So I officially got through Week 1 at Chapman, and I must say it was a blast! I've met so many new people and I'm definitely beginning to adapt to a new pace of things! It is really nice to see familiar faces in a completely new place as well!

I didn't get a chance to post my Friday Favorites this week but I will post a few of my favvs from the week!

Favorite TV scene:

So You Think You Can Dance: Skinny Love - Birdy

Favorite Throwback:

Mr. & Mrs. Smith

Oh Brad and Angelina...!

This scene captivates me each ad every single time!

Favorite Quote: 

"I've come to believe that caring for myself is not self-indulgent. Caring for myself is an act of survival." - Audre Lorde

Favorite Styles: 

 

I love when men are able to rock the cardigan look. I find it to look chic and casual at the same time. Definitely one of my favorite looks!

This Boho chic style can't possibly look any better!

 I love everything about this look--even the splash of country!

Chapman Day 1

So I have officially been back in the LA area for a week now, and have gotten the chance to get settled in and acclimated to what was once very familiar! Today was my first day at Chapman University and I couldn't imagine myself anywhere else! The moment I got to Chapman on Thursday morning for my orientation, I knew that I am where I am meant to be! The people go out of their way to be nice, the campus is absolutely gorgeous, and the hour and a half drive is worth it! Mondays are my longest and busiest days, but the madness of this Monday wasn't too bad! I met new people in all of my classes: French, Food Science, and Chemistry and learned new things about each of my professors! Chapman definitely feels like an entirely new and different world than SB, and I'm ready to take it in with open arms!! :)

GO PANTHERS!!!

Tonight is my last night in Santa Barbara, and after 3 very crazy and amazing years I have to say goodbye to this chapter of my life. I am moving back to LA, which should be one of the easier transitions in my life; however it is still a change. Even though LA is home, I've had another place I've called home for the better part of three years and I can't help but remember that there was a reason I left LA to begin with. I know that I am going back to a city and not a time in that city, so aspects of my life will be far different than they were when I was in high school and that this will be an entire new adventure! I am excited, nervous, scared and ready to tackle all this new-ness all at once.
Personally I find reading peaceful quotes or insightful messages very helpful to get me through the tougher times and challenging moments, or even to help keep me focused on my intention for each day.

You can always count on HUMP DAY

New people come into our lives every day; sometimes we run into the old, but each person that crosses our path teaches us something new about ourselves and the world we live in.  Some of these people have an easier time breaking our walls down and entering our hearts, minds and lives; while we are able to detect red flags in others far quicker.

At the end of the day, I've learned that regardless of the people who find their way into our lives, we can only trust and depend on ourselves.  When all else fails, we must grow strong for ourselves. We can only truly believe that we don't have alternative motives as we will innately do whatever it takes to keep ourselves afloat. Take a moment on Hump Day to inhale the good, exhale the bad and trust yourself.  Trust that you will take care of yourself, that you will make healthy decisions, at least for the rest of this week, and that you will ultimately love yourself first so that at the end of the day you can depend on yourself if nobody else. 

"Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are." - unknown

For all you LIBRAS out there:
There is something about yourself that you don't like. It may be your current state of physical fitness. It may be a bad habit. It could be the way you behave in a specific relationship. It might be a lack of assertiveness, or too much aggression.  It could be anything. But it's on your mind because you are on a quest toward self-improvement. and changing whatever is on your mind is your key to reaching a higher level, and fulfilling your place here on earth. This is an excellent time to begin addressing this and any other flaws you wish to improve.  The cosmos is sending special healing energy your way.

Once again, Hump Day

"To live long, it is necessary to live slowly."- Cicero

The Only Place you Have to Live in

10 ways to take care of ourselves this week: 

• Eat nutrient rich foods: Brain foods, Skin foods, Gut foods
• Get more sleep
• Snack healthy and often
• Reduce your stress by creating coping mechanisms 
• Drink less alcohol, and more water
• Exercise outdoors 
• Insert an entire skin regimen twice a day to your daily schedule: Cleanse, Masque, Toner, Serum, Moisturizer
• Meditate.. this does not have to be a silent meditation.. just take at least 20 minutes for yourself each day to reflect and be grateful
• Take your supplements
• Be aware of your posture; have good posture

I always feel like when I set my intentions at the start of a week to take care of myself, I am usually more aware of my choices and therefore my decisions! When I spend some time to reflect on the last week, I am able to realize which area of my life I need to pay more attention to in order to improve this week.  Of course, I will try my best to incorporate all 10 of the above aspects into my life daily but I will put more energy into being aware of my posture this week. 

What are your intentions for the week? We can all improve something, what are you wanting to work on?!

Friday Favorites

Favorite Trailer:

Ashton Kutcher as Steve Jobs, coming out on August 16th! 

Favorite Song:

[[[ Holy Grail - Jay Z ft. Justin Timberlake ]]]

Favorite Quote:
"When the world quiets down to the sound of your own breathing, we all want the same things: comfort, love and a peaceful heart."

Favorite Men's Style:

Favorite Smile:

Today is THE DAY. Today, I will go with the flow.

Horoscope of the Day: 
A relationship that is central to your life may be going through a kind of metamorphosis.  If you can imagine the chrysalis of a future butterfly.  It isn't very pretty. It's simply a little bit of fluff that the soon-to-be butterfly inhabits before bursting into full bloom.  Your life with a certain person may now be dull. But you are going through a period of growth. Allow yourself to grow and bloom. Allow yourself to see the possibilities. If you can ride out a rough  period, Libra, you will have something beautiful very soon. 

Words of Wisdom for the Day: 
Go with the flow.
Let go of fear and your need to control. Relinquish anxiety. Let it slip away, as you dive into the river of the present moment, the river of your life, your place in the universe. 
Stop trying to force the direction. Try not to swim against the current, unless it is necessary for your survival. If you've been clinging to a branch at the riverside, let it go.
Let yourself move forward. Let yourself be moved forward. 
Avoid the rapids when possible. If you can't, stay relaxed. Staying relaxed can take you safely through fierce currents. If you go under for a moment, allow yourself to surface naturally. You will. 
Appreciate the beauty of the scenery, as it is. See things with freshness, with newness. You shall never pass today's scenery again! 
Don't think too hard about things. The flow is meant to be experiences. Within in, care for yourself. You are part of the flow, an important part. Work within the flow. Thrashing about isn't necessary. Let the flow help you care for yourself. Let it help you set boundaries, make decisions, and get you where you need to be when it is time. 
You can trust the flow, and your part in it. 

Look of the Day: 

Words of Wisdom for the Week

Good morning everyone,
I hope you've all had a lovely start to your week! I would like to take the opportunity to shed light on everyone's busy lives with some words of wisdom. When my life gets too busy to handle or too stressful to deal with, I like to take a break and dive into some quotes and affirmations to give me peace of mind. Allow these words to sink in and bring you some serenity.

I allow my mind to relax and be at peace.  Clarity and harmony are with me and around me.  All is well.

"Trust yourself. Create the kind of self that you will be happy to live with all your life.  Make the mist of yourself by fanning the tiny, inner sparks of possibility into flames of achievement." - Golda Meir 

I trust the process of life to take me only to my highest good. I am at peace.

"Vulnerability is not weakness. And that myth is profoundly dangerous.. I define vulnerability as emotional risk, exposure, uncertainty. It fuels our daily lives." - Brené Brown

I open my consciousness to the expansion of life. There is plenty of space for me to grow and to change

Last night I wrote my letter of resignation to my employer at Le Reve Organic Spa & Boutique in Santa Barbara because I am moving back to LA to attend Chapman University; and I must say, it was one of the hardest tasks I have ever had to complete. I could not put the right words together in order to stay profession and not sound too emotional. When I was finally done, I realized that although it is very unfortunate that I must end a really great opportunity in order to open another great door, I am in fact very fortunate to have been able to go to work each day and be as happy as I've been for the last few months. I learned something new each day, I never dreaded being at work, and I worked for a professional, understanding, patient and constructive employer. It was a serene environment, a reason to enjoy the summer sun in SB for a few months longer, and a place I've grown attached to. The next few weeks definitely won't be a count down, and will move far more quickly that I'd prefer. At the end of the day, I realized that no matter where my education takes me, I want to end up doing something I enjoy, something I am passionate about with people I love. I am a strong believer in the cliché phrase, "Everything happens for a reason" and I truly feel that this opportunity was written in my life for a reason-- to be inspired, to be appreciate and to learn that even the best of things must end.

Thank God Its Friday

Hey everyone!
It's finally Friday, and the end of the work week for most people!
I haven't posted any Friday Favorites lately.. so here it goes!

Favorite Song:

Unfortunately, the actual song begins about 1:12 minutes into the video

{{{ Walk - Foo Fighters }}}

Favorite Quote: 
"I choose to live by choice, not by chance. To make changes, not excuses. To be motivated not manipulated. To be useful, not used. To excel, not compete. I choose self-esteem, not self pity.I choose to listen to my inner voice, not the random opinions of others." - unknown

Favorite Recipe: 
Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad:
With the warm weather, and the amazing summer fruits in the grocery stores; this light salad will satisfy your every craving!

Ingredients:
Mixed Greens or Baby Spinach
Strawberries
Candied Pecans
Goat Cheese
Avocado
Sun-dired Tomatoes
Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette
     -Dijon Mustard
     -Fresh Minced Garlic
     -Balsamic Vinegar
     -Lemon
     -Salt & Pepper

Favorite Smile: 

#puppylove #jack 

There's nothing like coming home to a sweet, loyal puppy! 

Favorite Look: 

I'm such a fan of the Swedish blogger, Kenza; all of her looks catch my eye.. LOVE!

Free yourself from negative people. - Spend time with nice people who are smart, driven and likeminded. Relationships should help you, not hurt you. Surround yourself with people who reflect the person you want to be. Choose friends who you are proud to know, people you admire, who love and respect you - people by make your day a little brighter simply by being in it. When you free yourself from negative people, you free yourself to be YOU. - and being YOU is the only way to truly live.

on a Saturday night....

Writing on a Saturday night? I know, I know.. but the most creativity comes out when you least expect it!

To all my lady Libras: 

"A change is imminent in a key relationship, Libra. At first, this may seem like a bad change to you. That's because you have gotten so used to the way things are and you fear that change will only disrupt something that has been working out perfectly well. So rather than fighting this change, try to find the reasons why it's actually a good thing. Make a list of good points, if you wish. Once you see it all down on paper, it will make more sense to you and you will understand that this change could be very positive."

Quote of the Day:

“Love isn’t practical. It doesn’t appear on command. It doesn’t let you fall for whomever you’d like. It surfaces neither at the most opportune moment nor in the most convenient. It’ll pair you with someone you might never have expected. It’ll put you face to face with endless obstacles. But in the end, none of that will matter because it’s how you overcome its obstacles that will define your love. It may not be practical, but love is ultimately the best thing that will happen to you.” -unknown

Hey readers, 

I hope everyone is tackling the week, and is ready for the upcoming weekend! Tonight, I've thought it wuld be fun to write a little about my favorites at my job!! I work at an all organic and green certified spa, called Le Reve Organic Spa & Boutique in Santa Barbara!

Favorite Product(s) of the Day:

v Jurlique – Body Exfoliating Gel

Jurlique’s body exfoliating gel is made with Walnut Shell powder, which provides gentle exfoliation without irritation, Avocado Oil, and Glycerin, which leaves skin soft, hydrated and protected, and a few essential oils. These ingredients come together to lift away dead skin cells and reveal a new, hydrated, soft layer of skin.

v Eminence – Raspberry Pore Refining Masque

The Raspberry Pore Refining Masque by Eminence is made with Raspberry Juice, Blueberry Juice, and Blackberry Juice. These ingredients all come together and are used as an antioxidant and as a great source of Vitamin B, C, K, and Omega 3s They work to tighten the look of pores, moisturize nourish the skin, and improve the appearance of skin.

v La Bella Donna – Liquid Mineral Foundation

v La Bella Donna – Pure Mineral Powder Foundation

La Bella Donna’s foundation is composed of a mineral-based formula. This means that the product does not clog your pores as it only contains minerals from rock, which are in an inorganic state and are not absorbed by the skin. LBD foundation provides a full spectrum natural sun block protecting your skin all day! This mineral make up is for every age, and skin type, and works to nourish, heal, soothe, and calm your skin while covering any blemishes.

Favorite Quote of the Day: 

“On life’s journey faith is nourishment, virtuous deeds are a shelter, wisdom is the light by day and right mindfulness is the protection by night. If a man lives a pure life, nothing can destroy him.” - Buddha

Favorite Spa Service(s) of the Day:

I always recommend choosing a variety of services and pampering yourself to a self-made spa package!

If I were making my own spa package I would choose the following:

v Mind and Body Facial

This facial incorporates an amazing stone massage, where warm stones are placed on the seven chakras to restore the mind and body, your hands and feet will be soaked in coconut oils, while a series of organic masks are applied, leaving your skin rejuvenated and renewed.   

v One hour massage

There’s nothing better than to extend a facial, and ease in to a massage, to keep you relaxed and lengthen your therapeutic experience. 

v Le Reve Spa Manicure and Pedicure

As your skin softens while your hands and feet are soaked in milk & oats, you can choose a polish from a variety of colors that will satisfy any mood, occasion or style!!

I hope you all enjoyed my new favorites, and I’m sure everyone would come up with their own favvs at the spa!

Have a peaceful, serene and relaxing week,

Chantalle

Spa Coordinator with Le Reve Organic Spa & Boutique 

Friday favvs

Favorite quote of the day: 
"Any man who can drive safely while kissing a pretty girl is simply not giving the kiss the attention it deserves." - Albert Einstein

Favorite reasons to exercise:
   1. Helps combat depression
   2. Bikini season is always on its way
   3. It boosts your immune system
   4. It improves your sex life
   5. Strengthens your spirit
   6. Your body was made to move
   7. Strong is the new skinny
   8. It will make you feel confident
   9. You want a great butt
   10. Helps you de-stress

Crazy, Stupid expressions

Happy Birthday Mom!!

Happy Birthday to the strongest woman I know, to the person who has supported me and stood by through every triumph and downfall, to the woman who taught me the true meaning of unconditional love, to the only person I need when I'm worried or upset, the one who still has slumber parties with me when I'm in town, the woman who's cooking is unbeatable and who's voice is soothing without a doubt! Happy birthday to the person who has taken care of me every time I was sick for the last 20 years, helps me through my anxiety, supports my every dream, turns the idea of me being a mistake to me being a miracle 10 years later, shares tostadas with me when all hell is breaking loose, and shares the most unique and important bond with me. Happy birthday to the woman I love with my entire being, the person I would die for, you momma!! Even though you weren't around that much growing up, I haven't forgotten that you would wake up extra early every year on my first day of school to straighten my hair and prepare me with roses for my teachers, that you would spray water in my hair to detangle my curls and keep telling me to NOT look in the mirror until you were done, that you attended all my spirit award assemblies, our driving adventures while you would feed me on the way to school, therapy, all of our pointless phone calls, sleeping under the sun with your tiger shirt and every memory we've shared. Over the years you've been a wife, a mom to 3, a chef, our punching bag, our rock, our teacher, a grandma, and my best friend. I wish I could be in LA to celebrate with you! I miss you so much and I love you more than words can describe! I can't imagine my life without you and I hope I will never have to!! Happy birthday momma, I wish that all your dreams come true. I love you so so muchh!!!

YOU CAN ALWAYS COUNT ON HUMP DAY

SONG OF THE DAY:

         [[[ Same Love - Macklemore & Ryan Lewis ]]]

QUOTE OF THE DAY:

"Be careful with your words. Once they are said, they can only be forgiven." - unknown