Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Holiday Spirit

I haven't posted many holiday related posts this year. I'm going to accredit this to the rush of the holidays. I haven't had much time to paint my nails, compile a wishlist, or even just take pictures. But I have been having a blast in Florida this week and even though the weather is warm, I am still feeling the holiday spirit.

To see what I am up to daily, check out my Instagram.
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Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Jewelmint | Chaillot Necklace & Blanc Tassel Pendant

I decided I needed to update my jewelry collection with a couple of new winter pieces. A lot of my statement necklaces and longer pendants are more spring/summer in pastel and summery shades. I love Jewelmint as all their pieces are on trend, nice quality, and affordable. I decided to order the Chaillot Necklace and the Blanc Tassel Pendant.

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Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Sephora Haul

Don't you just love Sephora during the holidays? The gift sets, the minis, the $15 dollar rewards card... I admit I felt like I was missing out when the November sale came about being a mere BI, so I was pretty excited to get the reward email. Last year, I forwarded the email to my mom, so she could get me the Naked 3 palette at a discount (I promise I wasn't forcing her to buy me presents-I knew she was going to get it for me, so I thought I'd save her some money.) This year I decided to pick up another lust-worthy palette and some basics that I needed to stock up on.


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Monday, December 15, 2014

Travel Essentials | 10 Day Packing Guide Printable

I have a few posts here & there related to travel. With an upcoming holiday vacation approaching (which I am sure many of you are in the same boat!), I thought I would compile them all here as well as share my 10 Day Packing Guide. I am super excited about posting my first printable! I love little checklists, so I hope you love this one!

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Sunday, December 14, 2014

PopSugar Must Have | December 2014

What can I say-if there is a scarf spoiler (& a great promo) I will order it. The last PopSugar box I got was in September because, of course, it had a scarf. This month came with products perfect for the holiday season. I am really happy with the mix.

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Saturday, December 13, 2014

Birchbox | December 2014

Isn't the box beautiful? I am thinking of what I can store in this one & the BB Man version (I am always stealing Preston's box). I love the gold foil details and cobalt colour. The theme is 'Decked Out' which I can relate to as I am in a very festive mood.


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Saturday, December 6, 2014

Favourites | November Beauty

Last week was a whirlwind, so last month's favs is a bit delayed. A few new things mixed with some definite repeats-hey, they are favourites for a reason. 

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Wednesday, December 3, 2014

On Blogging...

Several months ago, I saw quite a few posts from other bloggers regarding the state of the blogging world/community, so to speak. To sum it up, they were discussing the change of blogging as a hobby to blogging as a profession. Over the last couple of years, blogging has actually turned into a viable profession. For many of these “professional” bloggers, what started as an outlet, a hobby, turned into a full-time job. To do this though, you have to delve into the PR, ads, and sponsored post world, and many felt it could be a difficult balance. It seems now that many people are starting blogs in hopes of it turning into a profitable career. I wanted to give my take on it as a fairly new blogger.


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Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Tatcha Holiday Collection | Kinhaku & Miyabi

Pretty boxes. Full of pretty things. I can't get over how gorgeous the limited edition Tatcha Holiday Gift sets are. There are nine sets, so you can definitely find the perfect gift for the skincare obsessive in your life. I have the Kinhaku and the Miyabi sets to show you.* Warning: The words gorgeous and luxurious are going to be thrown around quite a bit...

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Monday, December 1, 2014

Countdown to Christmas | David's Tea 24 Days of Tea

Well, hello December! I can't believe it's already time to open up door number one. I actually almost forgot. I am always very excited for the holidays. I love shopping for the perfect gift for someone (see my Gift Guide here), and I love taking the time to slow down and enjoy the company of friends & family. I had an amazing Thanksgiving weekend with my sister and little brothers exploring NYC and am now counting down the days 'til I head to Florida for a Christmas vacation.

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Saturday, November 29, 2014

Holiday | Starbucks Dot Collection

Something I may just love more than beauty products-coffee. I have quite the collection of mugs and always find myself falling in love with a new design. This year Starbucks has a huge collection of limited edition mugs, cups, and travel containers. I believe there's over 100 different designs in this Dot collection. So, there is a cup for every person on your list.

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Friday, November 28, 2014

Holiday | Too Faced 5 Star Favorites

Another Too Faced set, this one at a lower price point. Perfect for stuffing stockings or making your own gift baskets. Or for stocking up on your favourites in travel size...

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Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Holiday | Too Faced Everything Nice

Too Faced has some lovely holiday sets this year (as they do every year). This one just might be my favourite. It just has everything-shadows, blushes, bronzer, brushes, mascara, and a cute pouch. I think this would make a lovely gift for the make-up lover or someone new to make-up as it's all encompassing.

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Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Review | JustFab Lisander OTK Boots

I love the look of over-the-knee boots but couldn't seem to find a pair that were tall enough or skinny enough or would actually stay up the entire day. Until now. JustFab is a site I am pretty new too, but after seeing the Lisander boots, I thought I would take the gamble.

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Plated | A Food Subscription Service

I have been tempted to try a food subscription box for awhile now. What can I say, I love sub boxes. With a code from My Subscription Addiction (one of my favourite sites for all things sub box), I got two servings of two different meals. I chose the Butternut Squash Mac 'n Cheese with Kale and the Tofu Carnitas Burrito Bowls.

I love this box for several reasons. 1. It was so, so, so nice to have two dinners already figured out. I actually was happy to cook when coming home from work. 2. Both meals were delicious. I will definitely be trying them out again. I was worried that two servings would be just that, but I was pleasantly surprised to be able to have seconds and leftovers for lunch.

The menus change each week, and there is quite a bit of variety. If you are a vegetarian or have other dietary concerns, they are clearly labeled on the site. There aren't many vegan options, but the burrito bowls were.

I am excited to try Plated out again. If you are interested in trying it, you can follow my link here. And don't forget to use a code for some free meals!

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Monday, November 24, 2014

Holiday | Bite Beauty Best of Bite Set

Bite Beauty is a brand I am getting more and more obsessed with. After purchasing this little duo, I have wanted to add more shades to my collection. This set definitely caught my eye as I love the winter shades, and lip pencils are one of my favourite lip products.

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My First Video | Holiday Gift Guide


I can't believe it. I made a YouTube video and man was it difficult!

1. I was extremely nervous (does anyone like the sound of their own voice??)
2. My nice camera does not do video, so I tried a point & shoot-fail 
and then had to settle for an iPhone.
3. The white balance...is so off. 
4. Editing.is.so.tedious.awkward.jump.cuts.everywhere.
5. It takes forever to export & upload
(& then you find out it's wrong,  and you have to do it again.)

Plus, a million other things....

Okay, back to the video. It's a Holiday Gift Guide. I hope it's at least a bit helpful/entertaining/something. Most of the items have been (or will be) reviewed on here for some more in depth photos and descriptions. Here is a list of the products mentioned...

SugarPaper LA x Target
Candles


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Sunday, November 23, 2014

A Beautiful Mess Happy Mail | November 2014

I have been patiently waiting for a stationery subscription box, and of course, A Beautiful Mess delivers. I love their blog for cute DIYS and inspiration, so I was stoked that they are delving into the sub world. This box is "Happy Mail" which features cards and other stationery items. There is also a "Messy Box" in the works for crafting.

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Saturday, November 22, 2014

Birchbox | November 2014

This month's Birchbox theme is 'Giving', and they partnered with (RED) to raise money and awareness for fighting AIDS.  I love that they are donating $1 for every photo of the mailer that features facts about the syndrome.

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Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Playing Tourist in NYC | Brooklyn

We love showing off our borough when we have friends & family come to town. It's a side to NYC that most people never see. Though, if you have been following my blog or Instagram, you have probably become familiar with Brooklyn Bridge Park, Park Slope, & Prospect Park. We were a little less hustle & bustle this day as the previous one in Manhattan was a long one.


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Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Playing Tourist in NYC | Manhattan

It's kind of amazing how infrequently Preston & I go into Manhattan for recreational purposes (not counting going to the office...) Having friends & family visit (especially NYC newbies) gives us the chance to play tourist for the day. We stopped by the usual destinations: Bryant Park, Rockefeller Center, Herald Square (including a detour through Koreatown), Grand Central, Times Square, Central Park, & Columbus Circle, which all had a holiday twist for the upcoming season.

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Friday, November 14, 2014

Three Leave-In Conditioners

As a kid, I needed a detangler spray. My hair was impossible to tame. Then, as a teen, I replaced it with using way-too-much conditioner. I've always just given up on my hair as something that is going to end up in a ponytail, as the only time it looks good is when I spend an hour heat styling and ain't nobody got time for that...

But now, I am hooked on leave-in treatments. It started with the much talked about it's a 10 miracle leave-in product.  The rich conditioner-in-spray-form kept my hair shiny and also prepped it for blow-drying (if I managed to have the time). It smells super amazing too. The only negative-the $20 price point for a small bottle. So when I ran out, I decided to try something new. YouTuber Rachel Talbott, talks about the Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla leave-in conditioner frequently, and when I spotted it in Target, I figured I'd give it a go. This one is similar to the "detanglers" of my childhood, with a liquid consistency. The light vanilla scent smells so good, and it lingers too. It's not as instantly hydrating feeling as the richer formulas, but it does seem to be effective. Finally, the newest addition to the leave-in rotation: the Proganix Quench Leave-In Moisture + Nourish. Like It's a 10, it's a cream formula. Ogx/Organix is my favourite affordable haircare brand, so I wanted to try this new line of "pro" products. I personally like to use both the latter together- I probably have too much fun spraying my hair after a shower....but they all smell so good!

Any favourite hair leave-ins? I would love to hear your recs!



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Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Beauty Trend | The 90's Lip

So, I am hearing this is a trend. And though most people are channeling one of the Jenner twin's looks (the only reality TV I don't watch is the Kardashians, so I am a bit out of that loop.), 90s lipstick to me is all about Monica and Rachel... Here are some of my favourite 90's nudes.


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Monday, November 10, 2014

Fall Fashion

We can all agree fall fashion is the best. Scarves & sweaters are my thing. I just wanted to share a few fall items I have been loving over the season.


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Sunday, November 9, 2014

Seven

Lots of NYC pics this week & a bit of stocking up for the holidays.

[Downtown trainings.]

[A busy fall week.]

[Rainy days...]

[...& nights.]

[Finally found some Sugar Paper LA x Target goods.]

[Viewing fall sunsets from the roof.]

[& lighting wintery scents.]

Hope you have a good week!
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Saturday, November 8, 2014

Birchbox Limited Edition Box | Home Sweet Homespun

The holidays are approaching! I have decided to start Christmas shopping early this year, as we have quite a lot planned in the next few weeks, and I don't want to feel even more rushed than I already do! Birchbox has several options for limited edition boxes which are perfect gifts for the holidays. Last  year, I bought the Snow Day box which is one of my favourite BB purchases. The Home Sweet Homespun box is a very similar concept-lifestyle items with a touch of beauty included.


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Monday, November 3, 2014

Haul | Target OneSpot Stationery

I am always rooting through the Target dollar section. Usually just picking up a few things here and there, but every once in awhile finding a lot of great things. Target may be a bit early with the holiday items, but I just couldn't help it. Now I feel thoroughly stocked up for wrapping.

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Sunday, November 2, 2014

Seven

I already shared a bit of my weekend in my latest post, but I thought I'd make it the whole week with this Seven.


 [Halloween Filo & Loving these Wet n Wild Gloss Stains (review soon!)]

 [The only mask I wore this Halloween.]

 [Rainy day in the Slope.]

 [Yup, it's back!(See last year's in depth here)]

 [NYC Marathon. I love that we can watch it every year as it's right outside our front door.]

 [Perfectly coloured leaves.]

[The wind in my hair-is an understatement.]

How was your Hallo-week?
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The Weekend | First days of November

I can't hold in my excitement for this time of year. All October, every post seemed to revolve around Autumn, and I doubt that will let up until the first snow fall. This weekend was all about long walks in the crisp Autumn air, crunching rainbows of leaves, and dressing warmly. The upcoming weeks are packed with activities as family and the holidays are coming, so it's nice to take a step back.

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Friday, October 31, 2014

Favourites | October Beauty 2014

Well then, hellogoodbye to October. It seems fall is still here though so all is well. It's crazy to think the holidays are rapidly approaching. I have to admit I am super excited, but I definitely can wait. This year needs to slow down. I was just joking to Preston that old movies used to quote 2015 as the year for flying cars and such. Anywayyy back to the beauty. Not too many new favourites this month as I am quite enjoying my routine.


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Thursday, October 30, 2014

Nail Art | Sugar Skulls

Happy Halloween!!! [Almost.] I have some cute little skelly-friends on my nails today. I saw this picture on Instagram and knew I had to try it out. Obviously, not even close to as good (Pshiiit Polish is ah-mazing!), but I love them. And if you are willing to let them be a bit imperfect, it doesn't take long to do. You just need a dotting tool.

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Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Birchbox Man | November

I may have just sold Preston on my love of Birchbox. He is a super low-maintenance guy and figured he wouldn't be able to use all the fancy grooming products, but so far Birchbox has been right on the mark. Our first BB Man box was October, and we decided to get another month. So, I thought I would share. The theme this month is "On a Mission."

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Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Nail Art | A Subtle Fade

I love fall nail polish and sometimes face a bit of a dilemma when having to choose a colour. This gradient features two of my favourite fall berry shades, Zoya Monica and Zoya Margo, for a super subtle fade effect.

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Monday, October 27, 2014

A $5 Too Faced Pretty Rebel Dupe

When I spotted this little elf set at Walgreens, I was excited. The colours looked so pretty, and for only five dollars, it was a steal. I was impressed that the set featured good mix of neutrals and jeweltones in fun combinations. It wasn't until I came home that it dawned on me....I already have these shades. No wonder I was so impressed with the colours; the same thoughts rolled in my head when I purchased the Too Faced Pretty Rebel palette. I couldn't help but laugh at my beauty junkie moment- I basically bought the same exact palette.

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Sunday, October 26, 2014

A Little Sunday Routine

I try to use Sunday as a bit of a catch-up day. Monday-Friday is all about work, and Saturday I try to have one fun activity planned (Plus, spending the whole night catching up on my Coursera classes. School, I can't quit you.) This Sunday has been spent catching up on the blog, but I am penciling in some time to relax. Here are a few of the products that are on the agenda.

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Seven

It has been a long, long time since I did a Seven. I had been blogging more regularly for awhile so it seemed redundant, followed by adding a full-time job to the schedule which seriously reduced my picture taking quota. I am still trying to find that work/life/hobby/learning/cleaning/friends/boyfriend/relaxation balance, but there are never enough hours in the day it seems...

[Going through this adorable list from Strange & Charmed as activity inspiration]

[Tested out this recipe from Nouvelle Daily. Yum.]

[Reuniting with old friends :] ]

[Can't get enough of the fall air.]

[Going to work isn't too bad with this view.]

[A festive weekend of Dino BBQ & Book of Life]

[& of course, pumpkin carving.]

Are you up to anything fun this Halloween?
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