Confessions

I am officially blaming Daylight Savings Time for this week. I have no other excuse for my extreme exhaustion. Well, maybe that I stayed up watching the Bachelor and ATFR until 1:30 on Tuesday didn't help, either. Whatever!

We are linking up with Jess at The Newly again for Confessions!

I confess...

...Facebook had to tell me it was St. Patrick's Day. And then I had to dig through my pile (see #4) to find a green shirt. Annoying. PS- Happy St.  Patrick's Day. I have never really celebrated this holiday, minus the year that I was in Chicago for the event. And that was really fun! Facebook also reminded me of this day with this fun green river pic...

...Last night I folded my husband's laundry. But I piled the clothes around me on the couch so I didn't have to move while doing it. Yep, that lazy.

...I've had a brownie sundae every night this week. I really cannot say no to a warm brownie and ice cream.

...Another laundry situation: I have been pulling my clean clothes out of the dryer and throwing them on the guest room bed. For 2 weeks now. The pile is substantial. I cannot find my clothes anymore. I am currently searching for an assistant to help me clean this mess up this weekend.  I cannot tackle the job mentally.


...I was SO happy with the Bachelor outcome. I teared up during the proposal. And I have no problem saying that this was my absolute favorite season of the Bachelor. EVER. 

...and on a related note, I am SO SO SO happy that Caila isn't the Bachelorette. I'm happy it's JoJo,  but more so just pleased that it's anyone but Caila.

...I seriously dread shaving my legs. EVERY TIME! Why is it so hard?!

...I have become the type of person who hits the snooze button no less than 3 times. When did this happen?! I swear I didn't used to be like this.

I'm out of here! Tonight I am hitting the red carpet (haha, not really) at Omaha Fashion Week! It should be a good time and you can guarantee I'll share with you all soon!

Have a happy St. Pat's!

xoxox

{10 on Tuesday}

Today we are linking up with September Farm blog for 10 on Tuesday! I love this link up and the fact that it's 10… ANYTHING!

Here we go!

1. I am currently testing out this scent from Chanel. So far, SO good. It's the most subtly sweet scent and I am sort of obsessed. 

2. Okay, I have heard about the Sigma cleaning mat on repeat. All the time. Multiple blogs. And I was like "Yeah, cleaning your make up brushes suck. I don't do it as often as I should. But.. why is this necessary?" Well… the other day I realized I seriously need to clean them more often. And so when I stumbled on the Sigma Beauty cleaning mat while browsing,  I thought… why not? And you guys… I'm here to say that I'm sorry for what I said. This is a real life game changer.  Why you ask? Before, I would swish, clean, rinse, swish, clean rinse FOREVER (or what seemed like forever) just trying to get the make up out of my brushes. I don't know who invented this thing, but they knew what they were doing. In just a few swishes and strokes, my brushes were totally clean. 

AND… this mat suctions into your sink which makes it super, super easy and quick. It's $20ish depending where you get it. And it is $20 well spent. 

Repeat after me… GAME. CHANGER. 

3. These shoes. That is all. (See #6)

4. In case you missed it… I got to share about what I've learned so far in marriage on Her View From Home yesterday. You can read it HERE!

5. This March weather is making me SO happy. I don't even mind the rain! I thought for sure we were in for another blizzard, and so far… it seems to be legit Spring. I'll take it. 

6. I'm so excited that I can hardly stand it…. A Midwestern Mix and I are going to Omaha Fashion Week on Thursday. As in the day after tomorrow.  Stay tuned for the post that details it all! 

7. Another reason to love the warm weather… THESE TOPS. I want them all. If it's off the shoulder, just sign me up. You can find this top HERE. 

8. Bad news on the home front: Brick figured out how to get off the deck. We wondered how long it would take him to figure out that an empty cooler blocking the stairs can be moved! It was nice while it lasted. 

9. My extra  hot husband came home with these the other night. I am a little bit obsessed. And as far as I'm concerned, it's practically a health food. (BUY IT. TRY IT.) Target special. 

10. Lastly, a question for YOU! Where is your favorite place to get reasonably priced wall decor? I am ready to start and finish decorating and I am so overwhelmed! HELP! 

Thanks for reading, and thanks to September Farm for hosting the link up!

Have a sweet Tuesday! 

xoxo

Mondays...

Hi everyone!

After scrolling all forms of social media, I know I am being repetitive when I say that Daylight Savings Time seriously is killing me today! But... really. I had to drag my body out of bed! Hoping I can get back on track tonight.

Anyways.

Married life. Random topic change, I know. But at this time in life, the question EVERYONE asks me is "how's married life?" And I appreciate the interest. But most of the time I say "Great!" or "Awesome!" Because, truly, it has been.

But for so many reasons. And I've already learned so much in 4 short months. So today, I'm sharing more on that topic. But not here. HERE!

Sweet & Modern packed up and is spending Monday with Her View From Home again ! Feel free to check it out here. And enjoy your Monday, sleep deprived and all. ;)

Confessional Thursday

 

I missed the confessional last week and so this week, I am FULL of confessions. Well, sort of. My confessionals tend to stay around the same topics.... here goes.

I confess...


...I didn't start working out again until yesterday. After the flu bug took me out I was like blah. For 5 days straight.

...I finally finished off the GS cookies. They are gone. No more to be ordered until next year. It's kind of a relief at this point. My body is probably going to go into shock.

...that I really don't know all there is to know about makeup. I am still learning everyday! I'm not a professional, just a lady who loves to buy and experiment! But...I talk about revamping your make up bag HERE.

...I don't follow politics anymore than I have to. And by have to, I mean the information that people force me into conversation with, or things I see while browsing the WWW.  Sorry, but it's too overwhelming. What I do see and hear sounds awful. And I am not going to subject myself further. Ignorance is bliss.

...I made meatloaf for the first time ever last night. It was really, really good. At least that's what my husband reported.  If you want a new spin on an old favorite, I would highly recommend this one. Ree, you never let me down.

...that I am seriously considering giving away a large chunk of my clothes. My laundry pile every week and storage issues (and trust  me, I shouldn't be having storage issues) is indicating I have more than I need. Has anyone done the capsule wardrobe? Or something similar? I  need a guide.... I have a hard time giving up pieces of clothing.

Thanks to Jess @ The Newly blog for hosting this super fun link up every week. I LOVE reading all of your confessions! What do you have to confess this week? Let me know in the comments!

Make Up 101

"You are going to think I am really stupid but..."

This is how my very wonderful, thoughtful and intelligent ex roomie started out our phone conversation a few months ago.

Given that she is a fabulous friend, a successful lawyer, and an all around amazing person, I laughed without knowing what was even coming. And assured her there was no way.

"I need help with my make up. Like, complete start over. I'm still wearing Covergirl from Junior High and I'm 30 years old."

Of course, I giggled a little. Side note: there is nothing wrong with Covergirl. Her point being, she was using the same few staples she started with 15+ years ago. And she wanted to up the quality. It was time to get real! And I get it.

I had to quickly remind her that I am by no means a professional (duh), and that my knowledge base and product recommendations come from my preference, experience and opinion only.

That being said... obviously I wanted to help! Are you kidding me?! Talk about a kid in a candy shop. That would be me at Sephora/Ulta/any product store.

So we planned to hit Ulta together when she got into town. As I thought about this, I realized there are probably a LOT of people out there who don't read product reviews, follow make up artists, or watch you tube videos of how to style your make up and hair. I know a lot of people get into this, but a lot just don't. And for that reason, I wanted to write this post.

If you would like to invest in a few great products, but the thought of Ulta or Sephora completely overwhelms you, keep reading! You may be able to pick up a few starters based on this list. Also, ask for help! Someone you know loves make up. And if not, the ladies at Sephora and Ulta are always so awesome. I learn something new every time!

Face:
Well, I love Bare Escentuals. Sorry not sorry. I have been using it for 9 years and I really never plan to quit. So yes, I recommend it. And you know what's great? I would recommend it to people,  even like my friend, who have no experience with foundation. Guess what?! No experience needed. I hooked her up with this starter kit. It's truly a great deal as you get ...

Mineral Foundation - (great coverage. easy to use. I promise.)
Warmth - (not bronzer. just… the key to glow.)
Mineral Veil - (the topper as I call it. lock things in. make your skin radiate!)
Primer - (for use on skin after moisturizer and before foundation)
foundation brush - to apply foundation!

 Which is a $116 value for $49. It's a steal.

I do have a few other recommendations if you are totally against mineral powders as your sole foundation.

I think Tarte Amazonian Clay foundation is pretty freaking awesome. Again, I am not into liquid foundation but if  you want to take the time, try this one!

Another option if you don't feel like coverage is an issue... try a tinted moisturizer. I have never been into this but I hear this one here gets a lot of attention! Any other recommendations?

Blush:
I went off course and bought an Ulta Mineral blush. I recommended it for her and I also bought it for myself. And I am super impressed. It stays on great and I love the shade! To each their own. I say find a shade you like and who cares what brand it is!

in "Tulip"

Next, eyes. I'll tell you what I told my friend. I have spent a lot of money on mascara over the years. Fancy mascara. Drugstore mascara, Vegan mascara. Blue mascara. Black. Blacker. Brown. Volumizing. Lengthening. Fibers. Everything!  And here's the thing.... I can't say it's mandatory to spend all your money in this department.

I look at make up investments in terms of time. How long am I going to use this product before it should be tossed? How long does the actual product last? Mascara (with everyday use) actually has a pretty short shelf life. And even if you don't wear it everyday, the tube tends to dry up. If you are still using mascara after 3 months, throw it. I don't want to get into the details, but bacteria, eyes, transferring bacteria, gross, etc, you get it. Just toss it.

Eyes:
And as far as quality, I have used expensive mascaras I am impressed with as well as drug store mascaras I am impressed with. So, your call. A few of my favorites across the spectrum are from this to this (a cult fav).

Same principle with eyeliner, if you wear it. I still say one of my favorite eyeliners is Revlon Colorstay! But that's just me. There are great (more expensive) options as well. And I'm not knocking them. :)

On to eyeshadow. Again, this is my opinion. I used to buy the little $4 -7 palettes from Target or any drugstore and try different shades, different brands with no real direction. And it adds up! My friend wanted to buy a quality, reputable palette that would last her a long time. I know that $54 seems like a lot, but you aren't going to be running out and replacing this very often. And you can't beat the colors. And quality. Naked 2 all the way!

And while I'm at it, it would be a smart investment to have some eyeshadow primer on hand. My favorite is THIS one.


Brows:
So, most novice make up wearers (and myself, to be honest) don't do much with their brows. It's kind of an afterthought. I only recently started to fill my brows in more and I feel like it completes the look a little better. So, if you are interested, I would start with something very inexpensive (like e.l.f).  Or, just use a matte, brown eye shadow. Easy enough. Also, seek out videos on youtube. There are so many bloggers who have youtube channels. Google is your friend!

Lip:
So... some people hate the feeling of lipstick on their lips. Or anything gunky. I totally get it. My friend is one of these people. I recommended Benetint!

In "Rose"

 It's no different than wearing chapstick but gives you a really fantastic color. Great for a "starter" lip color. I will say, experimenting with lip stick colors is super fun. I actually don't have a brand preference myself ( I frequently use MAC or Clinique) but... I have loved some pretty great drugstore colors over the years. To each their own on this. Find a shade that boosts your look! And makes you feel good about yourself. That's what lipstick is really about, right?!

One of my favorite lipsticks in "Plumful"
Don't mind my chipped nails. That's just real life. 

Brushes:
So, I have always used the Bare Minerals brushes as I feel like they hold the makeup the best. My last brush purchase was the precision face brush, and I still love it. But, if you are starting out, Real Techniques is where it is at.

The brushes are quality and will give you great coverage! Not to mention, super affordable.  A few of the brushes I have and some other products I use are pictured below!

Woo! So, that was a sort of long post. But if you are looking to ditch your old make up bag and start fresh, grab a pen and paper and write down a few of these products! Chances are, you will love them. And if you don't, ask someone for a product to benefit your specific needs. 

Good luck! 

Weekend Recap

So... typically a Friday staycation would be fabulous. But my unplanned Friday staycation involved the flu bug (yes, the real flu. All of it. Including awful body aches that made me completely useless) ...so NOT my plan! And also not a staycation. I probably said 10 times on Friday, "I don't want to be sick!" because I am swamped at work. I actually needed office time to stay on track! It was very frustrating. However... it was 24 hours and done.



How I felt about the flu on Friday.

I didn't feel 100% back to normal (food was not super interesting...) but I pulled it together and we met with friends for breakfast on Saturday, which was amazing. And even more fun... I got to help my friend Ashley with making over her make up kit. She actually threw away her make up bag and started over (hello FUN!) with me at Ulta on Saturday. I'll recap her make up bag in a post in the future!

Saturday afternoon I attended an event in Omaha called Pursuit of Passion. Woo! Sounds interesting, right? It totally was! I was super nervous about going alone and second guessing why I had signed up. BUT... it was totally worth the time. It was very encouraging and interesting :) I would highly recommend! And you can follow Julie's blog about intimacy in marriage HERE.

Sunday I had a baby shower brunch for a dear friend and it was fabulous. Nothing is more exciting than a baby on the way!

The rest of the day Clay and I bummed around... I FINALLY bought these sneakers and am already in love with how comfortable they are! This wasn't the color I meant to get but I was super excited about them when I saw them!

We ended our day with wings, pizza and beer at Oscars (only the best!) And Better Call Saul, of course.

Minus the flu bug, it was a really great weekend!

And now it's Monday. And it's so beautiful out! And The Women Tell All is on tonight. So basically it's a great day.

Did you do anything fun? Buy anything fun? Share in the comments!

Rave Review: Tao Skin Care

So, you made it half way through another week! Always a good thing. I'm coming in a little late today because of… well ya know, regular life stuff. Have to keep the home front running and also take care of me! :)

Lately I have been 100% impressed with my skin. And I can say that because it NEVER happens. Ever. I mean… I am either too oily. Too greasy.  Breaking out. Dry skin patches. Whatever, you name it. I am rarely pleased. So for that reason, I feel like I NEED to share with my blogger-ladies about this skin care line I've been using!

In October, I was having some issues with my skin and panicking about it more than normal because… wedding. So I found a salon/spa nearby to get a chemical peel. I was of course hoping to zap things back into shape. It was a great peel, but more importantly the esthetician introduced me to TAO Skin Care.

I have been using their face wash, toner and lotion now for around 6 months and I have to say.. my skin is in the best condition. Possibly ever. I have almost zero breakouts (except for small, once a month hormonal stuff) as well as super smooth and SOFT skin.

I feel like this is life changing.

And you guys.. this product is REASONABLY PRICED. Prior to using this, I bounced around between some drug store products like CeraVe and Cetaphil and Neutrogena. I also used some higher end products like Image Skincare. And I still think some of these products are great (albeit very expensive!)

But with Tao, I feel like I finally found the perfect balance. I am able to use a product that is quality and safe, and actually makes my skin feel amazing, WITHOUT breaking the bank.

So, here's my current line up:

Tao Malic Acid Cleanser: $16
For Normal/Combo skin types.
Real talk: It has a nice clean scent and makes your face tingle. My face feels SO good when I get done cleansing! (I also use it occasionally with my Clarisonic)

Breakout Buster Toner: $9.50
Again, very light scent. Tagged for oily skin.
Real talk: my breakouts are practically non existent. So it must work. Plus, I love a toner to feel like I am getting a true clean!

Vitamin C Cream: $16.00
For Dry and Normal/Combo Skin. I love that it absorbs and isn't too greasy. My face feels soft and moisturized! The Vitamin C is great for brightening and anti aging as well.

So, like I said, this is what I am using so far. I will undoubtedly be trying other products in their line up.  But after almost 6 months of use, I can say without hesitation, this is a GREAT product. Check around to see if you have anyone using it locally (samples first!) or go ahead and order off of their website!

Has anyone else tried any of their products? I am excited and want to tell everyone/hear other's experiences!

xoxo