There are so many awesome books coming out next month! I'd love to see your reviews if you do one on one of these books, so be sure and link me below! And feel free to add me on Goodreads!
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Books I'm Excited For: June 2014
There are so many awesome books coming out next month! I'd love to see your reviews if you do one on one of these books, so be sure and link me below! And feel free to add me on Goodreads!
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser Review
Today I'm going to be reviewing the Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser.
I initially received this as one of those magazine samples on a card in the mail, and really liked the way it made my skin feel, so when I noticed they had a $3.00 off coupon (!) attached to the sample, I jumped on this when I saw it at Target for $5.99.
How To Use: For optimal results, use daily. Wet face. Pump cleanser into hands, gently work into a foam. Massage over entire face. Rinse thoroughly.
How It Works: Skin acting up? Meet Charcoal. The new secret weapon from the Bioré® Skincare Experts. Draw out and trap 2x more dirt and impurities than a basic cleanser with this innovative black cleanser that foams white and rinses clean. Infused with Japanese Skin Purifying Technology, this facial cleanser gives you results after just one use!
Initial Impressions: My initial impressions were pretty great- I bought it based on a tiny sample in a magazine (I was able to get two uses out of it). I liked the cooling sensation from the menthol, and I thought it really appeared to clean out my pores. I figured for $2.99, it was worth the shot! After purchasing it, I decided based on some reviews I had read to only use it at night- it says it's okay to use daily, but not twice daily, so I figured that would be the best time.
Final Impressions: After using this nightly for a month (other than my once weekly face mask), I still love the way my skin is responding to it. I really do feel like it's getting my skin clean and I love the cooling feeling (especially since it's starting to become very, very hot where I live). I feel like my pores are cleaner than they were previously, but this doesn't irritate my skin like some other cleaners that promise to remove dirt and impurities but instead just leave my sensitive skin irritated. I can honestly say that I haven't noticed anything wrong with this cleanser- it does exactly what it promises to do, I did see results very quickly, and I feel like my skin is very clean. This product is a winner, and at the price, it would be hard to pass up! I will definitely be repurchasing this product.
You can purchase this product at your local Target (like I did), or purchase it from amazon here.
FTC: This product was purchased by me with my own money. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This post contains an amazon affiliate link. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Book Review: Orange Is The New Black by Piper Kerman
Description from Goodreads
With a career, a boyfriend, and a loving family, Piper Kerman barely resembles the reckless young woman who delivered a suitcase of drug money ten years before. But that past has caught up with her. Convicted and sentenced to fifteen months at the infamous federal correctional facility in Danbury, Connecticut, the well-heeled Smith College alumna is now inmate #11187–424—one of the millions of people who disappear “down the rabbit hole” of the American penal system. From her first strip search to her final release, Kerman learns to navigate this strange world with its strictly enforced codes of behavior and arbitrary rules. She meets women from all walks of life, who surprise her with small tokens of generosity, hard words of wisdom, and simple acts of acceptance. Heartbreaking, hilarious, and at times enraging, Kerman’s story offers a rare look into the lives of women in prison—why it is we lock so many away and what happens to them when they’re there.
My Review
I, like most people, have become obsessed with Orange Is The New Black. I have now watched Season 1 through twice, and I am anxiously awaiting June 6th, when the 2nd Season is released. But I really, really wanted to pick up her book and check it out. I know the show is loosely based on the book, so I wasn't expecting it to be a replica of the show or anything like that. But I still wanted to check it out, to get to know the real Piper, and about her real experiences.
Piper Kerman was reckless as a young girl, and carried a suitcase full of drug money for her girlfriend at the time. Years later, she is now with a man and gets indicted on drug charges. She spends the next 5 years just waiting, until, finally, she gets her orders to surrender.
I think Piper's time in prison probably taught her a lot, but much like the show, I was far more interested in the cast of characters surrounding her than about Piper herself. And that's nothing against Piper Kerman, but she's not your "typical" prisoner, which she pretty much states herself- she has a job, a home, and a fiance to return home to, while many of the women are going to be homeless or live in women's shelters, will have a hard time finding a job, and have been "in" so long, they don't know what the world is like.
Women like Pop, who have been in prison for 10 years, who have no idea what the world is like now. Who don't know what they'll have when they're on the "outs". It broke my heart to read their stories.
Most of the names in the story are changed, except for Sister Ardeth Platt and Alice Gerard, who gave permission to have their real names used. I find this a fascinating thing because they weren't actually in the story as much as Pop, or Delicious, or Natalie.
To me, the story as a whole is complete, but what's missing to me is a more complete epilogue- I want to know if Piper is in contact with any of the women from prison. There are rules about a probationary period, but those are long past, which she states herself in the book.
I don't know that as many people would have read this book if it had been written by anyone but Piper Kerman (mostly privileged white woman writing about her time in federal prison), but I, for one, am glad I took the time to step away from the show and read her story. Because it gave me the opportunity to read about what prison is like for these women, how many are just trapped there for the most minor of infractions, and the lack of everything they have, both "in" and "out". And the statistics she relays about the amount of women in prison from the 1980s to now is just astounding.
If you're a fan of the show, or even if you're just intrigued about our prison system and how it really is, I would highly recommend checking out this book.
I gave this book 4 stars on Goodreads. You can purchase a copy of this book for Kindle here, or a physical copy here. Or you can borrow it from your local library, like I did!
FTC: I borrowed this book from my local library. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This post does contain Amazon Affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
Saturday, May 24, 2014
New Beauty Test Tube May 2014
Another disappointing test tube...
Sorry about some of the dark pictures- I realized too late that taking pictures lengthwise makes my lighting a little wonky.
TanTowel Classic Self-Tan Towelettes Half Body Application for Face & Body
Foolproof application is a cinch with these unique towelettes that help deliver the perfect sun-kissed glow each and every time.
How To Use: Unfold towelette and apply to clean, dry skin in a circular motion starting with your body. Leave the face, elbows, and knees for last. Wash hands immediately.
Benefits Include: Multitasking Tanner: The easy-to-apply towelettes work three ways on your skin- exfoliating, tanning, and moisturizing- to leave it soft, smooth, and beautifully golden; and Foolproof Formula: These easy-to-use towelettes contain the perfect amount of concentrated self-tan formula to give skin a radiant, natural-looking glow in about two to four hours.
Will I Use It?: No, I won't use this. I don't use tanning products, but if I did, it wouldn't be a towel. My sister-in-law expressed interest in trying this out, so I'll probably pass them off to her the next time I see her.
Macadamia Natural Oil Flawless Cleansing Conditioner
The ultimate multitasking, cleansing conditioner features a no-suds formula that leaves hair revitalized and shiny, thus restoring texture back to its optimal condition.
How To Use: Use in place of your shampoo and conditioner. Lightly emulsify one to two pumps between hands. Apply to the scalp area and gently massage through to the ends, spreading throughout hair. Leave in wet hair for up to five minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Benefits Include: Experience Perfection: This cleansing conditioner reinvents the art of shampooing and creates the perfect salon blow-dry at home; and Versatile Formula: In one product, this conditioner cleanses, conditions, reduces blow-drying time, detangles, enhances volume, and eliminates frizz.
Will I Use It?: I'll give it a shot- I'm one that's kind of into my shampoo/conditioner/leave in type routine, but I might try this out on a weekend day when I know I'm not doing anything, or that I can jump in the shower again right away if this doesn't work quite the way I was hoping. I'll definitely do a review on it in the future.
Mally Evercolor Shadow Stick in Topaz
A creamy, glide-on shadow, Evercolor Shadow Stick won't crease or wear away, leaving you with gorgeous color all day- right where you put it. The innovative silicone system seals color in place while the creamy formula helps smooth away fine lines.
How To Use: Run along lashes to use an an eyeliner or smooth on lids and blend to use as an eye shadow.
Benefits Include: Four-In-One: This easy-to-use stick acts as an eye shadow, eyeliner, and primer, and even replaces your makeup brushes. Use a little to create a simple day look, or layer color for a sexy, smoky, nighttime effect; and Playtime: After applying, you have 30 seconds to blend, smooth, and play with the color to get the look you want before it sets beautifully in place.
Will I Use It?: I received the Mally Evercolor Shadow Stick in Saddle Shimmer in a QVC New Beauty Test Tube, and I feel the same way about these then as I do now- cool concept, but not better than the Maybelline color tattoos. And this color is pretty similar to that color, only has more red tones. I'll use it, but I think the claim that it stays put and doesn't crease is pretty bogus, especially for those of us with oily lids.
Revision Skincare Intellishade Broad-Spectrum SPF 45
A three-in-one anti-aging tinted moisturizer with sunscreen that conceals, corrects, and protects.
How To Use: Apply evenly to face as part of the last step in your morning skin-care routine. Can be worn alone or with makeup. Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure.
Benefits Include: Brighten and Even Skin Tone: A clinical study showed 94 percent of participants experienced smoother, brighter, more even-tone skin with intellishade; and Fight Aging: Formulated with a blend of three peptides, the moisturizer-meets-sunscreen reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while providing broad-spectrum UV protection.
Will I Use It?: I've actually been using it on and off since receiving the tube, and my only complaint is that sometimes I feel like the intellishade technology works, and sometimes it doesn't. It's pretty orangy for my skin tone, so when it doesn't work... well, I just look odd. Overall, the concept of this is pretty cool, but it's a little pricey. I'm not sure that I'll ever buy this again, but I can definitely say I've been enjoying it and maybe if I go into a local spa that has it and I have some extra cash, I'll keep it available in my collection.
Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair!
This deep conditioning mask helps resuscitate dry, damaged, or chemically-treated hair.
How To Use: After shampooing, massage into hair, ensuring the conditioner is evenly applied. Leave in for three to five minutes before rinsing. For even deeper conditioning, cover hair in a plastic cap to retain moisture while sitting under the dryer for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Benefits Include: Naturally-Based: This conditioning treatment is fortified with ultrahydrating avocado, sweet almond and argan oils, strengthening keratin protein, rosehip oil, and soothing aloe; and Vitamin-Infused: Designed with biotin and hair-essential vitamins B5, D, A, and E, this mask works to quench dry and damaged hair.
Will I Use It?: I haven't used this yet, but it's sitting in my shower waiting to be used! From looking online a bit, it seems like it gets pretty good reviews. However, my issue is that the sample included in my box is SO TINY. It's a 1oz sample, which isn't very big considering the price of this box and how big some of the other samples are. I'll probably be able to get three to four good uses (since I have such long hair) out of this sample.
Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream
This BB Cream for the body visibly improves the look of your skin after one day and provides you five visible benefits after five days.
How To Use: For best results, use daily as your body lotion. Massage the sheer formula all over your body, allowing time for it to dry prior to dressing.
Benefits Include: Five-In-One Formula: This cream works on multiple levels to hydrate, illuminate, visibly firm, and even skin tine and reduce the appearance of imperfections; and A Perfect Match: This quick-drying moisturizer goes on sheer before adjusting to your natural skin tone.
Will I Use It: So... here's where I got really, really pissed at this box. (Tell us how you really feel, right?!) This is a drug store product, and New Beauty touts itself on being a higher-end brand box. Not just that, but this is the exact same size I received in my Birchbox from March. Of which it was my "life style extra", so it wasn't even technically a part of the normal products I receive for $10.00. I got a bigger sample of this in my Target Beauty Box that only cost me $5.00! Since receiving this so many freaking times, I have decided it does actually help the appearance of skin tone issues on my legs, however, the scent is completely overwhelming to me. I get migraines really bad and this product seems to be a huge trigger, and I didn't discover it until I noticed a girl at work wears it as well and it was just crazy overwhelming to me. So I can't even use this at all. Which is not New Beauty's fault, but it is their fault for including such a tiny sample of a drug store product.
Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream
This concentrated glycerin moisturizing cream delivers serious hydration to heal superdry skin from head to toe.
How To Use: Apply evenly on dry skin or lips as often as desired. For best results, use immediately after bathing.
Benefits Include: Heal-All Formula: This cream replenishes lost moisture in all types of dry skin. From water damaged hands and brittle cuticles from frequent hand washing to painful chapped lips and cracked heels. Yu-Be helps heal and moisturize all of your dry skin issues from head to toe; and Long-Lasting: Yu-Be is safe and effective for the whole family. The nongreasy formula absorbs quickly and stays locked in for hours.
Will I Use It?: The sample that came in my box was 3 grams. 3 GRAMS. The full size of this is only 1oz for 16 dollars, and they send me a sample worth like $4.00. WHAT. I felt so ripped off when I realized this was actually part of the box, and not just a beauty-to-go extra. I haven't used it yet, because I was seriously so mad I almost threw it away. Instead I just stuck it in my lotion drawer. There is probably not enough to cover one arm, let alone try it out for my whole body. Which is another reason for the immense disappointment.
These are my extras. I think I've received the Cotz Face lotion at least two or three times before. I stuck the body cloth in my purse. I haven't used the face wrap yet, and the lotion is a hand cream that smells pretty good and works okay.
I'm not super happy with this box, especially compared to the one from March. And I'm in the majority- there were a lot of people that were very disappointed in this box. I received so many tiny samples that even though I received more than I paid for, the value of it is basically meaningless because I feel kind of ripped off.
It seems like the boxes are very give and take- one month is good, the next not so great. I'm going to be getting the Ipsy box soon (I'm on the waitlist), so I've decided to cancel this box. I can always renew if I see July's and September's, and if they are good, I might go ahead and get this box once more. But, for now, this is my last New Beauty Test Tube.
FTC: This box was purchased by me with my own money. All opinions are my own. All product descriptions were taken directly from the New Beauty Test Tube catalog included with the box.
This post contains Amazon.com affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
Sorry about some of the dark pictures- I realized too late that taking pictures lengthwise makes my lighting a little wonky.
TanTowel Classic Self-Tan Towelettes Half Body Application for Face & Body
Foolproof application is a cinch with these unique towelettes that help deliver the perfect sun-kissed glow each and every time.
How To Use: Unfold towelette and apply to clean, dry skin in a circular motion starting with your body. Leave the face, elbows, and knees for last. Wash hands immediately.
Benefits Include: Multitasking Tanner: The easy-to-apply towelettes work three ways on your skin- exfoliating, tanning, and moisturizing- to leave it soft, smooth, and beautifully golden; and Foolproof Formula: These easy-to-use towelettes contain the perfect amount of concentrated self-tan formula to give skin a radiant, natural-looking glow in about two to four hours.
Will I Use It?: No, I won't use this. I don't use tanning products, but if I did, it wouldn't be a towel. My sister-in-law expressed interest in trying this out, so I'll probably pass them off to her the next time I see her.
Macadamia Natural Oil Flawless Cleansing Conditioner
The ultimate multitasking, cleansing conditioner features a no-suds formula that leaves hair revitalized and shiny, thus restoring texture back to its optimal condition.
How To Use: Use in place of your shampoo and conditioner. Lightly emulsify one to two pumps between hands. Apply to the scalp area and gently massage through to the ends, spreading throughout hair. Leave in wet hair for up to five minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Benefits Include: Experience Perfection: This cleansing conditioner reinvents the art of shampooing and creates the perfect salon blow-dry at home; and Versatile Formula: In one product, this conditioner cleanses, conditions, reduces blow-drying time, detangles, enhances volume, and eliminates frizz.
Will I Use It?: I'll give it a shot- I'm one that's kind of into my shampoo/conditioner/leave in type routine, but I might try this out on a weekend day when I know I'm not doing anything, or that I can jump in the shower again right away if this doesn't work quite the way I was hoping. I'll definitely do a review on it in the future.
Mally Evercolor Shadow Stick in Topaz
A creamy, glide-on shadow, Evercolor Shadow Stick won't crease or wear away, leaving you with gorgeous color all day- right where you put it. The innovative silicone system seals color in place while the creamy formula helps smooth away fine lines.
How To Use: Run along lashes to use an an eyeliner or smooth on lids and blend to use as an eye shadow.
Benefits Include: Four-In-One: This easy-to-use stick acts as an eye shadow, eyeliner, and primer, and even replaces your makeup brushes. Use a little to create a simple day look, or layer color for a sexy, smoky, nighttime effect; and Playtime: After applying, you have 30 seconds to blend, smooth, and play with the color to get the look you want before it sets beautifully in place.
Will I Use It?: I received the Mally Evercolor Shadow Stick in Saddle Shimmer in a QVC New Beauty Test Tube, and I feel the same way about these then as I do now- cool concept, but not better than the Maybelline color tattoos. And this color is pretty similar to that color, only has more red tones. I'll use it, but I think the claim that it stays put and doesn't crease is pretty bogus, especially for those of us with oily lids.
Revision Skincare Intellishade Broad-Spectrum SPF 45
A three-in-one anti-aging tinted moisturizer with sunscreen that conceals, corrects, and protects.
How To Use: Apply evenly to face as part of the last step in your morning skin-care routine. Can be worn alone or with makeup. Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure.
Benefits Include: Brighten and Even Skin Tone: A clinical study showed 94 percent of participants experienced smoother, brighter, more even-tone skin with intellishade; and Fight Aging: Formulated with a blend of three peptides, the moisturizer-meets-sunscreen reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while providing broad-spectrum UV protection.
Will I Use It?: I've actually been using it on and off since receiving the tube, and my only complaint is that sometimes I feel like the intellishade technology works, and sometimes it doesn't. It's pretty orangy for my skin tone, so when it doesn't work... well, I just look odd. Overall, the concept of this is pretty cool, but it's a little pricey. I'm not sure that I'll ever buy this again, but I can definitely say I've been enjoying it and maybe if I go into a local spa that has it and I have some extra cash, I'll keep it available in my collection.
Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair!
This deep conditioning mask helps resuscitate dry, damaged, or chemically-treated hair.
How To Use: After shampooing, massage into hair, ensuring the conditioner is evenly applied. Leave in for three to five minutes before rinsing. For even deeper conditioning, cover hair in a plastic cap to retain moisture while sitting under the dryer for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Benefits Include: Naturally-Based: This conditioning treatment is fortified with ultrahydrating avocado, sweet almond and argan oils, strengthening keratin protein, rosehip oil, and soothing aloe; and Vitamin-Infused: Designed with biotin and hair-essential vitamins B5, D, A, and E, this mask works to quench dry and damaged hair.
Will I Use It?: I haven't used this yet, but it's sitting in my shower waiting to be used! From looking online a bit, it seems like it gets pretty good reviews. However, my issue is that the sample included in my box is SO TINY. It's a 1oz sample, which isn't very big considering the price of this box and how big some of the other samples are. I'll probably be able to get three to four good uses (since I have such long hair) out of this sample.
Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream
This BB Cream for the body visibly improves the look of your skin after one day and provides you five visible benefits after five days.
How To Use: For best results, use daily as your body lotion. Massage the sheer formula all over your body, allowing time for it to dry prior to dressing.
Benefits Include: Five-In-One Formula: This cream works on multiple levels to hydrate, illuminate, visibly firm, and even skin tine and reduce the appearance of imperfections; and A Perfect Match: This quick-drying moisturizer goes on sheer before adjusting to your natural skin tone.
Will I Use It: So... here's where I got really, really pissed at this box. (Tell us how you really feel, right?!) This is a drug store product, and New Beauty touts itself on being a higher-end brand box. Not just that, but this is the exact same size I received in my Birchbox from March. Of which it was my "life style extra", so it wasn't even technically a part of the normal products I receive for $10.00. I got a bigger sample of this in my Target Beauty Box that only cost me $5.00! Since receiving this so many freaking times, I have decided it does actually help the appearance of skin tone issues on my legs, however, the scent is completely overwhelming to me. I get migraines really bad and this product seems to be a huge trigger, and I didn't discover it until I noticed a girl at work wears it as well and it was just crazy overwhelming to me. So I can't even use this at all. Which is not New Beauty's fault, but it is their fault for including such a tiny sample of a drug store product.
Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream
This concentrated glycerin moisturizing cream delivers serious hydration to heal superdry skin from head to toe.
How To Use: Apply evenly on dry skin or lips as often as desired. For best results, use immediately after bathing.
Benefits Include: Heal-All Formula: This cream replenishes lost moisture in all types of dry skin. From water damaged hands and brittle cuticles from frequent hand washing to painful chapped lips and cracked heels. Yu-Be helps heal and moisturize all of your dry skin issues from head to toe; and Long-Lasting: Yu-Be is safe and effective for the whole family. The nongreasy formula absorbs quickly and stays locked in for hours.
Will I Use It?: The sample that came in my box was 3 grams. 3 GRAMS. The full size of this is only 1oz for 16 dollars, and they send me a sample worth like $4.00. WHAT. I felt so ripped off when I realized this was actually part of the box, and not just a beauty-to-go extra. I haven't used it yet, because I was seriously so mad I almost threw it away. Instead I just stuck it in my lotion drawer. There is probably not enough to cover one arm, let alone try it out for my whole body. Which is another reason for the immense disappointment.
These are my extras. I think I've received the Cotz Face lotion at least two or three times before. I stuck the body cloth in my purse. I haven't used the face wrap yet, and the lotion is a hand cream that smells pretty good and works okay.
I'm not super happy with this box, especially compared to the one from March. And I'm in the majority- there were a lot of people that were very disappointed in this box. I received so many tiny samples that even though I received more than I paid for, the value of it is basically meaningless because I feel kind of ripped off.
It seems like the boxes are very give and take- one month is good, the next not so great. I'm going to be getting the Ipsy box soon (I'm on the waitlist), so I've decided to cancel this box. I can always renew if I see July's and September's, and if they are good, I might go ahead and get this box once more. But, for now, this is my last New Beauty Test Tube.
FTC: This box was purchased by me with my own money. All opinions are my own. All product descriptions were taken directly from the New Beauty Test Tube catalog included with the box.
This post contains Amazon.com affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
Thursday, May 22, 2014
My Life - Update
Hi everyone-
There should be a New Beauty Test Tube post here, but I don't have it finished yet.
My grandmother passed away unexpectedly but peacefully last Friday night, May 16th. I have been busy, helping with preparations, mourning the loss of an amazing woman, and just generally being busy.
Usually I have posts finished a week to two weeks in advance, but unfortunately, more important issues arose and I was unable to finish the post in time.
So for the first time, I'm putting up a post saying there won't be a post today- because we are celebrating the life she lived on this day, and mourning her loss.
The New Beauty post will appear sometime over the long Memorial Day weekend, most likely either Saturday or Sunday.
Thank you all for understanding.
There should be a New Beauty Test Tube post here, but I don't have it finished yet.
My grandmother passed away unexpectedly but peacefully last Friday night, May 16th. I have been busy, helping with preparations, mourning the loss of an amazing woman, and just generally being busy.
Usually I have posts finished a week to two weeks in advance, but unfortunately, more important issues arose and I was unable to finish the post in time.
So for the first time, I'm putting up a post saying there won't be a post today- because we are celebrating the life she lived on this day, and mourning her loss.
The New Beauty post will appear sometime over the long Memorial Day weekend, most likely either Saturday or Sunday.
Thank you all for understanding.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Birchbox May 2014
I got my box literally hours after the spoilers were posted on the 10th- I'm super impressed with their shipping! But I didn't use any of the stuff (until after I wrote the spoilers) so here are my impressions based on the spoilers...
- Beauty Protector Protect & Shampoo: I received the Beauty Protector Protect and Oil in my February 2014 birchbox, so this is a brand I'm already familiar with and like. I'm excited to give this shampoo a try!
- Beauty Protector Protect & Condition: I'm so glad they also included the conditioner! In last month's box, they sent me a shampoo to try, but not the matching conditioner, so now I can really try the set and see how I like it!
- LAQA & Co Sheer Lip Lube Pencil: Lip Pencils can be hit and miss, so depending on how the color looks on me, I could really like this!
- Supergoop! Everyday SPF 30 with Cellular Response Technology: Supergoop! has been in a lot boxes, based on what I've seen around the blogs, but I've never tried anything by this line. So I'm kind of excited about this! (I get excited about a lot, clearly.)
- 32 Oral Care Effervescent Breath Crystals with IsoVoxy: This is my lifestyle extra for the month.
This was a Kate Spade Saturday decorated box, and it was so super cute! I can definitely see myself saving these boxes to use once I'm in my own space and can store such things. This box also included a deal for $25.00 off a $75.00 on the saturday.com website, so that's exciting!
Beauty Protector Protect & Shampoo
Another star Beauty Protector launch, this sulfate-free formula adds shine and volume.
How To Use: Apply a quarter-sized amount to wet hair, concentrating on the scalp. Rinse thoroughly.
How It Works: In addition to honey pearl powder, Protect & Shampoo is packed with rich vitamins and a gentle mix of sulfate-free cleaning agents. This powerhouse lineup cleanses and nourishes your strands.
Will I Use It?: I have actually completely used the shampoo sample, and I really liked it. I really liked that it smelled exactly like the oil I received in my February birchbox. I felt like it got my hair clean, but didn't strip out anything unnecessary.
Beauty Protector Protect & Condition
Love Protect & Detangle? Use this nourishing conditioner with shea butter before spritzing.
How To Use: After shampooing, apply to hair, focusing on the middle and ends of strands. Rinse thoroughly.
How It Works: In addition to honey pearl powder, Protect & Condition is formulated with natural ingredients like shea butter and apple, lemon, and orange extracts. Together, they hydrate and nourish hair with vitamins and minerals.
Will I Use It?: I've used up all of this sample, as well, but I wasn't as impressed with it as I was the shampoo. It pretty much just smelled like lotion, and didn't really do much to my hair to keep the tangles out- I probably spent a good 10 minutes trying to get my hair untangled. I wasn't impressed at all with this conditioner, and there about three uses in the sample bottle provided, so I feel like I got a pretty good representation of how the product would perform.
LAQA & Co Sheer Lip Lube Pencil - Coral
Perfect for spring, this high-gloss, semi-sheer lip color glides on buttery-smooth.
How To Use: Swipe onto lips, and build for more pigment. Bonus: It smells minty fresh!
How It Works: Unlike some glosses that simply provide a nice shine, this lip lube channels softening shea butter, which moisturizes and fills in any unsightly lines, and is infused with refreshing mint. Available in an array of wearable, softly pigmented shades.
Will I Use It?: I tried this out, and honestly, the color is just way too light for me. I'm definitely a "my lips but better" kind of lip color wearer, if I wear it at all, and this is just much lighter for me than I'd prefer. I also wasn't super fond of the texture of this product, or the way it looked on my lips. I might give it to a friend to try, but I won't be reusing this myself.
Supergoop! Everyday SPF 30 with Cellular Response Technology
This lightweight cream provides water-resistant, SPF 30+ protection anywhere you need it.
How To Use: Apply a shot glass-sized amount to face and body 30 minutes before stepping outside.
How It Works: This lightweight sunscreen quickly soaks into skin—but since it’s noncomedogenic, it doesn’t clog pores. It’s loaded with beta-glucan for moisture and free radical-fighting antioxidants to keep skin looking young. And its scent—a subtle botanical fragrance with hints of citrus and basil—beats the typical sweet, pseudo-tropical sunscreen smell any day.
Will I Use It?: I haven't used it yet, but I've heard a lot about Supergoop products (though I haven't actually tried any myself), so we'll see! I might do a review later on, if I think I have anything substantial to say about it.
32 Oral Care Effervescent Breath Crystals with IsoVoxy
Breath-freshening crystals that attack unpleasant odors for a delightfully clean feeling.
How To Use: Swish around in your mouth until they begin to pop (that's when you know they're working!).
How It Works: Unlike gum and breath mints, which only mask bad breath, these teeth-cleaning crystals pack zinc and IsoVoxy to kill odor-causing bacteria. Once dissolved, they leave a fresh scent courtesy of natural peppermint flavors.
Will I Use It?: This was my lifestyle extra for the month. This kind of seems like a breath mint version of PopRocks, and I'm not gonna lie, I'm intrigued! I haven't tried them yet, but they're in my purse and ready to be used.
Overall, I really like this month's box! I've continued to be impressed by birchbox, so I'll be keeping my subscription another month!
If any of you are interested in signing up for Birchbox, please click there and use my affiliate link! I receive points which I will exchange for products that I can review on this blog.
FTC: This box was purchased by me with my own money. All opinions are my own. All product descriptions were taken directly from the Birchbox card included in the box.
This post contains Amazon.com affiliate links and a birchbox affiliate link. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
The individual product links to the birchbox product page are not affiliate links.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Book Review: Don't Even Think About It by Sarah Mlynowski
(This book was provided to me by NetGalley and Random House Children's for review purposes).
Description from Goodreads
Contemporary teen fiction with romance, secrets, scandals, and ESP from the author of Ten Things We Did (And Probably Shouldn't Have).
We weren't always like this. We used to be average New York City high school sophomores. Until our homeroom went for flu shots. We were prepared for some side effects. Maybe a headache. Maybe a sore arm. We definitely didn't expect to get telepathic powers. But suddenly we could hear what everyone was thinking. Our friends. Our parents. Our crushes. Now we all know that Tess is in love with her best friend, Teddy. That Mackenzie cheated on Cooper. That, um, Nurse Carmichael used to be a stripper.
Since we've kept our freakish skill a secret, we can sit next to the class brainiac and ace our tests. We can dump our boyfriends right before they dump us. We know what our friends really think of our jeans, our breath, our new bangs. We always know what's coming. Some of us will thrive. Some of us will crack. None of us will ever be the same.
So stop obsessing about your ex. We're always listening.
My Review
I thought this book was going to be a little more science fiction and a lot less teen angst, but I have to say- I still really liked it!
This book revolves around over 22 different characters, so be prepared! 22 of 24 students in the same home room class get the flu vaccine and all of them end up with a pretty interesting side effect- they develop ESP. They can not only hear each other's thoughts, but the thoughts of other students, teachers, their parents... anyone they are around.
Now when I originally read the synopsis, I thought there would be a little teen angst and maybe a little more "how did this really happen". But how it happened was pretty much wrapped up in 10 pages or less (and at the end of the book). It didn't stop me from really enjoying the story otherwise. I felt like a majority of the "main" characters were very fleshed out and different from each other, so it didn't get confusing. And they all had their own goals, and problems to sort out once everyone could hear everything inside of their heads.
I have to say, I don't know if I would like this power very much! It seems like it would be really noisy (all of the characters had headaches a lot of the time), and I don't think I really want to know everything that everyone could be thinking all the time. I mean, it seems pretty cool in theory, but would you really want to know how much you're aggravating something? Or if you think you look amazing in something and then you hear someone say that you look like crap? Yeah... I'd rather not.
Overall, as I said, I really liked this book. It was very well written, and the idea was pretty well explored. And in re-reading the description, it was definitely my mistake (hope?) that it was more Science Fiction based, but the description doesn't seem to indicate that at all.
And I loved the way it ended. Can we get more stories about these teens??
I gave this book 4 stars on Goodreads.
You can purchase a copy of this book in hardcover here, and for Kindle here.
FTC: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This post contains amazon.com affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
How I Grew Out My Hair
Something I've talked about a lot on this blog is my hair- how it's long, how it's oily, how it's color treated... you guys know the story. But what you don't know is how I grew out my hair, and my own personal recommendations for both growing and taking care of your hair once it reaches your desired length.
I started "officially" growing out my hair in 2008- that was the last time I really had a drastic cut, or cut off more than a couple of inches at a time. And, yes, it did take about 5 years to really achieve the length and health I have now. It is a process you have to be patient with, and every once in awhile you'll have to trim off more than you'd like.
If I had wanted instant results, I would have bought extensions. But I wanted my own hair, and for it to be healthy.
This picture was taken in 2008, my hair was red, and this is the shortest I had it. I really liked the cut, but I wanted long hair. I also wanted the red out, so....
I had to bleach it. (I cut my friend out of this pic because I wasn't sure how she'd feel being on the blog.)
I do miss being lighter blonde, but not this blonde. I think I had my hair this light for about a month, and then I started darkening it.
My hair was a little past my shoulders here, and this was taken in late 2009.
No other really good pictures until 2010, bu you can see how long it got, and quickly!
A better picture, this was in 2011.
A pic I found of me attempting a hairstyle I saw on pinterest.
And finally, this is the length of my hair today (though this was taken back in February and I had about two inches chopped off shortly after this, my hair has reached this length again)!
So how did I do it?
Well, first, I paid attention to my hair. If it felt dry, I'd give heat styling a few days off. As a matter of fact, unless I'm doing something on the weekends, I will let it air dry. I always use some kind of heat protectant or leave-in.
I use a deep conditioner or hair mask about once a week, and sometimes twice a week if I feel like my hair needs it.
I know my hair is oily, and I would try to stretch my hair to two day hair, but most of the time, I was washing it every day. This is what works for me, and also what I believe kept my hair healthy, because I noticed my ends would be so dry second day.
I read countless "how to grow out your hair" articles for weeks, and all suggested coconut masks, egg masks, aspirin in shampoo, and all kinds of other stuff. And I'm sure that stuff all works great- but for me, the above really did work for me just fine.
My biggest tip, though? GET REGULAR TRIMS.
Every 6 to 8 weeks, I was getting at least an inch trimmed off my hair. I set reminders in my phone and planner, I'd ask my hair girl how my hair looked, and if she thought I needed a couple inches off instead, I did that.
It sounds counter productive, but really you're just getting rid of all that dead length- the scraggly stuff that really weighs down hair and makes it look crappy.
And yeah, it took awhile, but now my hair is long, and beautiful. And it is all mine.
I started "officially" growing out my hair in 2008- that was the last time I really had a drastic cut, or cut off more than a couple of inches at a time. And, yes, it did take about 5 years to really achieve the length and health I have now. It is a process you have to be patient with, and every once in awhile you'll have to trim off more than you'd like.
If I had wanted instant results, I would have bought extensions. But I wanted my own hair, and for it to be healthy.
This picture was taken in 2008, my hair was red, and this is the shortest I had it. I really liked the cut, but I wanted long hair. I also wanted the red out, so....
I had to bleach it. (I cut my friend out of this pic because I wasn't sure how she'd feel being on the blog.)
I do miss being lighter blonde, but not this blonde. I think I had my hair this light for about a month, and then I started darkening it.
My hair was a little past my shoulders here, and this was taken in late 2009.
No other really good pictures until 2010, bu you can see how long it got, and quickly!
A better picture, this was in 2011.
A pic I found of me attempting a hairstyle I saw on pinterest.
And finally, this is the length of my hair today (though this was taken back in February and I had about two inches chopped off shortly after this, my hair has reached this length again)!
So how did I do it?
Well, first, I paid attention to my hair. If it felt dry, I'd give heat styling a few days off. As a matter of fact, unless I'm doing something on the weekends, I will let it air dry. I always use some kind of heat protectant or leave-in.
I use a deep conditioner or hair mask about once a week, and sometimes twice a week if I feel like my hair needs it.
I know my hair is oily, and I would try to stretch my hair to two day hair, but most of the time, I was washing it every day. This is what works for me, and also what I believe kept my hair healthy, because I noticed my ends would be so dry second day.
I read countless "how to grow out your hair" articles for weeks, and all suggested coconut masks, egg masks, aspirin in shampoo, and all kinds of other stuff. And I'm sure that stuff all works great- but for me, the above really did work for me just fine.
My biggest tip, though? GET REGULAR TRIMS.
Every 6 to 8 weeks, I was getting at least an inch trimmed off my hair. I set reminders in my phone and planner, I'd ask my hair girl how my hair looked, and if she thought I needed a couple inches off instead, I did that.
It sounds counter productive, but really you're just getting rid of all that dead length- the scraggly stuff that really weighs down hair and makes it look crappy.
And yeah, it took awhile, but now my hair is long, and beautiful. And it is all mine.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
GLAMGLOW Youthmud Tinglexfoliate Treatment Review
I had heard a lot of hype about these GLAMGLOW masks, so I was excited when I saw this in my March 2014 New Beauty Test Tube.
How To Use: Apply a layer to clean skin. The mask will tingle as it tightens and brightens skin. Leave on for five to 10 minutes and rinse off with water, using circular motions to deepen exfoliation. Use once or twice a week.
Benefits Include: Natural Smoother: This unique formula works to activate the skin's collagen synthesis to naturally moisturize your skin; and Protective Formula: This restorative mask absorbs impurities without removing the natural oils essential to the skin.
Initial Impressions: My first impressions are that this makes a HUGE mess! As I was putting it on my face, it was getting everywhere! There are little leaves in this, and I feel like they did nothing but get everywhere.
I do like the way this dries- quickly. And after rinsing, it didn't leave my skin feeling too tight, but as it was drying my skin got so tight I couldn't even close my eyes- intense! My skin did look nice for a couple days afterward, and kept that same softness, which was impressive!
Final Impressions: I have now completely used this sample, and I still really like it. I love the way it dries, and the fact that it tingles just enough but not too much to be irritating. I really do feel liked this help clear up a couple really disgusting hormonal blemishes, because within a couple days after using this (and not altering anything else), they were going down more than they would have without it. And this really got my skin clean, but I didn't feel like it was stripping it or causing it to become more dry.
The only downsides are the mess, and the price. This is an expensive mask. But for a splurge purchase, I can definitely see myself going after this in the future.
You can purchase your own GLAMGLOW Youthmud mask here.
FTC: This product was received as part of a subscription service which was purchased with my own money. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Book Review: When Audrey Met Alice by Rebecca Behrens
(This book was provided to me by NetGalley and Sourcebooks Jabberwocky for review purposes).
Description from Goodreads
First daughter Audrey Rhodes re-creates Alice Roosevelt's infamous antics in this fun, smart middle-grade debut
First daughter Audrey Rhodes can't wait for the party she has planned for Friday night. The decorations are all set and the pizza is on its way. But the Secret Service must be out to ruin her life, because they cancel at the last minute-citing security breach and squashing Audrey's chances for making any new friends. What good is being "safe and secure" if you can't have any fun?
Audrey is ready to give up and become a White House hermit, until she discovers Alice Roosevelt's hidden diary. The former first daughter gives Audrey a ton of ideas for having fun...and more problems than she can handle.
My Review
This is a super cute, fun read for a middle-grade crowd (think mature 6th - 8th grades), but I thoroughly enjoyed it!
The book centers on the Titular characters, Audrey, who is the current FIDO (First Daughter of the United States - and an "in-joke" from the book), and Alice, loosely based on Alice Roosevelt. Audrey find Alice's journal in a pantry cubby, and reads it and uses it kind of like an advice journal on how to handle being First Daughter.
I myself was not super familiar with the stories of Alice Roosevelt- I knew from history classes in high school that she was Theodore Roosevelt's eldest daughter, and I know she was considered an outspoken rule-breaker for the time she was from. Based on my readings from Wikipedia while reading this book, I really find her to be fascinating! And although this book is not historically accurate, I believe the author did a great job researching her and staying true to who she was.
Audrey herself seems to be a little shy, but mostly friendly, although she doesn't have many friends at her new school. Other than a boy whom she also develops a crush on. All her friends are back in her home town. So when she finds this journal, it's like finding a new friend.
And, I believe because of her age, Audrey is impressionable and takes Alice's journal as almost a "How To Survive Being a First Daughter" guidebook. She gets into some trouble trying to be like Alice (WWAD is a phrase she writes on a plastic bracelet- What Would Alice Do), but it does work in her favor at times.
This book seems to be extremely well researched, although I don't really think the First Daughter would be allowed to use social media as much as she is (unless it's extremely locked down and under a pseudonym?), but I loved reading all about the White House rooms and the grounds and just everything about that aspect of the story.
Ultimately I did feel like this was a book about this young girl, just trying to get through a very weird time that pretty much no one will ever experience, unless you're lucky enough for your parent to be president. I did love that it's her MOTHER that's president- hopefully that's not far off! And I love the relationship Audrey has with some of the staff- I feel like this was pretty realistic.
I gave this book 4 stars on Goodreads. It was a cute, fun read, and kept me entertained for the duration. And this is a debut novel by Behrens, so I'm excited to see what else she has in store for us!
If you'd like to purchase a copy of this book, you can purchase a copy for Kindle here, or a hardcover copy here.
FTC: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This post contains amazon affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
Thursday, May 8, 2014
What's in my makeup bag? (As of May 8th, 2014)
It's a new month, time to change it up again!
Foundations- pretty much the same as last month, but I'm adding the Revlon BB Cream. I really need to use this up, so I'm going to try to focus on that more than the others.
I hit pan on a couple of these blushes, as you can see, so they are well loved. Eventually I need to pick up a new Ulta blush in Exposed, because it's one of my favorite that I own.
And I can't buy Pink Glow by Physician's Formula anymore (as far as I can tell, it's been discontinued), but I'm honestly sick of saying that to myself, and I should just enjoy it, so I am!
Time to give up being Naked and get out my Lorac Pro! To complement them, I am bringing two old Tarte Eyeshadows in Sweet Valley High (which is also discontinued and almost dead) and West Egg (which has some severe pan-hittage). Also I'm using a Too Faced Duo, and two Bareminerals shades.
And mascaras- all really good staying power formulas, because it's starting to get warm here!
What are you all liking for this month??
(Old background- I wasn't in the mood (read: too lazy) to get out my photo studio.)
Foundations- pretty much the same as last month, but I'm adding the Revlon BB Cream. I really need to use this up, so I'm going to try to focus on that more than the others.
I hit pan on a couple of these blushes, as you can see, so they are well loved. Eventually I need to pick up a new Ulta blush in Exposed, because it's one of my favorite that I own.
And I can't buy Pink Glow by Physician's Formula anymore (as far as I can tell, it's been discontinued), but I'm honestly sick of saying that to myself, and I should just enjoy it, so I am!
Time to give up being Naked and get out my Lorac Pro! To complement them, I am bringing two old Tarte Eyeshadows in Sweet Valley High (which is also discontinued and almost dead) and West Egg (which has some severe pan-hittage). Also I'm using a Too Faced Duo, and two Bareminerals shades.
And mascaras- all really good staying power formulas, because it's starting to get warm here!
What are you all liking for this month??
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
This Month in Nails - April 2014
Love & Beauty in Wine with a top coat of Revlon's Facets of Fuchsia
This wasn't one of my favorite combos ever, but I forgot how much I love Facets of Fuchsia! Definitely the anti-Spring nail, but it was fun.
Ulta in Baby Doll with a top coat of Wet n' Wild Fergie in Rock n' Roll
This is one of my least favorite combos ever- I thought it would look so much better in my head, but forgot how dark the base was in the Fergie polish. Oh well, lesson learned.
Baby Doll is one of my absolute favorite neutrals, though. Love it.
So, that's it, because I had a really bad experience with my nails. *Sigh*
I told you guys, it's a process.
FTC: Please see above for how polishes were received. Unless stated otherwise, they were purchased by me with my own money.
This wasn't one of my favorite combos ever, but I forgot how much I love Facets of Fuchsia! Definitely the anti-Spring nail, but it was fun.
Ulta in Baby Doll with a top coat of Wet n' Wild Fergie in Rock n' Roll
This is one of my least favorite combos ever- I thought it would look so much better in my head, but forgot how dark the base was in the Fergie polish. Oh well, lesson learned.
Baby Doll is one of my absolute favorite neutrals, though. Love it.
So, that's it, because I had a really bad experience with my nails. *Sigh*
I told you guys, it's a process.
FTC: Please see above for how polishes were received. Unless stated otherwise, they were purchased by me with my own money.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Book Review: Shadow Spell (Book Two of the Cousins O'Dwyer Trilogy) by Nora Roberts
Description from Goodreads
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts comes a trilogy about the land we’re drawn to, the family we learn to cherish, and the people we long to love…
Book Two of The Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy
Shadow Spell
With the legends and lore of Ireland running through his blood, falconer Connor O’Dwyer is proud to call County Mayo home. It’s where his sister, Branna, lives and works, where his cousin, Iona, has found true love, and where his childhood friends form a circle that can’t be broken…
A circle that is about to be stretched out of shape—by a long-awaited kiss.
Meara Quinn is Branna’s best friend, a sister in all but blood. Her and Connor’s paths cross almost daily, as Connor takes tourists on hawk walks and Meara guides them on horseback across the lush countryside. She has the eyes of a gypsy and the body of a goddess…things Connor has always taken for granted—until his brush with death propels them into a quick, hot tangle.
Plenty of women have found their way to Connor’s bed, but none to his heart until now. Frustratingly, Meara is okay with just the heat, afraid to lose herself—and their friendship—to something more. But soon, Connor will see the full force and fury of what runs in his blood. And he will need his family and friends around him when his past rolls in like the fog, threatening an end to all he loves…
My Review
The second book of the Cousin O'Dwyer series was better than the first (which I reviewed here), in my opinion, because I actually loved the male protagonist, Connor.
The book centers on the friendship and then romance of Meara and Connor. Meara and Connor have been friends for years, and even were each other's first kiss. There hasn't been romance between them before, but it's obvious there are hints of it here and there- Connor talking about what a beautiful gypsy Meara is, Meara talking about Connor in a way only a girl who loves someone deep down can... there are hints everywhere!
This book starts off again with the original three, mainly Eamon, and again, goes on about 40 pages. But again, I found this part to be quite entertaining. It talks more of the evils of Cabhan, his lust of women, and his weakness for power. And throughout the book, Connor and Eamon (being the only males of the three) stories twist together through dream-like scenes in which they talk, and bring protections to each other.
There are several intense encounters between Meara and Cabhan. It's interesting because Meara does not have powers, but Cabhan knows if he takes her, he weakens the six.
I also loved the scenes this book at the place where Connor, Meara, Boyle, Finn, and Iona all work. The hawks and horses just sound so wonderful.
To be honest, a big part of the reason why I loved this book so much wasn't even because of just Meara and Connor's romance, though friends falling in love is one of my absolute favorite romantic storyline things. It was the friendship, again, of the six. Even Boyle seemed to talk and express more than he did in Dark Witch.
And, the romance that is stirring between Branna and Fin... I really cannot wait for it finally to come together. Though I am interested, as well, in the final battle between the six and Cabhan. I thought for sure they were going to get him towards the end. Of course, there is another book so I should have known it wasn't going to end that way, but they really were so close!
You can purchase a copy of this book for Kindle here, or a physical copy here.
FTC: I purchased this book with my own money. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This post does contain Amazon Affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
New Series: My Life, April 2014
I've been trying to think of a new series I can incorporate into my blog- since I got rid of my eye makeup series, I've been brainstorming a bit.
Now, my favorite bloggers are the bloggers that mainly talk about what their blog is about, but let you peek into their lives, just a little bit. I never set out to make this a personal blog (I have one of those on LiveJournal that I've had for years and I'm happy with it), but I would like you all to get to know me and my interests a little bit better. I think it makes it more fun, you know? So, here is my new series!
This month, I started walking as exercise. I haven't been exercising lately (in way longer than I care to admit, actually), but I like walking more than running (and it's easier on me), and I've really enjoyed it! I bought a really good pair of running shoes, the Brooks Ghost 6, and they make a huge difference! Before I got them, my legs were so sore. Good shoes really do make a difference!
I really want to start doing some toning exercises, and possibility start incorporating some light yoga into my routine, but I'm just trying to do a little at a time so I don't get too sore or overwhelmed.
My husband, brother, cousin, and myself saw Captain America: Winter Soldier, and I really enjoyed it! The Marvel movies keep getting better and better, and I'm really excited for the ones coming up! (Especially Guardians of the Galaxy.) I'm pretty into all the comic book movies coming out. I'm really, really excited for the new Amazing Spiderman 2 movie coming out! And The X-Men: Days of Future Past looks really good, too.
I also saw The Other Woman with my friends Jeanette and Amanda. It was way better than I expected it to be, and I liked it a lot.
There are seriously so many good movies coming out!
I read a few books (Concealed In Death, When Audrey Met Alice, and Don't Even Think About It), spent a good amount of time working on my blog, and played Neopets. (Oh, so that's something weird about me- I still play Neopets at least once or twice a week, and have had my account for 13 years. I've had periods of time where I haven't played for awhile, but I've been playing pretty consistently for the last 5 years or so.)
I spent a lot of time with my little brother this month, and that's been really great. I love my little brother a lot and really like spending time with him. We don't get to often because we work on different schedules (I work a day shift, he works swing). I went on a really nice, 6 mile walk with he and his dog, and it was cool just to chat and walk.
I feel like I watched a lot of TV this month. My husband and I have a "date night" of sorts on Wednesday to watch Arrow, which is one of our favorites, and typically watch Supernatural the same night. (I really, really miss them being on the same night!)
The series finales of How I Met Your Mother and Being Human were this month. I'm still a little upset thinking about the HIMYM finale (Yes, I'm one of those people that was unhappy with it), but the Being Human finale was great!
19 Kids and Counting and Mad Men came back this month as well, so those are back on my DVR.
I also watched a few movies - Jobs (which was okay), Take This Waltz (which was also okay, and I saw way more of Michelle Williams and Sarah Silverman than I ever thought I would), and The Negotiator (my first time seeing it, and I really liked it), among others.
I had a day off on the 18th due to my office moving buildings, so that was really nice (I haven't had one since February), and I had my car detailed that day. My car is 6 years old, so I figured it was time. It turned out really good, and I wish I had it done sooner. I definitely will be doing it again in another couple of years!
I get migraines every so often (I was actually out of work for the better part of 2009 because of them), and got hit with one pretty hard towards the end of the month.
My husband and I are on track to start the home buying process at the end of next month! It's really exciting, and I'm a little nervous. But definitely looking forward to it.
I'll share what I'm comfortable sharing, but this entire process is new to the both of us so we're kind of learning as we go!
Hope you all had good Aprils, and I'm definitely looking forward to what May has in store (including my 2 year wedding anniversary with my husband)!
Now, my favorite bloggers are the bloggers that mainly talk about what their blog is about, but let you peek into their lives, just a little bit. I never set out to make this a personal blog (I have one of those on LiveJournal that I've had for years and I'm happy with it), but I would like you all to get to know me and my interests a little bit better. I think it makes it more fun, you know? So, here is my new series!
This month, I started walking as exercise. I haven't been exercising lately (in way longer than I care to admit, actually), but I like walking more than running (and it's easier on me), and I've really enjoyed it! I bought a really good pair of running shoes, the Brooks Ghost 6, and they make a huge difference! Before I got them, my legs were so sore. Good shoes really do make a difference!
I really want to start doing some toning exercises, and possibility start incorporating some light yoga into my routine, but I'm just trying to do a little at a time so I don't get too sore or overwhelmed.
My husband, brother, cousin, and myself saw Captain America: Winter Soldier, and I really enjoyed it! The Marvel movies keep getting better and better, and I'm really excited for the ones coming up! (Especially Guardians of the Galaxy.) I'm pretty into all the comic book movies coming out. I'm really, really excited for the new Amazing Spiderman 2 movie coming out! And The X-Men: Days of Future Past looks really good, too.
I also saw The Other Woman with my friends Jeanette and Amanda. It was way better than I expected it to be, and I liked it a lot.
There are seriously so many good movies coming out!
I read a few books (Concealed In Death, When Audrey Met Alice, and Don't Even Think About It), spent a good amount of time working on my blog, and played Neopets. (Oh, so that's something weird about me- I still play Neopets at least once or twice a week, and have had my account for 13 years. I've had periods of time where I haven't played for awhile, but I've been playing pretty consistently for the last 5 years or so.)
I spent a lot of time with my little brother this month, and that's been really great. I love my little brother a lot and really like spending time with him. We don't get to often because we work on different schedules (I work a day shift, he works swing). I went on a really nice, 6 mile walk with he and his dog, and it was cool just to chat and walk.
I feel like I watched a lot of TV this month. My husband and I have a "date night" of sorts on Wednesday to watch Arrow, which is one of our favorites, and typically watch Supernatural the same night. (I really, really miss them being on the same night!)
The series finales of How I Met Your Mother and Being Human were this month. I'm still a little upset thinking about the HIMYM finale (Yes, I'm one of those people that was unhappy with it), but the Being Human finale was great!
19 Kids and Counting and Mad Men came back this month as well, so those are back on my DVR.
I also watched a few movies - Jobs (which was okay), Take This Waltz (which was also okay, and I saw way more of Michelle Williams and Sarah Silverman than I ever thought I would), and The Negotiator (my first time seeing it, and I really liked it), among others.
I had a day off on the 18th due to my office moving buildings, so that was really nice (I haven't had one since February), and I had my car detailed that day. My car is 6 years old, so I figured it was time. It turned out really good, and I wish I had it done sooner. I definitely will be doing it again in another couple of years!
I get migraines every so often (I was actually out of work for the better part of 2009 because of them), and got hit with one pretty hard towards the end of the month.
My husband and I are on track to start the home buying process at the end of next month! It's really exciting, and I'm a little nervous. But definitely looking forward to it.
I'll share what I'm comfortable sharing, but this entire process is new to the both of us so we're kind of learning as we go!
Hope you all had good Aprils, and I'm definitely looking forward to what May has in store (including my 2 year wedding anniversary with my husband)!
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