I feel like I haven't written about makeup in so long, probably because I've been busy finishing school and finally graduating. I wanted to share my typical, spring makeup that I actually wore on my graduation. When it comes to spring, I love color and light face makeup. No one wants a cake face when it's 75 and sunny. Chicago has been warming up over the past few weeks and I have just celebrated Memorial Day at the Indiana Dunes and hanging out with all of my closest friends. The last thing you want to worry about is all of your makeup melting off.
Bobbi Brown BB Cream- Recently I have been into bb creams and they're pretty much all I use nowadays. I just think they can give the perfect amount of coverage anytime. I love wearing them during the warmer months when I don't care to use a full face of makeup.
I especially have been loving the Bobbi Brown BB Cream and it has really changed my outlook on all foundations. It has incredible blurring power without feeling dewy, dry, or anything worse. It really makes my face feel fresh and au natural.
Nars Travel Concealer-I haven't strayed away from this concealer at all. I love how creamy and full covering this concealer is. It doesn't crease and lasts all day long. I am really considering purchasing a full size one.
Mac Studio Fix Powder- I also have been using this powder so much. I switch back between this and the Coty Airspun Powder when I want to bake my under eyes or not use pressed powder. This is great for travel as it has a compartment for a sponge. I love how matte and oil free it makes my face. Really great for the warmer months.
Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Primer- I just tried this out about a month ago and have really fallen to love it. It smells like paradise and palm trees while also creating the most smooth and makeup ready skin. While I have never had a hangover, I'm convinced that this could help revive anyone who need a wake up call. The scent is perfect for this time of year and it is great for traveling.
Bobbi Brown Color Corrector- Normally, I don't use correctors, but recently I have found that this Bobbi Brown corrector really helps to brighten and correct imperfections when I get bad zits or bags under my eyes. Stila Bronzing Beauty Balm- To be honest, I was weary of using this at first because I don't like liquid anything, however, I dab a bit onto my Beauty Blender and then onto my cheeks and love the dewy J Lo glow! Who doesn't want that?
Anastasia Dip Brow Pomade- This pomade has been in my collection for a while and I still continue to use it because it does a tremendous job at sculpting out my brows. I skip the eye brow mascara and solely use this with an angled brush.
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara- A classic and one of my favorites, this mascara is a given especially when you want butterfly lashes. I love the sample size because it's easier to get all of your lashes with the smaller applicator.
Maybelline Color Tattoo in Inked in Pink- I have had this eyeshadow for so long, but I can't bare to just toss such a great shade. This rose gold cream shadow is great as one color all across the lid. Spring is the best for colors on the face and I think this looks so elegant with eyeliner and mascara.
Ysl Lipstick in Rouge Rose- Last, but not least, I do think that a pop of color on the lips does a girl wonders. Sometimes I prefer nudes, but this Ysl shade has me dreaming. I love coral lips and this smooth lipstick will brighten any neutral eye look. I didn't wear this with the pink shadow, but I'm sure it'll look good with just about anything.
What's been your spring makeup pick?
My style has always been minimal from the gecko. I love when surfaces are neat and clean. I am definitely not a fan of clutter or junk that "looks like decor," but really isn't. I thought I would share one side of my bed to share what I normally put on my bedside table.
I have actually been inspired by the ever-so-great, Kate La Vie, to show my nightstand. She had a post where she would give advice and tips as to how you can rearrange decor on it for a desired look, which I thought was very creative and original.
Hanging Prints and Artwork
Above my side table, I have these little prints that I found off of Pinterest and got inspired by Temporary Secretary, another great blogger. She had them hanging from cute wash tape and I found this gold striped tape from the Target Dollar Spot (of course).
I think these prints can be great to have at college in your dorm or just hanging up in your home or apartment. They really modernize the space and add pops of color to the walls.
Staying on the Target theme, a lot of what I have on my side table is from Target. I just love that store so much. The "Hello Love" card is also from the dollar section.
Add Fresh or Faux Flowers
My dad always tells me that "life is too short not to buy yourself flowers" and he is right. I think everyone should purchase themselves a bouquet every now and then. It adds color and makes the place feel less dull. I love how they can make my room smell so fresh. Even picking some from your garden and plopping them into a mason jar can make all the difference to a side table.
If you're worried about clutter or where to put your jewelry, lotion, or glasses at night, try to use a decorative tray or dish to store those items. It looks way more organized and put together. I found this little wooden tray at, obviously, Target.
I love to have my Bath and Body Works Bergamot Mint candle and my cute little foxy relic I got for a birthday one year. If you are unsure of where to put things, trays come in handy and create a space to put that stuff.
Whenever I look at my side table, I always wonder how I can improve it or make it look better. It will always be a constant change and I will add things and subtract things. The beauty of Feng Shui, "the art of placement" has always been on my mind whenever I look at my room and have doubts about the placing of certain things. Do you guys ever feel that way?
I made it. For all four years of high school, I cannot believe that it's finally over. On May, 21st, this past Sunday, I graduated from York High School. What an amazing journey it has been and I am incredibly ecstatic and anxious to see what the next four years will bring. I am truly thankful for everyone who has unconditionally supported me and who has made my high school career worth while. I wouldn't say that it's been a high school musical, but I do think that it has made me appreciate many great things about my experience there.
This post is just your usual thanking post and reflection post. It might not be as interesting as many of my other ones, but for my personal keeping, I would like this post to just be an entire reflection of my high school experience: addressing the goods, the bads, and the uglies.
Posing with my just graduated from college sister, Melissa, and my father who is a Dean at her college in Chicago, have both supported me and given me so much love. Thanks to my English professor (now Dean) dad for always spelling and grammar checking my English papers and also giving me a ton of dad advice because you just do. I know I can count on you for always answering my philosophically irrelevant questions.
Mel, thank you for being my guidance counselor throughout my stressful times and always being the derp you are. I can't wait to see what you do beyond college and I know that you will accomplish all of your hopes and dreams when they come to you. No matter what challenges you face in the real world, I know you will always do amazing things with your writing. 
Obviously I can't forget my beautiful mama. She has truly been my rock throughout all of my school endeavors and I am beyond blessed to have you in my life as a supporter and everyday cheerleader. Also, for telling me to save my money and to make my bed every day. We have been through many ups and downs, but I always know that you will be there for me no matter what.
Finally, to my "little" sister Emily, I am so beyond proud of how grown up you've become. No matter the annoyances or shenanigans you pull, the ukulele playing at 10 o'clock at night, the screaming, or anything else, all in all, you have really impressed me. Thank you for taking all of these incredible photos, especially at prom. I know I put you through some tough times, but that's just what big sisters do, even if you're 5'11. We will be buddies forever and ever. I am so excited to see what your future brings as you flower into an amazing young woman. Yes, woman.
In my time my time at York, I have achieved a few awards: the State Commendation toward Biliteracy for my knowledge and accomplishments with Spanish, the Presidential Award towards Educational Achievement, and the monetary award granted from the entire English department at my school, the Corrine Johnson Scholarship of $500. It was a huge award that I was incredibly honored to receive. Especially since they mentioned my blog and how dedicated to writing I am. I just goes to show how much this blog has truly made an impact in my life.
For anyone reading this, I thank you whole heartedly for supporting all that I have put passion towards and have worked hard for. Not only has this journey been bittersweet, but so self fulfilling and I am ready for whatever comes next. It's not everyday you just graduate high school, for anyone still in high school, I give you this; don't sweat the small stuff and enjoy it. You get one high school experience and it truly is what you make of it. I spent most of it stressing about stupid stuff that doesn't even affect me now. Obviously get good grades and go to class, but one fail or two, move on. Life will bring you many failures and uptakes--embrace them.
It's that time of year again--finals. We hate 'em, we loathe 'em, but we have to take 'em. I have made a few final exam study guides and survival guides in the past, but I love remaking and modifying them. My studying habits change very often, so I think it's fun to share what new ways to study I find.
Since I have just finished my senior year, I am fully done with school and studying until I start college. However, all underclassmen are still in school and have final exams next week.
Organize Your Notes and Lessons
What I love to do before I start any studying is to organize all of the worksheets, notes, and quizzes I have taken in the order of the chapters we studied during class. I find it best to use big binder clips or jumbo paper clips to put together everything.
My whole studying experience has been very easy because of how I prepare all of my material before I even start to review.
Highlight Things You Don't Remember
It's never easy looking back at a semester of material and trying to review everything. If you receive study guides from your teachers or even just in your notes, start to look over things that you need more review on.
Find a Studying Habit
I know it can be extremely hard to get into the groove of studying. Starting to review can seem so difficult and I think it's important to put some time away towards it. I can just start if I put away all of my electronics and shut the door to my bedroom. I need peace and quiet, but sometimes going to a specific place that you don't associate with relaxing, like the library, can be the best habit when studying. You can dedicate a place or even a certain time of day to just studying.
Take Breaks and Pace Yourself
Cramming is not going to get you the grade you want. It's only healthy to pace yourself when you study. That's why studying way before your exam can give you the most stress free studying habits. It's always a good idea to take breaks in between lessons or subjects to refresh and not overwhelm yourself.
I know when I study, I don't ever do it for more than two hours in a sitting. I'll go outside or do some yoga to de-stress and take my mind off of all I need to study and projects I might need to finish. You will get the most out of studying if you take and manage your time wisely.
Use Your Resources
Many schools and the internet have great studying resources that are available for everyone. If you seem to be struggling in a subject, you can always email your teachers or professors to meet up and go over subjects you are unsure about. Most of the time they will be more than happy to help. There are also great websites like vocabulary.com to go over terms and ideas while you are on your phone out and about. It's just a matter of utilizing resources to your advantage.
I could list more and more things to do when studying, but I think these are really the most important to getting and achieving the desired grade you want. It's so surreal to be done with high school and I am so excited and a little nervous as to how my finals will be like in college next year. I know that these tips will surely help me succeed. I know that many people have their own ways and techniques they like to use for exams, so please feel free to share!
Over the past three years of blogging on my site and it almost being the anniversary of it in June, I thought it was time to reflect on what I have done with this blog and what it has taught me. I have learned many things about the blogging world and I think that my writing and content has really bloomed into quality work and dedication. When I first started out, it was in the beginning of summer. Me, my ipod, sitting in the basement of the kids I nanny. I never knew exactly the specific reason I started, but I knew that I was bored and have heard of others doing it.
I love to write and I will continue to love to write for this site. I hope that this blog keeps on growing and growing. From taking pictures on my little, flimsy Ipod nano, to saving up my nannying money to purchase a quality, Canon Dslr camera that I love so dearly and protect with my life. I just recently got a new Macbook, and gosh while technology keeps changing, I am so excited to see what I can do with this computer.
Building a Website is Difficult.
Blogging has not only taught me a ton about blogging and the website world, it has also challenged me greatly because making your own website isn't as easy as it seems. I use Blogger, which many of you know, but creating a totally different type of template and design took probably months for me to figure out and get acclimated to. If you are trying to start a blog, I would suggest using Google's Blogger. I have it connected with my GMail and it is pretty easy to navigate. I would recommend that you do a little research on other sites how to personalize it so you don't have the cringey, default templates. ThemeXpose.com is a really great, free template generator.
Time Management Can be Tough.
I will be a college student next fall and while I am so excited to be starting this new chapter, I have no idea what the workload and what my schedule will be. I post twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It has been tough at times when I have other events going on, but it's a roller coaster figuring out times to write, take photos, and prepare more posts for the next weeks or so. Not all of my posts are written the day before, otherwise I would probably die of stress. Starting a blog comes with a lot of planning and scheduling, so that's something that has really shaped the way I manage my time and days.
The great thing about having your own blog is that you have the freedom of posting whenever you want. Also, if you get the Blogger app, you can post on your phone if you are on vacation. I like to put myself through that self discipline because I want my blog to really be relevant and seen by people. It's truly your decision on when you want to post, which I have loved...and hated.
Establishing Yourself is Not Easy.
I have already learned that wanting to be the biggest blogger can't happen within a year or two. It took me awhile to get established followers and I'm still trying. I was so blinded by all of the numbers that at one point, my quality of writing kind of stunk. After a considerable break from my blog, I came back with even better ideas. I think the passion needs to be there for the art rather than the numbers and counts of followers you have. If anyone wants to become a blogger just for the popularity or "free stuff", you're in the wrong place.
You Don't Just Get Free Stuff.
Yes I have been asked by companies to review things and put codes into my posts, but I have only said yes to one of those companies. Solely because I wanted the products to be things I would have thought that my readers would love or be interested in. Sure, I was interested in the products, but I didn't want to promote some third party brand that is just reaching out for ad space. While I would love to have big name cosmetics and product brands contact me, the time will come, and I want people to appreciate my writing more than what I get from brands or companies.
You Connect With So Many People.
I have learned that my blogging has built many relationships with people, not just companies. The fact that I get compliments in everyday life is suffice to show just how much I love what I do. I have met people from across the US, Europe, and Asia and that's the kind of work place I want to be in when I am older. I love meeting new people and I am so glad that blogging allows me to do that.
Remember Who You Are and Why You Write.
Sometimes as a creator, we forget to think about the main reason we write and make content. Sure, I love talking about the things I love, but if the passion isn't there, the quality tends to sink. There are thousands upon thousands of bloggers out there who basically do the same thing I do. Why would we want to listen to you? That's the question I constantly ask myself whenever I open my dashboard. Sometimes, taking a break to get the inspiration flowing can be the best medicine. I know for sure that I have had writer's block and couldn't become inspired. Many bloggers influence what I write, review, or how I conduct things on my blog, but I try to keep it myself as best as I can. It's so important to remember that.
I'm sure I could ramble on about more good and bad things about blogging that I have come to learn over the past years, but I'll spare it until I write about what I have learned 3 more years from now. If you are a loyal reader and like what I post, I truly appreciate the support you all give me and even a little comment makes me happy. It's great to know people are reading and enjoying my writing.
It's a little unclear as to what I am going to experience in college, but I am so excited to see how my blog flourishes and grows even more as I meet new people. If you are wanting to start a blog, do it. I have had the best experiences with it and wouldn't trade it for the world.
I have recently added a new bb cream to the bunch! I have already raved about great bb creams and I thought I would put this one under the spotlight because it's so good. I'm not normally a huge, heavy makeup fan in the first place, so anything that allows me to look like I have goddess-like skin, without the cake, is always a winner in my book.
Now I received this Bobbi Brown BB Cream as a gift and would only ever want it as a gift because it's not reasonably priced. I think it's nice to splurge, though, and this might just be worth it.
This is probably one of the most expensive products that I own and I feel very fancy while using it. I apply it with a Beauty Blender like I would with any other foundation or bb cream. While it is not a very easily replaceable product, I use it sparingly and a little goes a very long way. For being the second Bobbi Brown product I have, I am incredibly impressed by it's quality and staying power.
It's infused with not only spf, but caffeine! This is not your average 7am pick-me-up ladies! It's better; it reduces redness and reduces discoloration in the skin which is something an espresso could never accomplish, let alone fix.
This bb cream is a bit more covering in the sense that it doesn't leave a very natural look because it does a great job at covering up imperfections while feeling light and airy. I haven't noticed any oxidization, but Bobbi Brown has about nine shades to choose from which is pretty decent for a high end brand. You can always mix colors (only if you have money to spare on another $46 bb cream). It pretty much matches my skin tone and will look even better as soon as I tan a little more.
I also noticed that the wearability of this bb cream is so long and goes for a while without creasing super bad. Yeah it's makeup and you will need to fix it here and there, but for what it's worth, it has remarkable staying power and doesn't leave you oily, which is also amazing because of how hydrating it is.
Have you tried any Bobbi Brown products lately that you love?
I know that it has been quite some time through these past couple of months, especially with my senior year coming to a close in about two weeks. I keep stressing how much time has flown by and each day seems to be flashing before me. I am so excited to see what will come when I go off to college, but as of now, I still need to get through some things before I start to focus on college even more. I love reading these types of posts to see what everyone is currently doing, so I hope that I can give some inspiration to all of you.
01. Stress Less About the Future.
I feel like these past months have been extremely hard for me. Being a senior isn't all the bliss and privilege you think it might be. It has its perks, but it's probably been the most stressful part of my high school career. A lot has happened this year and I need to embrace all the moments I get. I feel for any of you who are still trying to figure out their future plans. I haven't even really decided on a college yet because I am still waitlisted on a scholarship if you can believe it.
02. Enjoy My Final Year of High School.
Like I said, my high school career is rapidly coming to a close. I probably won't miss the bus or gym, but I will miss my friends and my teachers who have supported me throughout this transition. I have an upcoming awards ceremony and a choir concert that I am really looking forward to. I'm also at the same time, ready to be done! It's been one heck of a journey.
03. Connect with Old Friends.
It has sadly become a habit of mine to not reach out to old friends. I'm sure many people can relate. Sometimes, it can be hard to just start talking to someone you knew so long ago and just separated because--life happened. People change, but I have also realized that life is too short to just shut people out. I have reconnected already with some old friends and I hope to continue soon.
04. Clean Out My Closet.
I'm a clean freak, but recently I haven't been on my game. It's been so hectic that I still need to tackle my closet and drawers. Especially since I'm leaving for college, I need to find some stuff! Better to start now I guess.
05. Get Crafty.
I am always looking for cheaper ways to make my life easier. If there's a will, there's a way. I love getting my hands dirty and creating cool things from Pinterest for my room. Especially for my dorm room, I have a couple ideas up my sleeve that I want to share with all of you later in the season.
06. Appreciate the Moments I Get with Friends and Family.
I tend to hideaway in my room a lot and work on homework or my writing and this summer I really want to just turn off my electronics and go enjoy the moments I have with my friends and family. Even more because many of my best friends are going to college as well.
07. Workout and Do Yoga More.
This isn't surprising, but I really want to keep up the daily yoga routine this season. I feel like I haven't been on my game because last year I started a yoga challenge which kept me motivated. I am really hoping that I can do one before I leave for school in the fall.
08. Be Outgoing.
It's a little cliched and cheesy, but I really want to start being more social and confident when I talk to people. I want to make a lot more friends in college and starting now will really help. I just want to be able to walk up to someone and have a casual conversation and not have to worry about people judging me. Sometimes, I just fake it till I make it. You do what you gotta do!
09. Buy Dorm Room Stuff.
It's the best feeling when you get to totally buy new things for a new room or dorm. I really want to create a matching, Pinterest-like dorm room with my roommate. I just love buying extra crap to design and reinvent a space. Any suggestions to where I can buy awesome dorm stuff, please comment down below!
10. Graduate.
Kind of a given, but I do want to and hope to graduate. Not that I won't, but I have come a very far way to this accomplishment and I am so happy I get to celebrate it with all of my closest buds. I am just so excited to see what my future will bring.
What are some of your spring or summer goals?
It's not everyday that a girl gets to wear a forty dollar lipstick, amirite? I was so gratefully gifted this lipstick by one of my best friends and I am truly thankful for her kindness. I have always wanted to try Yves Saint Laurent products, but I couldn't bear opening my wallet for just a lipstick. This isn't any lipstick I have ever tried. That's why I'm dedicating this post specifically for it; because it's just that damn good.
I wouldn't say that I am a total makeup geek or anything and I hardly know anything about higher end makeup. I have heard of YSL don't get me wrong, but it was never a brand that I found reachable to my financial standards (mostly college is in the way). I have the YSL Lipstick in Rosy Coral. I have realized that this might be an awesome gift to give to your most lovable and deserving mother for Mother's Day, which is in about a week or so.
First of all, the packaging is just glorious. Everything I could ever want and more. It's sleek, glamorous, and very minimalist, which I highly appreciate.
This lipstick describes me on so many levels. It's very easy to travel with and bring along anywhere at anytime. Like, look at the detailed engraving? I'm so scared to mess it up! So far, I am impressed beyond expectation. I think this is just a beautiful decorative piece on its own. Perfect for any mother's makeup collection.
The color is just unbelievably vibrant and opaquely pigmented. The formula is beyond smooth and silky. It feels like butter. There isn't a strong distinct smell, but you can tell that it's very high end.
I have only worn it a couple times and it barely moves during the day. Obviously, you might need to reapply, but other than that, it performs beautifully. This coral shade is perfect for this season. I never thought that coral and bright oranges would actually look good on me, but I was surprised to see that this shade works very well with my olive skin tone.
This product is probably something I never thought I would ever try until I was probably thirty because of it's expensiveness--or until I was a mom. I guess that's really the only downside I have faced with it.
Would I recommend this? Yes. However, if you are on a budget like me and don't have the most amazingly generous friends like I do, I would suggest many affordable options that you can buy at Sephora and the drugstores like L'Oreal, Makeup Forever, Mac, or even Wet'N'Wild. Sometimes you gotta live a little and splurge. When it comes to are mothers, though, they deserve the best of the best. What are you doing for your mom?
If you've been here for quite some time then you know how much I love candles. It might sound pathetic to say that I wait for all of the semi annual sales at Bath and Body Works, but what can I say, a girl likes her place to smell good! I normally have at least 3 to 4 candles in my collection and no more, no less. I just always end up buying them and burning them. It's gonna be hard in college since they don't let you burn candles in the dorms...agh let's worry about that later. I have a few that I have been loving this season and felt like I should share them with all of you.
The first two I have are both Capri Blue Volcano candles, but I wanted to show how amazing the packaging is on these things...no wonder they're more expensive. These candles are about thirty bucks, but last a very long time. This Volcano scent has to be one of my favorite candle scents of all time. I would recommend this is you are looking for a very fresh and fruity scent. It's not as overwhelming or as powerful as the Bath and Body Works ones can be, which is nice because you get hints of it as you enter a room.
They are both amazingly beautiful candles and the copper and iridescent packaging is highly appreciated. I just can't through this away after I use it up.
The next two I love are from, you guessed it, Bath and Body Works. I wanted to try something a little different so I picked up this Sugared Lemon Zest one which is a bit more extreme on the citrus, but is so nice if you really need to deodorize a room or something. The next one, which has become my new favorite, is the Bergamot Mint candle that smells so fresh and springy. It's very subtle and kind of compares to the Volcano candles a lot. Also, Bath and Body Works has really caught my eye with it's marble and copper packaging, too. Well done Bath and Body! They cease to impress me (please sponsor me lol).
What candles have you been burning lately?
*Here's where I bought the cute basket*
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Social Icons