With winter practically upon us, I find myself craving a warm drink, and hot chocolate is usually the first thing that comes to mind! Of course, the *same old way* of preparing hot cocoa is perfectly fine and gets the job done, but sometimes, I want to indulge, you know? Here are my top five favorite ways to jazz up your next cup of cocoa!
1// Use *real* milk chocolate. In no way am I shaming the beloved Swiss Miss packets that everyone knows and loves. You know, they've actually stepped up their game and now, make flavored hot chocolate. And, aren't those tiny, dehydrated marshmallows absolutely delicious, once they soften?!! Plus, yay that they're super easy and convenient! Once in a while though, its nice to go all out, even if just for a cup of cocoa! My suggestion: Use *real* milk chocolate. Sure, you'll have to boil your milk and patiently stir in your chocolate in, but trust me, it'll be worth it!
2// Or, change up your chocolate completely! Yes! Why not swap out regular milk chocolate for dark chocolate, white chocolate or even sea salt caramel?! You totally could do that!
3// Mix in cinnamon. I love cinnamon; something about it is just so cozy and comforting! You can add a dash (or two) of cinnamon in your hot cocoa to fancy-fy it a little bit!
4// Top with colored marshmallows. Okay, so I thought of this before I was certain that colored marshmallows were even a thing! Thankfully, they are and even though they don't really alter the taste of the hot echolocate, they're still pretty to look at! And picture how pretty your white hot chocolate would look with pastel colors running though it! Yes, please!
5// NUTELLA. Yes, I went there! I love to add a heaping spoonful of Nutella to my hot chocolate and ladies (and gents?), it is DELICIOUS!
Do you like to jazz up your hot chocolate in any way? What is your favorite winter drink? Starbucks recommendations???
A few weeks ago, Hannah nominated me for The Liebster Award. For those of you (including myself!) who don't know what this award is, here's the 411 on who gets it and why: The Liebster Award is presented to bloggers with less than 200 followers as a way to welcome them into the blogging community give their little online space a cyber shout out.
Here are the rules:
1. Link back to the blogger that nominated you- (Hannah)
2. Answer the 10/11 questions
3. Nominate other bloggers (however many or few as you'd like)
4. Create 10 new questions
5. Notify the new nominees of their award
1. Who is your favorite Disney Princess now and has it ever changed?
To be honest, I don't watch Disney movies and the ones I have watched, I hardly remember! I rely on my cousin, Alicia to refresh my memory on which princess did what and to straighten out which princess sang which song. For this reason, I'd probably pick Cinderella because I remember the most about her...
2. How do you style your hair?
To style my hair, I usually put in a curl-freindly product like this or this and go from there. On most days, I'll pull my bangs back and do the half up-half down. On days when my curls have kind of lost their shape because of braiding my hair, I'll try for a bun or a Princess Di kind of look, with two twists in the front and a criss-cross of twists in the back.
3. What was your favorite childhood show or movie?
Ah! As a child, so many movies and television shows were on constant replay. Really, anything on Disney Channel and Nickelodeon would do!
4. Are you a visual, kinesthetic, or auditory learner?
Visual for sure!
5. What movie are you currently looking forward to watching?
Being that Christmas is just around the corner, I do look forward to watching my "Christmas classics." Elf and Home Alone are at the top of my list! Do you have any Christmas movie recommendations? I have a whole month off for winter break and an Amazon Prime membership! Let's do this!
6. What is the last item that you purchased?
The last thing I purchased was a pouch of Sour Patch... Really impressive, I know!
7. What has God said to you recently?
"Take a break!" If you're in college, you may have already come to the realization that it is completely different from high school, especially homeschool high school. Here, I have to meet REAL deadlines and grades are really important! The first few weeks of this semester left me feeling overwhelmed and a bit burned out. More than once, I've felt God's calming comfort quiet my fears and remind me to calm down. He promised not to give me more than I can bear, and so, I'm learning to trust Him with my college journey.
8. Do you like pineapples?
YES!!!
9. What song is on your head?
Lately, I've become quite the music lover. Right now, Lauren Daigle's O' Lord is on constant replay!
10. What is your favorite part about fall?
The leaves changing color and the crispness of the air, for sure! Plus, pumpkin flavored cream cheese gets me pretty excited!
11. What is the first thing that you think of when you wake up in the morning?
DID I FINISH MY HOMEWORK?!?! After figuring out the answer to that question, my thoughts drift into happier territory.
I nominate you! Yes, that's right! I'd love to learn more about you, so go ahead, answer the questions below! And, if you don't have a blog, feel free to answer the q's in the comments section!
1. When is your birthday?
2. What is your dream job?
3. Who was the last person you texted and what did you say?
4. Favorite Christmas carol/song?
5. How long have you been blogging? Why did you start?
6. What do you order at Starbucks?
7. What is your "life verse"?
8. What did you do for your last birthday?
9. Hot chocolate or coffee?
10. Biggest pet peeve?
On a side note: I'm thinking of starting mini series here on my blog where I share some of my latest (and greatest) Instax photos.
Hello! Hello! I know what you're thinking: "You're not keeping up with your blog!" And to be completely honest, I agree! Going to school and having lots of homework (huge shock to a former homeschooler!) takes up the better potion of my day. I head out pretty early every morning and get home past dinner time, only to scarf down my dinner and start on homework. It's a never ending cycle, but it's one that I'm getting used to and learning to control!
*UPDATES*My first and second mid-terms were a success, glory to God! Let's hope I keep those grades up! Oh, and I have my first final and last day of one class on Tuesday! #GoodbyeInfoToLit! I've made some friends, gotten the hang of going from class to class and now know that for math homework, you HAVE to show your work... I learned that lesson the hard way...
To catch you all up to speed on what's going on, here's a few snaps from my Instagram account:
1// first day. first semester. let's do this.
2// chai tea in fancy glass mugs: because 3 page papers are no joke.
3// today i got my college i.d.!!! it's feels *so* official now... as if the three page paper and a ton of world civ homework wasn't enough to give me that feeling.
4// it's already scarf season!
5// the Bailey Library is #LibraryGoals today's class at the Rockland campus was amazing! meeting other students with an incredible love for God, learning of our school's heritage, and a soccer game (home team won!) made the 8 hours such a pleasure!
6// goodbye Nyack College's Rockland campus. see you later.
7// getting stuff done || and if you read "a good man is hard to find", i'd love to hear your thoughts on it!
8// when college math 101 goes beyond p.e.m.d.a.s. and prime factorization. and yes, i think in pink
xoxo,
Kianna Rose
p.s. I know this post is pretty short, but it had to be! I'm supposed to be working on homework for my Nyack Heritage class right now so... you know...
If you ask me, chambray and chambray dresses in particular are so versatile! Depending on the occasion, you can easily dress them up or tone them down, with the proper styling, or course! For this outfit, I paired my pintuck pleat shirtdress with simple accessories to create an effortless (and oh so comfortable) outfit for Sunday service.
A fews weeks ago, the brand eShakti reached out to me, asking me to review one of their *lovely* dresses! I, of course, jumped at the opportunity as I appreciated the brand's customization options and dress collections! What girl wouldn't love a new dress, one that she could tailor to her preferences?! With this site, you can customize the dress/skirt length, the sleeve length as well as plug in your exact body measurements to create a piece that will fit you to perfection!
After scouring their site for a few days (#TooManyOptions), I decided on this dress. Simple yet timeless are the words that come to mind when I consider my option. I feel as though this dress will become a staple in my closet and because of it's color, the styling option are endless!
I especially loved that the zipper was on the side of the dress as opposed to on the back of the dress. For me, it's more a matter of aesthetic than anything else.
And can we talk about that gorgeous detailing across the shoulders and along the bottom of the skirt! I love how, despite this being one of eShakit's simpler dresses, these details jazz up the dress's overall look.
dress: c/o of eShakti
shoes: Old Navy
watch: Betsey Johnson
Overall, I was very pleased with my eShakti experience! Within about a week and a half, my dress was delivered and the custom alterations I made, like dress length and sleeve length, were very well executed! I also found the dress to be of excellent quality and should become an essential piece in my wardrobe. I can easily picture this dress with leggings, boots and a fun infinity scarf during the fall and winter months.
When I ordered my dress, I chose the size that I thought would best suit me. I had measured myself but wasn't confident in the accuracy of my measuring skills so just tossed my numbers to the side. When you order your dress, measure yourself! There are just three main areas to measure, but it will make a world of difference in the way your dress fits! Now I know for next time to use the customization options to their full capacity as my dress was a little loose at the waist and bodice. NOTHING MAJOR!
If you want your own eShakti dress, which I know that you do, head on over to their site and use coupon code "kiannarose" for 10% off your order! I know you'll have a hard time picking just one piece from their collections, so here are some of my favorites.
Valid from 09/21/2015 – 10/21/2015. Code has to be entered in the ‘promotional code’ box. It is not case-sensitive. Code can be used any number of times until the validity period. It can be clubbed with any other promotional offer, gift coupon or gift card in the same order unless explicitly specified otherwise in the offer conditions. This discount code is not applicable on clearance, gift cards & overstock categories. Not applicable on previous purchases
OTHER DETAILS:
I paired my chambray dress with a simple hairstyle. Very quickly, I curled my hair using the Remington curling wand and added a few quick sprays the Batiste dry shampoo in Blush for added volume and oil-control. Then, after creating a side part, I twisted up one side and secured it with bobby pins. Easy!
For accessories, I have on my beautiful Betsey Johnson watch in rose gold. It seems like the exact style I have is no longer available, but you can find a similar one here and here. I am also wearing the covenant ring my parents gave to me this week. Eek! It's just so pretty!!!
Do you like the idea of custom clothing? Do you think it's worth the price? Also, how would you style a chambray dress for summer/spring or winter/fall?
What? I can hardly believe that I'll be starting college tomorrow! A little less than a year ago, I had just begun the college application process and tomorrow, I have my first two classes! It's been journey, for sure (would you like to hear the WHOLE story? Let me know and I'll do a post on it!); a journey where I've learned a lot about my self and grown in my relationship with Jesus. I've heard a plethora of stories, some good and some bad, about the victories and struggles of a first semester, freshman. Everything from making new friends to the dreaded Freshman 15 has been told to me, but I'm not worried at all! In fact, I'm excited for all that is to come, even if it's difficult at first.
Want to know all abut my college plans? Read below for the 411:
What is your major? Minor? Why?
My major is Childhood Education, with a concentration in TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages). As of my right now, I am doing a double minor in Communications and Bible. This particular degree plan may change come spring semester as I am interested in adding Communications on as a double major to Childhood Education.
Ever since I was a little girl, being a teacher was always my "dream job." Sure, I'd teeter between being a fashion designer or a wedding planner, but teaching was always the most prominent passion. I hope to teach children in urban, immigrant communities and ultimately, in third world countries like China, India and countries in Africa. My passion lies in helping children develop academically and foster a love for learning in them as well as sharing the love of Christ!
As far as my minors, at my school, it is mandatory for all students to take on a Bible minor. I've decided to add on Communications (which I hope to later convert into a double major) as a way to grow in my second passion, writing!
How many classes are you taking? What class are you most excited for?
This semester, I'm taking 7 classes and honestly, I'm excited for them all... Well, maybe all of the classes, except for math. At around 8th of 9th grade, math became my least favorite subject, the one I'd tip toe around and avoid whenever possible.
Introduction to Spiritual Formation and Foundations of Education are the two classes that I'm looking forward to the most! At an open house at my college, I had the opportunity to meet my professors for these two classes. Their heart for God and for training the next generation of leaders was obvious and contagious! And, they (my professors) are husband and wife! #TeamVelez! Woot! Woot!
How long is your commute?
Thankfully, on a good day, my commute, by subway will be about an hour! I know, you're probably thinking that an hour will be an absurd amount of time spent riding the rails, but to a New Yorker (especially to one who has spent more than two hours on a train) it really isn't all that bad! I'll have plenty of time to study, read and people watch. JUST KIDDING! You never, ever, under any circumstance should engage in people-watching in New York city, on the Subway!
Lunch? Taking or buying?
I intend on taking lunch with me, for two reasons. One: I'm a college kid now. Translation: I shouldn't spend money on Chipotle and Starbucks when I have $200 textbooks to purchase! Now, that's not to say that I'll never buy lunch! I actually plan on buying something for my first day. It's a momentous occasion, so the purchase is justified in my mind. The second reason is that I am a health conscious eater. I'd take a salad over a burger any day (when I take into consideration how I'll feel afterwards).
I hope you enjoyed that short Q&A! I came up with these questions myself, based on what I thought may be the most frequently asked but, if you have any other questions regarding my college journey, feel free to ask! I'd love to hear... er... read them :)
Are you starting college this semester? Are you a freshman or senior? Or if you aren't planning on attending college at all, what have you been up to lately?
From my first few posts, I'm sure there isn't *too* much you can come to conclusion to about me. You know that I'm eighteen, that pink is my favorite color and that I live in NYC. How about we get to the nitty gritty of who I am... well at least five things that make up who I am!
1// I am a Christian. I received Jesus into my heart and life when I was five years old, a rough time for me, believe it or not. He has made my life beautiful since then and has changed my heart for the better! I can't even begin (well, I technically can, but that'd take a while:) to tell you of all He's done for me, how much He's shown His love for me and watched over me before and since becoming His child! #TooBlessedToBeStressed!
2// I'm a bit clumsy. In my life time, I've, dropped an iron on my forehead, fallen off my Heely's (did you have those too?!) and as a result, scrapped my elbow, fallen off the bed in my sleep (more than once!), and even got a suction cup stuck on my forehead! I'm know there were other minor injuries along the way but I'm sure you already get the picture :)
3// I'm *really* good a saying tongue twisters. As a child, I always had a knack for saying tongue twisters and because of that (and for a bunch of other reasons), I was the cool kid at school. My classmates would ask me to say the Peter Piper tongue twister and marvel when I had successfully said the whole thing, at lightning speed.
4// Wrinkles are my biggest pet peeve! On clothes, I mean! Ever since I started ironing my own clothes, I've liked them to be as wrinkle-free as they can be. I like my long sleeve shirts to have a sharp crease along the edges and for my skirts to be stick straight, especially if they're midi skirts that flare out. Weird? Maybe... #PressedForSuccess
5// Pasta dishes are my favorite! I know I mentioned this before here and here but it's worth mentioning again. Something about starchy pasta and any variant of white sauce is just so delicious!
What are some things about you not many people know about? Any faves, pet peeves, or theological beliefs? I'm all ears. And I promise: I won't laugh!
If you didn't already know, I will be attending college this fall! Despite being homeschooled from grades 7 to 12 and wearing pjs ALL DAY (or for most of the day, anyway...), I still have a pretty good idea of what I'll need for my first day, thanks to my time spent in public school.
When it comes to clothes shopping, I've taken on a more realistic mindset:
1. Quality over quantity. For my college wardrobe, I prefer well-made, durable, pieces over a poorly made piece in three different colors, that will only only last a season. Now, don't get me wrong, I sometimes buy shirts, skirts, dresses and shoes just for the looks of them, but I won't pay much if I know they won't last too long.
2. Basics should be neutral. This school year, I've purchased a lot of neutral colored pieces. I seem to have added a lot of blue, brown, black and white colored things into my shopping bags almost unconsciously. I gravitate to these colors now because I know that I'll be able to wear them with more than one outfit and customize the look with brighter, colored accessories later. Again, this is not to say that I won't buy a brightly colored spring jacket. Of course I would! I LOVE BRGHT COLORS! I just mean to say, that for the most part, I plan to keep the bulk of my basic items (jackets, sweaters, tees, etc.) neutral toned so as to allow me to add other pieces to fancy them up.
As far as wardrobe essentials go, I think every closet, no matter if you're going back to school or just off to work, needs:
In addition to the dress, I think a pencil skirt and a flared, midi skirt are a must!
What are some wardrobe basics for your closet? Ooh! Do you think I should do a skirt version of this post, detailing what style and cut of skirts I think are essential?!
Happy 4th of August to you! I say this quite often, but I can hardly believe how quickly the months go by! I feel like sometimes, time goes by a little too quickly but this is in part my own fault. You see, I haven't taken time regularly to selah (and for those of you who aren't Hebraic linguists, selah means "to pause and calmly think") Just recently, I've taken to writing, journaling and snapping a lot more pictures. Doing this has helped me to pause and calmly think on the beauty of everyday, ordinary life that is actually, quite extraordinary! Also, having quiet time in the morning, spent reading the Bible and praying really helps me get my head in the game and ready for the day.
This month, I've decided to read one new book and complete as many short, Bible reading plans as I can. They're usually about 3 days long and, for the most part, are just a few paragraphs. These shorter plans are taken right off the YouVersion Bible App that I'm sure your probably already have!
Here are some of my #JesusTime essentials + what I'm reading this month.
{1} Streams in the Desert- I like to begin my morning #JesusTime with this daily devotional. Streams in the Desert is an extremely popular series among believers, so I'm sure that you've either heard of it or even have your own copy! Each devotional begins with a verse and then a passage based upon that verse. Sometimes, they'll jazz it up and include a poem or hymn that also goes along with the theme for that day. This one is a tried and true favorite!!!
{2} ESV Journaling Bible- I bought this Bible with the intention of writing thoughts, prayers and question in the margins. I'll admit, I haven't done so yet, but I do highlight a quite a bit in there as well as add sticky notes to the pages with the aforementioned thoughts, prayers and questions. If and when I do begin to write in it, I feel confident knowing that there is ample room in the margins for me to write in. Best of all, there are lines! Raise your hand if you write sloppy and/or slanted without lines!
{3} Every Day in His Presence- For my birthday, my grandmother gave me this absolutely exquisite, leather bound copy of one of Dr. Charles Stanley's daily devotionals. I like to read this right after or before the Streams in the Desert one as they're both short. So far, what I've read has challenged me in my walk with God! I've examined my life and found some things that I should both change and implement in my spiritual life.
{4} Wrestling Prayer- This book came as a recommendation from my cousin, Alicia. Eric and Leslie Ludy are new authors for me but I can already tell that I'll enjoy their laid-back yet passionate writing style. Just from the introduction and first chapter that I've read, I'm convicted and inspired to grow in prayer and make it more of a priority! Excited for this one!
{5} Rifle Paper Journal- A journal is definitely an essential; I like to have one with me during my morning time with the Lord. Jotting down the things that have ministered my heart and encouraged me gives me a place to look back to when I need to be reminded of them. I also write down my memorization verses and prayer petitions for others and myself.
Of course, a pen, a highlighter and a mug of chai tea are some of my other essentials. Ooh, and I also keep my phone nearby. And no, it's not to check Instagram! I like to look up other verses as well as tune in my Spotify app to instrumental music.
What are your #JesusTime essentials? Any good books I should look into for next month's read?
So... My July ipsy bag came in the mail yesterday and I'm pretty excited about it! It's so bright and colorful and filled with all sorts of lovelies!
If you aren't familiar with ipsy, here's the 411 on what it is: ipsy is a monthly beauty and makeup subscription box. Each month you get full size or deluxe-sized products, plus a cute makeup bag!
Here's a break down of all that I got:
tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Bronzer- I love tarte's BB cream and Amazonian butter lipsticks so I'm really excited about their bronzer! The color "Park Ave. Princess" is a gorgeous gold shade with an iridescence to it. I swatched it on the back of my hand and noticed that there's also a slight hint of pink. Win!
Jor'el Parker Classico- This little guy (or gal?) is a roller ball purfume. The name "Classic" is rather fitting; It's scent reminds me of my grandma's bottle of Chanel no.5, a rather mature and truly classic scent.
BelláPierre Cosmetics Mineral Lipstick in P.I.N.K- If you know me, then you know that lippies are my favorite! I must have more than 20 lip products! BUT, I don't mind adding two more to my stash. I'd describe this color as a beautiful mauve/dark pink color and it smells lovely. Yay for beauty products that smell good!
Jersey Shore Cosmetics Mongongo Vanilla Coconut Cream Lip Conditioner- This one is *really* nice! It's scent and texture are on point. Period.
'Tini Beauty Eyetini Swizzle Stick Eyeliner in Blue Hawaiian- This eyeliner was the "useless" product in my bag this month. The color is pretty but... For the face... no. For a crayon... yes!
Do you wear makeup?
Are you subscribed to ipsy? Or any other beauty subscription service?
Last year, when I turned 17, I scribbled... er... typed these thoughts out onto Instagram with the following picture:
it's been a whole week since i turned 17. i've spent this week reflecting and counting my {many} blessings. you know, every year people ask me, "how does it feel to be *insert age*? i always say, "it feels the same." but after taking this week to reflect, i realized that it shouldn't feel the same. a certain kind of gratefulness, an unspeakable joy swells up inside of me when i think about God's mercies and grace over my life. the thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy but Jesus came that i may have an abundant life. that's what this feels like-- a new age, a new year for me and learning daily to live that abundant life. He spared me and saved me! wow! when i think of all the other places i could be right now, i'm grateful that i'm here and living for Him! so, i'm so excited for 17-- all the new adventures, moments, friends, and most importantly, experiences with God are gonna be great! i just know it!
As cliche as it may sound, I feel a lot of those same feelings now that I'm 18; I'm *kind of* excited for all that God has planned in this next chapter of my life. I'm sure it'll be filled with lessons learned (at times, the hard way...), challenges, victories, adventures (#KiannaTakesOnTheWorld), smiles and even some tears. I hope that I'll get a better idea of what God has in store for me for the future and take steps toward fulfilling His purposes. I'll make new friends, try new things, go to brand new places and probably buy a whole lot of Target Dollar Spot goodies. Just sayin'. Most importantly, I want to grow closer to my Best Friend, Jesus. I want 18 to be the turning point in my walk with the Lord, when I and others will see a lot less of me and a lot more of Him.
I don't believe that because I'm 18 I'm now an adult or even remotely adut-ish. Yes, I'm older, but never too old to pop bubble wrap, have a snowball fight, eat macaroni and cheese and Goldfish, but not together(!), get excited about prizes in the cereal box (wait, do they still do that?!), or listen intently to AIO (you might have to be homeschooled to know what that is).
Here's to turning 18, growing up, staying young and living for my sweet Jesus! I'm excited!!!
Hello there! My name is Kianna (Rose is my middle name... in case you were wondering about the whole blog title thing) and I'm so glad you stopped by my little corner of the World Wide Web! Kianna Rose ETC is an online life journal where I'll stow away random thoughts, photos + videos of this rather extraordinary journey called my life. It's where you can read up on what I'm doing now that I've graduated high school and plan to attend college this fall. You can see what projects I'm working on what and what foods I'm cooking up. An outfit post may pop up every now and then and maybe even a vlog?! (that stands for unscripted, raw and totally honest video logs, in case you were wondering... #MessyHair #DontCare) Most importantly, you'll read of my love for Jesus and my desire to live for Him! So, hello (again) and welcome!
Now, I'm not 100% new to this whole blogging thing. In fact, I keyed a blog that served much of the same purpose that this blog will serve now. The difference is that I'm starting over-- a fresh start is how I like to think of it. Life has changed A LOT since 2011 and Kianna Rose ETCis where I plan on sharing the rest of my life journey!
I'm not one for stuffy and overly formal first posts. I think that by sharing random bits about myself, you'll be able to get a pretty accurate idea of who I am. Shall we begin?
I love to say "literally" with a British accent. (I know you just said it too) || I love vellum paper. It's so fancy! || I was born on July 5 at 1:06am. Had I been born a day earlier,
I would have been named "Kianna America" !!! || My absolute favorite color is pink! ||
I'm a REALLY good secret keeper! || I love watching documentaries!
But only the interesting ones about penguins or how glass coca cola bottles are made. ||
My favorite food will forever be pasta! || I have a thing for chocolates, especially the expensive kind.
I hope you'll stay a while, maybe even come back and read up on my etcetera. I promise, it'll be fun:)
I love life and here, you'll get a peak into what makes mine special, both the ordinary + the extraordinary. New York City is my home, pink is aways a good idea and most importantly, Jesus is my first love.
