10 Things I Should Have Brought To College

(original image via Pinterest)

Today, as the post title says, I am sharing with you 10 Things I Should Have Brought To College. No worries if you forget something though, it's not like there aren't grocery stores. (Although I know some schools don't have a Target close by...WHAT?) So here are some things I forgot that I don't want you to. Enjoy! 

1. Drying Rack or Clothespin and wire

The dorm dryers had an annoying tendency to shrink my clothes. I'm a girl in college - I buy my t-shirts two sizes too big and I like them to stay that way. My friend Megan used to hang up a clothing line and dry her t-shirts that way. Highly recommend!

2. Toolbox

I never ended up buying one, but Cameron bought one and said he was very glad he did!

3. Wallflower plug-ins

My dorm room never smelled bad; it just never smelled good. It had a "dorm" smell - I know that doesn't make much sense. After smelling how amazing my neighbor's room smelled with Wallflower plug-ins, I got some  for my room from Bath and Body Works.

4. Boxes to go home with

I don't know why I didn't think it would be a good idea to keep some cardboard boxes for when I needed to move out of my dorm at the end of the year. Maybe just collapse whatever ones you use to move in and store under your bed

5. a Keurig or coffee pot 

I know that they can be a little pricey, but it's a better deal than buying Starbucks every day. I tried making these microwavable lattes for the first semester, but good coffee is so important. I got a Keurig for Christmas and I am so glad I did! 

6. Extra blankets

It got very cold up on my campus, and I couldn't always get my room to be as warm as I wanted to by the thermostat. Buying a throw blanket or something warm to go on your bed during the winter is a good idea.

7. Rainboots

So I might have been the only girl that didn't have these. I'm currently on the hunt for a bargain priced pair of Hunter boots. They'll be great for rain or snow, so if your campus gets either of those, consider this an investment! (No more soaking wet tennis shoes left in the hallway to dry!) 

8. Stationary

I love snail mail! I know that I can call and FaceTime my family and friends, but a handwritten note says something special. I found some cute stationary at Target, so I suggest getting some there while shopping for your dorm.

9. A wristlet or ID tag

Your student ID goes everywhere with you, so it's nice to have a special place for it. I like wristlet wallets because they can hold your money and ID, but their note bulky. I got mine last year at Target! 

10. Board game/deck of cards

Luckily, a friend of mine had some cards when we were all super bored on a snow day! You never know when there won't be anything to do and the best thing will be to play a game of BS with some kids in your hall. 

Hope this helps! Let me know if there are any college or back to school themed posts you would like to see: email me at cristinaoncampus@gmail.com

X,

Cristina

Goodbye Boring School Supplies

In my last back to school post, I shared how I get room decor at a low price. Today, I'll be showing you how to customize that decor plus any school supplies you buy to be ready for back to school or campus.

When I shop for desk or office supplies, I'm faced with a small dilemma. All the cute and colorful ones are so much more expensive than the standard version. There's adorable folders and clipboards that will cost me as much as if I bought five of the plain ones. 

To solve this problem, I went to the crafting aisle and bought a couple staples: washi tape and cute scrapbook paper.

So here I'm showing you the before and after shots of my desk supplies. Using washi tape, I made everything my own! Since I got the original pieces from affordable stores like Target and Ross, this project was so inexpensive. I plan to use the leftover washi tape (there's several meters left) to decorate my folders and notebooks when I get those.

I think these pencils are so fun. I just made different patterns with the tape and it only took about 10 minutes to do all of the pencils I bought.

This organizer (about $6 from Ross) is going on my dresser to organize my makeup palletes and brushes. It's not-so plain anymore and I love it!

This little bucket is from the dollar section at Target. I did a little geometric pattern on it, and I think it turned out nicely. Last year, I used the little bucket for my keys so I didn't lose them; I'll probably do the same this year. 

This is going to be an organizer for my desk. It can fit my iPad mini, a stapler, and whatever else my heart desires. I used the tape to make a little space for me to label it if I want to. (from Target)

I think this little guy (from Target) is going to be for the handful of lipsticks I own. I like to keep things organized, and I'm glad I could add a little color to this product.

You can use anything you want to decorate your school supplies. Yes, you can just buy some pens and a thing of notebook paper and walk into the lecture hall, but I think taking the time to personalize your things helps you to be motivated and even excited for back to school. I can't wait to be all moved in in my town house and put my creations of my desk! 

Have any cute school supplies you want to show off? Tag me in your pics on Instagram (@cristina96x) or mention me on Twitter (@cristina96x)

Also, I haven't mentioned it on the blog before, but I do have a snapchat if you want to see some behind the scenes or various pictures of food. I'm "cristina_m24"!

Just 3 more weeks till I'm back on campus!

X,

Cristina

Lazy Sunday: What To Watch on Netflix

Hey guys! So I feel like my Monday/Wednesday/Friday blogging schedule is working well except I hate that Friday to Monday stretch; it feels like an eternity that I don't get to connect with you all. So I think over the weekend, I'll post something short and fun for you. Maybe a "Top 10 Things To Do When You're Bored" post or some of my recent pinnings on Pinterest. 

For this weekend, here's what to watch on Netflix (because I know you're in your pajamas and you aren't planning to leave the house, no judgement).

If you like to get lost in a series...

-If you haven't watched Gilmore Girls yet, YOU NEED TO. It's cute and witty and makes your heart feel as warm and fuzzy as your footie pajamas.

If you like to giggle causing you to spill your morning coffee...

-New Girl for sure! I have rewatched this series too many times. 4 weirdos sharing one loft apartment makes for a quotable comedy.

If you like game shows/reality TV...

-I recently binged watched Marriage Bootcamp: Bridezillas. I got sucked in so fast. There's drama, there's broken hearts, and there's housewives screaming at each other. So good.

If you like 21 min of fun...

-Young and Hungry was cute, funny, and easy to get through with two short seasons.

If you like ABC family movies...

-Then my two favorites are Beauty and the Briefcase or Revenge of The Bridesmaids! 

Enjoy your lazy Sunday!

X,

Cristina

How To Save A Fortune on Room/Dorm Decor

Decorating your new room or dorm is so fun and special, but if you're like me, you want your wallet to feel as happy about it as I do.

Naturally, you'll spend a good chunk of money on the big things like bedroom sets for a new home or the room and board payment for your dorm room, but all the decor and fixin's after that don't need to be expensive.

My first piece of advice is to visit inexpensive stores. You don't need to go to a fancy furniture shop to find cute pillows and throw blankets. My favorite places to visit for inexpensive room decor are listed below:

-HomeGoods

-Michaels

-Target

-Wal-Mart

-IKEA

-SteinMart

If you are a fan of online shopping, visit these sites. Designer styles up 70% off! Just keep your eye out for decor sales by subscribing to their emails:

-Zulily

-Overstock

-Wayfair

Another tip is to visit Pinterest to search for dupes for your favorite pieces. I've pinned a few to my * board.

*that's what my roommates and I call ourselves because Malibu is the name of our townhouse property!

Try visiting the dollar sections at the shops listed above to find all the little things you may need. I got a few mason jars from Target the other day - each for a dollar! 

My last tip is to Do-It-Yourself. A piece of wall art from an art gallery can be expensive - a cute canvas is not! 

So far for my own room, I've gotten all the furniture (bed, dresser, side table, desk, chair) from IKEA. I also got my duvet and sheets there. For decor, I'm hitting up the stores I listed in my first tip. This is just a sneak peek of some of the things I picked up (all for under $20) when I went to TJ Maxx and Ross the other day. 

Have any room decor shopping tips? Post in the comments below or comment on my last Instagram pic. I'm "cristina96x"!

X,

Cristina

So You Want To Start A Blog...

<Image via Pinterest>

Today I'm giving you some quick tips for starting a blog. Since I started blogging, a few people have asked me how they could start their own blog.

Here are the main questions I get asked about how to start a blog and my answers for you.

Q: What's the best platform to use - Blogger or Wordpress?

A: This is a hard question for me to answer because I have never tried out Wordpress. Fun fact: I had a "blog" in middle school and I used Blogger back then, so I just went with what I knew. If you aren't doing a ".com" I find Blogger to be more user-friendly. Completely up to you!

Q: What should I name my blog?

A: Ask yourself a couple questions first:

-What is my blog about? Do I want my name to reflect that or just be more generic?

-Do I want my name somewhere in the title?

Also, don't copy someone else's name but just switch it around a little. Aside from wanting to be original, you don't want to take someone else's name because that is their brand. Also, it could be confusing for readers.

Q: Do I need to have a professional camera to blog?

A: No. A photography camera will take better quality photos, but you can always work your way up there. I wasn't sure how blogging would even go for me, so I stuck it out with my phone for several months before committing and getting a nice camera.

Q: What kind of camera do you use?

A: Nikon D3200

Q: How often should I blog?

A: To gain a following, it is better to blog frequently (like a couple times a week). The way I do it is at the beginning of the month, I plan content and schedule when the posts are going to go up. If I do posts that are mainly text and don't require a photo shoot, then I post three times a week. If I spend more time doing a blog photo shoot, I'll only post twice that week. Some bloggers post 5-6 times a week, so again - up to you!

Q: Should I have a separate Instagram/Twitter for my blog?

A: Once again, this is your call. If for privacy reasons, you would like to have separate social media accounts for your blog, then go for it. That could also help you keep things organized. However, if you want you can mix the two. Sometimes you post pictures of you and your friends at a football game and sometimes you post an #ootd pic. If people don't like that, then they just won't follow you and that's ok!

Q: How do I get people to read my blog?

A: Shamelessly self promote! Your great Aunt on Facebook would definitely click the link to your blog if you posted it as a status. A picture on Instagram announcing your latest post will get some attention. Use your social media platforms to let people know "hey I took pictures outside my house in this outfit while cars drove by and it was weird and awkward for me but I really have a passion for this, so if you would check out my blog that would be much appreciated".

Hope this helps answer some questions about blogging. If you have any more questions, feel free to email me at cristinaoncampus@gmail.com.

X,

Cristina

Summer Beauty Favorites

During the summer, I want beauty products that are lightweight, effortless to apply, and come in sweet summer scents. 

I love the Loreal Pro Infallible Pro Matte liquid foundation. I use this Studio 35 blender sponge from Walgreens to apply it - takes 3 min (literally, I've timed it). 

My perfect summer lip color search came to an end after I finally found this Covergirl Colorlicious lipstick. I got the shade 415-"Delight Blush". I was surprised to find that it was in fact a lipstick and not a balm, but it glides on as smooth as chapstick and isn't cakey. 

I have two lotions because I go to Bath and Body Works every time I go to the mall (see "often").  The Apricot Vanilla is old. During the semi-annual sale, they bring out previously discontinued products. I used it back in my freshman year of high school, and it's the best one I've ever had! This Oahu Coconut is still available here! My go to place for summer scents in things from candles to lip glosses has always (and will always be) BBW. 

These Ponds Evening Sooth make-up remover wipes are my new obsession. They smell so good! I like to remove my makeup with wipes and these are by far the best ones I've purchased.

What are your favorite summer beauty products? Comment down below or on my Instagram picture for this post! (I'm @cristina96x)

X,

Cristina 

Will I Actually Wear This?

Not one summer goes by that I don't go to the mall at least 10 times.

 Sometimes it's nice to meet up with friends and walk around a cool, air conditioned building and get Starbucks and soft pretzels. If you're like me, then you most likely end up buying something because the $40 your Grandma gave you is burning a hole in your pocket. Sometimes, we get that buyer's remorse where we find ourselves buying yet another pair of shorts that we won't even be able to wear in a couple of months. 

To avoid this catastrophe, I'm providing some samples of pieces that you can buy this summer while on a trip to the mall, but still be able to wear in the upcoming fall season.

1. A simple shift dress

Simple pieces, like the shift dress linked above, can be worn all year long. When it gets cold, you can add a pair of tights and layer a jacket. No shame in buying one or two. You can dress it up or down with accessories of your choice based on the season.

2. An Aztec print tank

There are so many cute tanks like this in stores right now, but I really do love this one from Versona. Come fall, add a solid cardigan over it for a great back to school outfit. 

3. A neutral peasant top

Peasant tops like this one from American Eagle are great because they look good with jeans or shorts. Just trade in your cutoffs for a pair of comfy skinny jeans or get a little more adventurous/70s- inspired with a pair of flares. 

4. A T-shirt dress

Similar to the shift dress, a t-shirt dress is equal parts comfy and versatile. This may be your backyard BBQ outfit now, but it can also be your fall gameday dress later. 

5. Strappy sandals 

As long as weather allows, strappy sandals are perfect. I'm on the hunt for the perfect pair myself, and I'm loving the selection at Nordstrom Rack. 

Enjoy the guilt-less shopping this summer and have a soft pretzel for me! 

X,

Cristina

At Home Workouts + Summer Fit Tips

It's definitely not too late to get in shape for summer. And you don't even need a gym membership to tone up and live a healthier lifestyle. 

Here are 5 (totally free, totally effective) at-home workout ideas for you to try this July:

1. Pinterest workouts

As I'm sure you know, Pinterest isn't just for wish lists and room decor. You can search "at home full body workouts" in the search bar and get tons of great results. All you need is a yoga mat or towel and you're ready to go. I've already pinned my favorite ones to my Pinterest. 

2.  Blogilates videos 

Fitness trainer, Cassey Ho, has formulated upbeat, Pilates-based workouts from her home to yours. I love to pick out 2 or 3 videos and get a good workout in. You can search through her videos on Youtube to find exactly what you're looking for. Lately, I'm loving the Swimsuit Slim Down Series. Try it! 

3. Netflix workouts

(image via Pinterest)

Ok - these are my favorites. Two summers ago, I was binge-watching Gossip Girl and I decided to create a workout to go along with the show. For example, every time Blair was shown in a new outfit, I did 10 pushups. You can make your own, or search for some online. I've found a couple and I pinned them here. 

4. Bodyweight plyo

No weight needed! Plyo exercises are great and so easy to do from home. Turn your backyard or living room into your gym for the day. You can get some ideas from this Pinterest board or just start messing around and see what works. 

5. Yoga

Yoga has countless benefits, but it's also one of the best workouts to do from home. If you're not sure how to get started, I recommend searching some videos on Youtube. Improving your flexibility and body strength will do wonders in your other workouts. Plus, I think it'd be pretty cool to eventually be able to Instagram some of those cool, bendy poses.

Exercising is only a portion of what it takes to be healthy, but it's definitely important for you to move your body. Try these quick tips this summer to start feeling energized and confident for the rest of your summer days:

1. Track your water consumption

(image via Pinterest) 

GOTCHA! You thought I wasn't going to mention water in one of my fitness posts....Nope! So yes, drink lots of water. Instead of just telling you to do so, I thought I'd show you how you can make sure you do so. Use a marker and label your water bottles like the picture above to make sure that you get enough.

2. Get up early - and do something to wake you up! 

I usually get up around 7, drink a large glass of water, eat some breakfast, and do a workout. This wakes me up and gets me ready for the day. For you, it may be a hot shower, a cup of coffee, yoga, etc. - whatever it is, do it. Be productive - get errands done and spend time with family and friends. 

3. Make a to-do list each day

Even if all it says is "wake up, eat, and watch Netflix" you'll still have that wonderful, accomplished feeling as you cross things off throughout the day. The dollar section at Target has the cutest to-do list pads right now. 

4. Eat your veggies the best way for a hot day

Smoothies and fresh juice are perfect for summer. Get your veggies in by blending or juicing them for a cool, refreshing pick-me-up. I follow this recipe for the perfect blend. 

5. Make healthy snacks

Healthy starts at the table. Create some yummy concoctions from your pantry and enjoy with friends, by the pool, or (since this seems to be a reoccurring theme) while watching Netflix! My friend and roomie Cole recently started a health and lifestyle blog, sunshineandsmoothies.weebly.com. She shares delicious recipes for healthy snacks and meals - check it out!

That's it for this post! If you find a great workout or a yummy recipe, send me a pin on Pinterest. 

Have a great week!

X,

Cristina

365 Days of Blogging

It's my Blog-iversary!

To be honest, I had no idea waking up today that today was actually one year since I started my blog. I knew it was around the beginning of July, but I didn't know the exact date. I decided to start drafting a post for my one-year, so I scrolled down to my first post to see when this one should go up and - oh, it's today. So yay!!!

I want to do this post 3-6-5 style. I've had this blog for 365 days and I want to share my 3 favorite posts, 6 things I've learned, and 5 things I'm looking forward to.

*I just made up this format, so if you are a blogger and you would like to use this for your one year post, leave your blog URL in the comments, so I can read yours!

Let's do this:

3 Favorite posts:

-My very first post I did will always have a special place in my heart. I felt so silly standing outside my house and having my boyfriend take a close up picture of the shorts I got on sale, but if I hadn't gotten out there in the Texas heat and posed in front of an iPhone, this blog would not be here! The post is all about being "Sale Rack Savvy" and you can read it here.

-I made a Beyonce-inspired outfits post when I went to her concert, and I am still so proud of myself for that. I'm obsessed, and I'm glad I could turn that Queen Bey obsession into a fun post. Read it here!

-Recently, I did a post on how I cleared my acne, and it was one of my most viewed posts to date! It was definitely out of my comfort zone to post some "before" pictures of myself, but I was so happy with the feedback I got from some readers about how the tips helped them. In case you missed it, I have that post linked here.

6 Things I've learned:

-People will stare as you get your pictures taken. My dorm had a beautiful brick wall that was a perfect background for pictures, so I was always getting outfit photos out there. People would walk by and kind of stare and at first it made me pretty anxious, but then I just thought "maybe they'll think I'm famous or something". Haha, but really, my advice to other bloggers on this issue is just to embrace it. Pretend it's the paparazzi or something!

-It's not weird to have Internet friends. Blogging has introduced me to so many other wonderful ladies that live all around the U.S. and it's pretty dang cool. It's not weird to get connected with them. In fact, it's so fun and helpful. Sometimes I get confused on how to edit a picture in a certain format, and I can text one of my blogging friends for help. Also, collabs are super fun, and I'm blessed to have gotten to meet so many people that I can work with this way.

-Someone cares. I think that's a lot of people's worry when they start a blog - they are worried no one will care. Someone does, I promise you! It may just be your grandma at first (Hi, Grandma), but you will grow and your blog will grow and people will take notice. Your blog is for you, so don't stress over your follower count or anything. I'll never forget when my friend/roommate Megan ordered my Rocksbox. I was so excited to become a Rocksbox ItGirl, but I was terribly scared no one would actually use my discount code to order one. When Megan sent me a picture of hers, I almost cried. So moral of the story - someone always cares.

-There is no perfection in blogging. A lot goes into making these posts, but there's no need to stress over them being perfect. The best posts are the raw ones that sometimes don't even contain pictures.

-Finding a balance is hard, but when you do it can be really fun. There were times I got so overwhelmed will school and never blogged. That's ok, really. You should be a student/mom/soccer coach/nurse/whatever job or title you have *first*. If blogging isn't your job, then don't worry if you can't blog one day or something like that. It's been a year and I'm still finding a balance. That's ok! I want this to be a part of my life, so I make time for it, but I will always be a sophomore college student first. So be what you are - be yourself! 

-It all comes down to this: a blog is a place to keep your memories. You can definitely make it into something more by diving more into a fashion or lifestyle component. You can also be quite the influencer with it. But at the end of the day, you may be the only person that goes to look at your post 10 years from now, so just have fun with it and make your future self proud!

5 things I'm looking forward to:

(Don't worry I'm not going to type any more paragraphs! Sorry for the novel heehee.)

-Watching myself grow. I mean, look at my hair in the first post. That grew! :) I'm excited to see how I grow on the inside, too.

-Taking more pictures! I am finally out of the dorm life this coming year, so I will have some better places to take pictures for the blog.

-Making new connections. I've already met so many people through blogging, but I know there's even more to come. My goal for the rest of college is to attend at least one blogging conference so I can network and learn some more tricks of the trade.

-Learning new things. I am already starting to learn a little bit more on graphic design, and I'm hoping to really be able to bring more of a presence to my blog and social media.

-A NEW WEBSITE! Yes, Cristina on Campus is getting a nice face lift and I'm so excited! I'm going to have that all set up before I head back to school, and I can't wait to show you guys.

xxx

Thanks so much to everyone who reads these posts. I had wanted to blog for so many years, but I was so caught up worrying about who would read them and if people would even like them. All the people who texted and tweeted me at the beginning saying they liked my blog - THANK YOU! I probably would have gotten scared and shut it down if it weren't for the kind words of encouragement.

As of now, I have 190 posts and over 12,000 page views - that's incredible. You're incredible.

Also, thanks to my reps for being AMAZING! You all are so talented and trendy, and I just love working with you.

Here's to 365 more days of blogging!

X,

Cristina

How I Edit My Instagram Photos

Hi guys! Today I'm sharing how I edit my Instagram photos. I think these are really fun posts to read because it's so behind-the-scenes and interesting to know how people get their photos Instagram-worthy. I am not the best at getting things to look aesthetically pleasing and I don't even post as much as most bloggers, but I am trying to get better at that. I think right now in my life if I took a picture every day, my Insta feed would feature a lot of me typing blog posts at my computer and grocery store runs.

So to get on into it, there are three apps total that I use to edit my Instagram photos. VSCOcam, InstaVogue, and Instagram.

If I'm taking a picture and there's something white in the background or an object is on a white surface like in this example, I go into Instavogue (similar to Facetune..and it's free!) and I hit the "Instavogue" button and then press "Whiten" to fix the color.

 I like to take my photos on my phone and the camera sometimes makes things that are white look kind of yellow-y or washed out. I use the whiten tool to fix this.

I either use filters from the VSCOcam app or just the Instagram app itself because those filters are my favorite. For this particular photo, I didn't use a filter, I just used the photo edit tools on Instagram.

I turn up the brightness a bit.

I add a little contrast. 

And then lastly, I make the picture a little warmer because I like the colors to be more vibrant. That's kind of the new aesthetic I'm going for.

That's pretty much it :) There's a whole different way that I edit blog photos, so if you'd like to see a post on that, let me know!

I'm trying to get better at posting on Instagram, so if you want to see if I live up to that July goals promise, follow me on Instagram at @cristina96x Also, I'm doing a very fun giveaway at 1000 followers, so stick around for that. 

Tag me in your photos if you happen to try out these apps and have an amazing rest of the week and weekend. 

X,

Cristina

Fun Summer Date Ideas + the perfect outfit!

I've posted some date ideas before but I wanted to do an updated summer edition! This post was inspired by ME FINALLY BEING DONE WITH SUMMER SCHOOL AND CAM BEING HOME FROM STUDY ABROAD! If you want to see some pictures from his trip, check out cameronthrelkeld.com and visit the photo gallery. 

To make this post a little different, I linked some outfits for you guys for each of these dates. These are pieces I have or have had my eye on, and I thought this would be a fun way to incorporate them. 

1. Pool Day

There's nothing better in the summer, especially here in Texas. I love my Cotton On bikini because it isn't one of those recipe-for-disaster suits that are always slipping down or coming untied - not to mention I love the style and colors.

2. A Home Cooked Meal

Cam and I did this last summer one day when we were bored. It was fun to go to the grocery store and pick out what we wanted and then to make it together. A cute and comfy tee will do just right.

3. Farmer's Market

Here in Texas, Cam and I have visited Atkinson Farms and picked up fresh fruit to make pie before and we had a lot of fun. In Arkansas, we visit the Fayetteville farmer's market and stop to buy flowers and pet the dogs from the animal shelter. Here I've found the perfect jumpsuit for the trip.

4. That reminds me... the animal shelter!

The animal shelters in your area most likely love volunteers. This is definitely an all-year-round date idea and it doesn't even have to be a date. I go with my roommates and friends during the year to walk the dogs and it's probably our favorite thing to do together! The dogs love it, too. Go get trained to be a dog walker at Fayetteville Animal Services if you're in the area. And if you're looking for a puppy or kitty- adopt don't shop :)

5. Drive-in movie

Popcorn? Check. Blankets? Check. Bug spray? Check. The perfect movie night tank? Check.

6. Netflix and takeout, Gilmore girls style

Chinese. Thai. Indian. Pizza. Sushi. Wings. Sometimes it's nice to just stop moving and stuff your face. You'll want to be comfy, so you'll probably need this.

Have some fun with your guy, gal, or pals this summer!

X,

Cristina

Healthy Eats For The Fourth

There's so much to celebrate on the Fourth of July, and today's Americans love to celebrate in three ways:

red, white, and blue themed outfits

lots of fireworks

and food! 

It is a holiday, so have 6 hotdogs and dessert if you want to! But, if you want to take every step to avoid a food baby in your American flag printed bikini or if you don't want to compromise all your hard work on your summer body, I have some delicious solutions. 

This was quite the impromptu post. I actually just made myself some lunch and it ended up having an air of a patriotic theme. I don't usually hop on a chair and take pictures of my food, but here we are. Feel free to tweak these however you and your guests would enjoy!

Summer berry salad:

On a bed of baby spinach, I added some blueberries and some chopped up strawberry. A sweet vinaigrette tastes great on top. You can add some quinoa or maybe some pecans for something more.

Rethinking Your Burger

These are vegan patties, but if that's not your thing, you could use turkey burgers or chicken sausage. Bun or no bun, they're delicious. It's a great thing to have at your barbecue for any vegetarians or vegans. 

Sparkling Ice Drinks

Add some of these to the cooler. If you don't drink soda or want something a little lighter on a hot day by the pool, these are perfect. I love the lemonade and tea flavors or the mango orange! 

Yasso Pops

A party is nothing without dessert and the best summer treat is something cool and on a stick. I am in love with these Yasso pops. These are frozen greek yogurt pops with natural ingredients and they are going to be your new favorite. There are tons of flavors to choose from such as strawberry and coffee chocolate chip. Grab some for your celebration! 

*Non of this was sponsored. I just really love food :)

Have a happy and safe fourth of July! 

X,

Cristina

June Favorites

Yes, June was devoted to summer school and I wasn't too stoked about it, but I did, of course, still have my favorite pieces, summer songs, and Netflix shows by my side.

1. The perfect summer jean short

The ones I have are sold-out, but here's a similar pair for only $10 here

I lived in my Cotton On high-wasted jean shorts. Having to be up and ready by 7:45 was a lot easier when I had an easy and comfortable outfit to wear. I usually paired them with a t-shirt or an undershirt with my favorite printed kimono. 

2. Loreal Pro Infallible Foundation

I like something lightweight in the summer because it's less of a hassle and it's more natural looking. This one was super breathable and easy to apply.

3. Kate Spade Mini Rachele handbag

This one isn't sold online anymore, but the Cedar Street Maise is similar and just as cute

I'm in love. This is such a lady bag and I'm terribly happy it's mine! I love that you can take the long strap off and just hold it by the handles. It makes it versatile so it can go from summer day to summer night. I got mine in white and since that's now a winter "do", this will be an all-year-round favorite.

4. Versona anklet

This wasn't my only pick-up from my favorite accessories shop, but it takes the spotlight because it hasn't left my..well, ankle! This is definitely a store you'll want to keep your eye on for July 4th sales.

5. Young and Hungry

Nothing will be able to fill the void in my heart that is the end of my binge watching of Gilmore Girls. But, I do love shows that are 21-22 minutes long because it's so easy to watch a couple before bed or while you're - ahem - typing up some blog posts. Young and Hungry is too cute and funny. Emily Osment is spirit animal material. (There's also a cameo by Jesse McCartney, my husband, Season 1: Episode 6)

6. Favorite summer songs

- Cheerleader by Omi (it sounds best really really loud with the windows down)

- Flashlight by Hailee Steinfield (from Pitch Perfect 2)

- Bad Blood by Taylor Swift

7. Summer Eats

The Power Kale Ceaser Salad from Panera is delicious! I spent quite a lot of time there studying the month of June, and I also loved their mango tea. 

Wishing you a lovely rest of the week.

X,

Cristina

July Goals

It's July! It's July! I am singing!

July means no more summer school (I'm done the 7th!), sunny days full of tanning, shopping for my town home, hanging with friends, blogging, and Cam finally comes home (on Saturday, ahh!!!!!!!!!) So yeah, I'm stoked. 

I have been SO incredibly busy that I haven't been able to do a lot this month. This ranged from seeing some of my friends and watching So You Think You Can Dance to getting a oil change and cleaning my closet. So July is the time to have fun and get stuff done! 

When I saw Rachel of Seashells + Sparkles blog post today with her "July Goals" link-up, it was a perfect sign I was meant to blog the list of goals I already had typed up in my phone. So here goes! Feel free to visit Rachel's blog, create your own July goals post, and link up. And if you're not much of a blogger, no problem - come chat with me on Twitter (@cristina96x) or add me on Google + here (the name's Cristina on Campus) and share your goals with me! We can keep each other accountable. xx

1. Extended gym sessions
I'm a proud gym rat. I love lifting, I love circuit training, and I love binge watching my favorite Youtubers while on the elliptical. This past month, I only had time to go for about 30-40 minutes, and I was always having to cut it short. I typically like to go for 45 minutes and have time to stretch, too. So July, the gym and I will reconnect. Can't wait!

2. More time in the sun
I have never been so pasty. This isn't just all vanity, I genuinely feel better when I've had sun. It's great for your immune system to take in those vitamins - with sunscreen of course. So, Texas, I'm going to need you to not flood again.

3. Hang out with everyone I've texted saying "we need to hang out"
Because what's better than sushi dates and workout buddies?

4. Cristina on Campus under construction
It's a surprise, but I think I'm going to do a bit of tweaking to the blog! Can't wait to get started.

5. Room shopping 
I'm so pumped. I found my bed and dresser at IKEA, so I just need to order those and then start shopping for bedspread and decor. My roomates and I also have fun visions for our kitchen and living room.

6. Sell and donate old stuff 
I guess I'm doing a late spring cleaning? I've got to sort out what I still wear from what hasn't been worn since 2012. It does a wonder for your closet and your soul.

7. Clean out computer
I can't wait to delete all my files from my online classes that I won't need in a couple days. My disk is getting full! Bye bye mitosis lectures and DNA replication outlines.

July, I am so happy you're here. I'm currently taking a break from studying for finals to write this, and I am excited to be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Have a happy and safe fourth of July, everyone!