Must-Have Products of the Moment

Many of us have that holy grail mascara or those stay-put hair ties we love. I asked my reps this week to share their must have product of the moment with you and me. (Be sure to click on the links to shop our favorites!)

I'll go first - right now I cannot live without is my Tarte amazonian clay foundation. For years I have searched high and low for a swear-by foundation, and finally (after some recommendations) bought this one. The sales woman at Sephora was right when she told me it makes your skin feel like silk! I am in the shade fair-light neutral.

Jalia, University of Houston

"My must-have for right now is Under Armour Headbands! They are my life savors when it comes to rushing to dance practice or the gym!"

Katie M., Stephen F. Austin 

"My must-have product is Garnier Fructis Curl Shape Defining spray gel."

Megan, Texas State University 

"My must have has GOT to be the gym pass I bought yesterday! 45 dollars for UNLIMITED group exercises including Zumba, Total Body Toning, Yoga and more for the rest ofthis semester. I get to go at whatever time works for me all 7 days of the week."

Don't have a gym membership, try some at-home workouts here!

Rebecca, University of Arkansas

"I'm loving the new polka dot tights I got from Old Navy, the matching devotionals we got (see Cristina's instagram - @cristina96x), and my new self Bible study "Stepping Up" from Beth Moore" that goes through the Book of Psalms!"

Shae-Lynn, Fanshawe College

 TGIF!

X,

Cristina 

"I'd have to say my Alex and Ani "S" bangle. I wear it whether I'm in sweats or dressed up. I can't leave the house without it. Another must-have would be my matte black Hunters! I just recently moved into my dorm and it's in a much colder city than I'm used to! I wear them everywhere and they're super cute!"

Healthy Eating on Campus!

Before we talk about one of my favorite subjects (a.k.a food)...

Disclaimer: I cannot take credit for all of these tips. I am passing on some of what I've learned from my favorite fitness and beauty gurus. I will link their blogs/videos at the end of the post, so you can check them out, too!

Please note: I am not a nutrition major/professional body builder/dietician. Also, I don't diet, I just try to eat clean, nutritious foods to take care of my body.

 Breelovesbeauty has taught me so much. I adore her videos and actually prefer them to Netflix nowadays. She taught me that if you want to try to get better at drinking more water, try having an 8oz glass every hour on the hour. I have a big plastic cup I got from Wal-Mart for 60 cents that I use. Also, drink water the second you wake up to get your metabolism moving and re-hydrate (about 20-30 ounces). She has so many more tips and recipes on her channel - I apologize in advanced for getting you obsessed!

Amanda from A. Nicole Style is basically my health coach/holy grail for fitness and food questions. She texted me pictures and explained the prep for this yummy breakfast food. I make this egg-white breakfast wrap 4 times a week! It takes less than 5 minutes to make and is so much better for me to have than sugary cereal. I buy chia seed wraps from the natural foods market nearby. They are 60 calories, low in carbs, and taste the same as a tortilla. I prefer to add spinach and a little bit of salsa as Amanda recommended (I don't really eat dairy), but you could add avocado, peppers, or some sweet potato hash browns. 

Grapefruits were something I hadn't ever tried, but felt I needed to after seeing both Breelovesbeauty and Sophia Lippold rave about them on their channels. Grapefruit provides natural energy making it a great pre-workout snack or something to munch on while studying. I cover them in Stevia - no shame, it's all natural! 

Speaking of Stevia, I have switched to it for all of my sweet needs. Zero calorie sweeteners may not add any points to your Weight Watchers or calories to your counter, but they are filled with chemicals. Yes, it is more expensive than a pack of Splenda, but it will last you forever, so this cost conscious girl says it's a must-have. 

I know not everyone loves tuna like I do, but I need the protein in my diet, so these little cups are the best. To fill the void in my potato chip loving heart, I enjoy, in moderation, these Kashi Hummus Chips (4 grams of protein!) with my tuna. 

I have a dangerous sweet tooth, so these acai dark chocolate bites are to die for. Yes it's still chocolate and sugar, but when I just have a few, my dessert stomach is satisfied. 

To sum up this array of tips... 1. drink water, 2. eat lots of veggies, 3. and get some fresh air! 

X,

Cristina 

Check out my inspirations: 

follow @gotttiiii on Twitter and Insta 

click here to visit Cambria Joy's youtube channel!

click here to learn more about ways to live healthy in a dorm room from Sophia Lippold

If you don't know what to do at the gym, try workouts from Tone It Up and Blogilates. 

Dorm Room Stress Relief

TGIF on campus!

As fun as college can be, there are a lot of responsibilities included that can fall in the form of strenuous notes, challenging tests, and sometimes a rough combination of the two. Thankfully, some of my reps have given me their tips for stress relief and relaxation to share with ya'll. Whether you're in a dorm on campus or living nearby in an apartment, these lovely ladies have some ideas on how you can unwind any day of the week:

Angela, University of Alabama

"I live in an apartment, so I'm allowed to light candles. Every night when I know it's time to wind down, I light a candle and watch an episode of Cupcake Wars! For those that are in a dorm, try a scented, electric candle. They work great, too!"

Elizabeth, John Brown University

"My favorite way to de-stress after a long week of school is to get on my futon and read a book with my favorite scent, vanilla oakwood, on my candle warmer." 

Katie, Stephen F. Austin University 

"One of my favorite stress relief items is the Eucalytus Spearmint Body Wash from Bath & Body Works. It automatically calms me down after a crazy day or before one even starts. Another way I like to relax is by eating a piece of Hersey's dark chocolate. I have to limit myself or I just might eat them all in one sitting!"

Sadie, Blinn College

I like to relax with hot tea. Green tea for energy and hot peppermint to relax."

Caroline, Cy-Fair High School 

My sister and rep, Caroline, unwinds by taking a bubble bath and putting on a DIY face mask. She also tries to meditate for about 15 minutes to clear her head at the end of a long day. Search Google or Pinterest for some face mask recipes or try the red Arizona clay mask from Farmhouse Fresh. Also, try some beginner guided meditations on Youtube.

Marissa, Stephen F. Austin

"School can get really stressful at times, so if I'm in the need to become more relaxed, I'll make a big pot of coffee, get on Netflix, and turn on Friends. I'll use the Pearl Massage Bar from Lush for sore muscles from dance and stress relief."

Anders, Ole Miss

"I love to come home, plug in my candle warmer and close the blinds, then curl up in my bed with either a funny show like Bob's Burgers or Arrested Development, or a book. It also is really relaxing to turn off my overhead light and turn my lamps and string lights on. It makes the room feel not as harsh and way more cozy."

Selena, University of Wisconsin

"For many years whenever I find myself super stressed I usually go workout or play soccer to get a break from everything and unwind. Since I have been in college, by the time the day is over and I want to unwind I typically have already had two workouts and have tons of homework to do, so there is no time for a third. I have found that putting music on full blast and dancing it out either by myself or with my best friend is a quick fix that usually ends up with both of us on the ground laughing."

Kylie, Midwestern University 

My other soccer star rep, Kylie, at Midwestern told me she invested in a cute beanbag chair from Ross. She also likes to use Peppermint oil on sore muscles from soccer practice.

Shae-Lynn, Fanshawe College

"When I get stressed, I like to crack my window open a bit (fresh air is so soothing), throw on some fuzzy socks or slippers, turn on my Sam Smith CD, and paint my nails or read whatever book I'm currently on." (Shae-Lynn is now reading "Diamond in the Rough" and watching Carrie Diaries on Netflix).

Emily, TAMUC

Emily at Texas A&M Commerce likes to "take a long shower listening to upbeat music so that I stay motivated and can get excited about the upcoming events." She likes to listen to Taylor Swift or "Sugar" by Maroon 5. She also recommended the Bath and Body Works stress relief aromatherapy line!

There you have it - dorm room stress relief! And thanks to the Cristina on Campus 2015 reps for helping out. Have a great weekend!

X,

Cristina 

Fresh Faced

New obsession: Farmhouse Fresh!

I don't think my sister realized what a revolution she would be starting when she gave me a gift set for my birthday. In it I received the green tea milk wash, a clay mask, the three milk moisturizer, and an overnight serum.

I'm addicted. I actually can't wait to run out so I can shop for more! 

Here's a little product review:

 First off, did you know coconut oil is the best all natural solution to getting off your makeup and cleansing your skin? Needless to say, this green tea milk wash (con coconut) is everything: cleanser, make up remover, and it smells amazing.

The three milk moisturizer is a close favorite second. Finally a moisturizer that doesn't just sit on my face - no, it does its job and hydrates my skin to glowing (almost) perfection (because no one's perfect).

Honestly, I'm not entirely sure how this serum works, but it's called "Wine Down", so I think it's safe to say it serves a great purpose.

I really love this face mask because it isn't super messy and you don't get that concrete-face-syndrome when you apply it. Because of it's texture, it exfoliates amazingly (and gently) and leaves your skin so happy and healthy. A little goes a long way, so don't worry, this little bottle will last.

Head over to their website and get a head start on a Mother's Day gift or a back-to-school motivation present for yourself!

X,


Cristina

Liebster Award

I am so honored to have been nominated for the Leibster Award by Miss Sami Mast at The Classic Brunette.

Like she said in her acceptance post (go check out her blog by clicking the link above), I never thought that by starting this blog I would connect to so many and build amazing relationships. The girls I have met are nothing short of inspirational and I look forward to all things to come.

That being said I will now answer my questions to complete my acceptance.

1. How did you decide on the title of your blog?

My friend Sadie and I were jokingly throwing around ideas one night not thinking that something would become of it. I noticed that all the bloggers I followed had names that represented the overall theme of their blog. I thought "Well, I'm in college and I would want to write about fashion..." so Cristina on Campus just kind of popped in my head!

2. What made you decide to start your blog?

For all of high school, I really pushed myself to be something I wasn't and tried to get away from embracing who I truly was. I had thought of starting a fashion blog before, but the thought of possibly getting looked down on got the best of me. It wasn't until after I graduated high school and had accomplished some other big stepping stones that I realized I needed to do something for myself and build confidence. I remember typing up my first post and telling myself, "It's ok if only my grandma reads this". Like I said, I didn't realize the joy it would bring to my life. I couldn't be happier with the leap of faith I took. Do what makes you happy, love as hard as you can, and don't be afraid!

3. What is your favorite food?

I feel like this one is always changing. Ravioli has been a favorite since I was little. I guess if I could choose coffee, I would definitely do so.

4. Where is your favorite place to shop?

Ok I definitely cannot pick just one. I'd have to say the little boutiques that just kind of pop up in my life are my favorite places. Everything feels so one-of-a-kind and I always find something I like. For workout wear I love Forever 21's line, and I like to get my accessories from Charming Charlie. Oh and I'm obsessed with Target.

5. If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

I am the strangest human being ever and I am not a huge fan of traveling. I'm such a homebody, it's insane. I guess I'd really just love to go to New York City again (I've been there once with my dance studio). I've never been to California and I think taking a trip around different cities there and hitting the beach would be so fun.

6. What's your favorite pastime other than blogging?

Watching YouTube beauty vlogs while working out.

7. What's your favorite post you've written and why?

My very first post will always be my favorite. It's a true milestone and turning point in my life that I now have forever to look back on and cherish.

8. A long lost relative gives you a large sum of money, what do you do with it?

I would put most of it in the bank seeing as college is pretty expensive! Then I would use some to go on a vacation with my sisters. Preferably somewhere warm with lots of shopping :)

9. What is your all time favorite movie?

Wild Child. It has terrible reviews and mediocre acting, but it's my favorite. Emma Roberts' character is my spirit animal.

10. Where do you see your blog going in the next year?

I am seeing more photography in my future! With my new camera, I just want to take pictures of everything!

11. Where does your blog inspiration come from?

It was other blogs that gave me the courage and drive to start my own. As for everything after that, I am inspired by everything around me - people, places, and things. When I walk around a store and see something that I like, my mind automatically goes full on blog mode and I start dreaming up ideas centered around this one item. Sometimes, a conversation with a good friend brings me inspiration. The littlest things in life can bring the greatest sense of fulfillment if you let them.

Ta da! And now I nominate Rachel of Seashells and Sparkles, Alexandria Eisenhardt aka The College Lifestylist, Amanda Gott at a.nicole style, and the lovely Seersucker Sass. 

To accept your award you must:

Answer all 11 questions given to you, comment on this post with a link to your answers so I can read them, and in your post be sure to link back to the person that nominated you, & nominate up to 10 other bloggers for the award!

X,

Cristina

Dorm Room Workouts

Hi campus ladies!

Today's post includes some great exercises you can do from the comfort of your dorm room or apartment!

I like to do an exercise like this after 30 minutes of high intensity cardio, but it also stands great on it's own.

This first sequence is from Youtube personality BreeLovesBeauty in her collaboration with The Lean Machines (both channels are linked if you click on their names).

Beach body abs:

30 second plank

right arm down, side plank (30 seconds)

left arm down, side plank (30 seconds)

30 seconds of hill climbers

30 seconds of plank walkups

This next one I found online at tone-and-tighten.com:

At home arm workout:

pushups - 30 seconds on, 15 rest

chair dips - 50 seconds on, 15 rest

arm circles - 30 seconds forward, 30 seconds backwards, 50 seconds on, 15 rest

(repeat 3x)

Don't forget to stretch before and after. I recommend have a glass of water at your stretching times to make sure you keep hydrated.

Last tip is to go for a walk! Walking or hiking is a LISS workout (Low Intensity Steady State). A workout like this will boost your metabolism and leave you feeling great. 

Have a great weekend!

X,

Cristina

Easy Hairstyles

When I roll out of bed for an 8:00am class, I really don't want to spend forever on my hair. I'd rather drink 2 cups of coffee and if I'm lucky - make my eyeliner match! However, I know I feel better and am more eager to work when I feel confident and put together. Maybe that's just me, but I'd still like to share some quick and easy hairstyles with ya'll.

1. Straight with a little body

After a shower, I prep my hair with Tresemme heat protectant spray and blow-dry. I straighten pieces here and there that have a mind of their own. Then, I pull my hair (in sections) up and away at the crown of my head and apply dry shampoo at the roots there. I create body this way that lasts all day. It looks like you've spent an hour in the salon chair when you really were up late watching Friends on Netflix. Try it!

2. High pony

Crowd favorite. Here's the kicker: once your ponytail is secure, place two bobby pins in the elastic pointing down towards the nape of your neck. This adds a little bump to the ponytail to give it more volume. The higher the hair, the closer to heaven.

*fun fact I seem to like to cut the top of my head off in selfies* sorry! :)

Now a word from one of my reps on their go-to quick "do":

Kylie at Midwestern University says, "I always go for the high ponytail with a hat, then you don't have to worry about bumps and it takes maybe 3 minutes."










X,

Cristina

Christmas and Birthday Collective Haul

Hi everyone!

I had a great Christmas and then my birthday and my sweet family gave me some amazing gifts that I wanted to share. If you received some spending money for the holidays, I take it your next destination is the mall. Let me give you some more info on what I'm loving.

 First things first, I bought myself a New Years Resolution piece. By this I mean that it is something I can wear or use to motivate myself in my perseverance to reach my goals for 2015. Let's say you want to lose 10 pounds: go into your favorite spot for jeans and buy yourself a pair in a smaller size. This way, you'll have motivation to eat right and exercise. I bought this strappy workout top in my all time favorite color. Hopefully I can tone up and feel confident in this top from Lulu Lemon.

Anthropologie had a great after-Christmas sale, so I bought myself this lovely white blouse. You can never have too many whites! It's going to look great when spring comes. (It's freezing here, I can't wait!)

Also from Anthro, I got this adorable ring holder that I had been seeing around on other blogs. And to add some rings to the mix, I found some arrow design ones at Forever 21 for only $3. (See them on my Instagram account @cristina96x)

I have come to the conclusion that every girl needs a colorful handbag...because all your other handbags might get lonely! Just kidding (kinda) - something like this is great for dressing up a simple outfit or a LBD. With a detachable chain strap, this bag is perfect for day or night.

I am loving products from Farmhouse Fresh. Go check them out! This milk wash removes my makeup and cleanses my skin all while relaxing me on account of it's green tea ingredient. The 3 milk moisturizer leaves my skin so soft!

 My Fitbit is my new baby and I love it! I am really trying to eat better and exercise more. God only gave us one body, and it's up to us to nourish it. Counting my calories and pushing my performance each day is really going to help me feel more alive and nourished! If you are in the Fayetteville area, join me in trying a weekly green juice such as this Pear of Kale. Head to Berry Naturals on College and let's get healthy.

Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers as I start my next semester. Praying for all of you as well!

X,

Cristina

2nd Semester Dorm Room Tour

Hey ya'll, I'm back on campus!

Winter break treated me so well and I sure was sad to leave, but I am so excited to be reunited with my friends and beautiful campus.

I've moved into a new dorm for second semester and thought it deserved a blog post. I've added a couple new items to my list of decor.

Dorm sweet dorm! I find most of my decor on various Etsy shops and any organizers at Target. My new Keurig is heaven! 

Something catch your eye? Click on the linked names of the items below to shop for them! 

Bath and Body Works Rose Salve

Revlon Parfumerie Nail Enamel

The Motto print

Travel Nylon Double-Zip Case (similar)

Umbrella Ring Dish