2016 in Review

So 2016 is wrapping up and I have to say it has been a really good year. There have been some moments this year that I am really proud of and sometimes I have learned from. 2016 has been full of challenges and there have been some sweet times. I am thankful for everything this year has brought on and everyone that has been a part of it.

Not only has this year been eventful in my personal life but this has also been my first FULL year of blogging and it has been an absolute blast! I have learned so much and grown in my writing. So I thought it would be fun to look back at some of my top blog posts and some of my personal favorites of the year!

A Special Visitor
5 Kinds of People Needed in Life
Beauty Haul 
The Tricky Triangle
18 Things I Have Learned in 18 Years
Orange County Speedway
The Power of Makeup
A Weekend in Martinsville

What has been your favorite moment of 2016?

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The Christmas Tag

So I have really been wanting to do a fun Christmas post so today I will be doing the Christmas Tag! Christmas is by far my favorite holiday and I am so excited! So lets jump right in!

1. What is your favorite Christmas film?

 
Besides all of the classic Christmas films a must watch for me is A Prince for Christmas. It is one of the cheesiest movies ever but it is a good chick flick for a snowy night. 

2. Have you ever had a White Christmas?

Growing up in Virginia I have had White Christmases and they are one of the most beautiful things!

3. Where do you usually spend your holiday?

My family and I always spend Christmas at home. There is just something about waking up and spending time in your own house for Christmas that makes it feel special.

4. What is your favorite Christmas song?

I am a music fanatic so I actually have a playlist that I play but one of my absolute favorites is Fairytale of New York by Celtic Thunder!

5. Do you open any presents on Christmas Eve?

No. My mom makes me wait until Christmas Day which I really don't mind.

6. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer?

Dasher, Dancer Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, Rudolph

7. What holiday tradition are you looking forward to most this year?

Christmas dinner is always a highlight because the whole family is together and it really makes me thankful for what I have.

8. Is your Christmas Tree real or fake?

Fake

9. What is your all-time favorite holiday food/sweet?

Candy Cane Hershey Kisses

10. Be honest: do you like giving gifts or receiving gifts better?

In all honesty I like both. I am always excited to see what people have gotten me but I do love picking things for other people. Both are great feelings.

11. What was the best Christmas gift you've ever received?

I really have received a lot of wonderful things but my favorite are race tickets for my family to go to. The tickets were great but spending time with my family was priceless.

12. What would be your dream place to visit for the holiday season?

Disney World. I have always been to Disney around the holidays but never during. I just feel that Christmas in the most magical place on Earth would be amazing!

13. Are you a pro-present wrapper, or do you fail miserably?

I am in the middle. Some days they look amazing and other days are a little rough.

14. Most memorable holiday moment?

Giving my dad his wedding ring after he had an accident. It had been cut off after he fell of our roof. The medics had to cut it off so my mom and I had it repaired. When he opened it he had the biggest smile on his face.

15. What made you realize the truth about Santa?

I was never really told there was no Santa. I just sort of grew out of believing.

16. Do you make New Years resolutions? Do you stick to them?

I have made resolutions in the past and I have been successful with a few but I really don't make them anymore.

17. What makes the holidays special for you?

 Being with my family is always special for me. I am an only child so holidays with them are always great times together. The laughs and memories that are made are better than any present.

That is my Christmas tag! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday and make sure to spend time with the ones you love and remember the reason for the season! Happy holidays!

What makes the holidays special for you?

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28 Gift Ideas For Your Best Friend

The hardest part of the holidays for me is trying to figure out what I want to get my best friend for Christmas. Being a high school student, money is scarce and sometimes the perfect gift is too much money. So today I have 28 Christmas gifts for your bestie that won't empty your wallet but will be special to them.

1.  A list of your favorite things about them
2. Friendship necklaces
3. A custom water bottle
4. A box full of candy
5. Friendship bracelets
6. A personalized keychain
7. Flowers
8. Matching pj's
9. Candles
10. Nail polish
11. A homemade Christmas ornament
12. A fuzzy blanket 
13. Earrings
14. Friendship rings
15. Cute jewelry tray
16. Plan a day together
17. Gift card to their favorite fast food place
18. Ice Cream Sundae ingredient box
19. A movie to watch together
20. A handmade trinket
21. Scarves
22. "Open when.." letters 
23. Memory box filled with old pictures
24. Socks
25. A personalized teddy bear
26. Movie Gift Card
27. A box of doughnuts
28. A picture frame filled with all of your favorite pictures of the two of you

What is your go-to gift?

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5 Ways to Get Into the Holiday Spirit

Christmas is my absolute favorite holiday. I love all the Christmas music and beautiful lights and everything that comes with it. I have found in recent years that people just don't know how to get into the Christmas spirit. So from this Christmas fanatic to you this is 5 Ways to get in the Holiday Spirit!


1. Listen to a Christmas playlist- there are so many fun playlists to listen to at Christmas. When you search Christmas on Spotify there are so many playlists to choose from!

2. Make Christmas cookies- not only am I a Christmas fanatic, I have a major sweet tooth. Christmas cookies make me so happy and put me into the holiday spirit.

3. Put up your Christmas tree- my family puts up four Christmas trees and that is probably one of the biggest things that get me going in the holidays. Decorating your tree will help you.

4. Watch a Christmas movie- ABC Family runs their Christmas movie marathon the first day of December. If you don't own any Christmas movies, just turn on the TV and enjoy.

5. Eat a candy cane- Whenever I see candy canes I instantly think of Christmas. So go out and buy some candy canes!

How do you get in the Christmas spirit?

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December Goals

November was a great month. I got to change somethings with my blog and personal life and I am thrilled with what is going on. I got a lot of goals accomplished and now I am ready to embrace December. I love winter and all the things that come with and I am ready to have a great month and get a lot done. So here are my December Goals!

• Increase my readers
• Create a blog calendar
• Get my Christmas shopping done early
• Start building my savings
• Find fun Christmas activities
• Organize my pictures
• Clean out my closet
• Have a Christmas cookie exchange
•  Find new books to read
• Create a budget for my time
• Schedule blog posts
• Start a daily devotion again

What are your December goals?

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The Magic of Disney

Disney has always been something special to me. They were never just a group of people with a few theme parks and a lot of movies, Disney was always more of a feeling of safety. The Disney parks were somewhere I got to escape reality for a little bit. Whenever I was sad I could watch Disney movies or think about the times I had at a Walt Disney World park and I felt completely happy again. It felt more like a home than any other place in the world.

To my family, it was the place we went once a year to have pure fun. We became members of the Disney Vacation Club because we knew that Disney was always going to be a part of out lives. Every year, my family takes a vacation in the later months of the year to the Walt Disney World resort in Florida. To say I got excited about these trips is an understatement. Even as a teenager, the thought of a Disney vacation would  fill me with excitement. But everything changed in 2010 when my father lost his job. Things got harder with a lack of money and expenses to pay. With bills stacking up and some scary situations in the future, our family had to cancel our Disney trip. For me, this was the most devastating thing that could have happened. I lost my happy place and my escape from reality.

Things got a lot harder for me and my family as time went on. My dad was searching for a job while my mom was working two jobs. Being an only child, seeing my parents this stressed and scared for what the future held was not only stressful but terrifying for me. I saw things slipping out of my hands. Disney vacations were no longer a choice for us because we couldn't afford the time off. On the inside, I felt my heart breaking every time I heard about someone going on a Disney trip because that was my place. That was my home.

Now you are probably wondering why I am talking about this. In a few days, my family and I will be leaving for our first Disney trip since 2009. For my family, this is a big celebration because we finally see a light at the end of the tunnel. My dad now has a job that is keeping us steady and keeping us going. My mom is back to one job and I am feeling so much joy because I am getting my happy place back.

Disney World will always be an important place to me because there, magic is real. In this world, you can escape reality for a little while and act like a child. You can soar with Dumbo or explore different worlds. But what matters is that while you are there, you have the time of your life. Now to say I am excited to start the journey to Florida is a huge understatement because at this point I am bouncing off the walls.

My wish for you is that you find your happy place. Find a place you can escape to when things get bad. Disney has always been more of a home to me than anything and that is something I will always cherish.

18 Things I Have Learned in 18 Years

So today is a big day in my world because it is my 18th birthday! I can't say I haven't been counting down the days because I am super excited. But let me be honest. It has not been easy getting through eighteen years and I have learned a lot of lessons that will help me.

1. Quality Friends are the Best Friends

Yes, friends are important but it shouldn't matter how many friends you have but what type of friends you have.

2. It is Perfectly Fine to Stand Out

For the longest time, I tried to make myself be the popular kid and fit in with a certain group. What I finally learned is that being who you are is the most important thing you can do. 

3. Kindness is a Must

I have never met a mean person that was well liked. Kindness is something that will always help you out in the future.

4. Peer Pressure is Real

Peer pressure is something you will always hear about in life but it is something you have to fight. Giving in the peer pressure will only make you regret something. So make sure your decision is YOUR decision.

5. Budgeting is Important

Whether it is time or money you have to budget. It will keep your life a little more organized and you will feel a lot better.

6. It is Ok to Cry

Crying is something that just happens. There are days that a good cry is just what the doctor ordered.

7. Jam Sessions are Wonderful Mood Fixers

I am one person who you will always see singing in the car. Music is one thing that will always help improve your mood.

8. You Have to Love Yourself First

Being comfortable in your own skin is something everyone needs. If you don't love yourself, how can you love others?

9. You Need a Skill

I had a history teacher tell me that the one thing that you need is a skill. If you have a skill, the world opens for you to use what you know. 

10. There is Someone Who Always Loves You

I can guarantee that there as at least one person who loves you in your life. Whether it is a friend, family member, or community member, someone loves you.

11. The Truth Will Set You Free

This was a hard lesson for me to learn but even in hard times, the truth is always the right answer.

12. Math is Never Fun

I think math and I were made to be enemies but if you're good at math, good for you but I am convinced there is no hope for me.

13. Disney Movies Will Always Make You Happy

I am pretty sure that Disney movies are the best thing on the planet. Even when you're sad, if you put on a Disney movie, your mood will improve.

14. It's Ok to Act Silly

Being silly is just a fun part of life. Being serious all the time would just be boring.


15. Your Parents are Your Best Friends

My parents are the people I will always go to if I have something to say or if something is wrong. Parents are literally the best friends you could have.

16. Being Happy Should Be Your Main Goal

Happiness is something that should always be in focus. If you're sad, smile and look on the bright side.

17. It is Ok to Say No

If you don't like something, say no. If you feel in danger say no. No is always an acceptable answer.

18. Life is Short

If I have learned one thing in 18 years, it is that life is short and it goes by way too fast. So make sure you enjoy!

What is a life lesson you have learned?

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6 Ways to Rock Black Friday

So  one of the biggest "holidays" is happening this week and everyone I have talked to is gearing up for Black Friday. American stores and customers are preparing for this day and the excitement is on every street corner. I don't know why but I have never really gotten into Black Friday. Probably because I find it crazy that people will stand outside for hours to get a coffee machine or a computer. But if there is something I have gained from listening to all the crazy Black Friday stories, it is what to do to prepare for this crazy day.

Know What You Want- if you are going to stand outside of Target or Best Buy for a couple hours make sure you have in mind what you want so that you can focus on the mission ahead. Spend some time before you head out too so that you have your mind set.

Know When Your Sale Starts- If you have had your eye on that new computer make sure you know when the sale starts. It is safe to say that if you are late, you're not getting your new computer.

Dress Warm- I get nervous for the people that stand outside for a long time without a jacket or something to keep warm. So please make sure you dress warmly.

Don't Spend More Than You Have- This is something I hear a lot of. People will just put everything they buy on their credit card and then when the bill comes in, they stress out because they don't know how they are going to pay the bill. So please be smart and give yourself a limit you can pay for.

Use All of the Discounts You Can Get- I think I have every app for every store I shop at so that I can get discounts. So make sure you have your coupons and sale ads ready.

Enjoy Yourself- If you do insist on going out for Black Friday, make it enjoyable. Make good conversation and get the things you have been waiting for.

Are you going out this Friday? What are you after?

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My Favorite Products that Beat Dry Skin

So if you are like me, you suffer from chronic dry skin and you have tried everything and in the fall it is even worse. I have tried every lotion, body cream, and moisturizer on the planet. Don't worry I feel your pain but I have found the best solutions and I am absolutely in love with them. They really get the job done when it comes to beating dry skin.

Jergens has a lotion made for people who suffer from dry skin and it is super easy to use. You use the lotion after finishing a shower and then instead of drying off immediately, you put this lotion on  pat your skin dry and it works instantly by trapping the moisture of the water into your skin. Your skin automatically feels softer and looks healthier.

Now for my face, I  suffer from acne and dry skin and for this problem I use Clean and Clear Advantage 3-in-1. It is a face wash that is not oil based and when I use it my face instantly feels cleaner and looks healthier. It really gets into your pores and cleans out all the dirt.

For normal body lotion for little dry spots here and there, I use any lotion from Bed Bath and Beyond. I am not a person to like heavy lotions that make my skin feel slimy for a long time. The lotions from Bed Bath and Beyond are nice and light and still get the job done plus they smell AMAZING!

What do you do to beat dry skin?

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4 Blogging Do Nots!

So after blogging for a year I have learned a thing or two. Not only has blogging let me have a creative outlet it has also taught me a lot about people and time management. While I have learned a lot of positive things (and I am still learning) I have also learned things that weren't really the best thing to do for a blog and I am here to help you today to make your blog successful and skip a few of my mistakes.

Selfies are Not For Blogs

Yes, selfies are convenient when you need a picture of yourself but they are not professional. Duck lips and peace signs are good for posting on Instagram and Twitter but if you are writing a blog that is professional, leave the selfie on social media. Take time to have nice photos taken of you. They don't have to be professional but even a nice picture of you standing will make a huge difference.

Don't Copy Other Bloggers

When I first started out I had a lot of post ideas, but as I got further into the year, I started running out of ideas. Now, there were times I would get inspiration for a post and other times I got over inspired and  I took the idea of another post completely. If you are in a creative slump, try looking at things a different way or even look for other bloggers that have lists of ideas that they are willing to share.

Don't Use Pictures Off Google

When you have your own blog, you need a visual to pull people in. When I first started, I thought clip art was the cutest thing for a blog and I was SO wrong. All phones have cameras and using Google Photos it makes them easy to get and use. Plus it gives you another way to show off your creativity. It will take a little time to develop the creative eye for photos but once you get the hang of it, it will be so fun!

Be Yourself

This is the biggest tip I have.When I decided to start blogging, I tried to sound like every other blogger on the internet. I would use words I would never use and I really stressed myself out. I finally learned that everyone has a different voice and a different perspective and no one can share your view on things besides you! So always remember, be yourself!

If you're a blogger, what other advice do you have? If you are just starting out, what are your questions?

  

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17 Ways to have a Better Morning

Mornings are one thing we can not change. They happen every day and are needed to get the day going. I am not a morning person. I have never been a morning person and probably never will be. But I have found ways to make the morning a little less miserable and get my day started on the right foot. Here are 17 ways to have a better morning.

1. Instead of a beeping alarm, set your favorite song to wake you up
2. Make a positive morning playlist to listen to while you get ready
3. Hug your pet
4. Make your favorite morning drink
5. Text your best friend
6. Come up with positive goals for the day
7. Find a daily reading that lifts you up
8. Eat your favorite breakfast
9. Scroll through Pinterest and find a new idea
10. Dress up 
11. Put on your favorite perfume
12. Smile at yourself in the mirror
13. Think of new adventures
14. Think of five things you are faithful for
15. Hug a friend
16. Tweet something that makes you happy
17. Make the decision to have a great day

What helps you have a better morning?

November Goals

October was a crazy month where I had a lot of stressful times. I got sick, I had family visiting,school activities, and so much craziness. I was, however, able to go out and enjoy some fall festivities.I got to go to the pumpkin patch with my mom, I got to go to a pumpkin carving party with my church small group, and I had my last high school homecoming!

But November is here and it is time to get back on track! I do have some repeated goals because I really didn't get anything accomplished (oops). But here no worries because I can just feel this is going to be a good month! So here are my November goals!

• Start/Finish my Christmas shopping
• Prepare for my Disney vacation next month!
• Bake for Thanksgiving
• Find some new blogs to read
• Give the blog a facelift
• Spend some time with my Grandma
• Start a Facebook page for my blog
• Work on my blog design and content
• Create a personal budget
• Create a blogging calendar

What are your goals for November?

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Fall Bucket List

So I feel like I never do anything in fall. I am one who suffers from terrible allergies in the fall so I tend to stay inside and not do anything. This year I am determined to have a memorable fall. So here is my Fall Bucket List.

• Go Apple Picking
• Go to a Pumpkin Patch
• Carve a Pumpkin
• Go on a walk to see fall foliage 
• Improve my photography skills
• Start planning Christmas gifts (Yes I know it's early)
• Clean out fall clothes I don't wear
• Go to more football games
• Go to a Bonfire
• Go on a hayride
• Try a new Fall DIY

What is on your fall bucket list?

Five Things to Know Before Adopting a Pet

So a few weeks ago I made a choice and adopted a new kitten! His name is Cadabra and he is the love of my life. But what I didn't quite know when I got him is how much work he was going to be. Yes, I knew about litter boxes but there was so much I didn't know. Lucky for me I have an amazing mother who has cared for many animals and man did she help me out and now I am sharing her tips with you.

Don't adopt a baby animal because it's cute

All baby animals are cute but let's face it. All babies grow up and animals are no exception. When you go to find your animal take your time. Make sure you and this animal are compatible. When I got Cadabra I was actually fostering him at the time so I got to know how well we went together. But take time with the animal you are considering.

Make sure you can provide for your new animal

When I got Cadabra, I really had to think about if I could take care of him. I am a high school student making some money but pets can be expensive. If you really love an animal make sure you can pay for food, toys, medical bills, and so much more. They are like people and they have needs too. I also suggest asking the store or agency you are getting your animal from if you can go on a payment plan. I am on a payment plan with the foundation I got Cadabra from and it has been so helpful  not having to pay so much so soon. 

              Take Your Time Introducing Them to Your Other Animals

Not only do I have Cadabra but we have two other cats in my family. When I brought Cadabra into the house, Minnie and Milo were not happy. I really had to work on getting them acquainted by bringing them together for brief times. You have to be patient with this process. They learn to co-exist eventually, they just need time to get used to one another. 

Give Your New Pet Some Space

Since Cadabra is my cat, his space is in my room. I have a carrier for him where he sleeps along with his litter box and some toys. I designated this area so that Cadabra would have somewhere that he knew was his space. He is still allowed to roam around the house but he does sleep in my room. Make sure your pet has an area they know is theirs.

Get Ready For Some Fun

Pets are wonderful things. They are your best friends and the best snuggle buddies ever. Enjoy the time with your pet because they will become part of who you are. Cadabra and I take naps together, play together (a lot!), and we are two peas in a pod. I can't believe how fast he is growing but I am so excited for the many years we have together. 

What kind of pets do you have? Leave me a comment!

- Megan

October Goals

 Hello October, I am so excited for you! There is something about October that gets me really excited and I am so ready to embrace this month full force. So with the new month, I have decided to start sharing my monthly goals to share about my life with you guys and touch base a little bit.

September was a great month with the start of school and getting back into a routine. I also adopted a new kitten who can always bring a smile to my face. I was also fortunate to travel during the weekends but I am ready for a month at home and the start of fall. 

October Goals

• Get my room organized
• Start blogging regularly 
• Carve a Pumpkin
• Find some fall decorations for my bedroom
• Start a Facebook page for my blog!
• Bake some more :)
• Improve my blog design and add some new features
• Go to more football games
• Start managing my time
• Go to a Halloween party
• Read something helpful everyday

Have you thought about your monthly goals yet?

10 Ways to Relieve Stress

So the school year is in full swing and I am already swamped with homework. Talking to my friends I can see their stress levels rising and frustration setting in. I can't say that I don't get stressed during the year because let's face it, we all get a little stressed. So these are some of my ways that I relieve stress.

1. Music has always helped me relieve stress. Whether I'm doing homework or blogging I always have music playing.
2. Baths may be a way to get clean but with a few candles, a bath bomb, and some music playing it can be so relaxing that all of your stress will go down the drain.
3. I have really gotten into DIY lately and when I'm stressed it is fun to try some new DIY's or look for some on Pinterest.
4. I may be the only person in the world that LOVES to organize things but when I am stressed I will organize anything.
5. Take walks. I love talking walks and just breathing in some fresh air and enjoying my surroundings.
6. I just adopted a new kitten and playing with him is probably my biggest stress reliever (and biggest distraction, haha) but playing with a pet can't help but put a smile on your face.
7. Reading some online articles on life application is so fun to do. Writers post all sorts of life hacks online and some of them can change how you live and I even have some fun articles you to read here!
8. Taking naps is both relaxing and rejuvenating. I love naps but I do have to be careful that I don't take to long of a nap or then I am even more stressed and in a time crunch.
9. Enjoy one of your favorite snacks or drinks
10. Texting your bestie is one of the best things to do. Your best friend is someone that will listen to you and help you feel better when the stress is too much.

School can be totally overwhelming but with the right stress relievers, you can handle anything.

How do you relieve stress? Leave a comment! 

- Megan

5 Things You Need for High School Football Games

So if your high school is like mine, your student section at football games is crazy. I have learned in my four years of high school that whether you enjoy watching football or not does not matter. Football games are a social event for you to go have a good time at. Now when I first started going to football games I was not prepared. It is embarrassing to look back at those pictures but now I am always prepared for games and I am here to save you from not being ready. So here are my top 5 needs for high school football games.

1. Paint- If you see pictures of me at a football game you will notice that I am covered in paint. I have paint hand prints up my legs and arms and paint on my face. Paint is a must have at games to show your school spirit.

2. Spirit Wear- What is a better way to show school spirit that wearing school shirts? I have multiple shirts for my school and even a few homemade ones. School spirit wear is a necessity at games to show your love for your school.

3. Noise Maker- So like I said, my school has a crazy student section and if you ever watched all the students walk in to the stands you would see that everyone has a noise make of some sort. Now let's face it, if you dont have a noise maker you do have your voice and your hands but I guarentee you that you wont be able to talk the next day and your hands will hurt. To save you from this misery, your local party store sells all types of noise makers in a variety of colors. Go get one!

4. Phone- Your phone at football games is just a way to capture memories. You know you are going to want pictures to post on social media and to rememebr the good ol' days. Now don't keep your nose stuck in your phone because you will miss a lot of action and fun memories.

5. Friends- Let's be honest and say that life is no fun when you're alone. when you are at football games, make sure you go with some friends. I have found I have the best time when I am with people I know and who better to make memories with than your friends?

I hope this helps you get ready for football season and I hope you enjoy all the games that you go to! Make sure to send me a picture of your student section and some of your favorite moments on Twitter!

- Megan

One Year!

It's hard to believe but today is my one year of creating Rocking the World. It is amazing to see this thing that started as an idea is now a thing on the internet! I can't thank you guys enough for supporting me in this year of craziness. To celebrate the one year anniversary, I thought I would tell my story and the story of Rocking the World.

So a year ago on September 5th I decided I wanted to start a blog. I had messed with the idea of making a blog and had actually already tried to make a blog but it just didn't stick. I decided to try again and actually try this time and Rocking the World was born. I started writing posts about trips I had taken and even some beauty posts and got into the routine of blogging and developing more and more ideas for posts. I really fell in love with having a blog because it made me feel special because I had always felt that I was just boring so this gave me a boost of confidence that I needed in life. I felt like I finally had a purpose.

A year later I am still blogging and I am still in love with it. I have grown and matured through this blog and it has really taught me skills that I am happy to have like web design and it has even improved my writing skill which helps with school. I have also become more adventurous and out-going at school and in life. I honestly don't know who I would be if I hadn't started this blog because it really has helped me solidify who I am. Rocking the World has really become a big part of my life. Even through long times of not writing I can't help coming back and writing a post.

I can't thank all my readers enough but I have to thank my close friends and family for supporting this blog. I have had a hard time getting people to take me seriously with this blogging thing but my close friends and family have been so supportive and have kept me going. They help me see how happy it makes me. I can only hope that this blog gets bigger and better as life goes on.

Check out some of my favorite posts from the year!

-The Power of Makeup
- A Weekend in Martinsville
- Disney Covers and Medleys
- Introduction + Exciting News

Thank you guys for an awesome year! I couldn't have done it without you!

- Megan

Back to School Clothing Haul

I love back to school time because it means that new clothes are coming out and some of the best sales are going on. I did have a chance to go shopping and I found some awesome deals!

Starting off with some of the cutest booties I've ever seen. I got these cuties from Payless for a really good deal. They are probably going to be one of my favorite things to wear this fall. Also from Payless I got a new infinity scarf that is a mixture of a cloud and heaven. This scarf is so soft and it will really help me stay warm and cozy when cold weather hits. Then I went to DressBarn and found a super cute hat that has a bow on the side and I will definitely be wearing this season.

Another fall must have for me are sweaters. Whether they are cardigans or pullovers, I always wear sweaters in the fall. I got two adorable plain pullover sweaters and some jeans from Gap. These are a little baggy and super warm and can be paired with a scarf or a fun necklace for a cute but comfy fall outfit. I also got a different pullover and a cardigan from Charlotte Russe. The sweater is more of a knit sweater but again it is really comfy and can easily be paired with jeans and sneakers. The cardigan is longer and really cute. I also got a new flannel because who doesn't love flannels?

Now one of my favorite stores to go to is Aeropostale. They always have great deals going on and their clothes are super cute. I got an adorable graphic tee that says 'Where to Next?' which totally describes me and it is really soft. I got an army jacket that has a hood and is nice and warm for fall.

Have you done your back to school shopping? Send me a pic on Twitter! 

- Megan

5 Kinds of People Needed in Life

So by now you've probably figured out that life is hard. You are faced with challenges that can take a lot of strength but one thing you will always need in life are people. Whether it is a friend that brings you food on a tough day or a stranger that pays for your food at Chick-Fil-A, people are always gonna be around and I have come up with five people you should have in life.


1. The Best Friend- It is pretty obvious that everyone needs a best friend. Someone that you can talk to in times of need. Someone to share secrets with and can support you as much as your parents. I was blessed with three amazing best friends. These girls have seen me through my bad times and laughed with me in the good times. They are absolutely amazing people and I am lucky to have them as my best friends.

2. The Teacher- In life you are going to fail. Many people, including myself, don't like this concept but it is inevitable. So in life you are going to need someone to guide you and remind you who you are and how you can improve yourself. I am lucky to be a part of a wonderful youth group with amazing leaders. They are there for me to guide me through and help me learn in hard times and there to celebrate the good times.

3. The Bro- I am a person that needs someone that won't over react to things and that is why I have my best guy friend who are down to earth and not as dramatic. These are guys in your life who will feel more like brothers than anything else. They will lend a shoulder to cry on and someone who will just listen.

4. The Jokester- Need a laugh? This is the person who will constantly make you laugh when your feeling down. My jokester is one of the funniest people I know. I can't be around them without laughing and when I am not feeling happy they can pick up my mood really quickly.

5. The Positive Thinker- Let's face it, there are gonna be days where every thought you think is going to negative. When I have days like these I go to my positive thinker. She can give me a positive outlook on life and on anything bad thought I have had.

With these people you have a strong team to go through life with. They love you and will always be there for you. Share this with your team and friends so they can create their team to!

- Megan

Beauty Haul

Just like every other girl I am in love with products that soften my skin and make me smell good. Lately I have found some products and I have been given some new products that I am now obsessed with. August is just a great month for beauty with new products coming out and it is the perfect time to look for new products while getting ready for back to school.

So one thing I have to have on in the mornings is a body spray. I am one that likes the more fruity smell and right now I am in love with the Bath and Body Works Coco Cabana. It has Aloe Vera in it and it is super moisturizing plus it smells amazing. I definitely give it five stars.

Now I used to be a dancer and my feet can be pretty gross, so I am always looking for new products to help make my feet less gross. I have recently discovered the Avon Foot Works foot soak and it works wonders. You mix in the foot works with some warm water and soak your feet fo 15-20 minutes. You do have to order from the Avon website but it is completly worth it.

I also got a phenominal hand cream from Avon that it super moisturizing and leaves your hands feeling soft for days! I have dry skin and this really helps my skin stay moisturized and feeling good.

I hope you enjoyed this post and I hope you enjoy these products! If you have a product you want me try leave it in the comments or send me a tweet and I will talk to you guys later!

- Megan

The Tricky Triangle

I am all for opportuniy and when it involves a weekend of racing it makes it a lot better. I got to spend a weekend with my mom in the beautiful state of Pennsylvania at Pocono Raceway. If you follow me on social media you probably got to see some of the people I saw but now you finally get to hear the stories.

For those that don't know about the 86 truck team, you guys are missing out. This team is based out of Virginia and they are working real hard right now. The truck is driven by Brandon Brown and they are sponsored by Coastal Carolina University. I have been fortunate enough to know this team through my wonderful sports marketing teacher. The team is so nice and so welcoming and I was able to go on this weekend trip thanks to them!

So on Friday I left with my mom at 5:00 in the morning to make our way to Pennsylvania. Once we got to Pocono we got out credentials and headed down to the truck garage to meet up with the team and let the weekend begin. Now let me tell you, for an aspiring NASCAR photographer being down in the garage and on pit road was an amazing experience. I got to be right there with the action and capture some really cool shots. So during the day I explored this new environment and at some point in the day I wandered over to the ARCA garage. For those that don't know I am close with the 55 team for Venturini Motorsports and specifically the driver Dalton Sargeant. So I got to go over and see Dalton and his whole team who I hadnt't seen in two months. Seeing these guys is always fantatsic and I always enjoy the time with them. So later that day we got to be down in their pit box for the race and Dalton finished 3rd that day.


The next day was all truck series though. I got to the track a little bit later than the team but I got there to found out that qualifying got cancelled which led to an uneventful morning. My mom and I did walk out around in fan fest and we watched the Sprint Cup practice for the day. Finally race time rolled around and I was down in the 86 box for a very eventful race. The team worked hard all day and ran up in the top ten until we blew a tire and finished 24th. Let me tell you though, this team worked their butts off to fix the truck and make the best out of a bad situation. After the race it was all buisness as the team cleaned up and made the long trip back home. They worked hard all weekend and it was awesome to be down there with them.

I can't thank the team enough for letting my mom and I come hang out for the weekend and be a part of the madness. Being with them was definitly a fun time and a great learning experience. I am so thankful for the time with them and the time with my mom. Pocono was a fun track to be at and they were just amazing!

Thank you guys for reading this post and supporting me. I know I didn't post a whole lot last month and like I tweeted I will hopefully be posting a life update to explain why that was but I can't thank everyone enough for being patient with me and still reading. I hope you enjoyed this post and I will talk to you all soon!

- Megan

A Special Opportunity continued.

Hey guys so last week I told you about the mission trip I was going on with my youth group and I am back and I had the best time and I can't wait to tell you so lets get going!

So I told you guys that I was going to Niagara Falls with youth group for our annual mission trip. What a lot of people don't know is that the town of Niagara Falls is a community in need. They have lost over 50% of their population and for every one house three were boarded up. Many of the community members are under the poverty line. My group left with 86 people in our group which is a lot of people. We left on Saturday and stayed in a hotel over night then headed to Niagara on Sunday. Before we headed to where we would be staying for the week we made a stop at the incredible Niagara Falls. Guys this place is amazing. We did the Maid of the Mist and it was absolutely breathtaking. I also got to walk around and see all the different parts on the falls.

Once we got to our housing site, we got settled in and went to sleep to prepare for one of the most amazing weeks of my life. Monday we were divided into our work groups and we were given our jobs for the week. I was lucky enough to be working in a kids club that worked with under privileged kids. The kids I worked with lived below the poverty line and a lot didn't get to eat as much as they should be able to. The lady that ran this camp has one of the biggest hearts. She runs this camp during the week where free breakfast and lunch are provided and on weekends she goes to as many of the kid's houses as she can to make sure they eat. But these kids are absolutely amazing. They loved on my group as soon as we walked in the door. They loved everything to running around outside to playing with our hair.

Now one things we do with the organization that hosted us is that we would go out into the community and interact with them. So on Monday night we got to go back to the falls and explore some more. Tuesday night we got to go to the power plant that runs all the power in Niagara Falls through hydro-power. This place was super informative and very interactive. On Wednesday our group was fortunate enough to participate in a poverty simulator. This was an experience that I will never forget. We were divided into groups and given family scenarios. We were then given a certain amount of time to try to "break out of poverty". Now let me tell you, it was overwhelming and many people in our group ended up worse than where we started. It was eye opening and life changing experience. Finally on Thursday we hosted a community cookout where members of the community came to eat and we got to hear more of their stories.

One of the things I was so thankful for during this week was the amazing YouthWorks staff. They were there all week to encourage us and just love on us. I grew so close to them all including Erica, Gabby, and Madyson. They really just overflowed with God's love and I am so thankful for them.

We left on Friday morning and arrived home on Saturday. It was one of the most life changing weeks of my life. God showed up all over the place and I cannot be more thankful for the opportunity. The community of Niagara really just took my heart, Being in such a welcoming community just made me love being there. God showed up in so many ways that I was so overwhelmed by it all and I will be honest by saying I was in a dry spell in my faith but I this trip reminded me how amazing the Lord is and how much he has blessed us.



I really hope you guys enjoyed this post and I am super happy to be posting again. I really missed writing posts while I was gone. I also can't thank everyone that made this trip possible enough. I really am so thankful! If you have any questions about my trip that are specific please feel free to send me a message on Twitter! I will be back soon with some more posts. I hope you have an awesome morning/night wherever you are and I will talk to you guys soon!

- Megan

A Special Opportunity

So as many of you know I am very active in my church's youth group and on Saturday I will be leaving for a mission trip and I will be heading to Niagara, New York for a week. During the week I will get to serve the community by doing different projects that we are assigned through an organization called YouthWorks. This is an organization that is very involved with communities across the country. They are an amazing organization to work with and be a part of. They also are very good about taking us out into the community to see the places around where we are working. Mission trip is a big part of my summer and such a wonderful experience. So as I am preparing for this big week, I do ask that you pray for me and my group as we serve. Pray for our travel and that we can make a big difference in that community.

Now my youth group has a policy that we may not have cell phones on retreats or the mission trip. I am perfectly fine with this policy. It allows me to connect with the group, the community, and God. This means I will not be able to be on any social media starting Saturday. I promise I will fill you in on all the details of my trip when I get back because I can't really change it. So don't freak out when I drop off the face of the Earth for a week. I promise I am okay and I will be back soon!

I will be back in a week and I love you guys!
-Megan

YouTube Obsessed: June

So it is the end of the month and it has actually been two months since one of these posts but I am back with four awesome YouTube videos!

1. Can't Stop the Feeling Cover by Tyler Ward (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYbUa-uN_jw)- I have had this playing everyday for the month. The song is super catchy and I am in love with Tyler Ward so it was a cover that I automatically love. Tyler has an amazing story and such a passion for music.

2. Letter from the Refuge (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVoWyO2TEuY)- For all my fellow Broadway nerds this video is for you. This is a song that was added for the tour of Disney's Newsies and it honestly made the show even better. It is a phenomenal song performed by an amazing actor.

3. Jon Dorenbos AGT Audition (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCyXy4GH-O8)- Jon Dorenbos is a Pro Football player for the Philadelphia Eagles and he is also a magician and he is AMAZING! I have really gotten into this season of America's Got Talent and I watch it every Tuesday so if you watch please talk with me during the show!

4. ThatcherJoe (https://www.youtube.com/user/ThatcherJoe)- This is actually a user that I have recently found and I love his videos! He does really funny pranks and is super hilarious. Go check him out and prepare to laugh.

I really hope you enjoy all of these videos and explore more into who made them. They are my favorites and I have watched them so many times. I hope you enjoyed this post and feel free to share it with a friend and I hope you have an amazing week and I will talk to you guys soon!
4. ThatcherJoe (https://www.youtube.com/user/ThatcherJoe)- This is actually a user that I have recently found and I love his videos! He does really funny pranks and is super hilarious. Go check him out and prepare to laugh.
I really hope you enjoy all of these videos and explore more into who made them. They are my favorites and I have watched them so many times. I hope you enjoyed this post and feel free to share it with a friend and I hope you have an amazing week and I will talk to you guys soon!

- Megan

A Special Visitor

I am very fortunate to have many friends all over the nation and when one of my friends that lives far away comes to visit, it is very special. Amanda lives very far away from me in Massachusetts and her family recently came to visit for vacation. So for her first night with me, I took her to Dominion Raceway.

We headed down to the raceway and stayed there to watch the local series racers run their racers. The night started out with Bandolero racing and on one of the first laps a driver hit the wall bringing out a red flag because he had hit the wall pretty hard. The kid was okay but it was a pretty hard hit. Then we watched some U-Cars and Legend cars but their races ran pretty smooth but they did have their little cautions. The main event for the night was a Whelen Late Model race. I know a team and we were rooting for them! Sadly they wrecked early in the race but the last lap of the race was pretty exciting.

The next day Amanda and her family came over for dinner and to watch the Xfinity race. We slowly realized that our families are very identical. We watched the race and all groaned as Sam Hornish Jr. won. We had dinner again together on Tuesday.

On Wednesday my mom and I took the kids I watch to the zoo and we met Amanda and her mom there and spent another day together. We saw the pandas and lions and all the animals. I also got to meet up with another friend from Twitter, Grace! This was super exciting for me because Grace lives far away too so it was a great day!

Finally on Thursday, Amanda and I were joined by our mothers and we ventured into DC. We started by walking to the Natural History Museum and seeing the Hope Diamond and some other fun photography exhibits. Then we headed over to the American History Museum and the fun began. We saw the first American flag and the presidential dress and then headed downstairs to the Transportation exhibit. There were all these cars and sets to make it look like you were back in the different eras. Well they also had some people to make it seem real and I couldn't help myself but to pose with them. It became a very fun joke that continued for a long time. After we finished walking through that museum we headed to some monuments and The White House. We plan on moving there some day so we had to visit and take a few pictures! After that we headed for a very stressful Metro ride because of track work but what's a trip to DC without stress am I right? It just gave us time to plan Amanda's next visit. We made it home after a trip to Chick-Fil-A and it was time to say see ya later to her whole family. It was a sweet sorrow when someone you are truly connected too and have so much in common with but it helps knowing they will be back soon.

I hope you enjoyed this post and I have to let you know that I took so many pictures that they cannot fit in this post without being overwhelming so stay tuned to my social media for those pictures to come out slowly but surly and picking my favorites was super hard. This was a great week with so many memories.

Now I am a person that loves stats and checking my numbers and I have to thank you guys for 1800 reads! This is huge for me know that this little blog I started for fun is actually reaching people and I do hope you enjoy it. I really cannot thank you guys enough.

I hope you enjoyed this post and all the pictures that are posted. It was a fun time and a great start to summer. I am so excited for all the adventures coming up and I cannot wait to share! I will talk to you guys later.

-Megan

Summertime Playlist

Hey guys so since it is summer time and you are probably spending time at the beach or at the pool you have to have those summer jams playing. I know that I cannot do anything without music and I have my personal summer playlist that I am going to share with you!

1. Best Song Ever- One Direction
2. California Wild- Brittany Underwood
3. Dear Future Husband- Meghan Trainor
4. Doin' What She Likes- Blake Shelton
5. Feelin' It- Scotty McCreery
6. Fight Song- Rachel Platten
7. Forget About You- R5
8. Give Your Heart a Break- Demi Lovato
9. Honestly- Hot Chelle Rae
10. Mine- Taylor Swift
11. Raise Em' Up- Keith Urban
12. Rocketship- Shane Harper
13. See You Tonight- Scotty McCreery
14. Still Into You- Paramore
15. These Are My People- Rodney Atkins
16. Sort Of- Ingrid Michaelson
17. Play It Again- Luke Bryan
18. House Party- Sam Hunt
19. Bringing Back the Sunshine- Blake Shelton
20. Somebody to You- The Vamps
21. I Love You- Martina McBride
22. Sledgehammer- Fifth Harmony
23. Where I Come From- Montgomery Gentry
24. America's Sweetheart- Elle King
25. Something to Be Proud Of- Montgomery Gentry
26. Geronimo- Sheppard
27. All Night- R5
28. Anything Goes- Florida Georgia Line
29. One Call Away- Charlie Puth
30. Sweet Serendipity- Lee DeWyze

These are songs are a must for summer but I am always finding new music and adding to my summertime playlist. Music is a big part of my life and I always have a song in my head if I can't have music playing. I hope your summer is going well and that it is filled with music. I hope you enjoyed this quick post and check out all these songs on Spotify and on YouTube. Feel free to share this post and I will talk to you guys soon!

-Megan

What's on My iPhone?

Hey guys so today I am going to be doing a highly requested post called What's on my iPhone. I am really excited to do this post and share some cool apps with you guys! So let's get started!

So I have an iPhone 6s and I love it! I have all the normal features and all that. My lock screen is a picture of Seanna and I from Martinsville and my home screen is another picture from Martinsville of Seanna, Ryan, and I.

Lock Screen

Home Screen

So when you unlock my phone my home page has all the basic apps on it along with my email and an app for school so I can check my grades, I also have Google Photos on there so that I can back up my pictures to my Google account and have them for blog posts too! On my home screen I also have a Photography group that has my Instasize and PicStitch. One of my favorite apps in this little group is the Nikon app! I have a little adapter that plugs into my camera and when it is turned on it gives me wifi and I can view the pictures off my camera when I am at the track or whatever. So when I am at the track and you are seeing pictures I am using that app!

 So when you slide over to the next page I have some games and some other apps that I use for daily life. Let me tell you, Some of these apps are my favorite apps and I am really excited to share them with you.

The first app is VSCO. This is a photograpahy app that I use to edit my pictures I use on here or that I post on social media to give them the perfect look. I love it a lot and I am on it all the time. Another App is Disney Crossy Road. I love this app because I love Disney and it is just super addictive. Plus getting all the cute little characters is fun! Soundhound is a must have app! With Soundhound you can record a part of a song and it can tell you who the song is by and what the title is. It is really handy for when you don't know what a song on the radio is. I also have the Bloglovin' app because I can keep up to date on what my favorite bloggers are posting! It is also another way for me to check on my blog. I have the Britney Spears app which is a lot like the Kim Kardashian app but this one revolves around a music career. I also have the NEW Chick-Fil-A app because I love Chick-Fil-a and why not.

Now if you look at the bottom of my screen I have a social media group that has all my basic social stuff. Of course I love my Instagram and Twitter but another app I am super obsessed with right now is Periscope. If you follow me you know I am on there all the time broadcasting so follow me so you can join in and make sure my notifications are on for when I do makeup or Q&A broadcasts in the future!

This is all of the interesting things I have on my phone. I don't have anything way to crazy or exciting but I am pretty happy with what I have. I hope you enjoyed this post and I hope you can share this with a friend! Don't miss out on anything I post and follow me on social media and I will talk to you guys soon!

-Megan