What's in My Bag: Beach Bag

So now that it's officially summer and I'm leaving in two days for the beach, I figured that a beach bag post was in order. While I don't carry anything too ridiculous or special, I enjoy reading about what others take with them to the beach. I thought that maybe someone would be interested in what I take, as well.

Like I said, nothing too out of the ordinary, but I wouldn't be ready for a day on the beach without it.

The most important and instrumental part of this post is the bag! Previously, I've used the freebie bags that I've gotten from Victoria's Secret or Lancome... I decided it was time to step it up and purchase a bag for the beach. Before spring break, I bought the Lilly Shoreline Tote, which I absolutely love! It's a great size for the beach, but I also use it as my "carry on" personal bag when I travel. It's big enough to load up with anything that didn't quite fit in the suitcase.

Most of my bag is full of skincare products. I'm a redhead with freckles, blue eyes, and fair skin. I never use a sunscreen less that 15 SPF and usually it's more like 30. I love the Australian Gold Sunscreen, because it has a built-in bronzer that I swear gets baked into your skin! I started using this my freshman year and it gives me a nice bronze glow that redheads usually don't experience. I wouldn't recommend that on your face though, as it's pretty oily. Instead, I use Maybelline BB cream... I know, I'm obsessed! But it's got a 30 SPF which protects my face. Just for fun, I bring along these Evian Mineral Water sprays. They are refreshing and help to rejuvenate the face from the sun. They're kinda pricey, but they're a splurge that I wouldn't want to go without.

Besides skin care, my bag typically carries a book and some sunglasses. For the beach, I make sure that I also have my Cotton Snaps on- nothing like losing a pair of Ray Bans to the ocean. I also like to take my most versatile pair of sunglasses, which is usually my aviators and my tortoise shell wayfarers. These two work with brown or black and can work on the beach or out to dinner. Pack smart! I also like to keep a hat in my bag, usually a Ralph Lauren hat in either navy or pink (since these two colors go with most of my swimsuits) to keep my face shaded and keep my hair from drying out in the sun. 

Of course, what better to do on the beach than read and people-watch? I used to be the type to put in my headphones and just lay there, but that's no fun and nobody wants to disturb you. With a book you can hear the ocean, chime in on conversations, and cute guys may feel like they can approach you to play a pick-up volleyball game :) Book-wise, there are a few books that I've already posted that I plan to read this summer. Naturally, the list keeps growing and I've now got three books from Amazon on their way! They're all about the British Royals- mostly William, Harry, and Catherine-, which I think will be fascinating to read! First on the docket? Kate. She is so inspiring and I think this will be the perfect beach read.

Now that my beach bag is all packed and I'm imagining laying out, listening to the ocean, I want these next 48 hours to pass quickly!

The Cure...

This couldn't be more true. I'll pass on the tears, 

but I will gladly take the sea. 

Top 5: March 13

It's that time again! A new month means looking back at what all has happened in my life the last month. Good and bad, March is one month closer to warmer weather so I can't complain. This month I got into a few new habits, as well as rekindling my love for a few new ones! Here it goes, my favorites for the month of March:

1. Lilly Pulitzer

I've been a Lilly fan for a while, but this month has taken my interest to a new level. I love reading the brand blog and looking at new arrivals- either I don't look close enough on a daily basis, or new stuff is added almost daily! I also began reading a biography on the one and only Lilly P., and have gained so much love and respect for the woman that is known so well in American culture! She was such an inspiration in the 20th century, and also seems very humble and kind. I'd absolutely love to meet her.

2. Country Music

As I've stated many times before, I've become a huge fan of country music! I love Rascal Flatts, Florida Georgia Line, you name it, I probably like it! On a completely different note, the new OneRepublic album is great too!

3. MacBook

This month, my parents bought me my MacBook- more affectionately called my baby- which could be one of the most convenient presents for the whole family! My stuff stays out of their way and they stay out of mine. perfection. One thing that I haven't quite gotten used to is the function of apps on the computer... I guess I don't have the need for them at this point. I am looking for some apps (preferably free for now) that may be useful! Send them my way!

4. Running

I've been a regular runner for the past couple of years. I run for enjoyment and exercise, but I haven't been running lately because it's been such a cold winter! I have outdoor running clothes, but I just hate being cold. Anyways, being on vacation has given me the opportunity to run in shorts and t-shirts on the beach, barefoot. Can't beat that, and it'll be way too cold when i get home if it's anywhere between 70 degrees! I've ruined myself. But, hopefully I'll get in shape to run a few half marathons this summer!

5. Soda Water

Yes, a bit random, but my dad went shopping and there must have been a great deal on Perrier, because he came home with 10 cases of it! I'm not the person to demand "fancy" water, but it's been enjoyable while we've had it! It reminds me of being in Europe- since water is more expensive than beer and so you might as well get the fancy kind- and it just puts a spin on the ever important staying hydrated. 

So, there we are. These are the top 5 new additions to my life since the beginning of the month. I've had a great month of school, which ended with two weeks of vacation! No room for complaints, and the best part of the year is quickly approaching! 

What will you remember from March?

Reading List: Water for Elephants

After countless recommendations, WfE has received the coveted top spot on my Kindle and I couldn't be more excited! I went into this book skeptical- I had only heard that it was a good movie about a circus. Literally nothing more. It had really good ratings on GoodReads, so I figured I'd give it a try. I have been more than pleasantly surprised.

The book, while about a circus, is much deeper than just that. There is love, tragedy, and a real sense of loss due to the depression. There are struggles and fights, stress and tears. It's obvious that the author really took the time to research the time period and the circuses of the day. This book really sucks me into the time period, which is something that I've had a hard time finding since the beloved Harry Potter books. 

The worst part about finding a book so enjoyable is the lack of time I have to read. Between school, work, and extracurriculars, I've lost almost all sense to self. Any down time I have, I want to just be lazy and watch GG. I guess I could be reading during that time, but it's so hard when every GG episode ends with a cliff hanger (every SINGLE one!!!!!). But, I have been trying to spend more time reading and it's very enjoyable and relaxing. Water for Elephants is a great read to escape my crazy busy life and get caught up in someone else's world.

Even though it's taking me a while to read, don't let that scare you away. If you love a good read I'd definitely recommend WfE. You won't be disappointed!