Feeling Low

Honestly, I'm not going to lie, I have days where I'm just down on myself and don't feel confident. I mean I am human and there's days where I feel like I can't conquer the world but here are a few things that help me feel better and maybe some of things can help you when you're feeling down!

1.) Fuck the Diet for the Day

Now, I don't know about you but I am a huge foodie. I love my snacks and all things bad for me but it's rare that I eat them because, I am very self aware of what I put into my body because I don't want to have a photo shoot and look bloated or anything. But; somedays you literally just need to say "screw it" and eat that tub of icecream. One day of not eating healthy isn't going to kill you.

2.) Taking a Hot Shower Using Aromatherapy Products

Aromatherapy is probably the most effective way to relax and clear my mind, personally. I use the Bath and Body Works Aromatherapy for Sleep in the Lavender Chamomile scent. It's to die for! As soon as I smell it, I instantly feel peaceful. Focusing on a scent is something that I've recently found that really helps my anxiety, relieves my stress and helps me forget about the things that linger in my mind when I'm down.

3.) At Home Pampering

This kind of ties into the Aromatherapy in the sense that when I get out of the shower, I lather the matching Lavender Chamomile body lotion all over my body for more relaxation and spray the matching body scent on me, so when I crawl into bed I smell amazing and I'm relaxed. It doesnt stop there though, pampering my face is a must when I'm feeling down. Usually when I'm down, my skin looks dull and just "meh" so a part of my pampering routine when I'm out of the shower is to use a clay face mask followed by my Avon Acne skincare system and a thick eye cream. Whenever I give my skin some TLC when it's "one of those days," I wake up with brighter, healthy looking skin which definitely puts me in a good mood.

4.) Netflix Binge/Watching a Favorite Movie

Sometimes when you're not feeling so hot and don't feel like going out, staying in isn't a bad thing at all. There's nothing wrong with kicking it at home and watching things that you enjoy! My top things to watch when I don't want to leave the house are definitely things that can make me laugh or have some action and suspense in it! Here's a list of what I love watching!

1.) Step Brothers

2.) Fight Club

3.) Despicable Me 1 and 2

4.) BlackList

5.) Star Trek (whether it's the series or movies,) I love me some Star Trek

5.) Turn the Phone OFF

Turning off social media and all technology for that matter, is a good way to reflect instead of having others influence you. Sometimes, being alone and not having distractions is a good thing!

So, that is my short and sweet blogpost about what I do to keep sane, happy and confident! 

Don't forget to follow me on social media!

Instagram: katielafleurr 

Twitter: kallmekatiee 

YouTube: ItsKatieLaFleur

What I'm Loving for Fall!

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLONINKA 

The Casual/Go To Outfit: I'm LOVING leather this year as you'll see in these different looks, but dressing down leather in a Varsity Jacket style is definitely my kind of thing. I love my neutrals but adding a pop of color makes the outfit!

Red Leather Jacket: OBEY Propaganda

Black Leather Front Paneled Pants: H&M 

Red and Black Online Exclusive Zip-Up Sk8 Hi Slims: Vans  

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLONINKA

Let's Talk Makeup: Again, I gotta have my neutrals but for Fall, I really like to darken up my makeup in a Vampy way. For this particular shoot, I did do a little bit of a smokey eye, but not too dramatic because I wanted my eyes and lashes to really stand out. I'm not gonna lie, I went heavy on the foundation, concealer and contour just because I did want the "porcelain skin" look. I wanted my skin to look flawless so the rest of my makeup had a nice canvas to work with. 

Here's the Products I Used To Achieve This Look: Before I put ANYTHING on my face, I made sure to exfoliate with my St. Ives Apricot Scrub while I was in the shower followed by doing the same skincare routine after I get out of the shower which is, use my Proactive Face Toner, moisturize my face with the Avon Firming Moisturizer and also layered my Proactive face lotion over the Avon moisturizer just because my skin was looking a little dry that day.

Okay, now let's really get down to the makeup game!

So, after I had a clean canvas to work with I used my Revlon Beyond Natural Smoothing Primer, which honestly I'm not quite a fan of but I needed something to fill in my pores and have something for my foundation and concealer to stick onto without caking up. (I have yet to find a primer that is life changing.)

Foundation Time: I've used the same foundation for years now which is the Mac Studio Fix Fluid Foundation that I swear by. For all over my face I used NW13 because one, I am quite pale and I've found that the Mac Studio Fix Fluid Foundation does tend to oxidize a little bit on my skin so currently NW13 is my perfect match! I swear by this foundation because it literally covers all my face demons but can also be sheared out if you desire a less full coverage foundation. Luckily for this shoot, I only needed one pump for my whole face and stippled it on with my Sephora Duo Fiber Stippling Brush from the Luxe Brush Set that I've had for a couple of years and gave me a nice full coverage, airbrushed look that evened out my skin tone since I do have some hyper pigmentation from when I was a teenager. 

Contour and Highlighting Part One by Using Liquid and Cream Products: On a daily basis I don't contour quite as heavy as I did for this shoot. I wanted my face to be very chiseled out with sunken in and defined hollows of my cheeks to stay with the Vampy Edgy look. To countour, I used my Neutrogena Shine Control Liquid Makeup that's a good few shades darker than my actual skin color and the shade that I used was in Natural Beige and applied it on the hollows of my cheeks but stopped where it lined up vertical to the pupil of my eye.  I also applied it along my jaw line to define it and on my temples to warm up my complexion. Tip: Don't know what the hollows of your cheeks are? Make a fishy face and where your cheeks are sucked in, those are the hollows of your cheeks. It's that straight line from your temples to your lips!

After applying the foundation that I was using to contour, I blended it all out with a dense flat top Kabuki brush by Sephora so I could control where the product was being displaced and that gave me that nice straight line under my cheek bones without getting it all over the place. 

Highlighting: Highlighting isn't really my strong point in makeup, but I did really need to hide those darn eye bags so, I used my Avon Ideal Flawless Concealer in the color Fair to brighten up my tired eyes using the infamous Kim Kardashian upside down triangle technique to highlight. This concealer is great for under the eyes but needs to be set as soon as it's blended out because it does crease quickly, which I'm not a fan of. (I set it with my Rimmel Stay Matte Powder with a fluffy blending eyeshadow brush from Sephora.) I also hit the concealer in between my eyebrows and the middle of the forehead in an upside triangle yet again and blended it out. Now here comes the reason why I'm not a huge fan of this product, I applied this concealer down the bridge of my nose, blended it out and then when I got up close and personal to the mirror, I realized it caked up, accentuated my pores; making them look freaking huge, made my nose look dry and patchy and that's not cute. So, I wiped the makeup on my nose, reapplied the foundation on my nose and left it alone. 

Contouring, Highlighting and Setting My Face With Powder: This all seems like it's a lot but during shoots I need my foundation and every cream product to be locked into place so it's not sweating off or sliding off from being an oily monster. So, to set my whole entire face I used my trusty old Rimmel Stay Matte Powder which is definitely a cult favorite in the beauty community because it's cheap, you get a lot of product, it's finely milled, smooth and literally takes all the shine away and makes your foundation and concealer look flawless throughout the day! After setting my whole face, I go in with my Avon Mineralized Baked Bronzer, that got discontinued where I put the darker foundation was placed to warm up the look a little more. Since my face was so incredibly matte, I needed to put some more dimension back into my face, I used my Mac Mineralized Skinfinish in Lightscapade right on top of the highest points of my cheekbones that really accentuated my cheek bone structure. 

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLININKA

The Eyes: I wanted my eyes to be the focal point of this look along with the lips. But, to not be so overdone since I was rocking dark and bold lips. I kept the eyes neutral but in a sultry way and making the lashes be the statement of the eyes. I used an Avon Palette that I've had for ages because I can create so many looks with just this palette. So, I applied the dark brown in my crease as the transition color before I applied anything else. I then put a matte cream color all over the lid, hit my outer V with black and sat there blending to create a smokey effect and then to put more dimension into the eyes I used a dark burgundy color to intensify the very outer edge of my eye. It's pretty easy, I must say! Alright, liner time. I used my Maybelline Eye Studio a Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner in Blackest Black to create a dramatic cateye and lined my lower lash line to make the look darker 

Mascara, my lashes best friend. Before, I touched my eyelashes, I curled them because my lashes are super straight. When I was done curling my lashes, I went in and used generous amounts of my Smokey Extravagant Mascara by Makeup Forever in Black to fatten up my lashes to prep them for falsies! But for my lower lashes I hit them with Benefit's "They're Real?!" Mascara also in Black.

The Brow Game: My brow game needed to be on point since I had a ton going on with my eyes. To fill them in I just used my Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Duo in Brunette and set them in place with the Anastasia Clear Brow Gel.

I'm almost done, I swear! So, because I did fatten up my lashes, I wanted more volume and length so I applied the Ardell Fashion Lashes 113 in of course Black because I wanted DRAMA. 

The Lips: The lips complete this look and is super on trend! I used MAC's Lip Pencil in Nightmoth and MAC's Cyber Satin Finish Lipstick! AND WE'RE DONE :)

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLONINKA 

Outfit: Forever 21 Meshed Sleeved/Neckline Bodycon Dress (Unavailable)

OBEY Propaganda Quilted A Symmetrical Leather Jacket with Gold Accents

Gianni Bini Kyley Sandals (4 inch heel.)

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLONINKA 

Red Leather Jacket: OBEY Propaganda

Black Leather Front Paneled Pants: H&M 

Gianni Bini Kyley Sandals (4 inch heel.)

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLONINKA 

Outfit: Forever 21 Meshed Sleeved/Neckline Bodycon Dress (Unavailable)

OBEY Propaganda Quilted A Symmetrical Leather Jacket with Gold Accents

Gianni Bini Kyley Sandals (4 inch heel.)

Don't forget to follow me on Social Media!

Instagram: katielafleurr

Twitter: kallmekatiee 

YouTube: ItsKatieLaFleur

Facebook: Katie Marie McBride

Behind the Scenes and Some Random Talk.

Test Shots

Waiting for people to pass by 

Getting caught doing the chicken dance

Just hanging out in Denver

All Behind the Scenes Footage and Pictures were taken by Rachel McFadden

A lot of people have been asking why the past couple of months I've avoided the interwebs aka YouTube and BlogSpot and that's because I've just been trying to find myself. I went through like a "breakup" I guess is the word to use, even though I wouldn't consider it as a relationship and I looked at how public of a person I am and how open I am with people. I kind of just stepped back and asked myself if everything I was doing was right for me. I realized everything that I'm doing in my life is everything I ever wanted when I was a kid. Maybe things worked out for the better? I mean I got to shoot with a cool up and coming photographer and the riders at Barnum North Bike Park! Pictures are coming soon!  

Style 344 Photo Shoot Sneak Peeks

Photo Credit: HENDO PHOTO

Hey loves! So I'm working on a ton of projects but wanted you to check out my latest shoot with Style344! Go to www.style344.blogspot.com

Photo Credit: HENDO PHOTO

Photo Credit: HENDO PHOTO

Photo Credit: HENDO PHOTO

How I Deal With Haters, Trolls and Everything In Between.

Let's get real, not everyone you encounter is going to like you. No matter how nice, sweet, caring and big-hearted you are; you're going to run into people who just straight up hate you and you might not even know them. Maybe they're jealous, believe ridiculous lies or whatever their issue is with you, don't give them your energy to feed off of to create more "drama."

There's people who hate me for absolutely no reason and have been nothing but nice to them and they still find a way to try and bring me down by spreading false information down and trying to tell me that I'm pretty much nothing and a horrible person. Where they get that from? Who fucking knows but here's my six steps in not letting them get to me, to help you minimize the hatred. 

1.) The Blocking Spree:

This is probably the most effective way for eliminating negative energy out of my life, from my personal experience. When I found out people were mocking me, making me feel like complete shit, saying horrible things, posting things that they think I wouldn't see about me, etc. I blocked every person who contributed to those posts on every social media site, why? Because they will take something that I post, twist my words, make fun of me and make a laughing stock out of me and they don't need to see what I'm doing in my life. I don't need negativity in my life to move forward in my career. I don't need to feel like I'm not good enough, pretty enough, or even "tatted up" enough to do what makes me happy and confident, which is modeling.

2.) The "Ignoring it" Phase

Trust me, this is one of the things I really struggle with but I've seen it work in my personal life as well and that's ignoring the complete trash talk. Sometimes, I feel like I have to justify myself to prove to everyone that I'm not this "fake bitch who doesn't know what real life is" and make a scene of it. But, to me that shows that I'm lowering myself and not taking the high road if I make a public scene. The one thing that I will make a scene of is if people talking about my parents, my adoption and to talking about how I was adopted because no one wanted me or wanted to love me, which is messed up and that's the one thing that I feel needs to be addressed when an issue of that nature comes into play. Back to the ignoring part though, if you don't give them the time of day, they'll eventually move on and find someone else to make their lives a living hell because they have NO life. By ignoring them, they become confused, irritated and desperate to get your attention or attention from others so they can feed off of it. Bottom line is, don't feed the viscous and make them weak by not responding. (Just my opinion.)

3.) Laugh it off

Now, I've seen some ridiculous things about me that were very hurtful at first and now looking back, I can't help but laugh. If you're currently going through "cyber bullying" just as I did, I know that it can really hurt and you're probably saying to yourself "How the fuck is being mocked funny?" well it isn't going to be currently as it's happening, but when you get the opportunity to prove your "haters" wrong; nothing is more funny than seeing what you have accomplished and seeing your haters continue to find victims because they have nothing going for them and who obviously have nothing better to do. I laugh at them because they're jealous most of the time, mad because they're too scared to follow their dreams and hate people who have some slight success in what the person that they're mocking's dream/career. After my shoot and interview with Style344, when it went live, I knew I had just shut up the people who claim to say "I don't do anything and force people to shoot with me" and I couldn't help but laugh, but I honestly really like to prove people wrong in my actions and steps that I take to get closer to what I envision myself as in the near or far future.

4.) You Do YOU, Don't Be Afraid To Be Who You Are and Go For Your Goals.

It's as simple as that, just live your life the way you want and follow your dreams. Never give up on what you want in life, don't let people tell you, you can't do something, because you CAN. Anything you put your mind too, you can accomplish and always remember that. Forget what others say, LIVE YOUR LIFE.

5.) Don't Second Guess Who You Are As A Person

Don't ever second guess yourself just because of a few people who don't know who you are as a person or know your heart. Now, this is something that I've had to learn the hard way. During the time that I was getting bullied on a regular basis, I second guessed who I am as a person. I thought that maybe I was everything that those people were saying when in reality, nothing that they say are true facts. I had to have to some reassurance from my family, friends and even coworkers to just remind me that I am a good person and I've done so many positive things in my life and that outweighs the mistakes I've made. Second guessing yourself will only bring you down more and there's nothing worse than believing the negative things that are said when you know in your heart those negative statements or rumors aren't true. You need to stand up for what you believe, want, and know exactly who you are without people trying to trick you into thinking you're a piece of dog crap because you don't deserve that level of negativity, no one really does unless they're really horrible person like a rapist or murderer or anything along those sides of pure evil.

6.) Stay True to Yourself

Staying true to who you are is important. This is kind of a branch off of step number five, but I thought I'd touch on it a little more. Needless to say, you need to stay true to yourself and not change who you are, especially if you and you're loved ones know that you're absolutely 100%, without a doubt a good person. You don't need to change for the favor of your haters because they're still probably going to hate you, find something else they don't like about you or call you fake and that's just the way life is. Changing your beliefs, style, career and what you want to chase after isn't going to benefit you or bring you happiness, at all. To change who you've grown to be can definitely make you depressed, especially when it's for other people and not yourself. Personally, I think by changing for others turns you into someone you're not, at all and doesn't show the genuine person that you probably are. To be influenced by complete bullies, is extremely unhealthy, whether you're a kid, teenager or even an adult. Striving to be someone you're not is just going to wear you out and eventually you're not going to want to keep up with what you think people want you to be because you're not putting your heart and energy into YOU but for the sake of others. By not putting all of your energy into yourself to make you happy, you're probably going to end up feeling fatigued, sad and trapped. Changing yourself because you don't want to be hated is preventing you from expressing who you are as an individual and holding you back from what you really want in your life. Remember, there's only one unique you. It's hard to do sometimes, but you need to embrace yourself, do what makes you happy in life and stand behind everything you have to offer the world. 

By following these steps (that are in no particular order) I've seen a dramatic difference in my life. Eliminating the negativity has made me strong, I've grown thick skin, it has given me my happiness back and I no longer have clinically diagnosed depression.  

I hope you guys liked this kinda short and sweet post! Don't forget to follow me on Social Media!

YouTube: ItsKatieLaFleur

Instagram: katielafleurr

Twitter: kallmekatiee

Like Me on my Facebook Fanpage: www.facebook.com/callmeekatiee

Much Love! A new YouTube video will be out this week hopefully!

XOXO,

Katie 

Being Called Chubby + My Diet

Photo Credit: GKR PHOTOGRAPHY

Photographer: Gabby Ruddick 

So, a few months back before a big photo shoot that I had, this dude called me chubby and I hate to admit it, but it really did have an effect on me and continues to bother me. I also get asked about my diet and what I eat so I decided to put a couple topics that are related into one big post!

Ever since that comment towards me was said, I've felt like I need to lose weight to be a successful model. I'm not going to lie, since that comment was said, I've been losing weight. At that time I was about 102lbs due to health problems and that's the highest weight I've ever been. Because I did put on some pounds from the medication, was called out on my weight and humiliated, I decided that I needed to lose weight and go on a diet. Yes, it does sound kind of bad and ridiculous about wanting to lose weight and dieting but hear me out first because this is a lifestyle change and has made me feel a little better about myself.

Let's Talk About My Changed Diet and What I Eat.

I wouldn't say I changed my diet completely but I will say it's a little different from your average person. What changed from my old routine and what someone kind of forced me to do (not a family member) is eat a big meal three times a day. But since I kind of made this lifestyle change, I don't eat three biggish portioned meals every day. What I do, is pretty simple and that's eating small portions of food throughout the day, except breakfast. I do believe that breakfast is important and that's the only fuller size meal I eat.  

For breakfast, I usually eat the same thing, every single day, which is one or two scrambled eggs (depending on how hungry I am) with onion, pepperoni and sometimes, some red bell pepper. It's fast and easy and really fills me up for a long time. When I start feeling a little hungry, I reach for either some cherry or grape tomatoes, fruit or a handful of whole almonds that aren't roasted, salted or have anything on them to snack on. If I'm at home and really hungry to the point where I feel like I need more than a snack, I cut up FRESH broccoli and cook it with a couple cloves of FRESH garlic and that will fill me up for a ridiculously long time. Let's say I make the broccoli at noon, I don't get hungry until around 8pm. Now, if I'm not that hungry or if I'm at work, I'll snack on some trail mix, a low fat string cheese or almonds all day, maybe every couple of hours I'll grab a handful of trail mix or almonds to at least have sonething in my stomach so I don't feel like starving and end up going out to eat a huge meal and then feel absolutely disgusting and tired after eating a big portion of food. Let's talk dinner, I'm going to be completely honest, sometimes I don't eat dinner because I'm just too tired to make it. When I do eat dinner, I like to make a vegetable stir fry with red bell peppers, broccoli, onion, fresh minced garlic, mushrooms and yellow squash with some low sodium soy sauce, a tad bit of sesame oil and a little bit of Sriracha or red hot chili pepper oil for flavor. Sometimes when I don't feel like making a mess of the kitchen, I take a few leaves of lettuce with a handful of an organic arugula and spinach mixture, put a couple table spoons of blue cheese dressing and just have a simple salad. Sometimes, if I'm feeling like I need some sort of meat I'll cook a chicken breast and eat it with either the salad or shred it up and add it to the stir fry. 

So that's kind of a run down of what I typically eat. It's easy, fresh, healthy and maintains my weight which is why I eat it!

Weight and Self Esteem

Right now, I'm at 97lbs and still feel like I need to drop some weight. For reference I am 5'3 so I'm petite. 

Now, I know I always preach to you guys about loving yourself and being confident because you all should and so should I.

Unfortunately, sometimes loving yourself and being confident isn't always easy. Sometimes, you look in the mirror and hate what you see and I'm gonna be real, it happens to me quite often. On occassion I tear myself to shreds. It's always the thoughts of "if I just had x,y and z" or if "I just looked a certain way, maybe I'd get noticed or maybe if I changed I could book jobs as a model" that make me doubt myself.

I really shouldn't care what people think but I'm human and sometimes words just hurt and stick with me.

The whole point of this post is that, even though I can be 100% confident in myself, sometimes I'm not and I just want to be real with people. Even big time models, actors, actresses, YouTubers and bloggers can feel down and can have a low self esteem on occassion and to me that's normal to be down sometimes. Just because someone may act confident, there's probably something about themselves they don't necessarily like and when it's pointed out, it makes that person feel a little down and that's what I'm feeling right now. Of course I'll get over it, but keep in mind, everyone has insecurities.

Follow me on Social Media:

Instagram: katielafleurr 

Twitter: kallmekatiee 

YouTube: ItsKatieLaFleur

The Thought Process of My Birth Mom

Photo Credit: DivineSkye Photography

Now, we all know that I was adopted into a family at 9 days old. But I get the question "Why were you adopted?" Or comments like "Your Birth Mom gave you up because she didn't love and want you" or things like "You were a mistake, you shouldn't of been born" kind of things that particular statement was from incredibly ignorant and uneducated people. 

The thing is, I was put up for adoption because my Birth Mom did love me, with all of her heart. She gave me life and a life I believe is no mistake. She loved me enough to put her feelings and love aside and think about what a couple could give me versus what she could give me. She could give me love, yes that's a fact but she didn't have the income to provide for a new born, child and teenager at the time. She did what was best for me and for her to do that, I can't thank her enough for choosing the couple that she did because they're amazing, loving, supportive, responsible, genuine and funny people. 

Margie, if you ever read my blog, I am so thankful that you gave me life and put me into a couples life to complete their family. I hope to meet you one day!

Going With YOUR Gut.

Family, friends, acquaintances, co-workers, etc. will always tell you to do something because THEY think that's what's best for you. But, what if you don't think it's right? Do you do it or do you not?

Coming from experience, here's my advice. It sounds so cheesy but, go with your gut. If you're not 100% for sure if it's the right thing to do and second/third/fourth/fifth guess yourself and YOU are not passionate about it, then don't do it. Weigh it out, something else will come around where you want to put your heart, soul and time into the specific thing. Opportunities come and go but don't take every opportunity if it doesn't feel "right." Don't continue to do something when you're not having it because that's waiting your time. Look at the people who make a ton of money but they're not happy and pretty much hate their lives. Prevent that from happening and nip it in the bud. You shouldn't feel bad for not doing something because you're trying to be influenced by the people around you. 

The way I live my life now is very different from the way I lived in high school and even after high school. People told me to go to college, get my degree and then get a job by a hope and a prayer. My heart wasn't into going to college, I got a job and I've found things that I'm passionate about. I'm passionate about my job, I'm passionate about modeling, I love this blog and I'm passionate about YouTube even if I only have two subscribers. But you know what? That's okay, it doesn't discourage me because I'm confident in what I'm doing. I want to change lives, I love fashion and I love showing the world about who I am because I want to be in inspiration and a role model like "bubzbeauty" and Michelle Phan. If I can just change one life in a positive way, that's all I care about. I want to show people that whatever you want, you can achieve. It might take awhile but that's okay, as long as you love what you're doing. Go for it! 

Stop letting people try to influence you, their intentions might not be in the right place and just want you out of the picture so they can move ahead and that is messed up. Basically, just do what you love and stick with it if your heart and soul is in it 100%. Don't listen to others, listen to your gut and heart. 

Sorry I've been a little MIA but, my laptop has bit the dust and I'm just trying to save up for a new one! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and subscribe to my YouTube channel. All info will be down below.

Instagram: itskatielafleur 

Twitter: kallmekatiee 

FaceBook: www.facebook.com/callmekatiee 

YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/user/itskatielafleur 

Much love!

XOXO 

YOUTUBE and INSTAGRAM UPDATE

So, it's happened my YouTube Channel is finally up and running! You can find me at www.youtube.com/user/itskatielafleur :) with that my name has changed on Instagram again and for the final time, I promise!! You can find me on Instagram @itskatielafleur just like my YouTube channel! Everything else has stayed the same and make sure to subscribe and follow me on social media! I have a new post coming featuring DiveInk on here and a vlog on YouTube!

@itskatielafleur

www.youtube.com/user/itskatielafleur 

@kallmekatiee 

www.facebook.com/callmeekatiee 

katiemcbride.business@gmail.com

SPRINTEC REVIEW and Birth Control thoughts :)

I'm sure most of you ladies have heard or are on birth control for various and different reasons, right? Well here is my review of Sprintec after almost 2.5 years of using it!

To be honest, I did not initially want to be on birth control because I thought it was only for girls and women who were sexually active which is probably most young girls' thoughts when their doctor recommends being on birth control. It's perfectly normal to think that; as most girls my age (19-21) thought that too when they were first introduced at around the age of 16. 

A little back story on me and my experiences on birth control, I started it probably around the age of 16 because I was having severe migraines, headaches, body aches, etc. and my physician thought I might of had a hormone imbalance, so I was first put on BeYaz and to be very blunt, I hated it. For about 3-4 months on being on the B.C BeYaz, I literally was having periods that would be two weeks long, I'd stop for a week and then continue with a long and heavy period, let's just say, I've definitely seen brighter days. I mean really, what girl wants to be on her period for two weeks? I can barely stand 5 days! So, due to that incident my doctor had raised the dosage and it didn't help at all, even giving it 3 months to take any kind of effect on my body. I got so fed up with it, I just stopped taking it all together and said "I'm done, I'm not sexually active, I think my body needs a break." Mind you I was just turning 17 and didn't have the "need" for birth control. After a couple months, my period began to be normal and regular, but I noticed my skin was breaking out a ton and my flow was definitely heavier which I would take over having a two week long period with a week long break any day. I just kind of continued to live my life and not make a big deal about it, until the day I became "sexually active" (such a responsible term haha) with someone I truly care about. So, my doctor put me on Sprintec with a hope and a prayer that it wouldn't do the same thing to my body as BeYaz did.

Two and a half years later, I can say that Sprintec has really helped my life when TOM comes around. My periods are lighter, they come at the exact same time on the exact same day every month and it only lasts on average about 5 days which is awesome. I've noticed that my skin has really cleared up over the years partly because of the Sprintec and partly because I have a skin routine that works for me. The only thing I've really noticed is that about three days before my period starts, I break out a little bit in my chin area which is due to hormones and maybe like one little white head on my forehead where I can just use my Clean and Clear Spot Treatment over night and literally kills those alien invasions on my face!

Overall I'd have to give Sprintec a 5 out of 5 simply because it works best for my body!

Thoughts on Birth Control:

Frankly, I am definitely not against birth control AT ALL. I think it's quite a controversial topic but some women go on birth control simply because they want lighter periods. You don't need to be sexually active to be on birth control and if someone asks you why you're taking it, it's really none of their business especially if it makes you feel uncomfortable. Being on the pill because you are sexually active doesn't mean you're a slut or a whore or anything like that, to me that's being responsible especially if you don't want kids right now, but sometimes it might "fail" so just make sure you are using a condom if you really do not want to get pregnant at this time of your life. Just make good choices, ya know what I mean? People around where I live seem to be really quick to judge girls who are on birth control, they feel as if "it's stopping God from creating life" and things like that. Just always keep in mind that it really is not their place to deem you something you're not like let's say a slut. Maybe you have medical conditions and the pills help with what you're going through like a hormone balance. I don't think women/girls should be ashamed of being on Birth Control, like I always say. "You do you." ;)

Most Common Question:

Is Birth Control right for me?

Honestly, if you are struggling with hormonal headaches, acne, heavy flows and irregular cycles I think you should really talk to your doctor about what Birth Control is best for you, especially if you're sexually active. Ask your doctor about different types of birth control and maybe expand on seeing if an IUD is even right for you if you don't want to take a pill every single day at the exact same time!

I hope this post helped give some insight on what you think is best for your body and that this girl on girl chat gave you some things to think about or things to bring up with your doctor for either the present or the future! As always I love you guys!

XOXO,

Katie

Don't forget to follow me on Social Media!

Instagram: the_katiee

Twitter: kallmekatiee 

Facebook: Like me on my Facebook Fan Page by searching Katie McBride

Email: katiemcbride.business@gmail.com

Weight

PHOTO CREDIT; GKR PHOTOGRAPHY

Weight, the most dreaded topic especially for girls. 

What I've noticed recently is "plus size" girls harping on girls like me by saying dudes go after them more because they're more desirable. But, when it comes down to it, it's personal preference whether a guy wants to be with a plus size girl or wants to be with a little girl. I don't think in the dating game it's a competition to see how many guys come up to you buying you drinks. 

Being as little as I am, (5'3 at 93lbs) is actually embarrassing. Under my circumstances though, I really can't put on weight and I don't believe in eating super unhealthy just to gain weight.

In my dating scene, my weight has never been an issue to any particular guy I've been with. I've never been told to gain or lose weight because quite frankly, I'm not here to impress anyone. I'm here to do me and if someone likes me physically and emotionally then great, of not? That's awesome too.

I think society and the way beauty is perceived is very messed up and confusing but why try to fit in? The way I see it, is that you should sustain a healthy weight for your personal body type and shape. You don't need unhealthy food to gain weight just like you don't need to starve yourself to lose weight because it is very unhealthy. Stop looking at the numbers and maybe take a look inside someone's soul, that goes for EVERYONE. Your weight, hip size, chest size is just a number, do what makes you feel confident as well as healthy. Girls, stop comparing yourself to other girls. All of us have confidence issues sometimes and telling girls that they're not desirable to men because they're not "plus size" hurts people whether you know it or not. Just because someone is plus size or skinny, doesn't mean one is more beautiful than the other. Beauty is truly on the inside, yes you can be physically beautiful as well but your heart and intentions is what guys are scoping you out for if they're interested. 

Plus size girls, skinny girls, and everything in between; Do you think you might get the male attention more by the way you dress or by acting promiscuous? If so, stop and think if you're attracting the right kind of guys. 

Like I said, everyone has their own preferences, not every guy or girl wants the same exact traits in someone because everyone has complete different ideas as to what they find attractive or not. 

Girl to Girl Talk:

Stop bringing up weight to compare yourself and boast yourself. Sometimes, things like that are very offensive and hurts other people's feelings. Just think that maybe because guys are all over you, other guys are all over someone else who is the exact opposite. Stop making yourself feel better by putting others down. 

XOXO,

Katie

All About my Current Tattoos 💀

So, I don't think it's been a secret about how I have a few tattoos but I literally get so many questions from a younger crowd and usually they're the same kind of questions so I thought I'd make kind of an FAQ on them :)

1.) Did they hurt?

Honestly, I didn't think any of my tattoos actually "hurt." But, keep in mind some people's pain tolerance can be incredibly low and it hurts them more than another person. Pain wise, it really depends on the placement and if you're getting inked where the "typical" tender parts are being tattooed on the body. (Ex: ribs, feet, spine etc.) For me, I believe I've had the easiest placement pain wise to get tattooed, which is why I crave more. To me, I wouldn't say tattoos hurt but they can sting and be uncomfortable at times. The one thing I can compare getting tattooed pain wise, is it feeling like a warm cat scratch. Which is really not that bad. 

2.) How do you take care of your tattoo after you get it?

Depending on how large your piece is, keep it wrapped up for about an hour, to two hours or even 4 hours just so the gauze can soak up all the plasma and blood, which is completely normal! After the bandage is off by the artists directions, I rinse it off with some warm water, put a thin layer of Aquaphor and then the next day, proceed to wash it gently with my hand, using non-scented anti-bacterial soap and reapplying the Aquaphor in an extremely thin layer about three times a day! Do not exfoliate with an abrasive loofa or exfoliating brush after you get a fresh tattoo!

3.) How Many Tattoos Do You have?

Currently, I have about four tattoos, but I am working on my full sleeve on my left arm!

4.) What do Your Tattoos Look Like?

I guess it's easier to show you guys than to explain them ;) 

Photo Credit: GKR PHOTOGRAPHY

Excuse the awkward picture but when you're a one man show, you gotta do what you gotta do ;)

5.) What do Your Tattoos Mean?

"I got a pocketful of dreams" actually is something I've wanted for years. To me, it basically reminds me to hold on to your dreams no matter what anyone says, turn them into reality and then make for dreams or goals for myself.

My skull and roses actually represent a lot to me. I've been through a ton of negative things in my life whether anyone knows it or not, my life isn't unicorns and rainbows coming out of my butt and the skull essentially represents that the negative things are dead while there are roses and leaves growing out of the skull that signify new beginnings and a new life. It shows that every negative thing that happens, I can put it to rest and grow as a person from those unfortunate situations.

6.) Do You Think You're Inked Up and a Badass?

HELL NO. I actually feel the exact opposite of myself. Yes, I do have a little ink, but I won't consider myself "Inked Up" until my sleeve, ribs, back and thighs have all the tattoos I want! I would also never consider myself a "badass" well because I'm me. I'm just a kid who loves art, that's it!

7.) When Should I Get a Tattoo?

Personally, I really have to think before I get inked because it's PERMANENT. That's a huge dedication and commitment to get a tattoo. Whenever you feel ready and know that the tattoo is something you've wanted for awhile, go for it! 

I hope this gave you guys some insight about the questions that are asked! If any of you get some ink show me on Instagram by tagging me @the_katiee with the hashtag #showkatieink 

As always follow me on my social media sites!

Instagram: the_katiee

Twitter: kallmekatiee 

Facebook: like me at Katie McBride

Email: katiemcbride.business@gmail.com 

XOXO,

Katie 

 

Permanent Social Media Account Updates! :)

As you all know I've been revamping for CALLMEKATIEE and here are my new official accounts where I will be able to see everything! 

Find me by searching:

kallmekatiee

___________________________________

Find me by searching: 

the_katiee

___________________________________

Like me on my fan page by searching Katie McBride and you'll see my profile picture as this shot by GKR PHOTOGRAPHY

___________________________________

Now that I've made an email account strictly for CALLMEKATIEE and business my new email is katiemcbride.business@gmail.com

Now I saved the best and most exciting account for last, my new YouTube Channel! Find me by searching KatieDaily, you'll get to take a peek into my boring life, beauty product reviews, motivating others, fashion and so much more!  

Thank you to all my viewers you guys are my franily and thanks for sticking around even though I've been a little MIA!

XOXO

Katie

STOP BULLYING🚫

"Let me tell you something. You're worth it. No matter how many times someone has told you otherwise, you really are."

-www.staypositive.me

I know some people get bullied on a daily basis and I'm here to help. So, here's the back story. In January I was getting bullied because I am trying to start my career in serious modeling, a full time blogger and a YouTuber. When I had my first Winter shoot of 2014, let's just say I got a massive amount of hatred by a person that would say I pay for my photo shoots (which I don't and never have) telling me I'm not a "model" and made a whole entire post about a month ago humiliating me about things that aren't even true but people seem to believe that everything that comes out of a bullies mouth is true, when in reality it's not. 

Throughout the past couple of months that quote up above has really helped me out on days where I feel like a loser or start to believe that they're right when they're not and that's why I'm here to just change a life for someone who's hurting emotionally.

To my viewers and followers, you don't have to physically stand up for yourself or seek revenge. The less you ignore them, the faster they'll move on and or get pissed because they can't get a reaction out of you which is ultimately what they want. Honestly, bullies have shallow lives that have nothing better to do besides talk badly about people and if you're a victim try as hard to ignore them. If it upsets you, keep it private. 

Now, I'm notorious for running my mouth but I did make a genuine apology and that's where things got out of hand. I think if you feel the need to apologize, take responsibility, then do it. Whether they accept it or not, that's their own problem and shows that they are absolutely hateful and that you don't need to even try if they can't think about the things they've done and won't apologize as well. If you don't feel the need to apologize because you did absolutely NOTHING wrong, then don't feel obligated to apologize you know?

Bullying all comes down to maturity levels and the mentality people have in life. It shows they are insecure and don't love themselves, so putting others down makes them feel more superior than they actually are. They are no better than anyone, not you, I or anyone else. 

The one thing that is the most illogical concept to me, is when bullies act like they're going to physically harm you or property and that is absolutely messed up. If you feel like you are in harms way, call a cop or whoever to take steps towards keeping your safety a priority. 

Don't be scared to talk to law enforcement because their job is to help protect the community. From past experiences, they've been nothing but awesome and they encourage me to keep on doing what I want and that boosts my confidence, that's for sure. 

All of you bully victims, I'm always here to talk and If you'd like some personal advice or if you'd like to get to know me more send questions in at my email me at katiemcbride.business@gmail.com for a topic on YouTube to make a video about. P.S all questions will remain anonymous if you'd like!

Also follow me on my social media to talk too! 

Instagram: the_katiee

YouTube: KatieDaily 

Twitter: kallmekatiee 

Facebook: (search and like my Fan Page) at Katie McBride

I don't want any of my viewers to feel like they're not good enough or stupid or anything like that because all of you have self worth and will do so much better in the long run. I've learned to take everything day by day and I hope you all do the same. Let's stop every kind of bullying and make this world a better place!

XOXO

Katie 

Success

Lately, I've heard a lot about success used as being beyond financially stable and to be honest I can see where people can see that as success. Maybe it is for them in their own perspective and that's the way they measure or compare themselves whether "they're more successful" than either me or someone else. To me, success is setting goals for yourself, accomplishing them, setting even more goals for the future, not worrying about anyone but yourself and not comparing what you make to someone else.

Let's say you have a musician(s) who touch hearts and change lives with their music, yet they're completely broke and you take a business owner who has nothing but conned and cheated people out of money that they don't have and that basically steal money from people who are struggling financially, yet he measures his stacks of money to the musician. Now, who do you think is more "successful?" 

To me, it's not about the money. In order for me to feel successful is helping and changing either one life or thousands of lives. I want everyone to think long and hard about whether success is being financially stable or setting goals for yourself, help changing the world and having your heart feel complete. Tell me what success is ultimately about, money or being genuinely happy. I'm not saying money can be a part of success but stomping on others just for a check is called greed and is that success? 

This is a very short post! I am working on a Summer Lookbook stay posted!

XOXO

Don't forget to follow me on Social Media!

Instagram: the_katiee

Facebook: like and search my Fan Page by searching Katie McBride

Twitter: kallmekatiee 

Email: katiemcbride.business@gmail.com

Social Media Account Updates!

So, I've been doing some little tweaks here and there on social media due to hacking and all that kind of dumb stuff, so I swear this is the last time I'll be changing my account usernames!

Instagram: the_katiee
Facebook Fan Page: Katie McBride 
Email: katieimperial.official@gmail.com

Let's Talk Tuesday :)

So, I've been slacking hardcore on my blog, I know. But, lately I've been having some personal issues that have really brought me down and until a few days ago, I've learned just to brush things off and ignore the rumors that are nowhere near truth because my family, close friends and I know the complete truth. 

BUT, on a lighter note I've done some vamping on my Fan Page and Instagram yet again :) out with the old and in with new is what I like to say, so for now you can find my fan page by searching "Katie McBride" and my profile picture is this picture :) please don't mistake my personal account by my fan page!

Now, let's talk Instagram. My new user name is katie.kolorado and I'll be going into depth as to why everything is changing in my next post! Anyways, I'll talk to you all tomorrow!

XOXO

Where Have I Been!? Photo Shoots, Tattoos and More :)

I can't believe I'm saying this, the long awaited and well anticipated launch of my shots from GKR Photography.

Photo Credit: GKR Photography

Photographer: The Amazing and Ever so Talented GABBY RUDDICK!

THIS IS WHERE I've Been!

The "GKR Photography" on the top picture basically says it all! Gabby Ruddick, the photographer asked me to come shoot with her at The Art Institute of Colorado in Denver in a studio! Now, I have minimal experience in a studio environment and honestly I learned so much from Gabby since she's also a model! I was nervous, I'm not gonna lie. But, we literally had so much fun and I'm glad that I got to meet Gabby and become a homie. This is probably the most positive post and debut ever but I do need a good outlet to talk about some new things on my body! *gasp*

So, this is new! Honestly, I'm a big believer of expressing yourself with tattoos and Peter Quinones at Imperial Tattoo Studio did amazing on this. It's not done yet by any means I'm still working on the shop as much as I can between working for Vans, which will settle down when the studio is completely 100% done and divide my time between Imperial Tattoo Studio and Vans, ya know what I mean? If you live in Colorado you gotta come and check Imperial Tattoo Studio when the opening launch happens! You can find the studio on Instagram at "imperialtattoostudio" just search it and you'll find it! 

Meaning Behind it:

The meaning behind my tattoo is really personal but I'll tell you anyways since my viewers need to know why I've gotten a big skull and roses growing out of it. I know it looks a little intimidating and that's just my look and the tattoo is beautiful. So, the skull means like "the death of all the negative things that I had and am still going through" yet it still has something beautiful. The roses and random leaves growing out of the skull mean "that out of every negative that kicks you down something positive and beautiful can come out of such a horrible experience." This is literally the most meaningful tattoo to me. Of course I'm gonna sleeve it out with roses but that will come in another blog post!

I hope you enjoyed these little "Where I'm at and What I'm Working on post! There will be more posts talking about my Summer Beauty Essentials, How I achieved my Photoshoot Makeup, meaning behind my other tattoos and the most important one CYBER BULLYING!

Don't Forget to Hit Me Up on Social Media!

Instagram: katieImperial 

Instagram: imperialtattoostudio 

Twitter: kallmekatiee 

Like Me on FaceBook: Callmekatie

Love You Guys!

More Posts Coming Soon, I PROMISE ❤️

XOXO,

Katie 

Instagram update! :)

So, I decided to change my Instagram account username because my life is changing and though CALLMEKATIEE is kinda like my trademark, I'm living by out with the old, in with the new. So the big announcement, you can follow me on Instagram at the_katiee

There are so many "callmekatie's" on Instagram as well, I want something different and new :) 

XOXO

Changes and Updates

Hey you guys! I know it's been a really long time since my last post and I'm super sorry! A lot has been happening these last few weeks and a ton of changes to my life and I hope you all still support what I'm doing!

I am still modeling, still in love with makeup, still work for Vans and still plan on blogging on CALLMEKATIEE but something new in my life, is that I have an opportunity of a lifetime to be an apprentice and business partner with an amazing tattoo artist and I'm not turning it down. A lot of things are still in the works that we won't be releasing information about till we are totally ready.

My New Direction:

My new direction in life has definitely gone from a boring, doing the same thing everyday to adventurous, exciting, acceptance and happiness, something that I haven't had in a very long time. I have people who support me 100% and are like a second family to me who have welcomed me into their lives and I couldn't be happier. Though I will be very busy, I'll actually be starting a YouTube channel that won't be CALLMEKATIEE but will be called KatieImperial where I'll be vlogging everyday so people can take a look into my life and see how hard myself and business partners work to make our dreams come true. 

I hope you guys still remain my viewers and friends with this new direction!

New Business Email:

katieimperial.official@gmail.com

XOXO

Katie 

My Adoption ❤️

Photo Credit: Divineskye Photography

Photographer: Megan Lunsford

So, I'm not going to lie, being adopted has been a very touchy subject for me and I'm here to now tell my personal story. 

I'm sure a lot of people look at me and assume that I was raised into a strict asian family who had traveled over from Asia to give me better opportunities and it's really the complete opposite of that. 

Giving up a child isn't easy but if you know you can't care and provide for a child and give that child somewhere to live a full life, that's one of the greatest things a person can do.

An Adoption Story:

On September 11, 1994 a baby girl was born who desperately needed a family that would love her, care for her, provide for her and who needed a family that would shape this baby into a person with great character. The Birth Mother wanted the absolute best for this precious life and didn't settle for less. When this baby was born, the birth mother obviously knew she couldn't keep this child and put her up for adoption and was contacted by an agency with a couple who wanted a child so badly. There were other families and couples looking into adopting this baby girl and after the birth mother was finished talking to all the candidates, the couple who wanted a family more than anything and would do anything to provide for the child stood out among the rest to the birth mother and they were given this precious child. This couple went to great lengths to have this baby's adoption finalized and legal and it involved selling a condo to pay for the adoption fees, even though this couple already had a house, it showed how much they were willing to do anything for this child.

When the baby was brought home, her new family literally smothered her with unconditional love and care, something she wouldn't of had if her birth mother would of kept her. She was given opportunities where her interests peaked, a great education, a quiet peaceful environment and room to just be a kid. This child and her Mommy's souls were meant to be together and showed the whole world that even though you might not be blood related, a Mother and Child's bond is more important than having the same blood. You're probably wondering about the Daddy, right? Well, her dad might be a little rough around the edges but don't let it fool you, this baby brought so much joy, love and sensitivity to him and finally had a buddy where he could teach everything too.

This girl lived a good, normal and enriched childhood. The key to her normality was that her parents told her when she was able to comprehend that she was adopted but that she is loved unconditionally by her parents and that would never change. This little girl didn't care one single bit that she was different looking from her parents and she 100% understood that it's okay to have a different and unique story among the sheep. This child was such an outdoors kind of kid, loved going out and getting dirty, hyper, a gymnast, musically inclined, bright and full of happiness, everything her Birth Mother wanted for this child that she had called "Tahn Mae Do." 

To this day, this adopted child loves her life and family and has become a young women who is now well on her way of being 20 years old! 

Here are a few pictures of MY precious, loving and happy family! 

Straight cheesin' after my first official photo shoot with my family right there with me and supporting me! <3

The Struggle That I Face:

My biggest struggle that I face in my life that's related to the adoption is that my Birth Mother does not want to meet me or come in contact with me whatsoever. It breaks my heart a little knowing that she doesn't want to see the baby she brought to this world whom she called "Tahn Mae Do," all grown up. The reason behind her not wanting to see me is because she was embarrassed about having a child at 17 out of wedlock and isn't accustomed to the Vietnamese culture. I understand it all, I'm just curious to see if my personality is similar to hers, if I look like her and all those normal questions when you don't know who your biological mother is. 

I'm gonna wrap it up here and leave you all hoping that I helped someone who has a similar story as mine!

XOXO

A Message To My Birth Mom, Margie Do:

Thank you for giving me a chance at life and not choosing the easy way out of things by aborting me. I have a beautiful life and I'm forever grateful for the gift of life and even more thankful for the couple you gave me too. Thank you for calling me Tahn Mae, I just so happen to absolutely love flowers! If you ever see this here is the most recent picture of me from a photo shoot I had. 

Photo Credit: Divineskye Photography

Photographer: Megan Lunsford

Location: Red Rocks Open Space Bike Park in Colorado Springs, Colorado