Category: Product Review

Self-Care and Fall Favorites

Leave a comment

Holy November.

Life has really gotten the better of me lately. A combination of work and an escalating side-hustle have left me completely depleted as of late. Then, you factor in 2 kids, a dog who pees on the carpet, and menty b struggles – it’s been a busy fall. But also, everything is great. E is doing well (all things considered) in middle school, Clara is tolerating preschool/daycare. David and I have been agreeing on our nightly shows. My hair is totally grown-out but the botox I got in September is still somewhat visible so at least my forehead looks good.

It’s so important to have good things around, when life is busy, when work sucks, when it takes you 6 tries to get Wordle. You get it. I have comprised the below list of a few items that myself and my family have been using and loving.

Birkenstocks Boston Clogs

I ordered these back in August when I had a sneaking suspicion they were going to blow up. Thank you TikTok! I will gladly take any opportunity to look cool while staying comfortable. Birkenstocks are easily the most comfortable shoes. I wish I would have sized up in the clogs, but they still fit. I have been wearing them nonstop and loving every minute of it.

MyBevi Classic Insulated Tumbler in Candy Pink

I happened to find myself sipping from this MyBevi tumbler, while wearing my Ellandemm Troop Beverly Hills sweatshirt and pink glasses so I had to snap a pic to commemorate. This is my new favorite tumbler. Yes, I still love me a Starbucks tumbler with a straw but you guys, I keep breaking them! They are beauties but they cannot withstand my clumsiness and carelessness. This MyBevi tumbler however, is a freaking workhorse. It keeps my water nice and cool (I don’t like super ice cold water) and my coffees piping hot. The lid is amazing, SUPER durable and you can use a straw with it. I love everything about this – especially the color!

Celestial Silk Pillowcase and Small Scrunchies

I have meaning to invest in a silk pillowcase for some time now. These pillow cases are great for two main reasons – they are great for those with dry, damaged, thin, or thinning hair AND who are concerned with the effects of ageing. These 100% mulberry silk pillowcases lead to less breakage and help skincare products fully absorb into the skin. Plus, they are SUPER soft, breathable, hypo-allergenic, and have a hidden zip closure.

Along with a good pillowcase, is a nice silk scrunchie! How much hair have I lost over the years to the regular hair tie? Honestly, I don’t even want to think about it. These mini, thinner scrunchies from Celestial Silk are absolute perfection. The color (dark taupe) is perfect compliment to my dirty blonde hair, are incredibly soft, and do not pull out any hair. I want them in every color now!

VOLO Hero Hair Towel in Salt White

YOU GUYS. Anyone remember the Turbie Twist? I had a pink Turbie Twist for many years, a small, cone-shaped, cotton towel with a small elastic loop on the end? Mine never washed well and before too long, it was stringy and gross and I am pretty sure it never really dried my hair.

Enter: the VOLO Hero Hair Towel!! This is the bougie, Barefoot Dreams version of the crappy Turbie Twist. Truly feels like a blanket for the head. It is ridiculously soft, thick, and absorbent. The VOLO towel promises to cut dry-time by 50%, which for me is everything. I do not have time for wet hair. And due to the aforementioned state of my damaged locks, I try to keep it away from the heat of a blow-dryer. This towel has seriously changed the game for me. I am experiencing less breakage, faster drying times, and best of all – my forehead isn’t being yanked backwards, bearing the weight of a regular towel. I will never use a normal towel to dry my hair ever again!

Maya J Bracelet Hair Ties

Are they bracelets or are they hair ties? Don’t know about you, but bangles and bracelets are tough for me. The jingle-jangle and impracticality of them when you are spending your days wiping PB&J off of sliding glass doors is enough to keep my wrists bare 99% of the time. But that is no fun! I usually can bear to keep a hair tie or two around my wrist and when I saw these beautiful gold metal-adorned hair ties, I knew it was kismet. These look super cute, go perfectly with my blonde hair, and best of all – do not snag on my hair! I am never without them and definitely need more for mixing and matching.

PediPocket Blanket in Sultry Smoke

Now that we have discussed a blanket for my hair, we must talk my new favorite blanket for my body – the PediPocket! So. If you know me, you know I suffer from poor circulation. I blame all 72 inches on this. Blood just cannot reach my extremities and honestly, I don’t blame my blood – it’s a long way to go! Having poor circulation also means my hands and feet are nearly always cold. And not just cold, ice-cold. Yes I’ve seen a doctor. This blanket came to me at the perfect time, because just as the September weather went from 80’s down to the 50’s in matter of a week, I whipped out this blanket, nestled my little feetsies (ok my big feetsies) in, and was instantly in love.

You see, this blanket comes equipped with a 20 inch designated POCKET for your feet. If you are one of those people who plays the do-i-cover-my-shoulders-or-feet game, you need this!

Mabel’s Labels Acrylic Letter Tags

I’ve been seeing these big acrylic letter keychains around and duh – needed my own pink and sparkly version! I went for the cursive lettering for Clara and I to adorn our bags with. I clipped hers to her rainbow overnight bag and it is just the perfect addition. These letters are thick, high-quality acrylic and come very nicely packaged. I am in love!

Mantra Mask “I Am” Kit and CBD Coconut Eye Gels

This kit from Mantra Mask comes with over $55 worth of products for only 30 bucks! I have really been loving CBD products lately (more on that in another post) and these sheet masks from Mantra Masks are jam-packed with super high-quality ingredients as well as about 30 MG of CBD.

This 3-pack of CBD coconut eye gels has been a huge help when I have a random sleepless night. These eye gels also pack 30 MG of CBD each, hyaluronic acid and other great ingredients. I am fairly picky when it comes to under-eye gel masks. They can’t slip down my face, be overly gooey, or smell weird. These check off all the boxes and make my under eyes feel hydrated, slightly plumped, and definitely more awake. They also come packaged in this neat little pouch that is perfect for throwing in a purse or bag.

New Legends Skincare The Total Package Kit

Our sweet E is in middle school! And as we all know, this age comes with all the fun stuff ;). It is really important to me to equip her with her own hygiene products so she takes ownership of this new phase of life. Also, skincare should be tailored to the needs of each of our unique needs. I need anti-ageing products, formulated to fight wrinkles and provide deep moisture. Her skincare needs and mine are totally different! Also, getting kids this age to shower, wash their face, and apply deodorant can be a struggle. This skincare kit from New Legends makes it so fun and easy to provide your tween or teen with products that work well, are made with organic ingredients and are targeted to fight the good fight (read: pimples, hormones, etc.). I am so happy we have found this amazing line of products that she loves to use and that work great for her skin!

Libbi Kids Nail Polish

As you can probably tell from the above photo, my Clara absolutely LOVES having her nails painted. And we own approximately 2000 of those tiny children’s nail polishes. You know the ones. They last about 5 minutes before peeling off. Well, homegirl has caught on. She wants her polish to stay on dammit! I cannot blame her. I was on the lookout for a kid-friendly nail polish and Libbi Kids has it down. Their kids polish is vegan, and free of 16 other potentially toxic ingredients, it contains nourishing oils safe for kids and leaves behind a subtle, sweet scent. We are in love!

LYS No Limits Cream Bronzer and Contour Stick in Motivate

I am fully jumping on the cream products trend as of late, and have been in hot pursuit of a good cream bronzer for awhile now. I needed to find one that wasn’t sold out (haha), and a good shade for my pale, pale skin. Finally Sephora restocked this LYS Beauty cream bronzer stick and while I am not crazy about the triangular packaging, the product itself is awesome. The formula is easy to blend, and the lightest shade they offer is perfect for my coloring.

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Happy

I am sooo late to the game on these amazing liquid blushes from Rare Beauty. I waited awhile for this cool pink shade in Happy to come back in stock at my local Sephora. I have recently realized that cool, bright-pink blush actually suits my skin nicely. As much as I would love to rock a peachy coral – it really just makes me look orange. Not it. I want at least 3 other colors in this liquid blush. It is SO easy to work with, blends like a dream, and only takes a tiny bit of product to achieve a rosy glow.

And that is it for now. Stay tuned for my holiday gift guide coming later this month. It’ll be a doozy!

Advertisement

Updated Skin + Body Care Routine

Leave a comment

Ladies and gents, it is time!

So many new things have entered my life as of late, but the most notable is arguably all the new skincare I have been using! And I don’t know about you, but I am a “switch it up” kind of gal when it comes to certain beauty products. Of course we all have our tried-and-true, ride-or-die faves, e.g. Cetaphil cleanser, Donna Karen Cashmere Mist deodorant, or the Laneige Lip Mask just to name a few. But for me at least, it’s fun to throw new players into the lineup and see how well they perform!

Let’s get to it.

Terrakai Kakadu Plum + Emu Apple Cleansing Milk

This cleanser is SO good at removing every stitch of makeup, dirt, and oil. It’s creamy, almost lotion-like consistency also makes it super hydrating and leaves my skin feeling more plump, which is crazy! This stuff is definitely great for ageing skin and I cannot recommend it more.

Thayers Rose Petal Facial Toner

SUCH a great, yet simple toner. This stuff does not dry me out, but is super refreshing and removes every last bit of grime. I feel like it helps all the other products absorb so much better into my skin and you cannot beat the rose scent. Definitely a new staple for me.

Trader Joes Microdermabrasion Scrub

I have heard such great things about a few of the expanding line of skincare products at Trader Joes. The gel moisturizer is often compared to the Clinique version, and even regarded as superior! I am always in the market for a good microdermabrasion so when I saw this, I decided to give it a shot. What I look for in a microdermabrasion (as the name would suggest) is super fine (micro) scrubbies. This one did not disappoint, especially for $6. My face always feels softer and more radiant after using this. I will definitely repurchase.

Anokha Blue Clay Clarifying Mask

I LOVE to use this mask when my skin needs a bit of a restart. A control-alt-delete if you will. I do occasionally experience breakouts on my chin and when I feel it coming on, I immediately whip this out. The mask itself comes in a powder form, which you mix with a little water and apply to dry skin. I leave it on until not quite dry and then remove with a washcloth. Afterwards, my pores feel like they have been completely cleaned out and my skin appears brighter.

Ambered Ember Plumping Serum

I have been loving this plumping serum from Ambered Ember! Let’s be real, anything with the word “plumping” in it just has my heart and this stuff does not disappoint. One of the ingredients is silica, which according to the website, “helps to bind degenerating tissue layers associated with aging”. The formulation is great, super smoothing, non-greasy and really does give an immediate youthful glow.

Bae Six All Day ‘Err Day Moisturizer SPF 35++

This moisturizer with SPF came with me on our Palm Springs vacation a couple weeks ago and lemme tell ya, it did great in 115 degrees! It sinks into the skin very nicely and provides a great dose of moisture, something I really needed in the dry desert heat.

Curel Moisture Facial Milk

I love to use this moisturizer when my skin needs a rest from heavier lotions or when it is super hot outside. This moisturizer is lightweight, fragrance-free and great for sensitive skin. I like to use it when I have a break-out or feel one coming on. I have also used it “slugging” as the kids say, as it contains ceramides which act as a great skin barrier.

Differin Gel

I started trying out Differin Gel after watching Dr. Dray on YouTube. I love that she gets right to the point and is no-nonsense about skincare. What I learned is apparently adapalene can provide the same benefits for the skin as tretinoin and retinols do, and perhaps even more effective. So I bought it to use in place of my usual tretinoin and have also been enjoying using it on breakouts as well. I have not experienced any of the common issues that occur with retinol/tretinoin use, such as skin peeling and dryness so I think Differin (adapalene) might be the anti-ageing treatment for me. I will also add that it works great on breakouts and definitely cuts down on the length and severity of them for me.

Agency Dark Spot Formula

You might remember this stuff from my Agency skincare review post. I was using Agency tretinoin and this dark spot formula for the past several months but (as previously mentioned) wanted to switch things up for new products. I have been continuing to use this product because I do feel it is helping keep my dark spots at bay. However, the number one treatment I would recommend for dark spots is IPL photo facials. Those have single handedly removed the majority of dark spots from my face. This stuff is great for use in between and does not irritate my skin.

ACO Sensitive Eye Cream

Recently I spent $45 on an eye cream that promised to do everything. Trap in moisture, de-puff, lighten the dark circles, and act as a nice base for concealing products. I am here to report that the $45 cream did NONE of that. In fact, it seemed to sit on the top of my eye skin and once it dried, I could almost roll it up into a little ball. NO BUENO. This eye cream from ACO Skin Care costs $25 and has been working wonders! I immediately noticed a tiny reduction in the dark circles under my eyes, which lemme tell ya – is really saying something. My under eyes appear more hydrated and refreshed, without being too heavy. I also love that it is safe for sensitive skin and comes in a squeezy tube. I am hooked!

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum

I signed up on Deciem to be notified the SECOND this stuff was released. As you may or may not know, I have been a Grande Lash user for several years now (read my full review here). Grande Lash works. It provides both length and volume with consistent use, but it does have its drawbacks. For me, is slightly darkens the lash line where it is applied which does not bother me but could be bothersome for others. It also costs about $68 for a 3-month supply which aint cheap. I have been looking for a comparable, less expensive alternative lately and wasn’t really getting anywhere. Then I got an email alert that The Ordinary was coming out with a serum. The Ordinary can be hit or miss for people but has mostly been a hit for me. I love several of their products and was delighted to try this stuff out. I have only been using it for a couple of weeks now, so the jury is still out. I will provide a full review in another month or so when I have more details. So stay tuned if you are interested!

Anokha Lip Butter

As a final step in my skincare routine, I have been using this lip butter from Anokha. This stuff contains beeswax, camellia oil, sunflower seed oil, vitamin e, and peppermint. I love to use this right before bed, as the formula is super nourishing and comfortable. It also works great as a base for lipstick (especially drying ones!) and I find the peppermint to be very mild.

BIA Skin Body Polish and Exfoliating Treatment Mist

As for body care, y’all know about my battle with KP. I have tried every product under the sun! Recently I discovered these products from BIA Skin and I am beyond impressed. First, the Body Polish contains glycolic acid, which is has so many benefits for the skin. According to the website glycolic acid “works by speeding up cell turnover and helps dissolve the bonds that hold skin cells together”. Which in the case of KP, is a very good thing as it helps breaks down that built-up keratin. I not only use this on my KP, but anywhere else where exfoliation is needed.

The Exfoliating Treatment Mist is such a genius product! Similar to a toner for the face, this product helps to prep skin to absorb other treatment AND contains hyaluronic acid for moisture, allantoin which helps to soothe and calm skin, glycolic acid and salicylic acid. All the good stuff! I like to mist this all over my legs and then follow up with lotion.

Check out how clear my leg looks – the inside of my knees are my biggest problem area with KP.

FGBG Hair Skin Nails and Sol Goddess Natural Body and Sun Oil

These Hair Skin and Nails gummies from FGBG taste delicious, come individually packaged and really do the trick, especially with nail growth. My nails are super strong and I have to trim them about once a week!

I love using the body oil when I want to my skin to have that bit of sheen that only an oil-based product can provide. I love the aerosol mist, as it dispenses just the right amount of product. It is not overly greasy or hard to wash off and is unscented, making it great for sensitive skin!

And that wraps it up folks! Stay tuned for a vacation/Disneyland recap!

Two New Lip Favorites

Leave a comment

Isn’t it funny we spend so much money on something that takes up such a small amount of space? I guess I should re-phrase – something that I spend so much money on that takes up little space on MY face.

I guess if I had big injected lips it would make more sense, but here I am au natural and still I treat them to a lip mask every night, exfoliating sugar scrubs and lip plumping glosses. But I can’t stop and I won’t stop. I am a lip product junkie and I am here to stay.

Here are some new-found favorites –

Simihaze Velvet Blur Matte Lip Balm in shade mist

All about this minimalistic outer packaging.

My good buddy Kyle lovingly gave me this lip balm after we had both discovered the Instagram add and DIED over the packaging. I MEAN. Do you blame us? It really is perfection. It is matte, yes, but it glides on like a dream and despite being a “balm” is super pigmented. I have worn it solo and with a shinier balm/gloss over the top and it is beautiful every time.

NM the snaggle tooth

EcoLips Medicinal Lip Balm and Brazilian Lip Tint

You guys all know I love me some Eco Lips. All of their products are lovely, affordable and super comfortable. The medicinal lip balm was great when I was sick a couple weeks ago (just a cold) and the brazilian tint in the shade blissful has been my tried-and-true to pop on right before Teams calls. It is the perfect “your lips but better” color and always brightens my face up. The scrub packs a nice grit and is delicious!

What lip products are you loving right now? I am just starting to run out of my beloved Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask and want to try something new!

Summer Favorites 2021

Leave a comment

Ok so it’s August.

How on earth did this happen? January through May is like one endless blob of time and the months do not matter because nothing is happening and all we do is sit in front of our $40 happy lights from Costco. Then it’s June and we blink and it’s the 4th of July and there is a fire ban so we buy our kids a pack of sparklers and pop-its and are patriotic for exactly 24 hours. Then August blazes by and all of the sudden we’re getting excited about pumpkin patches again. Then it’s New Years Eve. It’s madness it is.

I love summer. Revel in it. I owe everyone a summer re-cap really. We have gone on a few little family jaunts and the lessons learned are bountiful. If these lessons had titles, they would go something like, “Cocomelon and You”. And, “So What if She Doesn’t Fit in the Pack and Play?” Sure we’ve had our struggles, but each moment has been so much fun – thank you vaccine!

A few newly discovered items have come ’round this summer . And here they are!

Kyte Living Pajamas & Toddler Twirl Dress

The world’s softest baby pajamas are also available in adult things! This blush pink pajama set is trimmed in cloud and made in their signature bamboo blend fabric. I may never take these off. Seriously the most comfortable set of pajamas I own.

This toddler twirl dress in the shade sunset has been a summer staple for Clara. The fit is absolutely perfect and the drape of the skirt makes it totally perfect for twirling. We are in love!

Scünci Bow Tie Elastics

Thanks to my buddy Renata for pointing these out at Ulta! These are great for thin hair, no damage and adorable. They do stretch out very slightly over time, but only after LOTS of use and who cares at $4 a set?

Revy Skincare

The Revy skincare system has been a huge hit with our 10-yr old. She LOVES having “her own skincare regiment” and this one is simple to use and amazing for her sensitive skin! At 10 years old, we are still in the years of not being psyched about personal hygiene, yet the hormones are ramping up. These products have kept her skin clear, healthy and nourished. Revy only uses the cleanest of ingredients in their products, and all are plant-based. With free US shipping on orders, we are such fans!

Vital Proteins Collagen and Beauty Gummies

YOU GUYS. These friggen’ little gummies actually work! I have been taking them for about a month now and holy smokes – my nails have been growing SO fast and are very thick. Also, NO JOKE my hair has grown significantly more in the last month. I am stunned. I have even gotten compliments that my skin looks better! I am a believer in these things and will continue to buy them. Also sidenote – I only take 2 of the purple collagen gummies per day rather than the recommended 4.

DSMD Beauty Sponge and Case

This has easily become my new favorite beauty sponge. They come in 5 different colors, are SUPER soft and bouncy and are on sale right now for only $6 each! However I might be more obsessed with the cases – they protect your sponge for travel and are made of a silicone material that is super soft. No more dirty beauty sponge floating around in MY makeup bag, thank you! This brand is owned by Amanda Effiom, a Nigerian beauty blogger (check out her insta) and hello – check out the messaging on the case. Absolute perfection!

Papaya Reusable Paper Towels

If you have not tried one of these MAGICAL dish rags…sorry but you need one. Or several. Whoever invented these is a genius. They absorb 20 times their weight in liquid AND one cloth replaces 17 rolls of paper towels. And they are lemon print. I MEAN — GTFO. This adorable set comes with 2 cloths and a little hanger. I am in LOVE.

Sephora Vacay All Day Set

This set contains 7 items and 3 are full-sized. I was in the market for a new face sunscreen and the Dr. Brandt version in this set retails for $65 on it’s own!

The other products in this set are super impressive. A full sized mascara and Nars lipgloss? Uh yes please.

The smaller sized items are also great, especially the Milk Makeup cream blush!

Alba Soothing Sunscreen

And speaking of sunscreen, allow me to introduce you to a new favorite! This stuff is absolutely wonderful. It sinks nicely into the skin, has SPF 45, smells like lavender AND is all-natural. Hat tip to my good buddy Anna for bringing this into my life.

Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Moisturizer in Lime Coolada

YOU GUYS. Buy this in bulk. This body lotion smells like heaven on earth, both limey and tropical. It is the perfect treat for your skin after being in the sun!

L’Oreal Infallible Lip Gloss in 135 – Posy

This bright fuchsia lipgloss features a beautiful blue translucent shift and subtle sparke that is gorgeous when it catches the light. The blue undertone and shift make teeth look white but be warned, this only looks good with a bit of a tan (I recommend fake). It is also a bit sticky, but I find the texture does keep it a bit “glossier”. This is another tribute to lovely Anna who wore this gloss in Palm Springs and made me a believer.

Wet’n’Wild Lipstick in Pink Ice

I grabbed this .98 cent lipstick a few weeks ago and have been reaching for it nonstop. If you cannot already tell, I have been digging the bright pinks as of late, and this little powerhouse delivers on all fronts. It is a true frost, and if you have not tried the good ol’ Wet’n’Wild lipstick formula – do yourself a favor and grab a couple. I especially like the $1.99 formuals.

Milkshake Leave-In Conditioner

Ok so this is one of the best leave-ins I have tried. And not just because it smells like COOKIES (yes it does), but because my hair is looking vastly better after using it. I am obsessed with this and want to try more products from the line. ALSO – I bought this at a local salon but just discovered it is on Amazon!

8 Greens Original and Skin Drink Mixes

Thanks to my Aunt Sandi for introducing these amazing drink mixes into my life. And let me start by saying that I am a Crystal Light girl. A Diet Coke gal. A Fresca fan. I do not like pressed juices, kombucha, kefir, green smoothies – basically anything good for me. It was a problem. That is until I tried these! These have allll the greens you need and are packed with vitamins. But the best part is that they taste great – lemon +lime and slightly fizzy. I had been experiencing some issues with my blood (low B12, white blood cell count, etc.) and I really think these helped my levels normalize.

Alright guys, that is it for today. Stay tuned for a lengthy vacation post soon!

Zeep Bath Summer Haul

Leave a comment

Ohhh Nellie.

If you are not already aware, I like me m’potions. I like ’em from the drugstore, I like ’em from Nordstrom. I love me some BBW and I love me some Dove. I do not discriminate. If it works as intended, feels good on my skin and (most importantly) smells good – well, sign me UP!

It was only a matter of time before I started my love affair with Zeep (pronounced ‘z-āyp). And one could say our relations began with the Malibu Barbie Sugar Whip I got for Mother’s Day. With notes of “exotic island coconut, juicy white pineapple, and sexy sweet pink sugar”, ummm…how could I resist?

This small, family-owned business based in Wichita, Kansas truly concocts some of the some amazing, cruetly-free, vegan soaps, body care and wax products I’ve tried. I should also state right off the bat, this company has given me exactly nothing. I am just spreading the good word. Very fragrant and clean words. And before I forget, sign up here to get $5 off a purchase of $25 or more (this is a referral link, meaning I get a discount if somebody uses my link).

I placed another order a few weeks ago for a small sampling of items from their summer collection and just had to share this goodness!

I decided to try a smattering of both body care and wax products. And for the first time, I am trying “scoopable” wax for my beloved warmers. They also seem to include a wax sample in every order which is oddly very exciting.

Of course I had to order the Malibu Barbie Body Spray so I could smell like this anytime I want! I am truly addicted and wish they had it in a perfume format so it was a tad longer-lasting. I also love that this spray is safe for to use on your hair!

Next we have the Toes in the Sand Wax Scoop, which as I mentioned, I am stoked to try. This scent is described as, “freshly shucked coconut blended into a rich vanilla crème – you won’t know if you should drink it or ask the pool boy to rub it on your back!” I might have to go back and order this in the body meringue, because they were not lying about wanting to rub this stuff on your back.

I decided I had to try one of their famous body meringues (I mean, meringue?!). I decided to try the Basic Beach scent, which is described as “fresh coconut, creamy vanilla, toasted marshmallow and refreshing sea salt”. Can you tell I love coconut?? This body cream is incredibly thick and contains both mango and shea butter as well as hazelnut oil and aloe vera. While it is a very rich consistency, I do not find it overly greasy or difficult to rub in.

Lastly, we have this single wax melt bar in California Girl, described as “coconut cream, sweet strawberries, toasted marshmallow, and fluffy white cake”. I knew I had to try this when I read the description and oh boy, is this a summer scent! I should have ordered more of this, but alas, there are SO many others I am dying to try.

I should also mention that the wax melt sample they sent in push-pop is absolutely to die for. It is described as “sweet and creamy orange creamsicle mixed with fruity pebbles make an amazing sweet treat”.

Leave me a comment if you go check out their site and tell me what you want to try! And don’t forget to get $5 off with this link if you decide to make a purchase!

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Leave a comment

Hear ye! Hear ye!

Mother’s Day is upon us.

Let us celebrate and buy stuff! But Moms are just SO worth it, aren’t they? And when I say “moms” I mean allllll the moms. We’ve got hot-mess moms, competitive moms, helicopters, granolas. We all know a few of each. But ALSO – we have the step-moms, foster moms, fur-moms, non-binary moms, moms who have lost, mother earth. There are so many moms and all are equally important!

Here are some gift ideas for that special mom, or mother figure in your life.

Zeep Bath

Ok guys, I may have found my new Lush. Zeep Bath is a small, family-owned business located in Wichita, Kansas. I found out about them on Instagram and was immediately drawn in by the cuteness of the products and just overall aesthetic. I meannnn….

They carry both bath & body products and home fragrance (which I have yet to try) in absolutely scrumptious scents. David ordered me their Sugar Whip (whipped soap + sugar scrub) a couple weeks ago for our anniversary and GUYS, I am hooked.

Their Malibu Barbie scent is described as “exotic island coconut, juicy white pineapple, and sexy sweet pink sugar”. After using it one time, David said I smelled like a “Hawaiian tropic girl” (ala Dumb and Dumber, I am guessing) and the scent lingered for hours. I am now ordering the body spray and whipped soap in Malibu Barbie because I want to smell like this 24/7. It shall be my new signature scent!

Zeep also has a referral program, which I happily joined. Use this link for $5 off any purchase of $25 or more!

*Also, this company did not send me anything, nor is this sponsored.

Bunnies by the Bay

Bunnies by the Bay is a Washington-based company that sells some of the sweetest, most high-quality stuffies, lovies and baby gifts you will find. The best part is that several of their stuffies come with a backstory! If you or your kiddos love Peter Rabbit, you will absolutely love Bunnies by the Bay! I was immediately drawn to one of their signature bunnies, Blossom of Cricket Island and knew Clara would love it.

I am getting side-tracked, this is a MOTHER’S DAY gift guide!

When I saw their adorable Blossom Bunny mommy & me face masks, I knew what a sweet mother’s day gift they would make!

First of all – the PACKAGING:

No detail is overlooked when it comes to their adorable packaging. Clara and I were squealing at how cute everything came. And the look on her face when she pulled out little Blossom, just says it all!

But these mommy and me face masks?! I DIE.

Here is E, modeling the kid mask:

And yours truly in the adult version:

For get $10 your first purchase at Bunnies by the Bay, click here!

Bombay Hair Curling Wand

Perfect for the lady who desperately needs to upgrade her hair-tools game, look no further than Bombay Hair. I have never invested in nice hair tools, and have been using the same teeny tiny Conair curling wand for years now.

Enter – the Bombay 32MM curling wand.

I meannn, just check out the gorgeous packaging!

This extended wand is 100% tourmaline and features a cool tip which helps with styling burns. You also get a little stand and heat protectant glove.

The best part about this curling wand? It heats up in literally 10 SECONDS! You can select an exact temperature and the LCD screen turns from blue to green when it is ready to go.

Check out these amazing curls, that seriously last ALL DAY.

And here is a video of me using the curling wand! Be warned, I am verrrry professional at this:

Dossier Fragrances

YOU GUYS. This company basically makes designed imposter (remember those millenials?!) fragrances, but like bougie. I discovered them on Instagram after trying to find a knock-off of my most coveted perfume of all time, Le Labo Rose 31. I have wanted this perfume for probably 10 years and realized I needed to somehow make it a reality.

Then I stumbled upon Dossier’s Floral Rose.

They also have versions of everything from Le Labo, to Jo Malone, to Chanel, YSL and Tom Ford. And they only cost $29 or $39!

The glass bottle is actually quite weighty and feels expensive. But the scent?! I was BLOWN away! This smells exactly like Rose 31…it is almost uncanny. I do not think the lasting power is quite as good as the Le Labo version but for $39 I will take it!

I have been dousing myself in this everyday and could not be happier.

Elise Design Company

Christa was kind enough to send me a few pairs of the gorgeous and unique Belle Stud handmade earrings to try and I am absolutely gaga for these.

These earrings are made of acrylic, are lightweight and make a statement while still being dainty. Also, they’re only $15 and they have free shipping!

I could not get E to take off the rose gold version, she just adores them.

I die for these black and gold ones! And ignore my dark spots…they’re a work in progress.

So impressed with the quality of these earrings from this small business. Totally want to get the initial necklace next, which would also make an amazing mother’s day gift!

The Great Oregon Wine Company

Doesn’t wine always make the easiest and best gift? I recently tried this Pinot Gris from Great Oregon Wine Company and it was love at first sip.

I am no wino, but this went down very nicely and was super bright and refreshing. And also – May is Oregon Wine Month! You can get $10 flat-rate shipping on 4 bottles or more right now! Go get you some.

Crocs

Yes, I am including Crocs. Mainly because I actually want some for Mother’s Day. They are ugly, yes. But in a cute way. I just feel like by me not owning Crocs, I am doing myself a disservice. PLUS, I actually think they are kinda cool right now. As in, I see cool people wearing them from time to time.

You can get them on Amazon Prime and they will be here by tomorrow. What’s not to love?

And that will conclude my list for now friends. Have a fabulous mother’s day!

Self Care Products Round-Up

Leave a comment

Well we’ve been stuck inside for a year now!

Remember how back in March 2020, we were all like, “Did you hear that this might last until May!?”. Or in June when we were like, “Oh it has to be over by the holidays!”. For me, the cute quarantine-themed songs to the tune of Katy Perry hits are met with a deadpan gaze. The funny covid memes and hopeful quotes are just scribblings, words on a page. I know we’re at the “end” of all this with vaccinations on the uptick and cases decreasing but man has it taken a toll. To say anything else would be a lie.

Several things have pulled us through this. For me, it’s my husband, Grandma Lisa and Aunt Sandi, Liberty Creek Pinot Grigio, my cute daughters and a healthy dose a’self curr.

Today I bring you some new (to me) products that have helped me. Mind, body and soul. Or should I say hair, face and body?

T0112 Sea Salt Serum

I have been using this spray serum for a few weeks now and I think I am in love. This stuff is packed with, you guessed it – sea salt, but also jojoba seed, argan and tamanu oil. The sea salt provides that realistic beachy texture but the oils add a wonderful dose of moisture. I find that SO many sea salt hair products are very drying. This stuff is actually hydrating! What an amazing product.

FactorFive Skincare

I have been using these three mini-sized products for about a month now and am seeing some beautiful results. FactorFive uses ethically derived human stem cells that work to replenish the skin at a cellular level. All of these products are non-scented and apply very nicely to the skin. I have loved using these while I go through the IPL laser treatments. Read more about that here! I feel they have aided the cell turnover process and provided necessary nourishment my skin needs.

Ecoslay Hair Products

Ecoslay is a small, vegan, 100% homemade hair care company with products so fresh, several have to be refrigerated!  You all know I suffer from a dry scalp, and the Peppermint Schnapps hair wash provides a invigorating scalp experience like none other. Next I applied their thick and rich Banana Cream and left it on a solid 5-10 minutes. This stuff seriously coats each strand with a thick layer of moisture and I loved the look and feel of my hair as I rinsed it out.

I have been using the Moonshine Hair & Body Oil on my dry heels and it has really been making a difference!

Peace Out Retinol Eye Stick

I have been using this concentrated eye balm for a couple of months now, once or twice a week. I ordered mine from Sephora but it is available for 15% off on their website! I wanted to try due to the stellar reviews and so far I have noticed a diminished appearance of my crows feet!

La Parea Ecuadorian Rose Candle

You all KNOW I can get down with a candle. They really make a break a day for me. You might also know that I am super fond of anything rose-scented. This candle is probably the truest rose-scented item I have ever encountered. It really does smell like you stuck your face into a bouquet of luscious, fresh roses. The candle burned evenly and the wick performed like a champ. I highly recommend this one, but am anxious to try some their others like Beach Day!

Country Bathhouse Body & Home

YOU GUYS. These are huge, donut-shaped bath bombs that smell like cotton candy!! I am so beyond impressed with both the size and quality of these products.

These bath bombs use a certified organic goats milk soap base, are non-staining and hypo-allergenic. I am totally in love!

They also make a whipped soap + shaving cream in a Love Spell scent that I am dying to try! I MEAN, just look at this stuff:

Maybelline Sky High Mascara 

Finding this mascara was the highlight of my day! It has blown up due to TikTok and I was stoked to try it out. While it definitely is nowhere near the best drugstore mascara out there, it is super lengthening.

Dr. Teal’s Shea Butter & Almond Oil Epsom Salt

Ok guys, this might be my new favorite from Dr. Teal’s. I really love the coconut epsom salts, but this kind was SO wonderfully moisturizing! Also I am obsessed with the scent – very comforting and rich.

All for now – Leave a comment with your favorite self care products!