Monday, August 19, 2013
Sunday, August 18, 2013
We are enough.
Anybody who really knows me knows that I struggle with anxiety from time to time. I'm constantly feeling less than perfect. I know perfection isn't possible, but I'm my own harshest critic. And, I know that I'm not alone.
We all go through things that make us feel knocked down a peg or two. So every week day, I'm going to post about a situation that really just sucked and remind myself (and whoever is reading) that we are enough.
I'm so excited about this project. Not only will it be a great reminder for myself, but I hope to put some positivity out into the universe. Create a little good karma, if you will. However, it's also scary to make myself so vulnerable. I just hope I can help others work through these struggles as I try to help myself. Join me, won't you? :)
We all go through things that make us feel knocked down a peg or two. So every week day, I'm going to post about a situation that really just sucked and remind myself (and whoever is reading) that we are enough.
I'm so excited about this project. Not only will it be a great reminder for myself, but I hope to put some positivity out into the universe. Create a little good karma, if you will. However, it's also scary to make myself so vulnerable. I just hope I can help others work through these struggles as I try to help myself. Join me, won't you? :)
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Birchbox: August 2013
Man oh man, have I been in need of a pick-me-up. So, I was pumped to get my Birchbox in the mail today! Birchbox is a subscription service that sends out beauty and lifestyle samples once a month. It's super fun, and only $10.00 a month! If you're interested in subscribing, click here. Some people wonder if it's actually worth $10.00 a month, and honestly, some months are better than others. Luckily, you'll see below that, for me, this month is a great one!
For August, Birchbox collaborated with Ann Taylor to provide products and accessory inspiration to go along with the theme "Finishing School".
derma e Hyaluronic Hydrating Mist: "This all-natural anti-aging mist restores skin with green tea, vitamin C, and aloe. Spritz face to refresh skin antime, or use in the morning to set your already-applied makeup." The full size is $13.50, and I did receive a full size product!
Holy smokes, the first product has already paid for the monetary value of the box! And then some! I like the idea of a setting/refreshing mist. My only hope is that this isn't too "refreshing" for my oily skin.
EVOLVh Ultrashine Moisture Conditioner- "Made from 20 different herbs, this nourishing formula delivers silky, obedient strands." Full size, $25.00, sample size $5.88.
I'm so glad to be able to sample a conditioner NOT in the form of a single-use foil packet. This way, I can actually test it over a period of time. And y'all, considering how GOOD this stuff smells.... I already know I'll be sad when it's empty.
Whish Exfoliating Body Wash- "A coconut-rich scrub that brightens and exfoliates with sugar cane and bamboo powder. A great way to prep skin for self tanner." Full size, $22.00, sample size $2.75.
Another really good-smelling product! Good timing, too, since I'm about to run out of my current Aveeno exfoliating body wash.
Beauty Extra: Whish Hair Inhibiting Deodorant Swipes- "From the shaving pros at Whish, these wipes tackle odor and slow hair growth in one swipe." Full size $16.00, and I'm just going to assume this sample is $1.00.
Who in the world thought of this product? Don't get me wrong, it's kind of genius--just really random. I only received one of these, so I don't know how it smells since I haven't used it yet. Definitely interesting concept.
stila stay all day liquid lipstick- "Longlasting liquid lipstick in a wearable red that glides on like a gloss but stays put like a stain." Full size, $22.00, sample size $6.60.
I don't know how they can describe this shade, "Beso", as wearable...it's actually pretty bold. I generally love stila as a brand, and I'm excited to get to test this product out. But honestly, I wish I'd received a more wearable color. I don't have many occasions to rock a bold red lip.
Birchbox also threw in an Ann Taylor accessory guide, along with a coupon code for anntaylor.com! For 20% off 1 item or 30% off 2 items, simply use the code "BIRCHBOX". You're welcome! :)
I know there were 60-something box combinations this month, but I'm officially deeming my Birchbox to be awesome. Not only are the sample sizes huge and the products interesting/exciting, but the box's approximate total value of $29.73 far exceeds the $10.00 price tag. If you haven't looked into Birchbox yet, I highly recommend it.
By the way, an idea hit me today for a new blog series. I may write more about this over the weekend, but I'm still playing around with it in my head for now. Could be exciting. :)
For August, Birchbox collaborated with Ann Taylor to provide products and accessory inspiration to go along with the theme "Finishing School".
derma e Hyaluronic Hydrating Mist: "This all-natural anti-aging mist restores skin with green tea, vitamin C, and aloe. Spritz face to refresh skin antime, or use in the morning to set your already-applied makeup." The full size is $13.50, and I did receive a full size product!
 |
| Sorry the picture isn't rotated! |
Holy smokes, the first product has already paid for the monetary value of the box! And then some! I like the idea of a setting/refreshing mist. My only hope is that this isn't too "refreshing" for my oily skin.
EVOLVh Ultrashine Moisture Conditioner- "Made from 20 different herbs, this nourishing formula delivers silky, obedient strands." Full size, $25.00, sample size $5.88.
I'm so glad to be able to sample a conditioner NOT in the form of a single-use foil packet. This way, I can actually test it over a period of time. And y'all, considering how GOOD this stuff smells.... I already know I'll be sad when it's empty.
Whish Exfoliating Body Wash- "A coconut-rich scrub that brightens and exfoliates with sugar cane and bamboo powder. A great way to prep skin for self tanner." Full size, $22.00, sample size $2.75.
Another really good-smelling product! Good timing, too, since I'm about to run out of my current Aveeno exfoliating body wash.
Beauty Extra: Whish Hair Inhibiting Deodorant Swipes- "From the shaving pros at Whish, these wipes tackle odor and slow hair growth in one swipe." Full size $16.00, and I'm just going to assume this sample is $1.00.
Who in the world thought of this product? Don't get me wrong, it's kind of genius--just really random. I only received one of these, so I don't know how it smells since I haven't used it yet. Definitely interesting concept.
stila stay all day liquid lipstick- "Longlasting liquid lipstick in a wearable red that glides on like a gloss but stays put like a stain." Full size, $22.00, sample size $6.60.
I don't know how they can describe this shade, "Beso", as wearable...it's actually pretty bold. I generally love stila as a brand, and I'm excited to get to test this product out. But honestly, I wish I'd received a more wearable color. I don't have many occasions to rock a bold red lip.
Birchbox also threw in an Ann Taylor accessory guide, along with a coupon code for anntaylor.com! For 20% off 1 item or 30% off 2 items, simply use the code "BIRCHBOX". You're welcome! :)
I know there were 60-something box combinations this month, but I'm officially deeming my Birchbox to be awesome. Not only are the sample sizes huge and the products interesting/exciting, but the box's approximate total value of $29.73 far exceeds the $10.00 price tag. If you haven't looked into Birchbox yet, I highly recommend it.
By the way, an idea hit me today for a new blog series. I may write more about this over the weekend, but I'm still playing around with it in my head for now. Could be exciting. :)
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Guns Hidden Under our Petticoats
Does anybody know what a panic attack feels like? I think I might have had one today. I did pilates to try to calm myself down, and that worked, but I still have a massive headache an hour later. Also, my body is trying to develop a cold, so there's a lot of sinus pressure going on that Sudafed doesn't seem to be helping.
One reason for the panic attack is that one year ago today, this world lost the man who was like my second father. While I've thought of him and wept on countless occasions in the past year, today hit me like a ton of bricks. We all miss you so much, Mr. Randy. And, I need to stop typing before the tears start rolling again.
We think Eno the cat has a UTI, so we'll be taking him to the vet in the morning. The fun never stops.
Does anybody else ever question their purpose in life, or is that just me?
A few days ago, I stumbled across a new band that I really like so far: The 1975. Check out the video for their song "Chocolate" below.
One reason for the panic attack is that one year ago today, this world lost the man who was like my second father. While I've thought of him and wept on countless occasions in the past year, today hit me like a ton of bricks. We all miss you so much, Mr. Randy. And, I need to stop typing before the tears start rolling again.
We think Eno the cat has a UTI, so we'll be taking him to the vet in the morning. The fun never stops.
Does anybody else ever question their purpose in life, or is that just me?
A few days ago, I stumbled across a new band that I really like so far: The 1975. Check out the video for their song "Chocolate" below.
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Birchbox: July 2013
Two posts in one day! New record for me. Earlier this week, I received my July Birchbox, and I'm very pleased with its contents. The theme this month is "Power Play", with an emphasis on finding products that become your go-to products in any situation.
Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner: "Direct from the UK, this user-friendly liquid liner features a velvety smooth formula."
Birchbox has been sampling this product for so long, I've almost broken down and bought it without sampling instead of waiting until it turned up in a box. Well, the wait is over! I received the purple shade, and I've been really liking it so far. From far away, it just looks like black eyeliner, but up close, you can really see the pop of color. I think it accentuates my blue eyes nicely. I have received the full-size of this product, which is worth $16.00.
Kerastase Chroma Thermique--Protect: "A silky leave-in treatment that combats dehydration, deterioration, and dullness with ceramides."
In addition to hydrating dry hair, this is supposed to serve as a UV protectant for color-treated hair. I've already been using one of the packets I received, but I haven't really formed an opinion yet. It doesn't seem special so far. Full size $42, sample size $5.60 for 2 packets.
Vivant Skin Care Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Wash: "Derm-developed formula that clears up blemishes and hyperpigmentation with alpha hydroxy acids."
I haven't used this yet because...honestly, I'm not quite sure what it is. The directions say to use it on trouble spots on face, body , and even scalp. Why would I use a face/body wash on my scalp? What the hell is mandelic acid? Must be potent because you're only supposed to use it every other day. Who knows. Full size $31, sample size $0.59.
purminerals CC Cream Broad Speum SPF 40: "This clinically proven anti-aging formula moisturizes, brightens, and evens skin tone."
I'll be trying this today. Really though, I have low expectations for products like this. Most of the BB creams and CC creams I've tried have left my skin way too oily. I received the light shade. Full size $38.00, sample size $7.60.
Birchbox Bobby Pins: "We designed these patterned pins to add style to summer hair with minimal effort."
These are cute! I prefer my bobby pins to blend in with my hair, but it'll be fun to try these out. Set of 6, $5.00, sample size of 2 pins $1.67.
I love my box this month! And, it's worth $31.46. If you're interested in subscribing to Birchbox, click my link here.
Have a great weekend! I'm going to continue sipping my coffee and watching Coneheads and Beverly Hills Cop on Comedy Central. :)
Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner: "Direct from the UK, this user-friendly liquid liner features a velvety smooth formula."
Birchbox has been sampling this product for so long, I've almost broken down and bought it without sampling instead of waiting until it turned up in a box. Well, the wait is over! I received the purple shade, and I've been really liking it so far. From far away, it just looks like black eyeliner, but up close, you can really see the pop of color. I think it accentuates my blue eyes nicely. I have received the full-size of this product, which is worth $16.00.
Kerastase Chroma Thermique--Protect: "A silky leave-in treatment that combats dehydration, deterioration, and dullness with ceramides."
In addition to hydrating dry hair, this is supposed to serve as a UV protectant for color-treated hair. I've already been using one of the packets I received, but I haven't really formed an opinion yet. It doesn't seem special so far. Full size $42, sample size $5.60 for 2 packets.
Vivant Skin Care Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Wash: "Derm-developed formula that clears up blemishes and hyperpigmentation with alpha hydroxy acids."
I haven't used this yet because...honestly, I'm not quite sure what it is. The directions say to use it on trouble spots on face, body , and even scalp. Why would I use a face/body wash on my scalp? What the hell is mandelic acid? Must be potent because you're only supposed to use it every other day. Who knows. Full size $31, sample size $0.59.
purminerals CC Cream Broad Speum SPF 40: "This clinically proven anti-aging formula moisturizes, brightens, and evens skin tone."
I'll be trying this today. Really though, I have low expectations for products like this. Most of the BB creams and CC creams I've tried have left my skin way too oily. I received the light shade. Full size $38.00, sample size $7.60.
Birchbox Bobby Pins: "We designed these patterned pins to add style to summer hair with minimal effort."
These are cute! I prefer my bobby pins to blend in with my hair, but it'll be fun to try these out. Set of 6, $5.00, sample size of 2 pins $1.67.
I love my box this month! And, it's worth $31.46. If you're interested in subscribing to Birchbox, click my link here.
Have a great weekend! I'm going to continue sipping my coffee and watching Coneheads and Beverly Hills Cop on Comedy Central. :)
A Beautiful Life
Sorry I haven't written in a while...I was reaching a point where I was kind of over the whole blogging thing, and I really just needed to collect my thoughts. I find myself in a situation of being unhappy, which has been mind-boggling since I was dead-set on making this my "Year of Yes". I wanted to put myself out there by saying yes to opportunities presented to me, and I was hoping this practice would help me lead a beautiful life full of rich and soul-satisfying experiences. And yet, here I sit...unfulfilled. I am a self-proclaimed introvert, but that doesn't mean I want to sit at home by myself all the time.
Very recently, I figured out what my problem is: I've been relying on other people/the world to present these opportunities to me instead of being proactive and making opportunities for myself. I'm upset with myself for acting so entitled, as if the world is here to serve me. However, I know the world owes me nothing and that I am solely responsible for making something of my life. Knowing that it all rests on my shoulders is slightly terrifying because I'm bound to mess up at some point. And yet, I don't believe in accidents or mistakes; instead, I believe in lessons. And, this has been my most recent lesson. It's time for me to take control of my own happiness.
Very recently, I figured out what my problem is: I've been relying on other people/the world to present these opportunities to me instead of being proactive and making opportunities for myself. I'm upset with myself for acting so entitled, as if the world is here to serve me. However, I know the world owes me nothing and that I am solely responsible for making something of my life. Knowing that it all rests on my shoulders is slightly terrifying because I'm bound to mess up at some point. And yet, I don't believe in accidents or mistakes; instead, I believe in lessons. And, this has been my most recent lesson. It's time for me to take control of my own happiness.
Sail on.
Monday, July 1, 2013
Random Much?
It's July! And the weather has been surprisingly pleasant compared to the past couple of weeks.
Going to the beach this weekend for a few days with my girlfriends. It will be nice to spend time relaxing, but I'll need to make sure I don't spend too much while I'm there.
Speaking of frugality, is it bad that I'm already looking forward to my next paycheck? In 2 weeks? Yeah, gonna have to kick that spending habit SOON.
I'm watching American Ninja Warrior right now. I remember watching the Japanese version on Spike(?) when I was younger, so it's cool/weird to see a bunch of Americans attempting the obstacles and to not have to read subtitles.
My throat has been hurting for the past day or so...REALLY hope I'm not getting sick.
I need to learn how to cook. I can follow a recipe just fine, but I know there's more to cooking than just that. I want to be able to reach in my refrigerator and cabinets and make a full MEAL.
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