Good Stuff

Aveda leave-in treatment was recommended by my hair stylist and she said it's better than Olaplex. I had to buy it to see for myself and I actually agree with her. I had a lot of breakage around my hairline and it looks so much smoother and stronger now. Plus, it's a leave-in treatment which I prefer. 

Avene moisturizer is perfect for oily skin. I've been using this day and night. It's lightweight and hydrating. I never feel greasy throughout the day. 

COSRX pimple patches work so well! I was shocked the first time I used one. I wore it overnight and when I woke the pimple was totally flattened. It's grossly satisfying and I will always keep these on hand now. 

Aritzia face masks are my favorite and I've tried a lot in 2020 (Athleta is a close second). They are a good size and comfortable to wear all day. They wash up well. Make sure you get the petite size. The standard size is way too big. 

Chantelle Lingerie no-show bikini is the perfect no-show underwear if you don't like wearing thongs. They're pricey and I don't believe the one size fits all, but they are the best I've found. You can't even see panty lines through leggings. 

Lululemon On the Fly pants are my go-to lounge pants. I've definitely mentioned them on the blog before. I just bought my fourth pair (currently on sale). My sisters and mom also got them for Christmas. I get so many compliments when wearing them. They're great for travel.

Topdrawer house shoes = the only footwear I've worn the past month. They're washable (which is why I bought them), but they're also easy to pack and really comfortable. Definitely my favorite slippers and I've bought a lot of slippers over the years.

Shows I've binged (and really enjoyed) during recovery: Killing Eve, Virgin River, Mindhunter, The Undoing, The Handmaid Tales

Updated Skincare

My skin has never been looked better and it's all thanks to this regimen. I always keep 5 key ingredients in my skincare routine, but this combination is working wonders for my oily skin.

My 5 key ingredients: vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, AHA/BHA, retinol, SPF

AM products: 

Obagi Vitamin C serum

Dr. Dennis Gross moisturizer

Ole Henriksen eye cream

Supergoop sunscreen mist

PM products:

Dr. Dennis Gross alpha beta daily peel

Skinceuticals HA Intensifier 

CeraVe retinol serum

Dr. Dennis Gross moisturizer

(Skinceuticals 0.5 retinol a few times a week)

Things to do, watch, read, eat, etc...

These are strange times, but I feel like I'm getting into a quarantine rhythm. Here's what I'm living for right now... 

I'm burning candles all day. They're so calming. I usually get them from Target, Bath & Body Works, and HomeGoods. My favorite (which I've blogged about before) is Endless Weekend from Bath & Body Works... it's a great scent for spring/summer. 

I just finished We Were The Lucky Ones and I'm currently reading Lost Roses. I highly recommend both of these books! I love historical fiction and anything related to WWI or WWII.

While on the topic of war, Brady and I are watching Band of Brothers. It's currently on Amazon Prime and it's sooo good. Definitely one to rewatch. We've been enjoying caprese sandwiches and Moscow mules in front of the TV. I always look forward to this part of the night!

I purchased the Melissa Wood Health program and I'm so into it! I've done yoga flows and arm/ab workouts since I can't do any lower body workouts yet. Every class is low impact, quick and effective. 

What's In My Bag

Here's to not carrying any extra crap for Evie🙌

Champion Foundation tote has been praised endlessly since I got it last summer. It's so good! I included it my "Best of 2019" post. It's currently on sale for $21.99!

Truffle Clarity Mini clutch holds all my essentials... airpods, pen, nail file, lip balm, eye drops, keys. I love this pouch. It's the perfect size and easy to see everything. I have the larger size for travel. I really rate this brand. 

Comme des Garcons classic wallet is a new addition. I had the YSL Fragments cardholder for years and I loved it, but I left it in the bottom of the stroller after a walk and kombucha was mistakenly left in there too... it exploded and my cardholder smells like fermented juice no matter how many different ways I try to clean it. Anyway, I do like this cardholder. It's very streamline, but also has place for everything. Comme des Garcons is my favorite brand for small leather goods.

Aquaphor is an absolute essential at all times. I probably use Aquaphor on my lips at least 10 times a day. I also recently developed eczema on my eyelids so I use it there too. We put it on Evie's bum every night before bed. Aquaphor for life!

Soap & Glory Hand Food is a family favorite. My mom, sisters and I all love this stuff. It smells incredible and is really hydrating. I look forward to applying this lotion throughout the day. However, don't let it go unused for too long or the smell goes off. 

Ibuprofen is my lifeline right now. This is always with me. 

New Skincare

There are 5 skincare ingredients I always keep in my routine. The products themselves change fairly often (with only a few exceptions), but I always like to have hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA, and sunscreen. 

Here are my current favorites...

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Could Cream - This is my favorite moisturizer! I have combination skin and tend to get oily in my t-zone throughout the day. This hydrates and doesn't create excess oil. It seriously feels like putting water on your skin. 

SkinCeuticals 0.5% retinol - This is the first retinol I've ever used. I started about 2-3 months ago and I'm still only using this twice a week because it's very drying. However, I do think it's helping with fine lines.

DRMTLGY C E Ferulic serum - I've been wanting to try the SkinCeuticals version, but I don't want to spend that much money so I found this product and really like it. I think I am going to get the SkinCeuticals just to compare the two. I'll report back.

Drunk Elephant TLC Sukari Babyfacial and Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Daily Peel - Two products that I will not deviate from. I use the babyfacial mask one a week and the peel every other day. My skin texture has improved dramatically with this combination!

Supergoop SPF setting mist - I wasn't using any SPF until 3 months ago because they usually make my skin oily. However, I'm getting older and realize the importance of sun protection. I was intrigued by this setting spray and I so impressed with it! It's easy, effective, and non-greasy.  

Weekly Wardrobe

These Superga sneakers were a Christmas gift to myself with the hopes they will minimize hip pain throughout the day, but I also really like the way they look...

Monday

AQUA cashmere sweater

DL1961 denim

Birdies

Tuesday

Club Monaco tank (old, similar)

AQUA cashmere cardigan

7 For All Mankind denim

Superga sneakers

Thursday

Monoprix cashmere sweater (from Paris, similar)
Banana Republic Ryan pants
Superga sneakers

Friday

Club Monaco sweater
JCrew denim
Birdies

Top 5 of 2019

The Barefoot Dreams throw ($50) was my gift of choice this Christmas. I got one for my mom and for three of my friends. I also have four at home. They're the perfect weight and incredibly soft!

Vuori performance joggers ($84) are the best! I've put a lot of research (and 💵) into finding good joggers. These are so comfortable and look really good too. They have a short inseam (25 inch) and they're made of the best material - super soft, but doesn't stretch out. 

Golden Goose sneakers ($300) were definitely a splurge this year. I was not a fan in the beginning because they were stiff and uncomfortable. It only took a few wears to break them in and now they're my most comfortable sneakers. They are style and comfort! I always look forward to wearing them!

Nalgene water bottle ($11) was a total find this year. Brady was always annoyed with my "water bottle collection," but once I found this (and bought a back-up) I stopped buying water bottles. I'm really bad about refilling throughout the day so this is a perfect size. 

Champion foundation tote ($35) is my favorite bag. It's a great size and can be worn over the shoulder or crossbody. I like the sporty vibes and I don't have to be too precious with it. I got it in the summer and have worn it daily since then. 

I was really tempted to put this USB lighter ($10) and the Revlon One Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer ($35) in this list, but I just bought them in December so they haven't gotten a real trial. I've been using them every day though. 

Christmas Gifts I'm Actually Giving

I buy what I know is good. I do own all of these products so this is more like a favorites/gift guide...

Barefoot Dreams throw - I've professed my love for these throws on the blog. I'm spreading the joy to others. I cannot buy any other throws now. I buy mine at Nordstrom Rack for $50, which is a steal!

Barefoot Dreams socks - I own two pairs, but really want more. I wear them every night. They're so cozy and wash/dry really well. They stay soft and don't loose their shape. This is a great stocking stuffer idea!

LLBean tote - I have three sizes of this tote (medium, large, extra large) and I prefer the large with regular length handles. These totes hold up so well. I've had mine for years and they still look great.

Truffle travel case - I got this after seeing a Fashion Jackson post about Truffle bags. I used my bag for the trip to London, Paris and Iowa. I haven't had any issues with TSA. It's the perfect size and is such good quality! 

Moleskin journal - I've been journaling for years and find it so therapeutic plus entertaining to look back at journal entries from years ago. I highly recommend journaling to everyone and this moleskin is so nice. 

Framed photos - I love a sentimental gift and a photo is easy to execute. A cute frame makes it that much more special. I love these antique style metal frames. 

Aquis hair turbans - I'm addicted to my hair turban. My hair is so silky after using it. I only wear it for about 10 minutes while I do my skincare routine and brush my teeth. It does wonders in that short amount of time!

Le Labo hand soap - A great gift for the person who is difficult to shop for. Everyone needs hand soap and this is the most luxurious scent. I love Le Labo!

Ouai products - I don't specify exactly which products because they're all good! I'm a big fan of Jen Atkin and I've bought so many hair and body products for myself and as gifts. 

Current Hair Care

I shower at night and go to bed with damp hair so you'll notice I don't use a hair dryer on a regular basis. I have fairly thick, fine hair. Here's what's working for me lately...

I wash my hair with this Aveda shampoo and conditioner. It was recommended by my hairstylist and I love it! My hair feels clean, but not weighed down. I use the DPHue blonde shampoo weekly.

After the sower, I spray Bumble & Bumble primer into my hands then run my fingers through the midlengths and ends. I wrap my hair in the Aquis turban for 10 minutes while I brush my teeth and do my skincare routine. Then, I brush my hair with the Wet Brush Pro. This little trio (primer, turban, brush) has made such a difference with my hair! It so much more silky and smooth. It requires very little effort in the morning now. 

When I wake up, I quickly straighten or curl my hair then add Oribe dry shampoo and/or texture spray to finish the style. I also really like the Batiste dry shampoo and Ouai texture spray, which are way more affordable. 

Current Body Care

After sharing my make-up and skincare routines in September, I thought I would finish it off with body and hair (which will be posted tomorrow). I love skincare so much (face and body). I actually think of it like a hobby😂 I would 100% recommend all of these items. Here's the current routine in order of use...

I got the Kiehl's grapefruit body wash in the Nordstrom sale and I love it! It smells so good and lasts forever! I recently switched from a loofah to this this silicone brush. It works just as well, lathers great, and hopefully isn't harboring bacteria. 

I'm obsessed with my Billie razor. I change the razor head weekly and I'm legs stay so much smoother. I used to shave my legs daily because I hate the feeling of stubble on my pants, but now I can shave every other day. I got my sister a year subscription for her birthday.

Dry brushing is something I've gotten back into. I'll be good for awhile then stop for a couple months. I haven't seen a noticeable difference, but I like the ritual and routine of it. I feel like I'm doing something good for my body. 

Burt's Bees body oil is either used in the shower or after dry brushing. I change it up. It's incredibly hydrating and smells like lemons. I really like lots of moisture on my body after exfoliating with shaving and dry brushing. 

CeraVe moisturizer is applied morning and night. This is apart of my Amazon subscription so it's delivered every month. Evie and I both use it. I like that it's thick and unscented. I always look for body butters in jars because I like to use it all and not have to work with a pump and storing it upside down. 

Tan Luxe The Body oil is the self-tanner I add to my body lotion. It gives a nice, even color. I also add it to my face moisturizer. I only use it 2-3 times a week to maintain a really mild tan. 

Donna Karen Cashmere Mist deodorant is expensive, but it smells so good and works really well! I've tried natural deodorants, but I need an anti-perspirant.  This one works all day (I apply at night) and the stick lasts several months. 

Good Stuff

Autumn Harvest candle from Target has been mentioned on this blog before, but every year I'm reminded how good it smells. I usually buy Sweater Weather and Autumn from Bath & Body Works, but I actually prefer this scent even more. Give it a sniff next time you're strolling through Target!

Kung Fu Girl Riesling has also been featured on the blog, but I'm still drinking it and still loving it! This is my go-to wine. It's sweet, but not too sweet. It tastes good at room temp or chilled. I'm always thrilled when I find it on menus (especially when we're out of state).

Champion canvas tote is a new purchase from Nordstrom and it's so worth the $40! I'm a tote kinda gal since becoming a mom. I used to always wear small, crossbody bags. Now, I need space for snacks, wipes, and a spare outfit (hello, potty training!). I'm at the in-between stage where I don't need a full diaper bag, but I need to carry more than just my stuff. This is the perfect size. I used it every single day on our trip to Paris & London. 

I've been updating my playlists. I have two that continuously work on - one called 'hype' and one called 'calm.' My current favorite is the calm playlist and these are the songs I go to first...

Random Home Favorites

Barefoot Dreams throws are currently on sale at Nordstrom Rack. I love these throws! There are so soft and warm. We have three - one for our room, one in the living room, and one in Evie's room. I don't have anywhere else to put them, but I want more! The best $50 you'll spend all year. 

Minted watercolor prints are such a great way to add affordable art to a space. We have a couple prints hanging over our nightstands and Evie has a trio over her bed. I always order the 8x10 size then purchase these Pottery Barn frames with mat.

The Container Store Montauk storage bins are a major closet staple. We've had these in Evie's closet since she was born and they've worked great. I finally bought them for our closet and I love the organization and the look. I need more!

H&M storage baskets are a parent's dream for all. the. toys. Evie has so many duplo blocks, babies, stuffed animals. These are a great way to keep them hidden and they're lightweight so she can drag them around the house when she wants to play with her babies in the living room instead of her room.

Tempurpedic pillows are worth the investment! Brady was having a lot of issues with his shoulder (for years!) until I bought the Tempur-Cloud Pro pillows that are specifically for side sleepers. We've had them two months and Brady has no shoulder pain! These definitely saved us money in the long run.

Houseplants and herbs lift my mood so much. I've slowly accumulated plants over the years and I thoroughly enjoy them. The pop of green in every room makes me so happy. I was really worried leaving them for 10 days in Brady's hands, but he did pretty well. Only my herbs died so I guess that's a win.

Current Skincare

I am into my skincare routine right now! 

I definitely don't want to add up the cost, but this regimen is working so well for me. I'm still searching for a retinol cream, but the micellar water, Dr. Dennis Gross pads and Drunk Elephant Babyfacial have made such a noticeable difference in my complexion. I only use the Drunk Elephant Babyfacial once weekly and I use the GloPRO every other day. All the other products are daily/nightly. 

AM Routine

Garnier Micellar Water

Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C Serum

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Cream

Kora Organics Noni Eye Oil

Aquaphor

PM Routine

CeraVe Cleanser

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel

Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Face Oil

DermaDoctor Wrinkle Revenge Eye Balm

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

Add-Ons

Drunk Elephant Babyfacial

GloPRO Microneedling Tool

Current Makeup

I spent way too much money during the Sephora and Dermstore sales. I've noticed a switch the past 1-2 years. Now, I invest way more in skin/body/hair care than makeup. My daily staples are concealer, cream blush, and mascara on work days. Sometimes I add bronzer, powder, and/or eyeliner. On the weekends, I don't wear any makeup. If you want to wear less makeup, then tint your brows and lashes! It's a game changer. 

I'm very loyal to my BareMinerals concealer and Perricone MD blush, but I switch up mascara every couple months. My favorite mascaras (that I actually repurchase) are Diorshow Iconic Overcurl, Lancome Hypnose, Lancome Definicils, Estee Lauder Sumptuous, Tarte Gifted. I always have several back-ups! 

Breakfast Lately

Breakfast food is my favorite! Honestly, cereal is my all-time favorite food and I used to eat it every morning for breakfast. Now I save it for a treat (or lazy dinner). 

These days, I like to eat more fiber in the morning. I've been making overnight oats the past two years and I must say I've perfected this recipe. Evie wakes up requesting "eat-a-mall" every morning. I recently discover cinnamon raisin ezekiel bread at Trader Joe's and it is 💣 Also, do yourself a favor and add some protein shake to your coffee! I linked my brand-loyal items.

 Winning combo!

My oatmeal partner!

Overnight oats

1/2 cup rolled oats

1 tbsp chia seeds

1/2 banana 

1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup (+ a splash) unsweetened vanilla coconut milk 

Green smoothie

1 green apple

1/3 large cucumber

1/2 avocado

1 tbsp raw honey

4 mint leaves (mint plant from Trader Joe's)

3/4 cup unsweetened vanilla coconut milk

PB toast

Cinnamon raisin ezekiel bread

Trader Joe's crunchy peanut butter

Raw honey

Chia seeds

Coffee blend

Nespresso Alto capsule 

Splash of chocolate Premiere Protein 

Good Stuff

Billie razor was purchased after seeing Brooke (from Somewhere, Lately) rave about hers. I've seen this razor all over my insta feed and blogs, but Brooke put it over the edge for me. I love it! It's such a close shave and (surprisingly) I cut myself a lot less. I highly recommend. Plus, the subscription forces you the change the blade more frequently, which I always forget to do. 

Basil and mint plants were purchased from Trader Joe's a month ago and I'm obsessed. One, they look really nice on the table. Two, they smell great. Three, I'm cooking more because I want to use the herbs I'm growing. Win on every level. The herb planter is from Amazon. 

Dark chocolate covered pretzels are another Trader Joe's purchase that is now a weekly staple. They're the perfect salty/sweet snack. I keep a bag at home and a bag at work. The work bag goes quickly because everyone else likes them too! I love dark chocolate, but they also have milk chocolate. 

French Exit and Fate and Furies are totally different books, but I binged both of them. French Exit is a quick read. It's short, easy to follow, and has some really funny lines. Fate and Furies is looong and took awhile to get into, but you get to know the characters so well. I'm still thinking about them! I read all my books on the Libby app so I can use my library card to check them out. I'm obsessed with this app!

Halogen bralettes are a recommendation from Fashion Jackson and she's right - they're great! Even more comfortable than my favorite Calvin Klein and Lululemon bralettes. These bras are thin, breathable, and stay put all day. I got the nude color initially, then just purchased the black too.