One Year Of UselessKatieTips!

So this post is going to be a bit different from my usual posts. I just realized that I've had my blog for an entire year!! So I've decided to make a post to share with you a few things I've learned during this past year with quotes and just some random thoughts here and there. So if this isn't your type of post, you can exit this window. I promise I wont be mad. If you're looking forward to reading this then hold on a quick second. I promise I'll get to the body of this post right now.

"Develop a healthy relationship with food. If you're hungry, eat. If you're full, don't eat. Eat vegetables to be god to your body, but eat ice cream to be good to your soul. 
Take pictures of yourself frequently. Chronicle your life. Selfies are completely underrated. Even if the pictures are unflattering, keep them anyway. There will always be mountains and cities and buildings, but you will never look the same as you did in that moment in time.
Your worth does not depend on how desirable someone finds you. Spend less time in front of the mirror and more time with the people who make you feel beautiful.
Close doors. Don't hold onto things that no longer bring you happiness and do not help you grow as a person. It is okay to walk away from toxic relationships. You are not wear for letting go.
Forgive yourself.. We all have something in our pasts that we are ashamed of, but they only weigh us down if we allow them to. Make amends with the old you and work every day to become the person that you've always wanted to be." - Tina Tran

I'll be honest, when I first seen this quote on Tumblr and didn't want to read it but for some reason I did anyway and didn't regret reading a single word. Every part of it I can relate to and I think most of you can too. It really reminded me that, Yes! I'm allowed to be happy, and happy I will be.

Allow yourself to be happy without worrying about the opinions of others. This took me a long time to figure out and the second I realized that I don't have to hide my happiness, my life changed. 

Embrace change. Even though this can be the hardest thing you'll ever do, I promise you it's worth it. I moved across the country to get away from a few people and a bad situation and I'm telling you. It feels amazing to be myself and to no longer be judged!

Love a family that loves you back!
No more wasting time on people who don't care about you and only say nice things to you to make them look good. You should NEVER feel ashamed about the person you are and No one should ever let you feel that way.

Always be yourself!
If you can't be yourself somewhere then why are you there? Why waste your precious time on something or someone that doesn't allow you to be yourself? Surround yourself with places and people that truly love you for all you are.

Be apart of something that you truly love and believe in.
Whether this is a family, religion, or work, Love it. and be apart of whatever it is because YOU want to. Not because it would please everyone else. As a people pleaser I struggled with this but moving away made it clear that the people I was associated with would only be interested in me if I conformed to what they thought was best.

Do something for yourself.
For the past 4 years, I did nothing for myself. I slaved to make someone happy who just didn't want to be. I constantly put myself second to everyone and was punished for even thinking about doing something for myself. You can't live like that! You have to stand up for yourself and realize how you deserve to be treated. Find people that appreciate you and all your efforts but also encourage you to be your own person. 

 Surround yourself with people who are happy and want the best for you.
I slowly started to distance myself from the people who didn't care about me and started hanging out with friends again. It was my Friend who showed me how people who love one another should be treated, just how much love I deserve, and how loved I really am by the people that truly matter. Jamie and Craig, I can never thank you enough for all the talks, tears and downright honest moments we've shared in the kitchen. You two are what kept me going when I was broken and I love you so much for that. <3

Don't hold on to heartbreak.
Okay, Cry. That's okay but I've learned to just let it go. I've learned that sometimes no matter how hard you try, not everything I meant to be. It's not worth it if it's not natural. Let it go and move on

The best things happen when you're not looking.
you have a routine, Yeah. so do I. You follow it everyday and nothing changes.
Until one day everything you thought you knew confuses you. He comes along and makes you smile. He doesn't know that you were crying only minutes before and he doesn't know anything thing about you but he thinks you're nice and he wants to know more. He doesn't pry or force you to share, He lets you be yourself and it turns out he likes who you are. He likes your laugh, your jokes, your smile, and your thoughts. He is perfect.

Let yourself love again
Even if it's 4 months or 10 years after your last relationship. Go for it. Indulge yourself in complete bliss. I did, and I've honestly never been this happy before. I think some of this happiness is because I've set myself free from the people who only wanted to hurt me. Now I'm confident and my future is so clear!

I'm dating someone.
I know some of you reading this are a few of those people who love to judge me and have been for the past 4 years and that's fine. Continue if you must. What you think about me is none of my business. Just keep in mind that you only know one side of the story. It's always going to be that way and I'm okay with that. As for my new relationship, I'm happy. I've spent the last couple months working and talking to him during all my free time. He's made me realize what I deserve and not just in a relationship but in daily life too. He knows things about me that no one else know, he understands, listens and cares. He is genuine, creative, honest, and smart. He compliments my life like no one I've ever known before and I know he will be in my life forever. Luis, you make my life brighter and you've always had my back. You never break your promises and you always ask how about my day. You remember the little things and you appreciate them just the same. The little things you do add up quickly and I really want you to know just how much I appreciate your time and effort in our relationship. You truly are my greatest blessing and I'm forever grateful for you. Thank you for showing me what it is to be happy again. There is no one better for me than you!

Alright. I know this post has been all over the place. I just had to type and say what I needed to. 

Be yourself guys and never settle for less than you deserve. Be happy, smile and love.

Please don't ever hold back from what you want and what you love. Take control. This is your one life and I believe you shouldn't waste any more time being sad or confused.

I love you guys, thanks for reading

                    Xxoo - Katie

July Favourites!

Hey everyone!! 
It's been forever since I've done a favourites post so I'm pretty excited right now and I hope you are too! I've only been loving a few products this month so this post wont be too long I just wanted to share my new loves with you! So lets get started!

BEAUTY FAVOURITES
24 Hour Revlon Colorstay  Foundation
"I'm addicted and I just cant get enough!" Lyrics just get me sometimes...
For a drug store brand, this foundation is FANTASTIC! It stays where you apply it and has amazing coverage. It never leaves my skin feeling dry or oily and it stays on forever! Don't skip washing your face when you wear this foundation. It stays on so well that your pores wont be able to breathe. Wash that face! Don't be lazy!

Real Techniques Buffing Brush
 This brush is God sent! Its my "go to" brush for my foundation and so far I swear by it. I favour this brush over my others because the short bristles really help you work your foundation into your skin for a flawless finish. Anther reason why I love this brush so much is it's durability. I'm tough on my brushes and go through them quite quickly but this one has stayed in tact and I'm pretty happy about that!

Revlon Photoready Pressed Powder -Translucent
So this is the first time I've tried Revlons translucent powder and I'm in love. I'm privy to their photoready powder in medium but because it's summer I don't want to have a heavy amount of make up on and I feel like this translucent powder allows my skin to breathe a little better then their pigmented powders. Maybe I'm wrong but I'm just going by how my skin feels during the day. this powder has shimmer in it so once applied it, the shimmer will catch in the light and highlight your natural features. You don't have to worry about reapplying this product. I

t hugs to the colorstay foundation and creates a flawless matte finish.

Goody Ouchless Elastics
If you have thick hair, then you already know.. These are a miracle! I've been loving these pony tails for years. I go through them so fast, mostly because I lose them or they eventually break. Anyway, most pony tails break in my hair instantly but these last quite a long time and they don't have a metal connector so no more hair being pulled out! They're called ouchless for a very good reason! Try these out! I'm so sure you''ll love them just as much as I do!

Goody Medium Claw Clips
When applying my make up or styling my hair, I grab these clips. When applying my make up I clip my hair behind me to keep it out of the way. When I style my hair I like to use these clips to keep my hair sectioned. I find the medium clips to be the perfect size for my thick hair. they stay secured and hold my hair in place extremely well. If you want an easy half up hair style, pick up these clips or if you just want your hair out of your face I recommend them for that as well.

MUSIC FAVOURITES

Currently LOVING Kat Dahlia! I think I'm in love again. I'm addicted to this song and can't get enough, it's constantly on replay or playing in my head. I think what I love most about this song is the fact that it's so relatable. I think a lot of us ave had that moment of "Here we go again." and this song captures it pretty well. give it a listen. I think you'll enjoy it just as much as I do.  

Lets be honest for a second........ we all have those moments when were jamming out to a song and we get right into it, to the point where you pray to God that no one is watching you.. For me that song is BBHMM By Rihanna. Seriously, guys I dont know what comes over me when I hear this song but for some reason I think I'm Rihanna and I try to be as tough as she is but lets be real for another second..I'm not. but there's no shame in having fun and thats what I do. I have to say though, this song is NOT for everyone! Especially the video, It's NSFW and watch at your own discretion

And that's all I have for you guys this month. Not a lot of favourites but definitely good ones. What have you been loving this Month? Make sure to tell me down below! Happy FriYAY Everyone! 

                                                      Xxoo- Katie 

Long Distance Relationships - Date Ideas

The very thought of a LDR can be quite scary and even seem ridiculous to many people. but with the right tools, this type of relationship can be just as successful as an ordinary one

So to keep you and your Love close I've gathered a few different date Ideas you can enjoy with the help of technology and some pretty awesome websites! Some of these ideas are plain and simple which makes for great and relaxed dates that you both will love! So lets get started! 

1. TogetherTube 
This website is pretty great you can watch YouTube videos with other people at the same time and even chat! Use TogetherTube  to watch movies, or to share your favourite Youtuber with your Sweetheart!

2. Online Gaming
PC Gaming, Xbox, WiiU, PS4 Whatever you have that can let you and Bae play together, do it, it's fun! Race to the finish line in Mario Kart, Fight to the death in super smash or annihilate some treasure trolls, spiders and the skeleton king in Diablo III. Theres a game and console out there for everyone, try a few! =)

3. Skype
This is an obvious one. Skype is made for communication and has a visual aspect, so just like FaceTime, it's popular. Set aside some time once in a while to Skype your Babe and just talk! Communication is crucial in any relationship, especially when it comes to long distance!

4. Phone Calls
Another obvious idea. Phone calls can be great if you can keep a conversation going. Talk about the highs and lows of your day and what your plans are tomorrow. This is a really simple date idea, one you can always make time for. just sit down relax and just talk!

5. FlockDraw
If you can draw on your laptop or if you can't, give FlockDraw a try. I personally can't even draw a straight line on Paint but isn't it cool knowing you and your Love can create a picture together? 

6. Sing! Karaoke by Smule
I've had this on my phone for a while now and I really like it! Try this app if you like to sing or if you want to try something different with your Sweetie. This app is available for Apple and android so you can always play together! 

7. Twiddla
This super cool site allows you and yours to share the same screen. Twiddla allows you to draw, upload images and look at web pages together. Another great thing about this site is you can message and listen to each other. I found this a bit confusing to use on my own but give it a try with someone and see how it works for you

Hopefully I've given you a few new date ideas to try out in your relationship! If you try any of these or have any ideas that I didn't mention, let me know as I'm always curious to see what you guys come up with! 


                                                    Xoxo - Katie

30 Ways To Use Coconut Oil!

So if you follow nutrition, beauty, and any health trends then you've probably heard about coconut oil and the million and one different ways you can use it. I've gathered 30 of my favourite uses to share with you

1. Tanning Oil
How can you go wrong with a natural tanning oil? Especially one that smells so good!!
2. Butter Substitute 
Spread some on toast/crackers and enjoy!
3. Lip Balm
Coconut oil is a fast moisturiser and gives quick relief to dry and chapped lips
4. Cooking oil
Coconut oil is a much healthier option for those of you who like fried food and the flavour is quite satisfying but also much different then vegetable oil.
5. Make-Up Remover
Apply a small amount on to your finger tips and gently apply it to your face and wipe away with a a cloth and warm water
6.Mouthwash
this is perfect for me since I don't like the taste of regular mouthwash
7. Natural Deodorant
Coconut oil has natural antibacterial properties so it helps to stop odour.
8. Shaving Cream
Warm the oil in your hands and apply to the area that needs to be shaved! Rinse well and you're done!
9. Massage Oil
A natural long lasting and moisturising alternative to store bought massage oils! (Add a few drops of essential oils to really make it unique and even more beneficial to your health!)
10. Cuticle Oil
Apply daily to your cuticles for healthy and strong nails!
11. Acne Treatment
A natural antibiotic that can kill the harmful bacteria on your skin that causes acne
12. Energy Booster
Consuming coconut oil is said to boost mental alertness and over all energy! Try adding some to your coffee!
13. Cold Sores
Applying a small amount to the sore a few times a day is said to speed up the healing process!
14. Bath Oil
Add coconut oil to your bath water for a fresh scent and extra soft skin!
15. Popcorn Topping

Add some melted coconut oil and some salt to your popcorn for a fresh and addicting taste!
16. Wounds
Apply coconut oil to minor scrapes and scratches. Remember, coconut oil has antibacterial properties so this is great to add to your first aid kit if you don't like using peroxide or rubbing alcohol.
17. Sore Throat
Swallowing a bit of coconut oil will create a soothing coating in your throat which quickly eases discomfort!
18. Detangler
warm a bit of coconut oil in your hands and lightly apply to damp hair then comb away!
19. Removes Rust
apply to rusted surfaces (knives, scissors) and leave on for about 3-4 hours, wipe off and the rust should wipe off with it!
20. Tattoo Moisturiser 
Apply to new tattoos to help them heal quickly!
21. Eyelash Enhancement 
Frequent mascara wearers will most likely have dry lashes. Apply coconut oil to your lashes every night and in about two weeks you will start to notice they look fuller and longer!
22. Minimize Heartburn
swallowing a teaspoon of coconut oil can help reduce the discomfort of heartburn very quickly!
23. Salad Dressing
Use the oil as a base and add some vinegar, and whatever spices you choose, mix and add to your salad! Enjoy!
24. Fade Age Spots
Apply coconut oil to any age spots you may have to reduce the look and reverse signs of ageing.
25. Face Moisturiser 
Wash your face and apply a small amount to your face for soft and supple skin
26. Tame Frizz.
Warm a small about of oil in your hands and lightly apply to hair for a polished and sleek look.
27. Cat And Dog Treat
Feed a small amount to your furry friend to help enhance their coat and rid them of dry skin
28. Add To Beverages
Add a small amount of coconut oil to hot chocolate, and smoothies for a bit of extra flavour and a few extra health benefits!
29. Aids In Weight Loss
It's been said that coconut oil can help speed up your metabolism if you eat some everyday!
30. Teeth Whitener 
Swishing coconut oil around in your mouth for 2 minutes a few times a week is said to whiten your teeth and help keep your mouth clean!


So there you have it! 30 uses for coconut oil! As always, if you try any of these or have any additional uses for the oil let me know because I love reading all your tips and tricks! 
Hope you all had a fantastic week! 

                                                                 Xoxo - Katie




   

Infused Water

So as we're all aware, water is extremely beneficial to us, It improves skins complexion, aids in weight loss, flushes out toxins and relieves fatigue. So with just a few of the many things water does for our bodies I ask myself, "Why are we not drinking more?" Well I'll tell you why... for most people, drinking water is BORING! Sure it's cold and convenient, but it's flavourless and to many people it just isn't exciting to drink. So I gathered a few affordable infused water recipes some of which help promote certain things like hydration and regularity but I also love them and drink them regularly. If you're looking to start drinking more water, this is a post for you! So lets get started!

Watermelon & Cilantro 

Simple and unique, this water offers fast flavour from the watermelon and the cilantro adds a subtle hint of herb that compliments the watermelon beautifully! For the best results I'd use 4-5 cubes of watermelon and an 3-4 leaves of cilantro that have been ripped in half. Let it sit for about 15 minutes in the fridge and enjoy! =) Side note: If cilantro isn't your thing, try using some fresh mint instead!  

Lemon Water

Probably the most popular and easiest of all infused waters, this water aids in weight loss and liver cleansing and instantly refreshes you! Lemons and limes have the least amout of sugar of any fruit so you can add them to your water guilt free. Add a few slices to your water and your ready to go. If this is a little boring to you, add some strawberries for a sweeter taste and a pop of colour! Tip: Lemon water can be bitter, cut of the peel for a softer taste! 

Blackberry & Mint

This water is on the subtle side. I find the mint to over power the blackberry but its not overly intense, it's just a really great balance. If you want a stronger blackberry taste you can easily muddle them with a muddler into a pulp or wooden spoon works great too!

Starfruit & Strawberry

I get SO many compliments with this water and it's because of the starfruit. The starfruit gives the water a tangy taste and the strawberries add sweetness. These are perfect when paired together and I highly recommend trying this water. I've noticed That Starfruit is a bit difficult to find in some areas, The only place I can find them is in Sobey's. So I'd say to check out your higher end grocery store if you're looking for this fruit! Add a few slices to your water and a handful of sliced strawberries and your water is complete.

And that's it! Just a few recipes to hopefully inspire you to drink a little more water!
If you tried any of these recipes or have any of your own that you think i should try, let me know! Happy May 2-4 Everyone!!


                                     xxoo - Katie

Vlogging!

A few of you already know that I have recently started Vlogging again.!! Yay!


Back in 2009 I started my Youtube channel but stopped filming only a few months after I started. Since starting my Blog I've been getting a lot of emails of people asking me to Vlog my days and share it, So since I enjoyed Vlogging years ago I thought it was a great time to start again.


Right now I do not have a set schedual of days where I will upload but I'm leaning towards every Sunday and maybe one vlog mid week. I'll see how it goes and how fast I can edit haha.




If theres anything specific you want to see, let me know and I'll try vlogging it as best I can!
I'm really excited for this and I hope you guys are too! 

Here's my first Vlog!!!  

Xxoo - Katie

Homemade Granola Bars

So this has to be one of the easiest things I've ever baked, its hard to screw up, has easy prep, simple steps, smells FANTASTIC, and tastes amazing! I'm not a huge fan of granola bars because I find them to be too sweet, but this recipe was perfect and I cant wait to share it with you.....Right now =)

*Preheat oven to 350*

Ingredients 

2 Cups rolled oats
3 TBS butter/margarine 
1/2  Cup honey
1/4 Cup brown sugar
1 & 1/2 TSP vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

(Optional)
1/2 Cup  shredded coconut
1/2 Cup mixed nuts or trial mix
Chopped dried fruit or chocolate chips

For my granola bars, I added in Trader Joe's Texas Hold'em Mix because it has a nice variety of things I personally think would go great in a granola bar. the ingredients include peanuts, sunflower seeds, currants, pumpkin seeds, cashews, and almonds. I chopped a handful of the mixture and just added it to my oats. I  Also crushed up some vector cereal for some added flavor and texture. I added this after I combined my wet and dry ingredients. 


So to begin take your oats, and/or coconut and trail mix, pour onto a baking sheet and mix together. Place in the oven for 10 minutes. Watch this closely as you don't want the oats to burn. After 10 minutes take out your oats and transfer them into a mixing bowl. Turn your oven down to three hundred and start prepping your wet mixture. This mixture is what will hold your granola bars together.

In a sauce pan, add butter/margarine, honey, brown sugar, salt and vanilla. Stir until all ingredients are melted and combined. You want this mixture to just barely come to a boil. 

So once that is done, pour the mixture into your bowl of toasted oats, at this point you can add your dried fruit and vector cereal like I did. Mix thoroughly!   
  

                           

After you're done mixing every thing together, get out a cake pan and lightly grease the bottom and sides of the pan. add a piece of wax paper to the bottom. make sure it lays flat. Next, add your oat mixture into the pan and flatten it out to make sure it's even. Press down firmly. Once you think it's flat and even, go ahead and place the cake pan in the oven for 20 minutes. This was my favourite part because in about 5 minutes a warm, earthy and vanilla scent took over the entire house. Very satisfying! After 20 minutes, take your almost granola bars out of the oven and let it cool off for about 10 minutes. Gently flip your pan over and your granola bar will fall right out. Mine looked liked this.

Cut into desired shape and size and enjoy! 

To store these I just put them on a plate and covered them with plastic wrap, but obviously you can store them anyway you like. these will last up for one week if they don't get eaten before that!  

So that's it. That's all there is to it. Like I said it's simple and I guarantee you'll love them so make sure if you try this recipe you let me know how you liked it and if you changed anything. Bon Appetit, Everyone. 

Xoxo - Katie