Tuesday, December 29, 2015

Editing Down Lifestyle

So who has read the book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo? I feel like a lot of people on the YouTube beauty community have been talking about it this past year. I personally haven’t read it yet, but I still feel inspired by it.

If you know me once I get a project stuck in my head, I have to see it through.  Lately, I have been feeling like I just have so much stuff. I have to admit there are things that I have hung on to when I probably should have parted with it. After all it is just stuff.

I’m not one for New Year’s resolutions, but I will say out with the old and in with the newly edited down lifestyle. What I’m planning on doing is creating a capsule wardrobe. I wasn’t sure exactly what it was before, but it’s basically a collection of essential pieces that you can mix and match. I have even read that some people have gotten their whole closet down to 30ish pieces! I think it makes sense because you really only wear about 20% of your clothes anyway. In any case, I pretty much only wear basics.

I am also trying to narrow down my makeup collection that is more than enough for one person. I want to keep the things I absolutely love. I have always taken back things that I really didn’t like to the store right away. There for things I have changed my mind about over time, or I find myself not really using it for one reason or another. Some recent examples of things I’ve taken back are Tarte Greatest Glitz Collector’s Set & Portable Palettes and Too Faced Chocolate Bon Bons. When I return things that I don’t like it doesn’t mean the product is bad, I just didn’t like it for one reason or another.

Space is a commodity. This is going to be a massive project, and it will be a work in progress. I will update along the way. I will be selling off some of my things and will be posting all the details once I have gotten all the things that need a new home together.

This has been a long time come. I have taken steps throughout the year toward this goal, even though I didn’t quite define it then.

1)      I reorganized my makeup collection several times this year in attempt to see and use what I have. There is a box of makeup that I was not sure if I liked it or not.
2)      I have done a pan challenge. You must be wondering how that’s going. I will have a blog post about this either before or after this post. I will link it here. I do have to say that it makes me happy that I am actually using things up.
3)      My sisters and I took out a day where we went through all of our books. We cataloged every single one, and we also donated over 200 books!
4)      I’ve consigned and donated clothes to Goodwill and a battered woman’s shelter.

My advice for tackling something like this type of a project is to start small. Don’t pull out every single piece of clothes into the middle of the room. You’ll just feel overwhelmed and think: what did I get myself into? I know; I’ve been there. For example, I’m going to start with everything that is hanging up in my closet.

If you’re on the fence about something then, set it aside to decide later but set a date that a decision has to be made. When my sisters and I were going through our books, there were some that we were undecided about. We wanted to read them again to make sure it was something that we wanted to really get rid of. You can always change your mind about donating or selling it later on.
I’m excited about simplifying my life. I just feel that if I’m not using something, then it needs to find a new home where someone else will find more joy out of it. Going forward, I am really going to think about every new thing you are bringing into my space. Do I absolutely love it? If the answer is no or maybe, then I don’t need it.


Also, if I do a blog sale would anyone be interested?  

 

 



Monday, December 28, 2015

Life Update


I did not want to start updating without writing a quick note first.
I have been missing in action on the blog, and my goal is to get up posts up soon after I’ve have unpacked from a trip. Truth is sometimes that does take a while. I know what a few of the trips coming up next year will definitely require recovery time especially because one of them will have time zone differences.
Taking a minute to reflect on 2015 before moving forward to 2016.

2015 Highlights:

1)      LA: BSB The Movie, The Getty
2)      KY:  Just everything. Honestly, this was a trip I really didn’t have high expectations for, but it was surprisingly wonderful.
3)      Untermyer Gardens Conservancy
4)      Naumkeag & The Clark
5)      Walkway over Hudson
6)      Charlotte: AJ’s Skulleeroz Launch. I had only one day to really explore and wish I had a little more time.

Some of these trips I haven’t talked about yet, but they will be posted on the blog. I’m going to try and do a post a day until I’m caught up.

What were your favorite memories from 2015?

Looking to 2016:

I don’t really make resolutions. Instead, I like to set goals. I feel like that is more manageable, and I can track my progress. Resolutions are like grand plans that seem like a great idea at first, but they are not really all that defined. In the past, I have said this year I’ll lose weight. But what does that really mean? 10 pounds, 20 pounds, or 30 pounds? What kind of time frame do you have to lose that weight? That’s why I feel that it’s hard to keep these type of resolutions.
I will be having a post following this one on specific goals I have in mind.
But the things I’m looking forward to in 2016:
1)      All American Tour: 
                                                               i.       Baltimore – I haven’t been here yet, so I will have to do a little exploring.
                                                             ii.      Freehold, New Jersey – This will also be a new city for me, but I’m excited my friend for Rochester will be going to this concert as well
                                                            iii.      New York City
                                                           iv.      Boston
2)      Backstreet Boys European Cruise: This will be my first time overseas. It’s exciting, but I’m also nervous.
I’m sure there will be other exciting plans as the year goes on, but those are the things that are definitely happening.

What are you looking forward to in the new year?

Monday, August 10, 2015

Review l Angela Roi Palette Cross-body

I really love everything what Angela Roi stands for. Not only does 5% of the proceeds goes to a charity based on color, but they are animal-free, sweatshop-free, and aim to create sustainable employment. 

This is all something I'm extremely passionate about. It's important try and make this world a little better, even if I can only contribute a little at a time. 

Review l Victorinox Swiss Army Victoria Charisma Carry-All Tote

I was searching for a carry-on bag that would help me keep organized for my flight. Previously, I was using a Jansport backpack. I cannot find a link to the exact bag that I have. I believe the style I have is discontinued.

What I needed was:
  1. A bag that was large enough to pack clothing in if necessary. I have had situations where my carry-on suitcase just didn't have the capacity to fit my clothes too (looking at you Kentucky trip). 
  2. Easily accessible pocket to store things that I need to reach for like my ID and tickets
  3. A stylish bag

Originally, I had my heart set on the the Lo & Son’s O.M.G. bag, but that one is going to cost a really pretty penny. The reason why I was really leaning toward the O.M.G. bag was because there was a separate compartment for shoes which not many other bags have. The size of this bag is: base 16”, depth 6”, and height 13.5, handle 9” drop.

The Victoria Charisma first caught my eye because it was on sale at Hautelook. It was a similar size to the OMG.

If you're unfamiliar with Hautelook, it is a flash sale website where you can buy clothing, beauty, and home items.

Fortunately, I found it for $65 with a 10% off code and shipping at 6pm. I would suggest you shop around before you commit to purchasing from anywhere. Most likely you will be able to find it for a lower price. The particular bag I purchased has sold out on 6pm, but it is still available at Nordstrom Rack.

Thursday, August 6, 2015

Travel l Visiting Friends - Rochester (07.15.15 - 07.18.15)

So this year I'm attempting to try and make my way around on a non-tour year to visit with friends. However, it's been a little more difficult coordinating it than I anticipated especially as I'm trying to penny pinch for my adventures for next year.


The backstory is I met my best friend, Alecia, on the 2013 Backstreet Boys cruise. At dinner, we were sat next to each other and decided to have dinner extravaganzas. This basically means that we ordered one of everything on the menu!





Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Project 10 Pan l August 2015

What is "project 10 pan"?

It is what I refer to as the use this shit up project.
It originally started as hitting "pan" on 10 powder projects. This is when you see the actually the metal container that houses the product. Nowadays, people just pick as many things as they want to use up until they can purchase something new in that category. In my case, I will just move onto the next product in my "collection."

Why do this challenge?

I have more make-up than any one person can possibly use in this lifetime. I would really like to narrow down my collection significantly. This will also prevent me from buying duplicates with items.

As you can see below, I have hit pan on a few items. There are some things below that I love and know I will use up, and there are other things that I just want to use up because it's not my favorite.



Tuesday, July 14, 2015

Review l Joy Mangano Better Beauty Case

I believe I purchased the Joy Mangano Better Beauty Case through HSN, and I probably around $20-$30. It came with the case that I will be talking about today, a large case, a small case, and 2 loose clear pouches.

This one is sold out. The next closest deal is this one. You can also find similar deals on Amazon or Bed Bath and Beyond



Monday, July 13, 2015

Technology l Travel Apps

Technology definitely has helped me book and manage my trips. I still print out a paper backup copy. This is in case my phone battery/back up battery runs out of power or any other unforeseeable circumstance.


I am an Android user, and I believe there are iPhone versions of these apps.


Tuesday, July 7, 2015

Travel l Washington ( June 26 - 28, 2015)

When it rains, it pours. We were swimming in DC. There was record rainfall with flood warnings. But we didn't let it put a damper on our plans, no pun intended.

Originally, we were supposed to go the zoo, but we were not able to due to weather.
We planned to eat lunch at SUNdeVICH but also didn't make it there. I think it was too far away from where we were. I also wanted to try to get to the monuments after the museum, but it had been a long day. 

Plans change when you're traveling, and you remember that sometimes things happen that are out of your control. The best advice I can give for when situations don't according to plan is to be flexible and open to exploring. Keep a positive attitude and make the best out of it. 


Saturday, July 4, 2015

Review l Flight 001

Recently I went to DC, and I was able to test out some new Flight 001 travel accessories I had purchased. I was able to purchase them at a discount (50% off!) during a Lucky Break. Lucky Magazine has a different sale each day.

But the real test for me is would I pay full price for these? The short answer is yes.

I did purchase some other Flight 001 items but have not used them yet. There will be another review once I have tested them out.

Some quick things I wanted to point out are: 

  • Each item came in a zipped pouch. It makes it easy to store when its not in use. I also read that it provides extra compression while traveling. I have not tried that out yet to confirm.
  • All the packing cubes are well made in regards to the materials and zippers
  • The Spacepak items have a packing suggestions written right now them. There is also a video on the website showing you how to pack the bags and how to put them into a suitcase. 

Review l Sonia Kashuk Floral Print Beauty (Makeup) Organizer

I really wanted the Laura Mercier Home & Away Custom Artist Portfolio, but it is really expensive. It goes for around $100 when it is available. I believe it comes out during the Holiday (aka Christmas) season. I decided to purchase the Sonia Kashuk Floral Print Beauty Organizer as an alternative. It's a fraction of the price. 

Friday, July 3, 2015

Travel l Merrimack/Manchester, NH *L's Graduation* (May 8 - 9, 2015)

I ended up choosing a hotel in Merrimack because I was a last minute booker. Basically there was no room left in Manchester. Fortunately it's only 15 minutes away from SNHU.


Thursday, July 2, 2015

Travel l Providence, RI (April 25, 2015)

Connecticut is a pretty central location to live in. We have a lot of choices when it comes to day trips. When deciding on what zoo we wanted to go to, all the zoos near us were about the same distance. The reason why my sisters and I decided on the Roger Williams Zoo was because S didn't get to there on a class field trip.

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Review l Saucebox x Batalash Palette





I recently purchased this palette from Saucebox  Cosmetics. This is their collaboration with the ladies of Batalash. When I originally saw that Samantha post the swatches on her Instagram, I knew this was a palette I had to have! There is still a limited number of these palettes left, so get it while it's hot. It is limited edition after all.

A little more about this palette:
There are 4 universal matte shadows and 4 pearl finishes. Each pan contains 4 grams of product! Typically and eye shadow is .05 grams. While the price of $60 seems expensive, it breaks down to $7.50 per shadow. You are getting a lot for our money. I have some comparison pictures to other brands products below.

The palette did take a little longer than expected to arrive, but Saucebox was amazing. They communicated throughout the whole process and kept us in the loop. I really appreciate a company that takes care of the customer. This is a growing company, and I would purchase other items in the future. 

Also note that this is a cruelty free brand.

Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Review l Trina Purse Kit Makeup Bag

I admit that when it comes to makeup bags, you can never have enough right?
So as the story goes, I met my friend for lunch at the local mall to catch up. I had been meaning to take a peek at Nordstrom Rack because I've been seeing crazy finds on Nouveau Cheap's instagram  like the new NARS bronzer WITH the travel Ita brush.

I couldn't pass this up. This little number only set me back $5.97. I'm pretty sure it's exclusive to Nordstrom Rack. You can sometimes spot it on Hautelook, and Ulta sells this brand. 

For reference it's called this particular one is called the purse kit.

Thursday, April 30, 2015

DIY l Broken Powder



I am sure you have all had the unfortunate mishap of shattering a powder, but there is a way to remedy the sad situation and not have to throw away your beauty products!
Recently I knocked my favorite drugstore powder off of my desk, and it broke even though it landed on some carpet. I also received some eye shadows in the mail that due to man handling from USPS didn't survive from up north all the way down to my little humble home.

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Round up l April Subscription Boxes


What is a subscription box? 
It is a curated box of items in specific categories like beauty, food, etc. Some companies allow you take quizzes to help customize your box. The level of customization depends on the company. Also, some subscription boxes have themes them. I like this because it gives the box cohesion. 

I've tried other subscriptions in the past, but these are the ones I currently have been getting with the exception of Nature Box. I ate all the snacks already, but if you are interested I have some boxes to give out. Comment below with your email to try one. This offer expires 5.13.15!!

I will have some mini reviews on the products that I have had the chance to try. 

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Review l Tarte Brazillance

So the weather is getting warmer, and it will be summer before you know it. I mentioned that I would be talking about my favorite self tanner in my L'Oreal Infallible first impressions blog post. I had just used the self tanner the day before. I am preparing not to look like a ghost when I go to the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame induction next week.

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

FOTD l Beauty on a Budget


I felt inspired to do a drugstore make-up look. I actually did not realize that I had enough products to do an entire face. If you know me, you know normally I do use high end products. I am starting to dabble in more accessible brands. You can always add or subtract products from what I used below. 



Sunday, March 22, 2015

FOTD l Sunday Fun Day (March 22, 2015)


So I decided to do a spur of the moment trip to Whole Foods today because I saw a post about a beauty bag that they had on sale. Unfortunately, I was informed by an employee that they are all sold out. This is the last day for beauty week. She wasn't sure if they were getting anymore in.

This is just a quick way to get ready in a hurry and still looked pulled together. It takes about 5 minutes.




Saturday, March 21, 2015

Thursday, March 19, 2015

Travel l Disaster! The Musical (March 10, 2015)

This was a completely last minute day trip for me. I was really sad that I was unable to go to AJ's Live Together music video due to the cost. I checked over the weekend to see when the musical would be in the city and alas it was on a Tuesday. The whole trip was pending on approval from the bosses on whether or not I could leave at noon on Tuesday. Luckily my bosses are very accommodating and understanding of my need to go wherever the Backstreet Boys are.


Thursday, March 12, 2015

Travel l Backstreet Boys Show 'Em What You're Made Of Documententry LA Premiere (January 29, 2015 - February 1, 2015)





Lately it feels like anytime I've traveled, I have had to wake up at an unreasonable hour. Changing time zones also does not help either. I don't like traveling the day of an event. But I am glad that I did this time because of the snow storms we were having on the east coast. I wish I were able to find direct flights to CA though.