"I'm selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best." - Marilyn Monroe
So, a new school year is almost here. Just a few weeks, or maybe even a few days (yikes!) away for some of us. Now, you may not be at all excited for homework and early mornings, but there are ways to make the transition a little bit easier (and more fun, too).
Get organized. By the end of the year, when it's time to clean out lockers, you're probably doing the "Huh, so that's where that went!" Okay. But starting out with a clean slate makes at least the first few weeks a little easier and stress-free. So clean out your folders, recycle all those old papers, and get ready to go.
Make it you. Some classes are a total snooze. There's not much magic you can pull to change that. But you can always liven up your stuff. Pull out Sharpies and stickers, make a collage, and decorate your binders and book covers. Your math notebook suddenly got a lot prettier.
Sleepover! I just love sleepovers, and any reason to have one is good with me. But especially if you and your buds have been far apart over the summer, now is so the time. You'll have a lot to catch up on before the bell rings. Plus, who better to give you input on your first day outfit?
And, as always, have fun. The first day is tomorrow, whether you like it or not, so use your last day how you want. Give yourself a mani and a new 'do, hit the pool one last time, or just lounge around and do nothing at all.
It's a shame to see summer go, but the school year's got it's bright spots, too. So enjoy the last of summer, and get ready to shine in the new year. I'll be here with ya for the whole thing.
The bags are packed, the car is running - family vacation time. Oh, boy. As much as you love the fam, sometimes the idea of spending days away with them can be overwhelming, to say the least. But no stress. You can definitely survive... and maybe even have a little fun.
Don't Forget.... Shoes, check. Swimsuit, check. You've got the basics, but make sure when you're packing in to throw in a few personal comforts, whether it's a new book you just started, your fave CD, or a special blanket. It will help you relax if you're feeling a little stressed out.
Ask and You Will Receive... Hitting your limits on family time? See if you can (nicely) negotiate a little beach time or moment in the hotel to be by yourself. Having a little alone time to recharge might just be what you need. Sometimes you just need to speak up.
Look Ahead...You want me to go where?? Not digging the place your rents picked? So maybe you are more of a city girl, and they've planned a trip in the good 'ol outdoors. See if you can do a little research about your vacay spot before you leave. Find out what kind of stuff they've got that you would enjoy to do there. You might find out they have something you, and your family, can all have a good time doing.
Wish You Were Here... So your parents aren't letting you bring your cell phone, let alone your whole crew. Yep, you're gonna miss them. Make some time to grab some postcards to send to your girls, or get some silly pics you know your BFF would love. It might not be the same without them, but at least you'll have something to share when you get back.
And most importantly...
Laugh! Chances are mom or dad, or maybe one of your li'l sibs will embarrass you at some point during the trip. No, actually not chances. They most definitely will. There is nothing in your powers to stop them. You might as well laugh, and enjoy the little comedy crew you call your family.
Are you going on vacation, FG? How do you make it rock? Let me know the scoop, either here or at Twitter or Myspace. Wishing you super summer vacays, whether you're heading out or staying home!
As you know, I'm really trying to get in the holiday spirit this year. And one of the most simple ways to do that is music. So for this week's top 10, I am going to share the FG choices for holiday CDs. Check them out for an extra boost of holiday cheer!
1. Acoustic Hearts of Winter - Aly & AJ(Must listen: "Greatest Time of Year")
2. Rejoyce: The Christmas Album - Jessica Simpson
3. Let It Snow! - Michael Buble
4. Disney Channel Holiday - Disney Channel Stars (my fave - "Last Christmas" by Ashley Tisdale!)
5. Cheetah-Licious Christmas - The Cheetah Girls (So Cheetah-fabulous!)
6. Now That's What I Call Christmas! - Various Artists
7. The Taylor Swift Holiday Collection - Taylor Swift
8. All Wrapped Up! - Hollywood Records Artists (this includes the JoBros & DemiLovato)
9. Music From the OC: Mix 3 - Have A Very Merry Chrismukkah - Various Artists (Random, but so fun!)
10. My Kind of Christmas - Christina Aguilera(An older one, but that girl can sing!)
So those are my faves. How about you, FGs? What's your fave holiday music? Or is it so not your thing? Leave a comment to let me know what you think.
Even if you're stressed about the holidays, there are lots of things to enjoy about the coming month. Make some time to relax and enjoy the season - you'll be glad you did.
1. Hot Chocolate - Okay, this is one of my favorite things of winter. It's delicious, and believe it or not kinda good for you too. Check out these CosmoGIRL! recipes.
2. Movies - Some of the best movies come out this time of year. I'm excited for Marley & Me, which comes out December 25th. But I've also heard great things about Four Christmases and Twilight, which are both already in theatres.
3. Snow Days - Now is the time! Snow days are fabulous for curling up indoors (or playing outside). Even if you live somewhere it doesn't snow, it's still a great time to get cozy.
4. Dress-Up - With all of the parties and events that come up this month, there's a bunch of chances to get all dressed up. Even if you can't afford a bunch of new stuff (believe me, I can't either!), you can get creative with everything you've got in your closet already.
5. Music - I love, love, love holiday music. And if you need a little boost of holiday cheer this month, music can do it for you. Check it out - Jessica Simpson, Aly & AJ, the Cheetah Girls, and lots of your fave artists have made holiday CDs.
6. Baking - Whether you need treats for friends (or just for yourself), now is a time to get in the kitchen. It's relaxing, fun, and delicious -try this Seventeen.com recipes.
7. School Break - Winter break is getting close! And we could all use one every now and again.
8. Family Time - Okay, maybe they're a little bit crazy. But spending time with the fam can be great, and this month brings a lot of it. And hey, nobody loves you or understands you better -sometimes they can even teach you a thing or two.
9. Giving Back - There are always extra chances to volunteer or reach out to others in need of your help during this month. Keep an eye out, or check out this FG Top 10, if you need ideas.
10. Almost a New Year... December means that the year is almost over, and 2009 will be here soon. New year, new opportunities. What do you want to do with it?
xoxo
The Fab Gal
PS - What are your favorite parts of this month? Leave a comment to share your thoughts.
So holiday season isn't quite here yet, but I am so ready for it! And it's about time to think about going shopping. Maybe you know what's on your wish list, but what are you getting your FGs? If you're like me, you want to get them something special - that' won't break the piggy bank. Think of this list as your starter guide for the perfect presents:
1. Get Crafty - Why not give her something made special by you? Crafts are so fun because they are unique, thoughtful, and won't even cost you too much! Look online for instructions for making jewelry, keepsakes, and all kinds of cute stuff.
2. Share the Music - Holiday music is so my thing, so one year I handed out mixed CDs of my fave holiday tunes. Even if you don't want to go with the holiday theme, you could make your friends a "friendship soundtrack," with all the songs that remind you of them.
3. Bake Up Some Love - Let's face it, who doesn't love good food? Whipping up a batch of sugar cookies or another treat is fun for you, and you'll have presents that all of your friends can enjoy.
4. Capture the Memories - If you and your BFF take a lot of photos, why not gather them up for her? Photo albums, scrapbooks, or even a collage are sweet and creative.
5. Save it for Later - If your friend is truly the girl who has it all, why not give her something that isn't found in a store? Make up a gift certificate for a girls' night, spa day, or slumber party - redeemable whenever she wants.
6. Get Her Started - Is there a hobby she's always wanted to try - scrapbooking, making sushi, running, whatever? Make her a starter pack of things to help her get going on that dream.
7. Spread the Joy - Maybe you can find a gift that's double duty - something cute that also gives part of the proceeds to charity. Better yet, you and your girls can decide to skip the gifts this year, and each donate $10 to a cause you love.
8. Her Faves - What things always make you think of your friend? Does she have a favorite food, favorite lip gloss, favorite candle? Whatever those things are, they are probably a safe bet for presents. Make her a friendship box of all of those things that remind you of her. It's a safe bet, and she will know you were truly thinking of her.
9. Your Fave - If you're at a loss at what to get for a new friend, why not give her something that you love? A favorite book, CD, or treat will show you are thoughtful - and help her get to know you a little better.
10. Skip it! - If you and your friends are running out of ideas (or $) for gifts to give, why not just skip it? Have a holiday party for yourselves instead. It will help you get pumped for winter break, and the memories will last long after the wrapping paper's gone.
What are your gift ideas, FG? What are you getting for your friends this year? Let me know by comment or at The Fab Gal Myspace Blog.
So, what is your favorite color? Well, some people say it has a lot to do with personality. Check out what I found out about "color personality," and see if yours matches up!
1. Blue - Dreamy and optimistic, you often have your head in the clouds. Still, you are very compassionate, caring, and always faithful to your friends.
2. Green - You are always real and sensitive to others' needs - you are a peace-loving girl. This makes green-lovers great listeners.
3. Purple - You value being unique and always stay true to yourself. Purple people also tend to be creative and artistic.
4. Orange - You are fun-loving and social, and always the life of the party. You tend to be bold and fearless, and maybe even a little dramatic.
5. Black - You are very sophisticated, and come off as a little mysterious. You keep a lot just beneath the surface.
6. Pink - You are charming and loving towards everyone. Pink-lovers also enjoy getting that extra special treatment.
7. Red - You are passionate, ambitious, and clear about what you want. Red girls are real movers and shakers!
8. Silver - You are thoughtful and considerate of your emotions. You always think about what you want before you act.
9. Yellow - You are sunny and imaginative. You prefer freedom to responsibility, and love to be adventurous!
10. Gold - You have big dreams and are willing to go after them! You are always on-the-go and live life to the fullest.
Okay, so there you go! Does your favorite color match you? How about your BFFs? It's fun to give it a try!
Halloween is almost here. Are you dressing up? I am! I haven't decided what I want to be yet, and if you haven't either, that's okay! Becuase this week's Top 10 is the best FG Halloween costumes.
1. Selena Gomez & Demi Lovato - A lot of people have dressed up as Paris & Nicole. But why don't you and your BFF dress up as these two good girl BFFs? Check it out here.
2. High School Musical Cast - The movie just came out yesterday, so why not celebrate by dressing up as your fave character? This is a great one to do with a group!
3. Princess - It's what you always dressed up as when you were little, but there's no reason you can't bring it back. Once a princess, always a princess.
4. Night Sky - If you want an awesome DIY costume, check out this idea from GirlsLife.
5. Jonas Brothers - You might be in love with them, but why can't you be them? Check out this idea from Seventeen.
6. Decades - If you don't have time to go costume shopping, dressing from your fave decade is always easy to do. Bright colors and off the shoulder tops for the 80s, tie-dye for the 70s, or even a flapper dress for the 40s - there's a lot of options.
7. Vampire - An old classic, but the Twilight series is bringing vampire back into fashion. You can make it as cooky or cute as you want!
8. Cartoon Girl - What was your fave show as a kid? Rugrats? The Flinestones? Ninja Turtles? Try dressing up as one of the characters from that show to bring back to good 'ol days.
9. Boy - If you really want to get crazy, why not try a boy's costume? Napoleon Dynamite, The Joker, Indiana Jones... there are so many options! It might take some extra work, but it will be worth the shock factor.
10. Your Best Friend - If you're really low on time, why not just switch clothes with a buddy? You can trade places (and clothes) for the night, and really walk in each other's shoes!
I hope this helps! Let me know your fab costume ideas here or at The Fab Gal Myspace.
6. Quote: “Where other people are obsessed with the idea that I am always reinventing myself, I’d rather think that I’m shedding my layers, and slowly revealing myself. It feels to me like I’m just getting closer to the core of who I really am.” – Madonna
7. TV Show: Extreme Makeover Home Edition (a totally different kind of makeover!)
Maybe you're looking to make a big change in your life, but you don't know where to start. Or maybe you just wanna try something new. Either way, I've got some ways to give your life a mini-makeover, FG style:
Switch it Up - While looks are certainly not the most important thing, sometimes it can be fun to try a new look. The cool thing is, you can go big or start small. If you want just a little something new, go online and find a new way to style your hair, or incorporate some new accessories into your current wardrobe. If you want a big change, the sky's the limit! You can try a new hair cut or color, a new make-up look, or even a whole style switch (although that can get expensive).
Change Your Habits - If you want to work on your health, it's good to start by just focusing on one habit you want to change. For example, maybe you want to cut back on soda or start a regular exercise routine. It's easier to manage if you keep your attention to that one goal, and you'll be more likely to stick with it. Set small goals, and don't be too hard on yourself if it takes awhile!
Find a New Crowd - Maybe you're looking to expand your circle of friends. If that's the case, then one of the easiest ways to meet new people is to get involved in a new club or activity at school. Even if you're only kinda excited about the activity, you'll meet lots of interesting people. When you connect with someone new, invite them to have lunch together or go shopping with your current group of girlies.
Learn a New Skill - Is there something you've always wanted to learn how to do? Play guitar? Practice hip-hop dance? Learn how to knit? Whatever it is, go for it! Find a class to sign up for or a friend or family member that can teach you. It may not seem like a "makeover," but learning something new will make you feel way good.
Change Your Game - If boys are your trouble, maybe it's time to give your game plan a makeover. Take a step back and think about what you want. If you're in a relationship that is making you unhappy, it might be time to think about making a change. Or if feel like you're having no luck with your crush, maybe you can open your mind to other opportunities. It's not always easy to move on, but you need to do what's best for you.
This week's list isn't the ususal Top 10 list. But I think horoscopes can be really fun, to see how accurate they are. So here is a little bit about each of the signs. See how you match up!
1. Aquarius (Birthdays 1/20-2/18) - You are a forward thinker who always has a positive attitude. You stand out because you don't mind being original or unconvential. Best Color: Hot Pink
2. Pisces (2/19-3/20) - You are very intuitive, which makes you skilled at reading people. You are also a compassionate person who loves to help others. Best Color: Pale Violet
3. Aries (3/21-4/19) - You are headstrong and always go after what you want. Your energetic and daring nature makes you fun to be with. Best Color: Bright Red
4. Taurus (4/20-5/20) - You are a person of stability and you like things to stay the same. You are a loyal gal whose friends can always depend on. Best Color: Golden Brown
5. Gemini (5/21-6/20) - You are the queen of multi-tasking. You are also very quick-witted and good at convincing people to do what you want. Best Color: Silver
6. Cancer (6/21-7/22) - You are emotional and sensitive. You also have a very caring heart and always look out for others. Best Color: Sea Green
7. Leo (7/23-8/22) - You are a natural leader with strong confidence. You can also be quite dramatic and enjoy performing for others. Best Color: Yellow
8. Virgo ( 8/23-9/22) - You are skilled at organization and have a keen eye for detail. You are the go-to gal for solving problems. Best Color: Forest Green
9. Libra (9/23-10/22) - You have a balanced point of view and always see both sides of a situation. You have an impeccable taste for art and beauty. Best Color: Pale Pink
10. Scorpio (10/23 - 11/22) - You are intense and passionate about everything you do. Your sharp focus helps you accomplish any goal you go after. Best Color: Black
11. Sagittarius (11/23-12/21) - You are an adventurer whose good attitude makes any situation fun. You also have a strong sense of truth and honesty. Best Color: Turquoise
12. Capricorn (12/22-1/19) - You are classy, mature, and driven. You are a hard-worker who has the patience to stick with a project once you've started. Best Color: Gray
As much as I love to shop, there are only so many times that me and my girlfriends can go to the mall. And there are only so many movies in the theater. So if you and your friends are tired of the same old things, read on. This week's Top 10 is fun things that you can do with your BFFs, or new Fs, or whoever!
1. Camping - I just went yesterday for the first time ever! Even if you aren't a nature girl, there is something magic about lying outside under the stars. Plus, think of all the games you can play when it gets dark! Just make sure you find a safe campsite (or use your backyard).
2. Make a Movie - If you've got a video camera, put it to good use! You can make a TV show, or a music video, or just be silly Miley and Mandy style. Get creative!
3. Ice Skating - You've probably been roller skating a million times. But how about ice skating? It's even more fun. Hot Chocolate is necessary.
4. Try a New Restaurant - You never know what might become the favorite for you and your girls. If there's nowhere new, at least try a new flavor of ice cream or pizza toppings and your usual place.
5. Learn to Dance - You can bust a move to your fave songs on the radio. But what about ballroom dancing? Swing dancing? Hip hop? Find a class and get on your dancing shoes.
6. Photo Shoot - It's pretty silly, but me and my cousins love to dress up and take pictures. We always end up with some new things to put on Facebook, as well as a lot of laughs!
7. Work it Out - It's hard to find time (and motivation) to fit exercise into your schedule. But if you do it with your friends, it's so easy! Try yoga, jogging, kickboxing, or whatever you enjoy.
8. TV Marathon - Sometimes it feels good to just chill out. But instead of watching the same old shows, rent a DVD of something you've never watched before (Friends? Gilmore Girls? I Love Lucy?). You'll have something to share that not everybody has seen.
9. Road Trip - This one takes a little extra time and planning. If you see a good concert or event coming up in a city nearby, see if you can work out (maybe as an early birthday present!) for your parents to take you and a few friends. It'll be worth the memories!
10. Share the love - How often do you tell your friends how much you appreciate them? Write them a card, or make a special day to celebrate what you share. It will make all of you feel great.
I don't know about you, but I have been crazy-busy lately. I enjoy it, but sometimes living at high-speed can wear you down, and it's good to take some time to take care of yourself. Here are some small ways for a FG to get some TLC.
1. Exercise - I'll admit this is not always my first choice when I'm stressed. But taking care of your body always makes you feel better, and being active clears your head. Plus, endorphins can boost your mood!
2. Journal - When you're feeling overwhelmed, writing it out can be a good release for what you're feeling. It doesn't have to be A+ material - it's for your eyes only!
3. Spa Day - What better way to relax? It's cool if you can't afford to go to a real salon - I couldn't either. You can find all kinds of recipes for homemade masks online. That, a cucumber, and some nail polish and you're good to go!
4. Get Outside - There's something pretty magical about the sun for making you feel better. Take a few minutes to walk outside and see some natural beauty - it will definitely brighten your day.
5. Enjoy your Favorites - Sometimes when life gets hard, all you need is some of your comforts. Whatever it is, be it your favorite food or listening to the Jonas Brothers CD for the millionth time, go ahead and enjoy it!
6. Support System - When I'm not sure what to do, I always know I have some people that are ready to listen in a heartbeat. Having someone that you can call on when things get rough is the best thing.
7. Go for Ice Cream - They say it's bad to turn to food when you're sad, but sometimes it's good to let yourself indulge after a long, hard week of tests, boys, chores, etc. Get a little of your favorite food - be it ice cream, pizza, whatever - to treat yourself.
8. Listen to Music - Music can be so powerful in lifting you mood. Grab your favorite CD, turn up the stereo, and if you want to, dance! You'll feel so much better.
9. Take a deep breath - My mom always tells me to do this when life seems like too much. I always think it sounds silly, but it does work! When you're freaking out, take a few deep breaths, and just remember to take it one step at a time.
10. Laugh! - Laughter is the best medicine, right? I get it from my fave TV shows and hanging out with my best friends. There's no way to explain it, but it always makes you feel better!
How do you relax when life gets stressful, FGs? I hope you find sometime to do those things during your fabulously busy life! And remember, I'm always here when you need it.
So last week I think I mentioned what a good thing journaling can be. It really is an awesome way to get things out or sort through your own thoughts before talking to someone else. It's also great when you just have awesome memories you want to save. If you're not sure how to start, here are a few suggestions:
What Did You Do Today? - So maybe it really annoys you when your mom asks this. But going through it yourself can get it off your mind if you're stressed, and you may come across some things you were too busy to notice.
Happy List - I've read before that it's really good to reflect on the good things that happen to you, to help you see more of the positive. So even if you're thinking how awful of a day it was, what was good? Did you get a nice compliment? Have your fave thing for lunch? There's got to be something, and thinking about those things will make you feel better.
Free Thought - Once you get used to journaling, you'll be more in tune with your thoughts. Try writing down everything that comes into your head, just as it does. You'll be surprised what you've got in there!
Collage - If words aren't your thing, that's cool. Actually, half of my journals are just things I cut out of magazines I thought were interesting or song lyrics that matched how I was feeling that day. Whatever works for you is good.
There's no one way to do it when it comes to journaling. It doesn't need to be perfect - really, you don't even need to worry about punctuation! I bet you didn't know that Meg Cabot's journals inspired The Princess Diaries series. Who knows what inspiration journaling will give you?
When the school year comes, time seems to be lost to homework, club meetings, after-school gossip, and maybe a few winks of sleep. But as much as you love summer, admit it: you're starting to get a teeny bit bored. You can only boy-watch at the mall and lay out by the pool so long. Well, it's time to get creative - really. Summer is the perfect time to do those fun projects you've been thinking about all year. So grab a friend & get going!
Make a Collage - My cousins and I did this last year. We took our old mags and made little posters for our lockers. It was fun picking out words and pictures to match each other, and it made me happy every time I went for my textbooks!
Start a Journal - I've said it before, but a journal is a really great thing to have. And when the school year is in full swing, you'll be happy to have it. Find a good notebook and decorate as you desire (plus - be sure to find a safe place to store it!).
Spa Day - No big deal if you don't have mega-bucks to spend at a salon. Look online for at-home recipes for face masks and scrubs. Grab some nail polish, your best girlies, and you're good to go!
Make a Memory Box - You've had an amazing summer, and you want to remember it. Get your fave photos, tickets, seashells, whatev and find a cute box to store them in. Better yet, make it a time capsule, and bury it to uncover someday in the future. (I'll tell ya about my time capsule adventure Friday!)
What Else? What have you been hoping to do that you haven't yet? See a certain movie? Clean your closet? Learn kickboxing? Get to it, girlfriend! You won't have any more time once summer's done. Believe me, Facebook will wait.
What awesome things have you been doing this summer, FGs? I'd love to hear! Leave a comment to let me know (see instructions on the side).
