Happy Monday, “Sparkle and Shine” readers!

I can’t believe this year is already over. Thank you so much for following me in my blogging journey thus far this year. I am happier than I could have ever imagined with my blog and couldn’t be anywhere without you readers!

I hope you all had a great 2013 and have great plans for 2014. I know I sure had an incredible 2013, and will be sharing with you all memories from it during the week.

More importantly, I hope you all had a great Christmas and that Santa brought you all that you had dreamed for. I know that underneath my Cinderella topped Christmas tree I had everything I could possibly ask for – Uggs, clothes, jewelry, gift cards, ADPi gear, and more! I finally got the Vineyard Vines cap and white vest I have been wanting! I am so thankful and blessed for not only the gifts I received, but the time I got to spend with my family. My whole family went down to my grandparent’s house to celebrate the holiday together. There is nothing more magical than being together with the family for Christmas.

Because of the craziness of finishing up my Christmas shopping and completing holiday traditions last week, I did not get to post My Monday Musts. Since I’m sure you were all so upset about it, I’m going to jump right into this week’s Monday Musts!

1. “Duck Dynasty” WILL be back – and with the whole family!

I’m sure for any of those who know me, you absolutely could have guessed that this was going to be on the list. We all know I looove “Duck Dynasty.” If you couldn’t tell from all of my posts about the show, you can always tell by my sweatshirts and tumblr (from my big. Thanks Katherine!). So, I was completely horrified when I heard that Phil was being suspended, and then that the show might be over because the family would not continue on without feel. I threatened that I would wear black 24/7, even to work, because I was in mourning. Since the controversy regarding what Phil Robertson said to GQ is now over, I will not share my opinions with you all. All I can say is that I am happy, happy, happy that there will be a new season premiering on January 15th that will feature the whole Robertson family!

2. Liebster Award

I recieved some awesome news from fellow blogger Jen that she nominated me for the “Liebster Award,” an award for bloggers with less than 200 followers. It was such honor that she had selected me and it was so much fun reading all of the answers to her questions from her nominee. Be on the look out for when I post my own Liebster Award nominees, as well as some fun facts about me and answer the questions Jen asked me in her nomination post.

3. “Who’s Got Your Money” by Tina Parol

So during finals week, my friends Bailey, Jacqueline, Jen and I got a little cabin-feverish while trying to study for our Friday exam. We took enough study breaks to take online quizzes that I can tell you what my spirit animal is, what Friends character I am, what Harry Potter house I would belong to, and more (a wolf, Rachel, and Gryffindor – in that order). During another study break, Bailey started singing (side note: she’s an incredible singer!), “Who’s Got Your Money.” Though the lyrics are slightly funny (it’s about a girl spending her ex’s money), the beat is extremely catchy and gives you a little pump up when at the gym. I can’t wait for the summer to blast this with the sunroof open. It’s a great girl power song. Thanks, Bailey!

2014 may not hold only great things in your lives, because you are all fabulous, but great things for “Sparkle and Shine.”

BUT WAIT! Before I end this post, I have two last things to share with you all!

1. I just made a Facebook page for Sparkle and Shine!! Like it here to stay up to date with all the posts!

2.  Remember to check out the site The Collegiate Standard for sorority and fraternity jewelry! PLUS use coupon code SAMI10 to receive 10% off! A post on their products will be coming soon!!

Happy New Year!