December 30, 2016

2016 Favorites Recap


I still remember how my 2016 started, no, not with the champagne popping and some romantic new years eve kiss- cut to me and my friends on the lawn outside the club we're trying to get into and that's how 2016 started. That in itself started the tone that would be 2016, jokes aside this year was a good one. I grew a lot over this year in the way I view this blog, in the way I view myself, and in the way I think and in my relationship with the Lord.

I decided I would round up in threes all of my favorite things of 2016 in different categorizes:

-Personal Top Three Blog Posts:

-Top Three Makeup Products I Tried Out:

-Favorite Days in 2016:
September 6, 2016: I hugged my Grandma for the last time that day
July 18, 2016: I learned first hand just what God's mercy meant for my life
September 23, 2016: I finally visited my best friend at her college town for the first time

-Top Blog Posts:

-Top Skincare Products:

-Top Places I Looked For Clothing:
TJ Maxx

-Favorite Memories of 2016:
Literally every single day this summer: I wouldn't have survived, found joy, or been able to pick up the pieces of myself without the amazing support of my friends. I've never felt more love, mentor-ship, or a truly safe zone quite like I did this summer with them. Thank you for being my rocks when I couldn't be that for myself and for helping me realize I knew exactly who Brooke was all along regardless. I also can't forget, every single talk with my Grandma. Thank you for wise council (that I sometimes shamelessly didn't want to take). for your endless prayer, and unconditional love that occasionally came in the form of tough love. 
When I got my first email asking for blogging advice, it was a surreal moment that someone wanted my own thoughts and advice. I'm constantly encouraged and amazed by the blogging community and how we always welcome each other with such warm, open hearts!
When Megan. Cristen, and I went to Cracker Barrell and I still had lint in my hair and the biggest rats nest of a bun in my hair-- I looked like someones hangover nightmare but it's fine. I love this because it's a moment you can think to yourself wow I have the best friends in the world who would still love me despite my flaws and loud mouth. Thanks for the ongoing no judgment zone, the peptalks, and the three word sentence that will follow me til I die (I'm looking at you Cristen).


I honestly can't wait to see what is in store for 2017, I can only imagine the stories and ways I will prove I am forever a mess. A huge thanks for everybody who has supported me so far! I am constantly astounded by the page views, shares, and comments left on social media. I have some great stuff planned for the coming year and I can't wait to let you all in one by one!! Cheers to 2017, may this be the best year yet...


xoxo


December 5, 2016

Gift Guide For The Traveler

|1. Journal (currently sold out, this one is just as cute!) |2.The Magnolia Story (I personally love this book!) |3. Stainless Steel Water Bottle |4 .Polaroid Camera |5. Cities Coaster Set |6. Passport Holder |7. Weekender Bag |8. Makeup Bag |9. Eye Mask |10. Lifeproof Phone Case |11. Wall Calendar |

I can't believe it's already time to whip out the candy canes and have Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas Is You blasting 247. I have some fun gift guides planned to share with you and this first one is dedicated to one of my besties who can't seem to stay in one place for too long.

I chose a variety of traveling staples (such as a polaroid camera, a good read, and an eye mask for the perfect rest) to things that satisfy the wanderlust in each of us (like the coaster set or cute wall calendar-- both from Rifle Paper Co). That way rather they're an active traveler or a traveler by heart- you can satisfy their needs.

Last week I traveled to North Carolina and saw She Loves Me in the theaters (one night only event where they showed the live taping of the broadway revival... think You've Got Mail's plot except they work in the same parfumerie and write actual letters-- swoon)- I was hardcore geeking and crying the second the overture came rushing through the speakers. Completely magical, it makes me want to find a boy who will write me letters while we fall in love without ever meeting lol.

Happy Shopping xoxo

November 29, 2016

November, I Liked You








|Tights (from Target)|Shoes: Old (Similar)|

When the weather started getting colder and it was finally time to whip out your favorite coat.. November, that's when I liked you.

When I found myself happy dancing in my best friend's kitchen over Sunday plans.. November, that's when I liked you.

When my favorite movie came on TLC.. November, that's when I liked you.

When mornings are filled with coffee and donuts with sprinkles.. November, that's when I liked you.

When I found the Steve Madden boots hidden in my closet that I swore I had lost.. November, that's when I liked you.

When I could binge watch more episode of Gilmore Girls.. November, that's when I liked you.

When I found that next book I just can't put down.. November, that's when I liked you.

When I spontaneously start having dance parties with the littles I nanny.. November, that's when I liked you.

When the cold weather hit my face and for a split second it was a movie moment.. November, that's when I liked you.

When I ended up drinking mimosas one morning on a whim with my best friend.. November, that's when I liked you.

When I got to reunite with family and go to a state I haven't been to since I was in middle school.. November, that's when I liked you.

When you finished up your devotional and actually feel like a part of you is missing (SOO GOOD).. November, that's when I liked you.

When I get an hour to stop by my best friend's house before work and just talk.. November, that's when I liked you.

When The Lizzie McGuire Movie comes to Netflix and you obviously have no choice but to watch it with your favorite wine.. November, that's when I liked you.

When the holiday beverages came back to Starbucks (Peppermint mocha lovers rejoice!!).. November, that's when I liked you.

When me and my best friend geek out for an hour over life.. November, that's when I liked you.

When the little boy I nanny asks to hear Hamilton as we drive home from the park.. November, that's when I liked you.

When I found the perfect fall nail polish.. November, that's when I liked you.

When I laugh so hard I cry.. November, that's when I liked you.

When the group chat gif use is on point to the point you're laughing hysterically in public places.. November, that's when I liked you.

When I became overwhelmingly thankful for my life.. November, that's when I liked you.

xoxo




November 18, 2016

Why Me and Tequila Aren't Friends


This is for every girl who has ever accidentally sent a thumbs up while re-reading through old facebook messages, who sent a voice memo to a guy while talking about him, or who has ever jumped to conclusions because you saw a photo on facebook. Girl, I have been there countless times... I am practically the mayor of Creep Town.


On today’s edition of How Can Brooke Possibly Make a Fool of Herself More, we have the case of the facebook stalk and the two+ cups of jungle juice. Let me set the scene for you: frat party where I oh so don’t belong, four shots and a bahama momma deep (lol my love for Malibu runs strong yall), and nobody warned me or my bestie about the jungle juice.



It all started out fine, I even had warned my friend not to leave me alone with this guy. You see it took months but I was over him like 100% you could magically place him and a girl making out in front of my path and I wouldn’t even flinch.Well low and behold Brooke and her jungle juiced up self found herself alone with said guy and decided it was time to make like usher and lay out my confessions. This is where it gets real embarrassing real quick. I proceed to admit to hard core facebook stalking this specific girl in his life. I then proceed to accuse him (with no actual grounds to even have a problem with it) of sleeping with said girl. Oh don’t you worry: I didn’t just end it there no I then proceeded to give a detailed account of said things I stalked.
Drunk me described in perfect detail the photo that started the obsession, “no you clearly were in a photo with her where you were shirtless with a towel around your neck. I saw it!” IN PERFECT DETAIL, I’m not proud of this but I could probably describe her eyeshadow and the color of her shirt… v embarrassing. This is truly going to be me admitted how crazy and good I am at facebook creeping but did I mention that he was not tagged in the photo... nope. I found this photo all on my own resources and just admitted it, nothing says "hey it's been a while!" quite like hey I've stalked you and your fb friends religiously for months.


Don’t worry it spirals still- this boy proceeds to go and get this girl to prove they in fact did not do the nasty. A little background I did more than hard core creep that one photo. That's right girl, I stalked her entire social media life... twitter (I knew it), facebook (I saw every photo), and instagram (well that's how I knew he took her to formal...) I didn't admit to everything but let's be real here if you admit to creeping just a little you've already admitted to creeping a lot. I admit thanks to all the jungle juice my memory is a little hazy, but the next thing I know there she is in front of me telling me that nothing ever happened. Great I have now admitted to two people that I hard core stalk like I belong to the FBI and one of them had no clue I exist. What an introduction... I am sure I turned as red as the new Starbucks cups, covered my face, and apologized profusely because honestly what do you do when you're faced with that sort of situation??



So friends I write this tale so that you know to stalk wisely and things are often not as they seem. Clearly, sometimes creeping leads you down a deep dark hole where you were sure you had the whole entire story but you were wrong. It's like when I messaged a guy who was flirting with me if he had a girlfriend because those photos seemed like the perfect evidence... basically we can't even trust our own eyes anymore,

Happy Stalking xoxo



November 4, 2016

Pumpkin Patch







^LOL, I couldn't resist posting this one even though what is my face *insert monkey emoji*^


^All these fabulous photos were shot by one of my oldest best friends Cristen, you can find her over at lookbook (!!!)^
^LOL, this is me doing the whole blogging thing correct right? ;)^

Is it seriously already almost November!? How is this even possible, I feel like yesterday I was sitting on the beach and now I can't walk in Target without seeing Christmas decor and wrapping paper (which I'm basically geeking out over tbh).

I decided to start a Youtube channel (!!!) which I am actually going to film my first video (a beauty haul) today so be sure to click the link and subscribe for all the LookBrooke goodness. . I finally went to a pumpkin patch (as evidenced by this post lol) me and Cristen decided to paint ours instead of carve them (a little too much wine and carving tools seemed like a hazard lol). So I still have yet to carve a pumpkin, maybe next year :P

I am falling in love with these pac sun jeans, I've been on the look out for the perfect white jeans and finally found this pair when they have a BOGO sale. I know you're not supposed to wear white after Labor Day but let's be real here, if you aren't breaking a few rules you aren't living ;)

 They've been on repeat since the day I took them home. Lately, I've been loving the cold shoulder look too (like this top) I think it adds a little femininity to any outfit and helps when the weather can't decide if it's actually fall or spring.

September 30, 2016

|REAL TALK|


Most of my life I've been in a rush to get to the next stage. Rather it was out of fear or embarrassment, excitement for what's ahead, or just plain discontentment in my current season of life... day dreaming is a concept I know well. Arguably too well. I've been told my head is too into the clouds and that I basically am like a real life Disney princess...

I'm impatient, anyone who knows me well knows that's a fact. You know that scene in Bridewars when Liv runs into her boyfriend's office screaming and demanding why he can't ask her to marry him already. That's my life, on the inside I'm ready to have a panic attack at a moments notice.

I can see it now: I show up innocently holding a pumpkin. I smash it into the grown while screaming like an actual mad woman, ASK ME OUT BEFORE I TURN INTO A PUMPKIN. *dramatically falls to the ground and sighs heavily*

That's me in a nutshell.

Great now I sound crazy, you're ready to click that red x in a hurried panic, and I just word vomited all over my little corner of the internet. Before you think I actually go around screaming and smashing pumpkins, I totally don't.. :) I'm just a tad bit dramatic...

I half blame Disney movies (I'm a giant Disney princess fan) and I have a theory that I like to call the Ariel principle. She had three days to make Prince Eric fall for her (AND IT WORKED??) so basically I give myself three days for anything until I'm discouraged.

Okay that's a bit of an exaggeration because I know things take time and you work hard for what you want. 

My head also is in the clouds a good 99% of the time, so I know what holding out hope for the impossible means. In the little areas of life though, I'm the most impatient. The waiting for a response when you sent it .3 seconds ago, slow drivers (this is my downfall and where I need to pray to the Lord for the strength and forgiveness), impatience because food doesn't make itself (Can I get an amen!?), etc.

Here is what I realized lately though, none of this matters Brooke- get out of your own head (!!!) Life is so much more than those defining moments, getting what we want, or feeling like we will never amount to those things we wanted to do or be. Life is about taking the time to enjoy the ride, to lean on God when you feel like you might break down and start acting like a two year old in the middle of a beach... life is about embracing the wait. 

I admit for a couple of days I was wrinkling my nose like a four year old being forced to eat broccoli because all my life I put off learning patience. I mean this is embarrassing to admit, but I would strategically word my prayers so I would never ask for patience (yes, I can be that stubborn) I heard the horror stories you wait in agony for days, weeks, sometimes years. I thought I was going to be kicking and scratching my entire way through this lesson, and I know it's only the beginning- but I feel oddly comforted. I wake up eager to figure out what I'll learn for the day and I can't wait to open my journal and talk to God.

Yesterday I was overwhelmed and burnt out and was journal-ing a prayer out to God when I felt him speak to me (and it was incredible, it was the first time in a long time I felt like I was slowly figuring out life) and he whispered to me "You wait Brooke, that's all you do,"

So here is where I am now, waiting and trying to learn all I can. I'm not one to give up hope easily, so I am embracing the hope to learn and the hope to become patient. Let's see what happens...

I will leave this post with this quote from a Proverbs 31 devotional "Embrace The Wait"
God steps in to be our portion for that day. He is in the wait and we'll sense that if only we will look for Him rather then always looking ahead to the next stage of life.

May we embrace the wait and be strong together
xoxo 

September 25, 2016

The Perfect Getting Ready Playlist with Airtime


There's something special when you and the girls gather one place and all trade and swap clothes, have the music blaring, take shots together, and post way too many photos in your snap story ((oops...)). Typically, it's those nights that begin with a full out getting ready party that end up being the most memorable.

So when the app Airtime reached out to me, I was excited to learn about an app that had video message, group message, and Spotify all in one! In today's day and age how many times have you sent "What are you wearing?? Should I look cute or casual?" only to show up and evidently peoples meanings of cute, casual, and dressy are vastly different?

I remember one night this summer in particular that seemingly started off as a girls night in. I got the text that Kelli was having people over and I could swing by too and spend the night. Naturally I picked up a bottle of wine and mike's margaritas (if you've never had them they're the bomb.com... thanks John B for the suggestion) Now if you think you're going to an innocent girls night and you ask one of your friends "Should I dress cute or casual?" and they respond that they're in basic gym attire... you would not be prepared to see boys.

So there I am in an over-sized t-shirt, no bra, and terry cloth booty shorts looking as hot as ever when my friend Skylar runs out and says the dreaded words "I invited lifeguards, they're coming." With only a thin coat of mascara and my hair in a pony-tail I was ready to barricade myself into a room and never come out. No amount of margaritas or countless rounds of kings would prepare me to meet a cute boy for the first time ever looking like I escaped prison.

Of course my other friends arrived in tank tops and cute shorts- evidently I was the only one who wanted people to wonder rather I was actually a boy or not. If we had had airtime on our phones, the video chat feature would have saved me from a lifetime of embarrassment.

Don't you worry though- I still rocked out to Broccoli and didn't let the blooper ruin a good time. Me and my friend used to joke that if a man still found you attractive even after seeing you in a fanny pack (a daily accessory for work), I think the same can be said for over sized t-shirts at a raging party. Don't worry that next Monday I made sure to notify all involved that I actually know how to dress and look presentable and I think that worked just fine.


I was inspired by Airtime and the apps tools to create my own getting ready playlist on Spotify that pump me up even to do the smallest of actions (like getting ready to take on a full day of nannying). It's full of songs that reminds me of friends and summer. Chance are most of these songs I heard daily because my friends loved them so much and i just really miss them alright?? (... so please check it out and let's all thank God for Summer 16... Summer of Surprises.

August 31, 2016

Summer Is...


  • ...waking up to eggs and bacon in the morning.
  • ...the taste of lemonade.
  • ...beach filled days.
  • ...the smell of suncreen.
  • ...limoncello. 
  • ...malibu shots with chasers because you and your friend are "weak".
  • ...mourning the loss of Victoria Secret bathing suits.
  • ...throwing up in the bathroom at Mountain Bar (sorry mom and dad, I learned my lesson and will refrain).
  • ...spent in outdoor showers.
  • ...listening to Broccoli over and over.
  • ...learning you made the moves on a guy by accident (oops).
  • ...smoothies from Yianni's in Brigantine, NJ.
  • ...Kelli's House (AKA Little Momma's House of Hoodlums)
  • ...your friend accidentally hitting a pole while driving your car after a Luke Bryan concert.
  • ...Cayman Jack's margaritas.
  • ...gaining best friends out of co-workers.
  • ...finding ways to reach people you barely know even when you don't have a phone while at a party because sometimes you have to tackle a problem head on.,,
  • ...taking way too many photos for the perfect fire insta.
  • ...group chats that drain your battery life.
  • ...learning lessons and God's love in the strangest ways possible, especially when you feel like you're practically in a hole screaming out for nothing.
  • ...loosing your phone to the ocean.
  • ...spent in the bad vibe room.
  • ...being phone-less for two weeks, during the most eventful moments of the summer.
  • ...having bad/good memories associated with outfits.
  • ...watching way too many re-runs of Say Yes to the Dress.
  • ...Wawa iced coffee.
  • ...lifeguard races.
  • ...getting lost in AC at the Golden Nugget, phone-less.
  • ...crying (hysterically) on the sidewalk at 2am with two friends.
  • ...nights filled with playing Kings.
  • ...loosing and winning Never Have I Ever.
  • ...secret parking lot parties.
  • ,,,THE DRANK.
  • ...when you lie to strangers that it's your 21st birthday for free shots (Looking at you Meg).
  • ...handlebar-in because you can't ride a bike.
  • ...late night wawa runs.
  • ...binge-watching Shameless.
  • ...all you can eat sushi.
  • ...discussing pinterest on your lunch break.
  • ...accidentally breaking your friends toothbrush holder, spilling wine all over her room, and somehow ruining her comforter while you're at it. (I love you Kelli) 
  • ...witnessing beach weddings.
  • ...dancing on the beach to Drake.
  • ...Amish bands.
  • ..."badges we don't need no stinkin badges."
  • ...gaining new nicknames that will probably follow you for life,
  • ...journaling on the beach.
  • ... life changing.

I can't begin to understand or explain how much this summer meant to be. Throughout this summer I inisted this was the worst summer ever and was my least favorite, but turns out this was my favorite summer ever.

I'll be honest, I wasn't always on my best behavior this summer and I made many mistakes- some bigger than others... but I learned in the most authentic, genuine way that God loves us despite our actions, sins, and mistakes. I was telling a friend the other day that sometimes I sit around and think about how much God really loves us. Think of all the life changing moments, mistakes, and good things too that have happened in your life over the span of your years... He knew everything. He knew you were going to lie about that bad grade, He knew you'd slip up and say the f word while experiencing road rage, and he knew I'd slip up but He still chose to die on the cross for my sins too.

When the sun shines, it feels like a hug from God- I've always sad that. I mean it too. He still is hugging me and leading me out of my mistakes, failures, and worries... I just have to listen and obey and learn.

Learning is hard and I'm struggling daily, and the enemy whispers lies all the time that make me dwell in my mistakes. I'm still learning... but I know the books not closed, so I will be just fine.

So thank you to the one person who helped me with this life revelation. You didn't set off to teach me about God and Jesus and religion, that I'm sure of but God used you and I'm glad. I'm glad I met you, and for a while I never thought I'd say that.

Thank you to every friend who helped clean up my messes this summer- rather that meant literally getting soap and water and scrubbing to holding me as I cried inaudible, you were there for every single moment and I can't express how much that means to me.

Thank you to Summer '16, Summer of Surprises... you'll be missed
xoxo

June 8, 2016

May Favorites


It's been a crazy week (and it's only Wednesday!). I have been spending most of my day packing, I am preparing for a girls weekend in Charlotte with one of my best friends, and I leave for Jersey in five days (!!!)

Also, who here watches The Bachelorette? This season is insane. I have so many questions, like what in the world does JoJo see in Evan!? Why can't I stop staring at Jordan every time he's remotely on my tv? And how in the world are there people rooting for Chad, because I feel like he's going to be the star in my nightmares from now on... anyway, back to my favorites lol

Beauty
1. CoverGirl The Super Sizer Mascara: If you've been a reader for a while then you know if I love something (especially mascara) I gush, I admit I never thought I'd find a mascara I liked more than ItCosmetic's Hello Lashes. With recommendation from a dear friend (and a total envy crush on her lashes) I bought this mascara, and (no joke) two more people in my life have asked for the name and have gone out and bought it. When your lashes still look amazing via a crappy dusty iphone snap... then you know you find the one *insert hand making the ok gesture emoji*

2. Maybelline Master Pro Contour Palette: It's always such a depressing moment when your favorite high-end palette smashes into a million tiny pieces. I picked up this one instead because well a target is a lot closer than a sephora or ulta. I absolutely adore the highlight in this palette, I want to go around adding it to everyone I see lol.

3. Buxom's Lip Gloss in "White Russian": I won't lie, I originally only bought this because Taylor Morgan raved about it in her snap and blog. The next thing you know it's a staple in my everyday makeup routine. 

4. Secret Deodorant in "Macaroon Delight": Okay so I realize it might be slightly crazy and delirious  to include a deodorant and perhaps you're about to click that little red x above but I love the scent of this deodorant. I also love macaroons, so really it's quite a win win.


Seasonal
1. Victoria Secret Getaway Halter: I'm still mourning the fact that Victoria Secret will be discontinuing their swim line (I'm not okay...). I adore the color of this top, it's comfy and even being halter... I find myself picking it out of the collection more than I thought I would. I know it will be a go-to at work on the beach.

2. Swan Pool Float: If you're on basically any social media (Instagram, Pinterest, or Tumblr) then you know that pool floats are everywhere but there's something about the swan that keeps me going back to it.

3. Sun Bum Chapstick: I believe I've talked about this chapstick a lot on LookBrooke, but it's my absolute favorite. It leaves my lips feeling smooth, re-hydrated, and it leaves this sugary-sweet taste (just being honest.) 

4.  Ray Bans Aviators: Literally my favorite sunglasses ever, my dad actually bought me a pair for Christmas (they were Wayfarers) and they fell off my head during a boat ride and my life was shattered. (Okay, a tad bit dramatic...) One day while working at the beach though I saw something in the sand and pulled up aviators.

Coveting
1. Guac This Way shirt: Lately, I've been wanting to add a bunch of crazy random shirts to my closet. I used to hate t-shirts but I feel like this is a fun way to add a statement and still be super comfy.

2. H&M Shorts: You always need a good pair of distressed jeans to take on the day, and with the price tag being $20, I'm swooning hard.... ;)

3. Steve Madden Nude Sandal: I barely own any heeled sandals and obviously a good nude sandal is the place to start, I can already imagine all the different outfits I could pair these shoes with! 

Other
1. She's The Man: I know, I know this movie came out when I was like in 8th grade so how possibly could it be on my favorites but some movies you just become ya know? Like basically how we are the generation that might tear up a little bit if we hear the words High School Musical (I still remember feeling like a true star in the making when I was told to come to the board and write out how to correctly spell Zac Efron... yeah claim to fame right there lol) Anyway. I'm pretty sure everybody and their grandmas (except one poor unfortunate 24 year old male soul who now has been redeemed thanks to moi!) know this movie but I recently watched it for the first time in a while and forgot how genuinely funny it is. Also, any gif from the movie is the perfect reaction for boys on tinder ("Girls with asses like mine, don't talk to boys with faces like yours.") 

2. Yogurt Parfaits: If you follow me on instagram then you know the other day I sat down with a yogurt parfait and Southern Charm and began my morning (pure bliss!). Lately, I've been loving adding this salted caramel greek yogurt mousse to the bowl and topping it off with sliced strawberries, blackberries, and a little bit of honey roasted granola!

3. MUSIC: If you've been around a while then you know I'm a theatre nerd. A huge one in fact and if you're new to the party, I am so sorry. Lately there are two soundtracks I seem to have on repeat daily. Those are Spring Awakening and Hamilton, if you happen not to live under a rock then you know or have at least heard of Hamilton. When I'm happy, sad, tired, or just need background noise these two are the way to go. ((Also both have Jonathan Groff, so win win!!)) 

What are some of your favorites??
xoxo





June 2, 2016

Off The Shoulder










Can you spot the bandaid? How embarrassing, the other day I was making muffins for breakfast and somehow slid the top of my arm onto one of the hot racks (ouchhh). It doesn't take long to realize I'm accident prone between the tripping, bumping of the head, and almost falling off beds that are a regular occurrence. *insert monkey covering his eyes emoji* A good friend of mine used to joke that I'd meet the love of my life by tripping into them or hurting myself... I'm beginning to think they are 100% right ha!

I know off the shoulder is such a big trend right now, but I honestly can't get enough of it. I had been searching for a good two months for the perfect dress to wear to a graduation and off the shoulder kept being a thing I knew I wanted the dress to include. I finally logged onto Francesca's one day and immediately knew I had found the dress!

Basically, if life was like a cartoon... my entire closet would be full with this little number. I'd wear it over and over again...

xoxo

|Francesca's Off The Shoulder Dress|BCBGeneration Shoes (similar styles here and here)|Forever 21 Hat (Similar)|

June 1, 2016

Summer 2016 Reading// Looks Little Covets


Can you believe it's already June, like where in the world did these past few months go?? It feels like it was just fall and I was obsessed with Starbuck's caramel apple spice (yassss) and agonizing over whether to tell some a guy a joke. Now I'm getting ready to pack up for Jersey and can't stop day dreaming about Victoria Secret bathing suits (the struggle is real ya'll). Each summer I stock up on a few books to read because usually beach days can get quite boring if you don't have something entertaining by your side.

 Here are six of my favorites that you can add to your list...

Ever feel like everyone but you has their life under control? Isabella, Mary and Lauren feel like everyone they know has a plan, a good job, and a nice boyfriend. Isabella, on the other hand, thinks she might hate her own boyfriend, Mary is working so hard she's hoping to get hit by a car just so she can have some time off work and Lauren is dating a man who can't spell her first name. All three of them have been friends since college, and now - more than ever - they need each other, as they struggle through those thrilling, bewildering, what-on-earth-am-I-doing years when everyone else is getting married and they're just getting drunk.

Last summer my good friend Lauren actually texted me this book saying we needed to read it. Being at the age where everyone seems to be getting married or having babies (or getting boyfriends even) I sometimes feel a bit behind. Heck, I didn't know what I wanted to do or have a real plan for executing it til a couple weeks ago, I'm not ready to spend my days with someone else at this point. This is perfect for every girl feeling lost in today's #ringbyspring culture, Close reminds us that we are right where we belong and take our time enjoying the ride and awkward stories. 


Madeline is a force to be reckoned with. She’s funny and biting, passionate, she remembers everything and forgives no one. Her ex-husband and his yogi new wife have moved into her beloved beachside community, and their daughter is in the same kindergarten class as Madeline’s youngest (how is this possible?). And to top it all off, Madeline’s teenage daughter seems to be choosing Madeline’s ex-husband over her. (How. Is. This. Possible?). Celeste is the kind of beautiful woman who makes the world stop and stare. While she may seem a bit flustered at times, who wouldn’t be, with those rambunctious twin boys? Now that the boys are starting school, Celeste and her husband look set to become the king and queen of the school parent body. But royalty often comes at a price, and Celeste is grappling with how much more she is willing to pay. New to town, single mom Jane is so young that another mother mistakes her for the nanny. Jane is sad beyond her years and harbors secret doubts about her son. But why? While Madeline and Celeste soon take Jane under their wing, none of them realizes how the arrival of Jane and her inscrutable little boy will affect them all. Big Little Lies is a brilliant take on ex-husbands and second wives, mothers and daughters, schoolyard scandal, and the dangerous little lies we tell ourselves just to survive.

This was actually a book that got lent to me in exchange for one of my own, not having any clue what I was getting myself into... I was surprised by how quickly I became invested in the story line. If you know me personally then you know when summer starts baby fever becomes an all too real thing for me, working on the beach means being surrounded and you mentally start shopping for your imaginary children. Since the book deals with a kindergarten class. I was instantly intrigued... it helps that while reading you feel as though Madeline is your best friend. 

3. #GIRLBOSS.
Sophia Amoruso spent her teens hitchhiking, committing petty theft, and scrounging in dumpsters for leftover bagels. By age twenty-two she had dropped out of school, and was broke, directionless, and checking IDs in the lobby of an art school—a job she’d taken for the health insurance. It was in that lobby that Sophia decided to start selling vintage clothes on eBay. Flash forward ten years to today, and she’s the founder and executive chairman of Nasty Gal, a $250-million-plus fashion retailer with more than four hundred employees. Sophia was never a typical CEO, or a typical anything, and she’s written #GIRLBOSS for other girls like her: outsiders (and insiders) seeking a unique path to success, even when that path is windy as all hell and lined with naysayers. #GIRLBOSS proves that being successful isn’t about where you went to college or how popular you were in high school. It’s about trusting your instincts and following your gut; knowing which rules to follow and which to break; when to button up and when to let your freak flag fly.

I know, I know everyone and their momma has already told you to go out and buy this book. I was intrigued for a long time but never actually went out and grabbed a copy until this winter, To be honest I felt like the #girlboss inside me was slacking big time, and I wasn't doing anything with my life to help put this information into action. This book isn't just for the girl taking pictures of her outfits and typing away daily on her blog, the one that just got promoted in their job and are really making a name of themselves... it's for each girl in each time of their life. Rather you're CEO or completely confused at where your next direction needs to be... her tales of perseverance, learning lessons the hard way, and passion will leave you wanting to take the next step- regardless of what that needs to be. 

4. Never Have I Ever: My Life (So Far) Without A Date.
"I've been single for my entire life. Not one boyfriend. Not one short-term dating situation. Not one person with whom I regularly hung out and kissed on the face." So begins Katie Heaney's memoir of her years spent looking for love, but never quite finding it. By age 25, equipped with a college degree, a load of friends, and a happy family life, she still has never had a boyfriend...and she's barely even been on a second date. Throughout this laugh-out-loud funny book, you will meet Katie's loyal group of girlfriends, including flirtatious and outgoing Rylee, the wild child to Katie's shrinking violet, as well as a whole roster of Katie's ill-fated crushes. And you will get to know Katie herself -- a smart, modern heroine relaying truths about everything from the subtleties of a Facebook message exchange to the fact that "Everybody who works in a coffee shop is at least a little bit hot." Funny, relatable, and inspiring, this is a memoir for anyone who has ever struggled to find love, but has also had a lot of fun in the process.

I know I've mentioned this book before because I have yet to find a book I've loved more. As a girl who has never had a boyfriend and has only ever been on what I affectionately refer to as "date not dates" (I mean in this day and age you just don't know a show, dinner, and a kiss goodnight and I'm just gonna call it a date not date.) I felt like this story was written just for me. With non-stop anecdotes that will have you whispering yassss with each new paragraph...you can't help but fall in love with Heaney's writing and the awkward situations everyone goes through. This book is read best with a glass of wine and a willingness to remember all the embarrassing things you too did in front of a crush.

5. The Girl on the Train. 
EVERY DAY THE SAMERachel takes the same commuter train every morning and night. Every day she rattles down the track, flashes past a stretch of cozy suburban homes, and stops at the signal that allows her to daily watch the same couple breakfasting on their deck. She’s even started to feel like she knows them. Jess and Jason, she calls them. Their life—as she sees it—is perfect. Not unlike the life she recently lost.UNTIL TODAYAnd then she sees something shocking. It’s only a minute until the train moves on, but it’s enough. Now everything’s changed. Unable to keep it to herself, Rachel goes to the police. But is she really as unreliable as they say? Soon she is deeply entangled not only in the investigation but in the lives of everyone involved. Has she done more harm than good?

I am currently reading this book and loving every second. At first, it felt a little confusing and mundane, like you were reading a list more than a story. I have finally reached the plot, and I couldn't be more invested, Not lying when I saw I get excited for the time during tanning I can crack open the book, or while lying in bed before sleeping. I know that it's coming out as a movie soon, and I can't wait to see the movie transferred from my mind to screen soon. I imagine this is a perfect beach read if you need to stay entertained but don't typically do well with staying still (which is my personal problem.)

6.  Dirty Rush.
In this shockingly true-to-life novel written by an all-star team of Internet phenoms from the Total Frat Move generation, you’ll get the first true glimpse of “real” sorority life in all its f**ked up glory. Dirty Rush by Taylor Bell is what happens when you take the creative minds behind Babe Walker (author of the New York Times bestselling White Girl Problems series) and add Rebecca Martinson to the mix. Rebecca Martinson—yes, that bitch—the former Delta Gamma sister responsible for the scathing, expletive-filled email that verbally assaulted her entire chapter for being “so f**king boring” at social functions, and threatened to “c*nt punt” every last one of them if their behavior didn’t shape up. Dirty Rush is a no-holds-barred look at what really happens when you “go Greek.” Taylor Bell comes from a long line of Beta Zeta sorority sisters, who all expect her to pledge upon starting at the university. But Taylor has other plans: she’s determined to give her family the proverbial middle finger and destroy the rich tradition they hold so dear by eschewing sorority life altogether. However, Taylor’s resolve soon melts when she falls in with a group of hilarious, ultra-saucy girls, who introduce her to all things Greek and soften her to the idea of joining. Resigned to the fate the Greek gods have dealt her, Taylor pledges Beta Zeta and embarks on a collegiate career filled with the kind of carousing sure to make any sorority sister proud. Soon, Taylor’s experience as a BZ starts to feel like a jacked-up, drug-infused, and X-rated fairy tale—especially when reality comes crashing down and a rather lewd sex tape is leaked. The girl in the video looks a lot like Taylor. Has Taylor gone off the deep end? Or is someone trying to frame her? Unless she can prove her innocence and re-ingratiate herself with the sisters who’ve accused her of leaking the video in a Kim Kardashian–style bid for attention, Taylor is at risk of losing everything she’s fought (partied) so hard for.

This book was a last minute target pick up (you know when you go in just to browse and end up with four shampoo bottles, kettle corn, a bathing suit top, and a book... true story.) as I went through check out the lady commented on how she had no clue what the book was. (I was slightly embarrassed I picked up a book centered around sororities and frats and may have turned into a tomato as I explained the plot.) With sentences like "...he was shitfaced. Cute but shitfaced." I think we can all say a silent amen as we think of the idiots we may have "once" had feelings for. I've never been in a sorority and I didn't grab it because I'm dying to know what it's like "on the inside" but I did grab it for a much needed laugh and an interesting story line- perfect pool side book material. Not to mention I finished the book in a week (in between packing, nannying, birthday dinners, and getting locked up in a room for an hour shout out to Locked Up Lynchburg!!)


What are some of your favorite books, I'm obviously looking for suggestions seeing as summer hasn't even officially started and I'm almost done with the books I already had picked out...
xoxo

May 25, 2016

Instagram Round Up + Life Lately

|Anthropologie Mug|Similar Blue Dress|Jelly Jack Rogers|Que Bella Rejuvenating Face Mask|Sinful Colors Nail Polish|Old Navy Boyfriend Jeans|Naked 2 Palette|Naked Flushed (my exact palette)|

Lately life has felt like a daze, in the best way possible. My twenty third birthday came and went (for those of you who don't know twenty-three is my lucky number... so it was a big deal) with that also comes the blog's birthday which is in a few days. Sometimes I still can't believe I type something on the internet and people who aren't my best friends read it, like that's insane to me hahaha. You can typically find me in some kind of dream-like state dreaming of the future, LookBrooke, or any other crazy idea that pops into my head. I'm currently dreaming my life away but at the same time staying present in my current surroundings- and I don't think I've been this happy. Constantly daze, and I'm loving every second- here are four things about my life lately...

1. I can't stop being thankful for everyone in my life. So many friends bent over backwards to help me feel loved, appreciated, and cared for on not only my birthday but every day of my life. I've also had a lot of chances to celebrate graduations, new beginnings, birthdays, etc with a few friends lately, and being able to show those around you how much they truly mean to you... priceless. All the sap, all the cliche.

2. Lately, you can also find me book in hand sipping on coffee. Summer hasn't even officially started for me yet, and I'm on book four of my summer reading list. There have been laughs, tears, ironic moments, and plenty of new favorites added to the list. I'm thinking of doing a summer reading round-up, and I can't wait to share it with you because these books are that good or that funny and creative! 

3. For a month I started nannying two of the craziest, loudest, sweetest littles I have ever met. Days filled with Mulan, disney music, and running around playing "Baby Chicken" were where I was most thriving lately. Today was actually the last day and it breaks my little heart, but I still remember driving to Lynchburg from my initial meeting calling my grandma so excited because they seemed like the best children. Goodbyes are bittersweet and sad, but if there's one thing I've learned this past month is to treasure them. There's something special about getting to say goodbye in person- even if your pride gets the better of you in some circumstances- you'll most likely end up breaking down on the ride home because you didn't get to say goodbye. Goodbyes through text message just don't work the same.

4. GIVEAWAY. Be sure to enter through instagram for a chance to win your very own laptop skin or phone case (!!!) 
All you have to do is follow me on instagram and tag a friend in the giveaway post on instagram. (You can find and follow my instagram here)

Cheers to dream like moments and all that follow
xoxo



** Currently running is the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale, below I have picked out some of my favorites from the sale (Like $90 Jacks!) **


May 15, 2016

What's In My Bag + GIVEAWAY (!!!)







If there's one post or youtube video I enjoy the most, it's any variation of the "What's In My Bag" concept. I often times find myself swooning over the different bags, wallets, etc and adding millions of things to my wishlist.

For the most part, I keep what I store in my bag relatively simple... the everyday basics of a phone, charger, lipsticks (I'm obsessed if you couldn't tell), and gum (I always try to have it stocked with one packet that's open and an un-opened packet so I'm never without gum hahah.)

I also feel like I should mention that I keep a brush, deodorant, sunscreen face stick, perfume (that a certain guy once commented on so I kept it at hand before going there hahah), and I keep mascara in case I ever feel I need a touch up while on the move in my car. (I may even keep some more lipsticks and some chapstick too... so to say I'm obsessed with lip product may be an understatement.)

When caseapp.com contacted me saying I could order or design my very own phone case, I was delighted! As you can see, I unfortunately had cracked it this summer (in a different phone case) so when the case came in I'll admit I was hesitant. I'm the girl that has managed to break both an otterbox and lifeproof. I've dropped my phone once or twice from daily activities, and my phone has been safe. I feel as though my phone is just as secure as it was in my otterbox I previously had it in. Caseapp has even been generous enough to provide my readers with 20% off of their next offer using the code LOOKBROOKE20.  As well as the discount code, we are giving away one free phone case or laptop skin to a reader as well (!!!)

To enter the giveaway: Please refer to my instagram and enter on the giveaway photo (you should recognize the pink phonecase). (Follow me on instagram, tag two friends in the post, and for an extra entry you can comment on the post)

My Purse Contents:
1. Oh, Yes Caseapp phone case
2. #GIRLBOSS
3. Lip Products: Buxom Lip Gloss: White RussianRevlon LipstickNYX Buttergloss: MadelineLoreal: Julianne's NudeToo Faced Lip Creme: Taffy, Color Whisper (my favorite products!!)
4. Essie: Guilty Pleasures
5. I always keep a journal, I love this one from Anthropologie.
6. I keep an extra pair of sunglasses in my purse, I love these.
7. I keep a pen, gum, and this mobile charger in my purse at all times. (The mobile charger is only $10!!)

Purses I Like:





Good luck on the giveaway (!!!)
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