continues.



Saturday night, we headed back to my parents house and found an adorable litter of kittens. This one was my favorite! If we didn't have Rex, I would have totally taken her home. Megan ended up taking home one of her brothers, who is equally as cute (and I'm sure you'll get to see him on the blog soon!).



On Father's Day, my dad, Megan, and I took a bike ride on the Shelby County bike trail (official name: Rock Island Old Stone Arch Nature Trail). We almost rode right past, but here is the arch! Pretty cool.



At the end of the bike path, we had brunch at The Corn Crib in Shelby and then Megan and I headed back home to Lincoln.



Two weekends ago some of my friends, my sisters, and I did a girls trip to Kansas City. Two years ago we went to Kansas City for a girls trip and it was so much fun. Last year was my bachelorette party in Chicago, so I thought we should keep the tradition going! Kansas City is the easiest place to meet up since some of us were coming from Lincoln/Omaha and some from Des Moines/Ames.





We arrived on Friday afternoon and first hit up the Plaza where we did a little shopping then had an early dinner/happy hour at Zocalo. Then we headed to our hotel. We stayed at the Marriott downtown which was just a few blocks away from Power and Light. We got all dressed up, pre-gamed in the hotel for awhile, and then headed out to our first night at Power and Light. We kept it a pretty early night, since we wanted to be able to get up early the next morning to head to the waterpark!



Our original plan was to spend one of the days at the Jones Pool—we did this two years ago and it was really fun. But, apparently they closed for reasons we could not figure out and we were pretty bummed about it. We ended up going to Schlitterbahn waterpark. It was nice because you can bring in your own food/drinks to Schlitterbahn so we didn't have to spend a bunch of money on that. We were all pretty pumped to ride the tallest water slide in the world, only to find out you couldn't just stand in line for this one—you had to get your name on a waiting list. When we got there around 10:30, the waiting list was already booked until 6pm, and we weren't going to stay that long, so we missed out. So a heads up if you ever plan on going there, make sure to get there early if you want to ride it! Major bummer for us.



The rest of the rides were fun, although the lines got pretty long as the day went on. They also had a swim-up bar and adults-only section, which we hung out at for part of the day.



A few of the girls headed home after the waterpark, but the rest of us stayed Saturday night for another night out to Power and Light. So, I've been to P&L a few times and have tried out most of the bars there. We definitely had the most fun Saturday night going to the PBR bar! They played a perfect mix of country and pop/rap songs, which was a nice change from the "are-we-at-a-wedding?" cringe-worthy songs the other bars were playing.





The weekend turned out to be a lot of fun and I'm really glad we went!



On Tuesday that next week, Megan and I headed to Omaha to see Third Eye Blind and Dashboard Confessional! I was extremely excited for this concert—Third Eye Blind is one of my all-time favorite bands. I've seen them once before at Val Air in Des Moines, and I couldn't wait to see them again!



Dashboard Confessional was also one of my favorite bands in high school, so it definitely brought back some good memories hearing them play! Augustana was also with them, which I didn't even know about, so that was definitely a bonus! Everyone knows their song "Boston", but their song "Stars and Boulevards" was one of my favorites in high school. All in all, amazing concert! It started raining when Third Eye Blind started, which just brought up the energy even more. I'd love to see them in concert again!



Last Friday, Zac and I celebrated my birthday (which was on Sunday) by going to dinner at one of our favorite restaurants, Fireworks.





After dinner, we went and bought a bunch of fireworks, then we ended the night in our backyard watching our neighbor's fireworks and putting our new firepit to use!



On the 4th of July, we had a pretty low-key evening and invited a few friends over to grill out and watch fireworks in our driveway.





Some of our neighbors had some pretty impressive fireworks going! It was pretty cool to see some great fireworks right from our driveway—we definitely didn't ever experience that in Iowa!



On Sunday, we headed to Lake Panorama to spend a few days on the lake! Unfortunately, the weather wasn't the best. Monday was our only full day there, as we were heading back to Lincoln on Tuesday, and it was just really gloomy and rainy all day. We still had a great time with my family though!


^ We celebrated my birthday on Sunday—Megan made me this delicious strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting!

^ It was Rex's first time for a lot of things! First roadtrip, first lake experience, first time out of Lincoln. We thought he might be a little afraid of the water, but after Zac jumped in the lake, Rex jumped in right after him! After that though, he wasn't too sure about it!












This weekend I finally get to relax and hang out at home. Zac bought me a massage for my birthday, so that will definitely be put to good use on Saturday! Have a great weekend!