It’s almost the end of December… can someone pinch me? because I don’t believe that is real life. this month(year) has absolutely flown by and every single day gets busier and more hectic within my own life. that being said, I still try to take time to myself and find the spare time in my craziness to catch up with pals and to do things that make me happy, which is what the holidays are all about in the first place!

I’ve been majorly snap-happy over break with different shopping trips and coffee dates. My pal Rachel and I bond over long life chats (and soon to be college town chats!!!) and macchiatos and have the time of our lives. She is honestly the greatest when it comes to listening and talking and just all around being a 10/10 friend. We have a signature go-to coffeehouse that is to die for and the atmosphere is half the game. make sure you find those kinds of places, they’re real important when it comes to sanity saving nights and studying by yourself. a place where you can get a quality cup o joe AND feel comfortable breaking out the textbooks all alone is a place everyone needs in their lives.

Christmas shopping is one of my favorite things, and even though I have to restrain myself from buying gifts for myself (still guilty this year), I’ve always loved picking out things for my close friends and family. secret santas are also to die for & my pal laura (who was also my secret santa last year! crazy!) had me again this year and got me the most ally scarf i’ve ever seen. I absolutely adore it and can’t wait to post all about it here soon!

I’m spending tomorrow shooting outfits to be pre-posted while I’m spending the holidays IN NEW YORK CITY with Andie. We bot have heaps of excitement for all the adventures we’re about to have (oh and the shopping, 100% the shopping). I’m more than sure you’ll see plenty more on that coming up on my instagram feed here soon!

Well I hope the break has so far been treating you well, stay warm, stay happy, stay sparkly!

until next time, xoxo, Ally

Frannie’s Holiday Shop// seriously the cutest things ever for you or anyone you love who is on your shopping list this season!

25 ways to get into the spirit when you’re just not feeling it// we all have those days…here are a few ways to put a festive pep in your step!

Gluten Free Sugar Cookies// there’s nothing more fun than Christmas cookies and there’s no better way to devour plenty than to make them gf and ready for your eating desires!

happy holidays and stay tuned for super fun posts now that my finals are over!

xoxo, Ally

Let me start this off by saying I should 200% be studying for finals right now. But I just got home from church, sat on my bed, and was overwhelmed with thoughts of absolutely everything. Sometimes, a girl has just gotta write (or type i guess…) so bare with me here.

I’m a huge fan of anything and everything Kate Spade….#duh. However as pretty as they may be, the bright colors and exciting pattern play wasn’t what originally attracted me to the brand. Instead it was the mottos, the lifestyles, the do what you want and have full belief in making every day a great day. I am a firm believer in preaching your own beliefs and having something to believe in to get you through your day, week, month, lifetime.

For me? I believe in morning coffee before the sun is up or struggling throughout the day. I believe in hugs from your parents and remembering that they too are in fact human. I believe in handwritten notes and random acts of kindness. I believe in rain boots even when it isn’t raining, but especially when it is. I believe in smiles being contagious. I believe in never being able to be overeducated or overdressed. I believe in pajama days that last until bedtime. I believe in best friends and sisters. I believe in to-do lists and the satisfaction of a complete one. I believe in the color pink and a well placed monogram. I believe in hugs: lots of them. I believe in a perfectly wrapped gift. I believe in laughter. I believe in being you: 100% you, heck 500% you.

so go be you. find something to believe in and live it out.

or study for finals. or both.

xoxo, Ally