Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts

It's all in the stuffers

Am I the only one who gets super excited about Christmas stockings? I love the mini goodies, and of course am always happy for some hot cocoa bombs or a mini bottle of bubbles. 



Some of my favorite stuffers are every day things like a good hand cream in the dryness of winter, fun makeup palettes, nail polish, eye masks, a new toothbrush, and coffee mugs (can never have too many).


This year I'd love to see a waterproof pouch for my phone to take on water slides or fun excursions while traveling, and I highly recommend this concealer paw brush  which has been a gamechanger in my simple makeup routine. Oooh and these collagen gummies


What do you like to see from Santa in your stocking?



Simply Thankful

This year has had it's ups and downs, but there is still SO much that I'm thankful for going into this week of giving thanks.


I'm thankful for.... 


Even though Lil' Miss had a scary fall earlier this year and reconstructive surgery on her right ear in September - she was a super brave girl and is doing really well. She's even back in the pool after a few months off from swim team and back in the gymnastics gym.


After 2 major health scares when both of my parents were hospitalized with cardiac issues while I was traveling for work which led to my dad's open heart surgery - they are both doing well. My mom's heart no longer shows any signs that she had a heart attack, and my dad is recovering well from his major surgery. 


I was laid off from the job that I loved for 6 and 1/2 years, but am fortunate to still have some freelance work and am slowly building my client list. I would be devastated if I was left without any work for the past several months. Not just financially devastating, but it would be hard for my brain not to be challenged and for my sense of self worth too. Looking forward to more positive opportunities to end out this year and to welcome in 2025.



I'm thankful to live in the sunshine state and enjoy year round outdoor living. Growing up in Connecticut was rough this time of year with how bone chilling cold it would get and all the leaves fallen off the trees. I've lived in Florida for 14 years and it truly never gets old to see lush palm trees and spend the weekends outside in the middle of winter.


Tank in Tennis Green | Boyfriend Jeans | Necklace




I'm thankful for these amazing friendships. Moving to a new state as an adult was not for the faint of heart when it came to re-building a social life. We are incredibly fortunate to have fallen into this group of friends that we consider framily. There's never any fighting, gossip, etc... just lots of laughs and strong bonds of always being there for each other as we navigate life. 






Happy Birthday to one of our bestest!






I'm thankful for the opportunities this little blog has presented me with. Most recently, I was invited to attend the preview event for the new Ashley Snell Collection store in the Florida Mall. I sipped and shopped my way through the store, and was swooning over the color coded layout of the store. I was really drawn to the two-toned sets, and in the end chose the Barbie pink (of course).








Always always thankful for my little family, and little things like spending the day with my mini. She LOVES to go shopping (no surprise), and tagged along on a recent trip to Ulta where I got my out of control eyebrows cleaned up at the Benefit Brow Bar and picked up some items I was influenced to buy on TikTok. Has anyone else been wanting to try the Tarte Concealer Paw Brush and Colored Clay CC Undereye Corrector after all the amazing videos on TikTok? Just me? Well, I went in looking for those 2 items, and ended up walking out with the Paw Brush (which is AMAZING) and Benefit's Boi-ing Bright On Brightening Undereye Concealer. One of the associates steered me away from the Colored Clay CC Undereye Corrector and toward the Benefit Boi-ing since she said it provides better coverage with less caking. I am happy to report she was right!




Lil' Miss pointed out almost everything in the store to put on her list for Santa, and was one happy little girl. She was also proud to see her new Caboodle that she got for her birthday and has already filled up with all her hair accessories and chapsticks. 



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Hello August

August, is that you? How is the last full month of summer already here? Lil' Miss starts 2nd grade next week (HOW!?!??!?), my birthday is around the corner, and next thing we know it'll be all things Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Woof. 


Wrapping up July with some fun outings, new skincare, Lil' Miss finishing her summer swim program and making the year round swim team (SO proud!), celebrating a few of my fav's birthdays, and of course lots of Olympics coverage. Lil' Miss made her own Olympic torch and Olympic rings that made their debut for the opening ceremony, and whoever had the genius idea of including Snoop deserves their own gold medal. His commentary is priceless, and love watching him root for Team USA. He is truly living his best life - my dream life IN PARIS.


Crochet Halter Maxi Dress {available in 4 colors} | Sandals in Sea Shell Pink | Sunnies






I was excited to try GoodJanes Face Latte which is an energizing serum packed with vegan stem cells, Vitamins C and E, and antioxidants that protect your skin from the environment while boosting collagen. And it smells AMAZING! 




Maxi Bodycon Dress {only $20 and available in 12 colors}










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Loving Lately

It's been a while since I've rounded up my recent favs. So here we go! 



I've been using the infamous Tarte Shape Tape for a while (hello hereditary dark circles!), but when they recently had a huge sale on Shape Tape I scooped up the Radiant version full size tube for only $15. It is a game changer! I feel like the coverage is even better, plus it gives a subtle glow which is much needed in that undereye area. 



I was in need of replacing my eye makeup brushes, and am loving this Essential Eye Brush Set which was only $29. Now if only I could be better at cleaning my makeup brushes regularly. Time to be less gross. 


I've always had frizzy fly aways no matter what heat protectant or smoothing spray I applied before blow drying my hair. Add in Florida humidity and it's not cute. On a side note - I was NOT prepared for the humidity in Thailand last fall. It was on a whole new level that I hadn't experienced.) I had the Liquid Glass Smoothing Conditioner sitting in my favorites for a while, and finally decided to add to cart. Another game changer! It gives that fresh from the salon feeling, and the frizz is almost non-existent. Where has this product been all my life? Oooh and it smells fantastic! 


I was excited that Free People opened a shop recently in Winter Park Village, and couldn't leave the store without this emerald green beauty. I paired this tank with white jeans and wedges for a recent date night, and it was perfect for dinner and drinks.






Before we left for Maui last month, I had been on the hunt for a new pair of pool slides with zero luck. After we got home, I snagged these Kate Spade pretties on major sale. Run don't walk! 


With more trip planning, I know that where ever we go I am packing this resort dress again. So effortlessly pretty and super comfy! 



For a friend's 40th birthday cruise last fall, I ordered these personalized tumblers for all the girls to keep our drinks cold and I'm still using it almost every day for water while working from home. Keeps my water ice cold all day, and it's also just so pretty. 





Spring Break is almost here for Lil' Miss, and we haven't decided where we will escape to for a few days yet. But what I do know, is we will be packing our matching swimsuits that we donned in Hawaii.




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Keeping Your Skin Healthy and Glowing

Our skin might become lifeless or dry due to shared environmental and lifestyle variables such as the sun's ultraviolet rays, food issues, lack of sleep and other work-related situations. Having healthy skin makes you appear at your best. Your dull and lifeless complexion can be transformed into one that is constantly vibrant and glowing with the help of a few simple techniques and regular routines. I have combat dryness and dullness of my skin by using these solutions 


Eat a Balanced Diet


Nutrition and skin care are inextricably related. Your skin will start to look healthier when you consume omega-6 rich good fats. The fatty acids that make up your cell membranes are their building components. As a result, your skin glows and is hydrated by fats. 


A nutritious diet rich in protein, fresh produce and fruits is a terrific approach to maintaining good health. Avocados, nuts, salmon, olives, coconut oil and avocados are a few examples of sources of good fats. Moreover, by avoiding smoking and drinking, you can surely help your skin to keep glowing. 


Take Probiotics


Consume fermented foods or foods that naturally contain probiotics. If your schedule doesn't permit it, you may add them to your diet by taking supplements sold on the market. I take probiotics as they support digestion and keep the proportion of beneficial bacteria in my gut in check, which further enhances the health of my skin.


Avoid Excessive Makeup


When it comes to cosmetics, everyone's skin is unique. Depending on your skin type, wearing too much makeup might dry out your skin and clog your pores, causing outbreaks. Organic or natural makeup brands may feel lighter on your skin and contain fewer chemicals. If you feel at ease going makeup-free, a good moisturizer with at least SPF30 may be all you need. 




Apply Sunscreen


Avoid tanning beds and wear sunscreen. Use a daily moisturizer with at least SPF 30 to protect your face from the sun daily. Choose an option that is resistant to water and provides protection against a broad spectrum of UV rays. 


Use a Cleanser and Exfoliate Regularly 


Use a soft, soothing cleanser to help your skin recover moisture and relax. This is the first step to removing the pollutants and dead skin cells that dull your skin and display a glowing complexion. 


Use an effective exfoliant to remove all the dead skin cells, but delicate enough to not irritate or strip your skin. Auteur cream is my favorite because of it's extensive and high-quality components and formula known to exfoliate, hydrate, protect and restore cellular vitalization. 


Daily Moisturizing


To get radiant and shining skin, use products that aid n healing, help to seal in moisture and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. If you have dry skin, pick a thick moisturizer and apply it daily while your skin is still damp from a shower or wash. Your skin will feel smoother and help retain moisture as a result. 


Utilize Good Skin Care Products


Product application timing can impact moisture retention in addition to a good skin care routine. Start your skin care routine as soon as you step out of the shower. Maintaining healthy skin is far preferable to catching up when it becomes unpleasant, dry and inflammatory. 


Learn How to Massage Your Face


In addition to encouraging lymphatic drainage and preserving healthy skin cells, a facial massage can also enhance circulation, lower tension and make you feel good. The post-massage glow you'll experience will make the brief time investment each day more than worthwhile. 


Reduce Stress and Get Enough Rest


Managing chronic stress may be difficult, but it can badly harm your skin and potentially set off several problems such as autoimmune pathways. Maintaining good skin is yet another crucial reason to prioritize sleep. The consequences for your skin can be devastating if you have insufficient or disturbed sleep. 


Stay Active and Hydrated


Exercise stimulates blood flow throughout the body, which heals the skin receive essential nutrients and minerals. Therefore, water consumption is crucial for maintaining healthy skin in general. When you drink enough water, not only does your skin retain it's natural moisture, but it also remains fit, and you guessed it - radiant! 


Consuming a large amount of water - approximately 8 to 10 glasses daily is one of the most straightforward strategies to achieve beautiful skin. If you drink enough water, the toxins in your body and your skin will be flushed out. 


Utilize Vitamin C


Because it restores a healthy balance to all skin types and makes their tone appear more radiant, vitamin C is considered one of the most effective topical agents for glowing skin. In addition, vitamin C has been shown to improve skin tone, defend against environmental irritants, increase the creation of collagen and elastin, and produce balanced pigmentations. 


Keep it at the Right Temperature


Rinsing with water that is too hot might dry out your skin and weaken your skin barrier by removing the natural oils rom it. On the other hand, water too cold won't do the job and may leave grime and makeup on your skin. So, keep to mild water temperatures when it comes to skin care. 


**This blog post is in collaboration with ScaleFluence


Fa La La La La

It's the most BUSIEST time of the year! Even without proper grammar, I'm sure you all sang that first sentence in your head. Our halls are officially decked, Lil' Miss was excited for the return of her Elf on the Shelf Sprinkles (and of course her North Pole Breakfast), we baked our 1st batch of Christmas cookies, went to the town's Christmas tree lighting and took in the merriment at Universal Studios. 


We also attempted to build our annual gingerbread house, and failed miserably. They usually are no where near Pinterest worthy, but they are always standing... until this year's effort. I do NOT recommend the pink glitter chateau from Target. Stick to their classic houses if you want the icing to dry, and the house to actually stand. 



On a much happier note - I was SO excited to find these festive nails available. They were of course sold out in stores, but yay for free shipping with my Red debit card. Sometimes it's the little things.



I was nervous about their durability, as the last set of press on nails I tried kept popping off. But these have been staying put, and I've already gotten so many compliments. Run don't walk! 





We indulged in the food trucks before the Christmas tree lighting last Thursday, and I had the BEST Amish pretzel ever. Lil' Miss keeps asking me if I'm still thinking about the pretzel, and my answer is YES!

They had live performances, fireworks, lots of activities, live reindeer and some "snow" flurries. We grabbed ice cream at our favorite local scoop shop, and decided on a flight of their festive flavors. Each one was delish. 




Saturday morning brought the return of Sprinkles!




All hail to the mommas (and dads too!) who managed to pull off the North Pole Breakfast and return of their elves on December 1st which fell on a weekday this year. This non-early riser family waited until Saturday - ha! Sprinkles made her triumphant return complete with homemade waffles (made with the cutest gingerbread mini waffle iron), powdered donuts and fruit shaped like a candy cane. Lil' Miss shrieked when she saw her elf and advent tree were back, and enjoyed a morning sugar rush.




We spent Saturday at a local farm for the launch of their you-pick-strawberries season, which I'll recap next week. (stay tuned!) Then on Sunday, we headed to Universal for their holiday fun which included Grinch meet and greets, a Macy's style Christmas parade and a Mannheim Steamroller concert. 



A stop at Hogwarts Castle is always a must as well as the magical rides and a potty break in Moaning Myrtle's bathroom. Each time we go, Lil' Miss insists on wearing her Harry Potter tee which is only $9. 




And of course a performance by the Frog Choir singing Hogwarts Christmas favorites. Too cute!






We also enjoyed festive bites and drinks. This mulled wine was DELISH! H also ordered a turkey panini on cranberry bread with brie cheese and a spiced iced eggnog. All were amazing! 










Two of my favorite things - live music and rollercoasters. We truly are loving our annual passes to Universal. And now that we have had annual passes to Disney, SeaWorld and Universal I can say with the utmost confidence that we all agree that Universal has been our favorite. 

Their Wizarding World of Harry Potter areas in both parks top the charts for me. I also love their water park Volcano Bay above the others, they have the best rollercoasters and events throughout the year with live music. Although, I did get to see Boyz II Men at Epcot which I'll never forget.

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