Good Stuff

I had quite a bit of time on my hands in February. Here's how I spent the past month...

I became obsessed with Bohemian Rhapsody (and so did my mom). We bought it on Amazon Prime and I've watched it five times. I don't think I've ever been this enthralled with a movie. Now I can't stop listening to Queen music. Such a great band and movie. I'm so glad Rami Malek won best actor. 

I also got into a couple podcasts. I always struggle to find ones that keep my attention. I end up losing interest after a few episodes. The Drop-Out and Over My Dead Body are (completely different) true stories that keep me coming back each week.

 Lastly, a few new albums I've had on repeat... Ariana Grande, Tall Heights, and Maggie Rogers. Something for every mood between these three artists. 

Downtime

I'm getting ready for surgery next week. I actually have time to prepare for my extensive lounging (unlike my stint in February). I'm stocking up on groceries, entertainment, and loungewear. Here are a few options for anytime you're laid-up or just want a lazy day weekend.

Barefoot Dreams Drape Front Cardigan

Make + Model 'Best Boyfriend' Brushed Hacci Lounge Pants

Muk Luk Slippers

Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy Lavender Chamomile Pillow Mist

Bath & Body Works Candles

What She Knew by Gilly Macmillan

Movies

Coloring Book

Smartfood Popcorn

Naked Juice

February Favorites

Beauty

1 | Philosophy Renewed Hope In A Jar Moisturizer is the best part of  my skincare routine. It's hydrating, cooling, and smells so fresh. It was a Christmas gift from Brie, in addition the a night cream and eye cream. The whole process is doing wonders for my skin.

2 | Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion is an oldie, but a goodie. I've mentioned this product a few times. I use it everyday regardless of whether or not I wear makeup. It keeps oil at bay all day long.

3 | Pixi Glow Tonic needs to be repurchased. I've never been good about using toner until this product came along. I can't say I've seen a difference in my skin as much as I feel a difference in the texture.

4 | Origins Clear Improvement Mask was a birthday gift from Brent and Molly. I used this mask a couple years ago (and loved it) so I was excited to try it again. My skin feels so smooth after using this mask. Can you tell I've been into skincare this month?

5 | Bath & Body Work Pearberry Body Cream was an impulse buy when I was shopping online. I was buying candles and noticed the signature scents are going to be retired :( I needed to say a proper goodbye to Pearberry.

Fashion

1 | Lululemon 7/8 Pants are the most comfortable yoga pants I've found. They keep their shape, but they aren't too tight. I've been getting a lot of wear out of these the past few months. Plus, I love the color. Great to have an alternative to black yoga pants. 

2 | Threads for Thought Hoodie is actually Brady's, but I've been wearing it quite frequently the past few weeks. It's a cotton/polyester blend that's incredibly soft. I pretty much only take it off for a quick wash then it's back on. 

3 | MUK LUK Slippers are always a favorite. I've had issues with circulation since the accident and my foot is always cold. These are essential and have been worn 24/7.

4 | Nike No-Show Tab Socks stay in place, which I have a newfound appreciation for since I can't put them on (or take them off) myself. Plus, they're actually "no show." I've been wearing them with my sneakers. They stay up, but can't be seen. Win, win. 

5 | Comme des Garcons Small Pouch hold so much for being so compact. I must have a discontinued size. I can't seem to find it online. It easily fits all my cards, cash, lip balm, and keys. If it were just a bit longer, I could squeeze my iPhone 6 in there as well. 

Miscellaneous

1 | Brent & Molly's DVD collection is eclectic- something suitable for every mood. I've been catching up on old childhood favorites, rom coms, actions movies (with Brady). It's been a nonstop movie marathon!

2 | Bath & Body Works White Gardenia Candle smells like Spring/Summer! Gardenia, in candle form, always reminds me of sunscreen.. which I love. This scent fills the entire condo. The only downside is how quickly these candles burn. I already need to place another order. 

3 | Chaos and the Calm by James Bay is so, so good. It's acoustic with a rock influence. He has a great voice- raspy, but easy to sing along with. My favorite songs are Craving, Hold Back the River, and Get Out While You Can.

4 | What Alice Forgot and The Hypnotist's Love Story by Liane Moriarty are recommended (and on loan) from Molly. I just finished The Hypnotist's Love Story and I'm nearly done with What Alice Forgot. They're light, quick reads and very entertaining. Difficult to put down at times. 

5 | Tulips have really cheered me up this month! Seeing these bloom has been highlight of my day for two weeks straight (sad, I know). It's definitely starting to feel like spring in the PNW :)

The faves of the faves

Media Overload

My brain is overwhelmed by all the media I've been consuming... books, audiobooks, TV, podcasts, etc. I should probably reign it in, but I can't stop! It's too good and get hooked too quickly! Good thing I don't gamble... starting to realize my addictive tendencies.

Anyway, here's the current round-up...

1 | Audiobook

Currently Yes Please

This plays nonstop... showering, getting ready, driving. It's such a good book and even better narrated by Amy herself. I read Tina Fey's Bossypants, but now I want the audiobook just to hear her read it.

2 | Podcast

Serial, obviously

I'm so into season 2! Way better than season 1, in my opinion. Bummed the schedule changed to every other Thursday, but excited for an extra episode. 

3 | Book

Currently #GIRLBOSS and What Alice Forgot

Both books are great, but for totally different moods. #GIRLBOSS is motivating and uplifting. What Alice Forgot is captivating. Make sure you have some time... hard to put down.

4 | TV 

Scandal

Just re-watching Scandal in preparation of the mid-season premiere... Is it February yet? No other TV show compares. It's just the right amount of drama.

5 | Movies

The Revenant

I love Leo even more after watching this movie. A few parts were a bit too real for me (I had to to turn away a couple times), but the story and the acting were phenomenal!  

October Favorites

Beauty

1 | Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil has quickened my morning routine. The slanted tip really speeds things up. Plus there is a wide range of shades... warm brunette is perfect for me. 

2 | Essie Gel Topcoat is my holy grail topcoat. It has surpassed Seche Vite and Sally Hansen. It leaves the best shine and doesn't chip. My only complaint is that it gets thick and clumpy too quickly.

3 | Pixi Glow Tonic peaked my interest after many rave reviews. I was never one for using toner, but this leaves a noticeable effect. It's brightening and smoothing and is a key part of my skincare routine.

4 | Eyelash Tinting was a big discovery for me in October. I've been struggling with dry, irritated eyes and mascara seems to make it worse. This allows me to skip mascara or just add a little mascara primer. 

5 | Estee Lauder Little Black Primer is intended to be a mascara base, but I've been using it alone quite often this past month. It adds the most subtle definition and feels like you're wearing nothing on your lashes.

Fashion

1 | Marc Jacobs Key Pouch is so handy! I no longer search through my bags (or the apartment) for my keys. I keep my essentials in this little bag... keys, cash, eye drops, lip balm. The bright color helps too.

2 | Banana Republic Turtleneck is my new favorite. It's warm and comfortable and long. I've packed it for every trip we had this past month. I really want to get a few more colors. 

3 | Zella 'Live In' Leggings have been another travel essential. I've worn them hiking, traveling, lounging. They keep their shape and don't pill. I actually prefer them to some of my Lululemon pants.

4 | Z Supply Tees are the replacement for my beloved FreeLoader tees that are nearly impossible to find anymore. I've been searching high and low for basic tees. These are soft, v-neck, and long in length (all my requirements). 

5 | Birkenstocks were an impulse buy when Brady was ordering a pair for himself, but I've been living in these shoes. They're so easy to throw on and comfortable all day. Plus, I actually like the look of them. 

Miscellaneous 

1 | Yogi Cranberry Spice Tea is so good. It supposedly improves digestion, but I never notice the labeled benefits of tea. More importantly, it tastes amazing- fruity and spicy at the same time.

2 | Tea Kettle was a necessary purchase after being ill a few weeks ago and drinking tea at all hours of the day. This kettle is big and heats up quickly... don't know if it could get much better than that.

3 | Herschel Little America Backpack is a new purchase, but already a favorite. I got it for our trip back to Iowa and I love it. It's the perfect size- not too big, but holds everything you need.

4 | The Family Stone is one of my favorite holiday movies. I feel like I can get away with watching it in October because it's not too Christmasy. I'll save The Polar Express and Christmas Vacation for December.

5 | "Perfect" by One Direction is my favorite One Direction song ever... that's a bold statement. I love everything about it. It's catchy and upbeat and the music video is definitely their best one yet.

The faves of the faves 

On My Mind

1 | The One Direction concert TONIGHT! I'm beyond excited! I've been listen to their past three albums for weeks. I convinced Kara to go with me :) We'll be the only (non-parent) adults, but the beer lines should be short. 

P.S. I can't believe Louis Tomlinson is going to be a dad! Shocking. 

2 | These sales are killing me. Of course Nordstrom and Shopbop have to start their sales after I've already spent too much money. However, I haven't bought any accessories in awhile :)

Clare V. Supreme Flat Clutch

Loeffler Randall Mara Woven Espadrilles 

Burberry Round Leather Strap Watch

Burberry Brushstroke Cashmere & Silk Scarf

3 | The Chris Pratt obsession grows with each passing episode of Parks & Rec. I came across this YouTube clip of him on the Graham Norton show and it's hilarious. Also, he's from Lake Stevens, Washington so that is pretty awesome. 

Weekend Update

Brady and I had a very relaxed weekend, which pretty much consisted of long walks, shopping, and Chris Pratt :)

Gloomy walk on Saturday

GAP steals 

The MOST delicious cider 

Jurassic World on Saturday night 

My favorite scentsy. I'ts Lush Gardenia, but smells of sunscreen 

More Chris Pratt :) Seriously addicted 

New hair! I love this cut + color for summer

Cider after a 6 mile? walk w/ Molly 

Followed by dinner at The Hub

Weekend Update

Hope you all had a lovely Valentine's Day weekend! I started off the weekend with a few sweet treats from Brady and my parents.

I had to work each day, but we some great date nights! I worked in downtown Seattle on Friday and traffic at 5pm was horrendous. It took 30 minutes to drive 3 blocks. Crazy. I phoned Brady and we met at the movie theatre to see 50 Shades of Grey and avoid the traffic jam. I really liked the movie, but you just can't beat the books. 

Seattle traffic at finest 

We returned to Seattle Saturday night for the Hozier concert. It was amazing!! The Paramount Theatre is pure luxe- everything is gold and grand. The music was obviously the best part. Asgeir was the opener. He had a hauntingly beautiful voice, but Hozier's voice is incredibly powerful. The radio does not do him justice! "Jackie and Wilson" is definitely my favorite song, but "Someone New" and "Cherry Wine" were each a close second.

Concert OOTN

Chandelier's everywhere

Asgeir 

Intermission = photo opp

My favorite jeans

Hozier's lights were on point

On My Mind

1 | It's been cold and rainy here. I'm ready for Spring! In the meantime, I've been snuggled on the couch for a Harry Potter marathon. I don't know why I'm so obsessed, but HP marathons seem to be annual tradition. 

2 | Two new makeup items added to my regimen. I've been starting with La Roche-Posay moisturizer and ending with the L'Oreal Infalliable setting spray. My makeup lasts all day without any touch-ups. 

3 | I'm trying to become more domesticated. I made a new rule for myself- every time I go grocery shopping I have to cook dinner that night. Last night was pasta with chicken and pesto. Brady was shocked, but he enjoyed it.