Amanda Alvarado

One of the best things about not being in school anymore is that I actually have time to read!

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I really loved reading as a kid. Seriously, loved it, but as assigned reading got more lengthy and the amount of homework and studying I had to do grew, I found it hard to read for fun. Once I got a job and started being really involved, that free time for reading kind of went out the door. When I graduated college, I decided that I was finally going to start reading again and it has been one of the best decisions I've made.

I've been reading a lot of personal development books lately. David and I are reading two different books about marriage right now. Once we're finished, we'll swap.. and no, we aren't married or engaged, but we've been dating for almost eight years, so the time is coming sooner rather than later. I read Girl, Wash Your Face,Crushing It, and Body Love and absolutely loved these books. I asked for a ton of books for Christmas and recently ordered some more. Honestly, I've got quite a long reading list to get through and I'm not buying anymore books until I've put a good dent in the ones I already have.

This summer, I'm really wanting to get through three books. There are three books I'm reading this summer that I want to share with you! You might want to add these to your summer reading list. Actually... should we start a book club?

Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis

Rachel Hollis is a lady who I am just loving right now. In this book, she sounds a wake-up call. She knows that many women have been taught to define themselves in light of other people instead of learning how to own who they are and what they want. With a challenge to women everywhere to stop talking themselves out of their dreams, Hollis identifies the excuses to let go of, the behaviors to adopt, and the skills to acquire on the path to growth, confidence, and believing in yourself. Doesn't this sound amazing?

Tools Of Titans by Tim Ferriss

This book contains all of the tools that world-class performers have used in their own lives. I love learning morning routines and the ways of some of the highest-performers, so this book is just the thing. Ferris says,“I created this book, my ultimate notebook of high-leverage tools, for myself. It’s changed my life, and I hope the same for you.”

Own Your Everyday by Jordan Lee Dooley

I found Jordan Lee Dooley about a year ago and love her so, so much! I pre-ordered this book because I was just so excited about it. This book talks about tackling obstacles life throws at us, removing labels and breaking out of the box of expectations, identifying and eliminating excuses and unnecessary stress about an unknown future, and overcoming the lie that you can't live your God-given purpose until you overcome a certain goal or milestone. Dooley helps you shift your mindset, overcome shame, practice gratitude, and redefine success!

Now that I've shared my reading list, share yours! What is a book you are looking forward to reading over the summer?

xx,

Amanda

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I've never been to London, but my boyfriend, David went a couple years ago and he promises that he'll take me one day.

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Because he's promised me that he'll take me one day, I love to research and stay up-to-date on what's happening in London. There is so much to do and if you're doing your own research, here's what I've found out!

London is a beautiful city that’s full of life twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. It’s one of the most popular tourist spots on earth, and if you find yourself booking a trip, then there are some iconic places that you must have on your to-do list while you’re there.

The Shard

For a truly breathtaking, 360° view of the capital, The Shard has become one of the most popular spots to spend the day taking in the sights. Built in 2012, this 95-story skyscraper stands tall across the city’s skyline and is home to many offices, restaurants and hotel rooms. The Shard’s viewing point is over three floors, 68, 69 and 72 and costs £24 (about $31) for a standard ticket and is slightly more if purchased on the day. It’s both a sight to behold whether you go on the day or in the evening. However, be sure to check the weather before booking. Obviously, when booking in advance, it’s hard to predict the weather so they do have a guarantee that if you can’t see a certain number of landmarks, they’ll allow you to revisit for free on another day.

Buckingham Palace

Everyone visiting London is hoping they can spot a royal and one place that increases your chances is by heading over to Buckingham Palace. It’s a magnificent building to look at which sits at the bottom of the mall, just off Trafalgar Square. And although it’s unlikely you’ll get to see the Queen, you can experience the changing of the guards which happens at 10:45am. It’s quite the experience to see, and it only takes around 30 minutes, so it’s a great stop-off point, while en route to somewhere else. You can also have the opportunity to visit the inside of Buckingham Palace, which opens to the public over summer. Feast your eyes on the lavishly decorated staterooms and know that you’re seeing one of the few working palaces in the world.

Kew Gardens

There are some amazing photographers in London, and some of those photographers flock to Kew Gardens to get up and personal with nature. These botanical gardens attract many tourists and so much can be seen from Victorian glasshouses to discovering the science and conservation work that they’re currently doing. With over 50,000 living plants on display, you could easily spend the whole day at Kew Gardens. Including exhibitions, talks, and tours, the cost of getting in is just £16.50 (about $20) for a standard adult and £4.50 (about $6) for children. Definitely worth taking advantage of if you’re in London for a while!

Piccadilly Circus

So it might not quite be as extravagant as Times Square in New York, but the iconic screens still light up this road junction in the most exciting way. It’s a popular spot to take a tourist snap, and there’s plenty of restaurants, bars and theaters nearby. Just up the road from Piccadilly Circus is Regent Street where all the designer shops are. Another feature of the junction is the statue of Eros, a popular meeting spot when meeting up with friends or your traveling party. Unveiled in 1893, the statue wasn’t loved as much as it is now, with many at the time thinking it was ugly and rather vulgar in its sensual appearance.

Borough Market

Borough Market is a typical example of food and street markets that you find on a smaller scale across the country. It’s a market that is the source of British and international produce and it’s a fantastic experience for anyone that’s local or new to the area. It’s one of the largest and oldest markets in London and has a variety of food to taste and buy. There’s very much something from every cuisine, and the atmosphere is pretty incredible for anyone that’s never been before. Obviously, it’s free to enter and certainly worth stopping on buy to buy your lunch or food to take back to wherever you’re staying.

There’s also plenty of events that happen within the market as well as live music from local bands and buskers.

When staying in London, there’s plenty of sights to take in during your stay. The typical tourist spots like Big Ben and Oxford Circus are a must-see, but all of the above should be explored too. Kew Gardens is great all year round but especially during the summer when the sunshine is out. Take a trip up to The Shard and don’t forget to stop off at Buckingham Palace for a selfie!

xx,

Amanda

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Smoothies are great, but you've probably been making them wrong.

I've mentioned it before, but I recently read Body Love by Kelly LeVeque and let me tell you...it has completely changed the way I eat and how I think about food. I've stopped counting calories, feeling guilty for eating that chocolate chip cookie with my nephew, and starving myself until I can make it to the next meal.

For breakfast, I normally have some eggs with veggies and half an avocado. It is so good and so filling, but sometimes, I want something else and I need to run out the door. This is when a smoothie is the perfect thing to eat because you throw stuff into a blender, blend it, put it in a to-go cup, and walk out the door. So easy!

All my life, I made smoothies with like three different kinds of fruit, milk, and maybe some peanut butter or cocoa powder. Was I ever full from that smoothie? Not at all! Also, all that fruit was loaded with sugar. Kelly is all about a morning smoothie because they are easy to make and run out the door, but she wants us all to get protein, fat, fiber, and greens in our smoothies (and all our meals!) with no more that 1/4 cup of fruit!

One of my favorite smoothie concoctions remind me of banana nut bread and it has everything needed to keep my blood sugar maintained and full for like five hours meaning I'm not starving before it is even considered lunch time!

In my smoothie, I like to do a scoop of vanilla protein powder (currently loving Ancient Nutrition's Vanilla Bone Broth Protein Powder), half a frozen banana, handful of walnuts (or pecans or whatever you have on hand!), some chia seeds, almond milk (unsweetened!!), cinnamon, and a handful of spinach. This is so good!

If you haven't yet, seriously follow Kelly on Instagram and buy her book. This is not sponsored or anything. She doesn't even know how I am. I am seriously such a fan and she has changed my life and the way I eat, my relationship with food, and even my health in just the short amount of time that I have implemented her tips and advice. I've always had a really dysfunctional relationship with food, but that really has changed! I'm feeling food freedom if that makes sense!

Seriously, go try this smoothie and let me know what you think! I think you'll love it.

xx,

Amanda

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I've talked a lot about all the trouble I've had with my skin and the top 10 things I've learned about how to make your skin look its best.

If you're new, I've talked about my struggle with skin for a while. I recently talked about my 3 skin care essentials and even why I went a month without makeup which resulted in a ton of "wow, you look tired" comments. It was honestly such a great thing for my skin and even my self-esteem.

My trouble with my skin has resulted in me doing a ton of research and I always test all the tips and tricks I learn and bring them here to share with you all. I've got all kinds of tips that you will love and just might change your skin. Sometimes, it just takes some simple changes!

There is nothing more annoying than waking up in the morning when you have a big day ahead, and a spot has appeared on your face. Nothing more annoying than zoning in on a festering pustule that is so central, you can't even get away with covering it in makeup. Foundation and concealer only do so much... at least for real because let's be real, I'm no makeup artist.

You'll hear it everywhere you go: cleanse, tone, moisturize. Every morning and every night, wash your face and take care of your skin. You know how frustrating it is when you do that, but your skin is still awful? I do! The normal skincare routine doesn't listen to hormonal changes, which is a big factor in my skin.

Dry skin, dead skin, oily skin, red skin - it's all or nothing, and if you are paying attention to your face enough, you'll know that finding the right skincare routine is only half the battle. We are always willing to do whatever it takes to make our skin look good, from obsessively Googling chemical peels benefits to scheduling a facial twice a month every month until the end of time. The reality? You need some new beauty tips to keep your skin glowing and radiant no matter what day of the week it is. Your skin gives away your daily emotions: being happy makes you flush. Being stressed makes you break out. There are a lot of things that you need to do to get your skin looking beautiful naturally, and I've got ten of those things for you below:

Always - And I Mean Always - Remove Your Makeup

It's been a long day; all you want is a set of comfortable pajamas and your favorite blanket (like the Kardashian ones). You sink into your bed and drift off into sleep, but you didn't remove your makeup. It's not your pillows (with a silk pillowcase of course) that will suffer for this, but your skin. Overnight, your skin needs to breathe from the days' pollution, and makeup blocks the pores and stops your skin from getting the oxygen it needs. If you're feeling too lazy for your full routine, use makeup remover wipes for easy use. Ladies, do not sleep in your makeup, please!

Always SPF It Up

No matter what you do, still apply sunscreen. Even to head to work - if the UV levels are up, your skin could suffer for it. So, whether it's cloudy or clear outside, add sunscreen and protect your skin! I actually don't even wear foundation day-to-day. I'm all about a sunscreen - and always a mineral sunscreen.

Eat For Clear Skin

Food isn't medicine, but there are a lot of studies to show that fresh fruits, green veggies and the right vitamins in your diet will ensure that your skin is radiant. Fried foods and food that are high in saturated fats can generally contribute to oilier skin. Eat well and try these recipes for skin that wins.

Work It Out

It's not a math problem, but a workout can do wonders for your skin. Running, jogging, and exercises like Pilates (I LOVE Blogilates!) can allow the blood to circulate around your body and will enable you to sweat out the toxins in your body. Always exfoliate and moisturize after your workout, too, to ensure that your skin is in the best condition possible.

Sleep, Glorious Sleep

One thing that you need the most to function is a proper night of sleep. Sleeping around seven hours (I like nine) a night is necessary to be able to concentrate, but it's also going to wake your skin up and make it feel more invigorated. Tired body = tired skin, but no matter what you do, don't forget to wash and go through your skincare routine before you go to sleep at night.

Hydration Station

We need water to live, but the one place that we benefit the most is our skin. There are plenty of hydrating foods out there, but you shouldn't discount the importance of your eight glasses of water per day. You'll brighten your skin and reduce eye bags! I keep my S'well bottle filled at all times!

Pamper Yourself

Have you ever had a facial? Why not? It's time to go and book one in if you haven't already. Having someone massage and stimulate your skin with the right moisturizers and creams that are tailored to your skin is simply wonderful, and it's the ultimate skincare treat.

Wave Goodbye To Spots

Whether you deal with a few spots every cycle or you deal with adult acne (like me!), you need to get a handle on your spot situation - for your skin health if not for your confidence. Wash your face with warm water, and as you use soap or face wash, do so in circular motions to massage your skin. Whatever you do, don't pop those pesky spots!! Doing so will only lead to more spots, more redness and draw more attention to your skin. The problem with spots is that people pop them, then try to cover the pore with makeup, which only serves to make it worse.

Don't Neglect The Basics

There is so much involved in skincare that you need to remember sometimes that merely breathing can be enough to nourish you. Use basic kitchen ingredients like these to create amazing face packs that you can use to nourish your skin naturally.

Create Healthy Habits

A big part of your skincare is in creating healthy habits that are easy to stick to, such as de-stressing your life. Indulging in self-care and ensuring that your body produces happy hormones is so essential. Learn and practice techniques for stress management so that you can live a life less stressful. While you're dealing with your skin, think about facial exercises like these that will help your skin to remain healthy and youthful.

Your skin deserves your attention, and if you pay the right amount of attention to your skin early, you'll be able to create natural, healthy habits that will carry through to the rest of your life. The better you treat your skin now, the more you will reap the reward later on. Don't put your skincare routine to one side; you'll never regret it!

xx,

Amanda

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We've all been there, you stayed up way past your bedtime and now your beauty is suffering the consequences of your late night.

I need to be in bed my 9 p.m. and asleep by 10 p.m. to make my 6:30 a.m. wakeup call. I need my sleep and I need my morning routine. I need to meditate, read, write out my goals, get some light, movement, and hydration before I even start getting ready for my day. I need my morning routine and if you need to get a handle on your mornings, I got you! Get my guide to Mapping Out Your Morning Routine!

We've all been there though. You know, when you stay up too late and now you have like 15 minutes to look like a human. You've more than likely hit the snooze button a few times and failed to drag yourself out of bed, then when you eventually rise, a quick glance in the mirror and you see frightful hair emulating bird nest qualities and some dark, unsightly circles resting beneath your puffy eyes. It's the moment where your heart begins to thud, and you wonder how to get your life together in 15 minutes flat to make it in time for your important meeting, work, whatever! You need to get going, you need to look fab, you're going to have to cut some corners, but it's doable, here's how.

Expressive Clothing

On occasion, we might let our hair and makeup do the talking, but for a quick fix on a rushed morning opt for some colorful clothing, to brighten up your look instantly. Grab items of clothing that won't require ironing to save you some time, such as your mountain mamas top you have hanging up, and add some layers, such as your denim jacket. Once your outfit has been decided, you can move onto some minimal makeup.

Your Face

A splash of cold water to clean and tighten up your pores, followed by a smidge of tinted moisturizer, to keep your skin hydrated, protected, to even your skin tone and reduce the appearance of redness, BB cream is your savior in more ways than one. BB cream is perfect for a quick fix, that looks effortless and natural as if you not wearing any makeup at all. If you don't have time for much more makeup, always commit to eyebrows and lashes at the very least. Curl your lashes to open up your eyes, add a splash of mascara, brush your brows and fill in with pencil to add some structure to your face. Put some lip balm in your bag to apply on the way to your meeting/work/event.

Tresses

When there's no time to wash your hair, a bit of hair shampoo massaged into your locks and brushed out can cover a multitude of greasy sins and add some oomph to otherwise flat hair. For a quick fix hairstyle, a top knot bun works well to enhance a chic, edgy look. Or if you're really in a hurry leave your tresses to cascade over your shoulders.

Sometimes there's no time for a full makeover each day where you have the luxury to potter about trying on a few different outfits or taking your time laboring over which lipstick best matches your outfit and the occasion. The above quick beauty tips are more than enough when time is limited, and although it may not be a full face of makeup, you can still achieve that ‘ready to take on the day’ feel with your effortless, ‘I woke up like this’ look combining a fresh-faced makeup look, some bright clothing and tamed locks.

Your best running-late-morning beauty secret? Share it below!

xx,

Amanda

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Hydration Station

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