Samantha K Schmidt

Technology continues to become more and more global. Each day we find new ways to connect with people across the world through social media. One of the best ways to connect is through video. Every day millions of people sign on to YouTube to learn a new skill, connect with a common community, or just have a laugh. Introducing Periscope Imagine technology that was a constant source of live entertainment. That's exactly what Periscope delivers. It's a free application for iPhone and Android that allows you to watch live video feeds from around the world. People are sharing anything from daily routines to live concerts and athletic events. It's live streaming for your phone. Viewers have the opportunity to communicate directly with the broadcasters by asking questions or facilitating discussions. All of this is done in the palm of your hand. Oh no you missed a stream! No worries, Periscope records your footage and allows you to view recent streams. Periscope

I spend way too much of my free time browsing Tumblr . I always love the faded rustic images. I'm no photographer, but I like recreating some of my inspirations when I get the chance. This weekend I decided to do a bit of hipster hopping around town. I picked out some well known "hipster" hangouts in Orlando and snapped a few shots while enjoying the ambiance of these great locations. You'll have to excuse my stereotyping. I considered calling them urban independent businesses, but that name was too long. If you like rustic decor set in an urban setting around people that have (or at least enjoy talking about) tattoos, these are the places for you. If you are ever in the area be sure to check them out yourself. Zacch's Barbershop Normally, going with your boyfriend to get a haircut seems mundane, but this barbershop was worth the visit. Zacch runs a one man shop in Mt. Dora. The place has great appeal, and the haircut is under $15. Now if only a lad

This week I could've easily given you a post all about bar carts. I've gotten a little obsessed, but don't worry I found some other great finds to share. Summer Accessory This outfit comes to you from the College Prepster herself. I couldn't get enough of this lobster bag.

I am just full of tips and tricks lately. Just consider me the Samantha in your friend group. You know the older, more "experienced" friend. (I can't resist a good Sex and the City reference.) Today's tips are all about thrifting. I like to consider these the basics. If you've never thrifted before, this is the place to start.

Sometimes life can get way too hectic. Working a full time job, keeping up with things at home, and squeezing in time with friends can be exhausting. Every now and then I like to put everything aside for a day and spend some time just being me. There's so many great ways to treat yourself for a Me Day. Here are just a few ideas.

Eating healthy is hard to do when you are constantly on the go. One of the easiest ways to stay healthy is to cook at home, but whether you are a working girl or a busy stay at home mom it's hard to find time to cook nutritious meals. That's why meal planning can be such a life saver. Here are a few ways to minimize your meal stress and stay healthy all week long.

This week's trend crush is bar carts. Bar carts are a great summer staple because they are a source of hospitality when you are entertaining. Offering someone a well dressed drink is a great way to make them feel welcome. There are so many options to creating and styling a bar cart. You can DIY or you can mix and match pieces from different places. Here are a few ideas for creating your own.

Lately, I've been pinning a ton of summer fashion and beauty trends. I've highlighted just a few here. You'll definitely want to check out my Pinterest for more great ideas. Be Catty Summer 'Do Play Hostess Snack Sassy

I spent much of my adolescence crash trending (it's basically crash dieting for a fashionista). I grasped onto a trend I liked, bought everything that exhibited that style, and wore it to death for 6 months or so, then switched to something else. I went from skater to boho chic to preppy in just a few years. As I got older I realized that I had a love for ALL styles, and I wanted to be able to create them simply with a basic, but versatile wardrobe. My strategy was to begin collecting a lot of basic pieces that could be transformed with the right accessories. This technique keeps my closet from overflowing and keeps my wallet from emptying. Here are the basic pieces that every fashionista needs to pull off an easy and versatile wardrobe. Shirts : Pick well-fitted t-shirts in a variety of neutral colors. I like to stick to one style, but you can get a mixture of crew necks and v-necks as well. shirts by samantha-k89 featuring cotton t shirts Rag bone tall shirt , $

I'm a minimalist at heart, but I love to have variety in my wardrobe when I travel. Part of any girl's wardrobe is having the right bag for every occasion. I have three bags that I take on every trip. These travel essentials can be placed one inside the other like Russian dolls to help you minimize what you have to carry. These must-haves will give you variety without the bulk. 1. Wristlet This wristlet by Fossil is perfect for your essentials. Use this for your ID, passport, some cash, and lip gloss (that's an essential right?).

Hello Luxers! Welcome to my Summer Lovin' series. You saw the first entry yesterday about my first ever cruise experience. This series is going to continue through the summer with tips and tricks as well as my personal summer experiences. 

This weekend I went on my first ever cruise! I was a little anxious about the trip because I have pretty severe motion sickness, but overall it went really well. Here are some of the highlights.

Happy Friday Luxers! I have made it through my first full week back blogging. If you are having as much fun as I am be sure to follow my blog on bloglovin and check out all my other social media for regular updates. Now on to the pins. Fitness I've always wanted to try aerial fitness. Apparently now you can do your yoga moves midair as well. Food  These salted caramel chocolate cupcakes are perfect for any season. Let's face it if you don't have that bikini body by now you might as well indulge. (I'm kidding, but seriously indulge.) Fashion I can never resist a mini-diva. This look can definitely be modified for us regular size divas. Home I have an obsession with tiny homes, but this is the perfect size for a permanent home if you aren't up for putting yours on wheels. I'm going on a cruise this weekend, so Monday's post may be a bit late. That's if I can pull myself away from the boyfriend who gets back from Guatemala

Am I the only one that gravitates towards the guy gifts at the store? All the girl gifts are the same: jewelry, scarves, monogrammed tumblers. Don't get me wrong those are great, but every now and then I want to geek out with the guys. Whether you are shopping for Father's Day, wedding season, or a friend's birthday here are some unisex gifts that work for everyone. Unisex Gift Guide by samantha-k89 featuring beer drinkware Pier 1 Imports beer drinkware / Archipelago Black Forest Travel Tin Candle / Handbag / Black headphone / CLUBMASTER

Summer is a great time to relax with a good book (for me it's the only time!). I've been holding onto some great books, and I'd love to share with you what is on my summer reading list.

I never thought I'd be caught dead wearing a fanny pack, but this year the hip hugging accessory has made its way into my heart and my wardrobe. Here are a few packs you won't mind on your fanny. Splurge: Rebecca Minkoff Affiar Fanny Bag - $195 Elizabeth and James Cynnie Lambskin Belt Bag - $245 Joyrich Editorial Map Bum Bag - $155 Steal: Juicy Couture Double Pouch Fanny Pack - $59 (at Kohls ) Avenue Dee Triangle Print Fanny Pack - $34 Apt. 9 Quilted Fanny Pack - $19.99

Hello Luxers! I have missed you. This year has been an absolute whirlwind. My full-time job had me in tears for the first month, I went to Israel, and started dating a pretty amazing guy. All of which has kept me very busy. As a full-time teacher it is hard to find time to devote to my passion, but summer makes it a little easier. With that said, Morning Lux is back and in full swing. Call it Summer Lux if you'd like ;) Keep your eyes open for the newest trends in fashion, decor, technology, and more! Tell me what you are most looking forward to this summer in the comments below.  Can't wait to hear from you.