tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64580365213294764522024-03-13T08:19:09.801-04:00Good Red HerringDanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.comBlogger1077125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-71557329910091018082022-02-02T11:32:00.003-05:002022-02-02T11:32:42.351-05:00Comparison is the thief of joy, or "is everyone resting without me?"<div><p>It's not often that I find myself in a place to say that Facebook changed my entire existence, but apparently that's the mindfuck in which we find ourselves cause ~2022~.<br /><br />I don't talk about it a ton, mostly because who needs to hear it from another rando on the internet, but I workout. Consistently and maybe often (depending on your definition of often) both because Trump's election in 2016 fucked with my head, and because the pandemic onset in 2020 left me with a desperate desire to have some tiny morsel of control over my life/have markers for the beginning and end of my work day. As someone who gets bored easily I've run through a few different programs throughout the years, and in 2019 found myself drawn to the philosophy behind <a href="https://nobsapp.co.uk/" target="_blank">NOBS</a>, created by Lucy Mountain. But even with the allure of no body transformation pictures and a focus on strengthening yourself with a customizeable program, weight training was a hard sell. It's repetitive and boring and at times just hard with what feels like no reward (yes, yes, increased strength and functional mobility is GREAT but with no endorphins it all just feels like sweat and pain to me. Don't @ me). Only recently though has a post brought to my attention that maybe I'm just doing it in a way that's not wrong, but certainly not the best for my personal goals. <br /><br />In the connected Facebook group, a fellow NOBS home guide follower asked about a move and what muscle she was supposed to be feeling/working during it. Y'all, the comments. THE COMMENTS. 90% of them were just people saying they hated it/couldn't do it/replaced it with another move because the one instructed didn't work, to the point where even Lucy Mountain said she was considering switching it out because the feedback was so poor. I'm not sure what it says about me that I never thought NOT doing the move was an option. I just went ahead and followed the instructions as given, even if I was miserable in the moment, because if I <i>could</i> do it that means I <i>should</i> be doing it? Right? <br /><br />I've spent a good part of the pandemic finding body positive instructors, often fat, mostly women, of a variety of disciplines, and taken their classes. Listened to their words on life, how they navigated the often toxic culture around movement, and how to appreciate one's body for what it can do but also balancing that against what you want to do with it. If I don't want to feel super sore for the next 48hrs, or fuck, if I'm just tired/not interested, maybe taking it easy is the path that works best for me and there is no inherent moral value in the decision.<br /></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOUpNbEUH010GFEIsKrJb4V7sFnFq8OFmT9CFfCVTSkoD2IHjh9SQ0SHQxiL7U8JwW3qAoY8laeBin1glDJf5Juy1nsyJzQWcn5RmcBPAMXUgnLlVvMr1mcXP4Y-WJsp9C-HbmblUf0rNq3cWo05b7jtuYsTGH7LMkPTFamoXy9EBL1HNRxTZ9T_dipQ=s220" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="146" data-original-width="220" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOUpNbEUH010GFEIsKrJb4V7sFnFq8OFmT9CFfCVTSkoD2IHjh9SQ0SHQxiL7U8JwW3qAoY8laeBin1glDJf5Juy1nsyJzQWcn5RmcBPAMXUgnLlVvMr1mcXP4Y-WJsp9C-HbmblUf0rNq3cWo05b7jtuYsTGH7LMkPTFamoXy9EBL1HNRxTZ9T_dipQ" width="220" /></a><br /></div><p>And the impetus for this post was just how majorly this realization came to a head during my recent run following Yoga with Adriene's 30 Days of Yoga. I always have a kind of a push pull with these, because there's always a point where I am just tired and don't want to fucking hold another plank even if my life depended on it, but it all really bummed me out this year. Adriene's verbiage on "think about how you face hard things" or to "whisper to yourself I am strong" didn't hold a candle to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bodyposibarre/" target="_blank">Natalie (of BodyPosiBarre</a>) telling her classes to thank their bodies for what they did for us today. It paled even more in comparison to the post-it of rapidly scribbled words I've had taped to my monitor for the past year:<br /><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKVnMr6Y4RHATa8B51ic8OVe94GT73W_BKTVX2S6haqPLvSwXDJNsKyxhq32doBnYJsrIuRgkH_eVihXWDMvDub5O7U0DT0PQMMbpUzl2NjuPPnYa2JKdOyx3WvWXLBJCq_Y59j24mhbgROElXPT8PWyPYkfPjqf7duoTgoP6nTMglg7rFCdqvfN3bsw=s3268"><img border="0" data-original-height="2347" data-original-width="3268" height="461" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKVnMr6Y4RHATa8B51ic8OVe94GT73W_BKTVX2S6haqPLvSwXDJNsKyxhq32doBnYJsrIuRgkH_eVihXWDMvDub5O7U0DT0PQMMbpUzl2NjuPPnYa2JKdOyx3WvWXLBJCq_Y59j24mhbgROElXPT8PWyPYkfPjqf7duoTgoP6nTMglg7rFCdqvfN3bsw=w640-h461" width="640" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>"If you are practicing, and finding joy in your practice, then you are perfect."</b><br /></div><br /><div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/fringeish/?hl=en" target="_blank">Shannon of Fringeish</a>, another yoga teacher I found on Instagram, said this is in a Live with<a href="https://www.instagram.com/roomtobeyoga/?hl=en" target="_blank"> Jill of Room to Be Yoga</a> and it rocked my world a little bit. Not every bit of movement I do is joyful, but I would like to find a place where the majority of it is, and holding my knee to my chest in plank trying to "tick tock it" back and forth just like Adriene, and failing, is not it. I think that in the absence of group classes and the ability to well, judge, my ability against my peers, the only thing I can follow is the program or the instructor and I don't know how to not do that at 150%. I don't know how to find my own path in the thing that I'm doing, how hard I should be working, and I am very bad at resting. But I'm starting to get the feeling that this is a me thing, and that it's not what other people do. <br /><br />I'm not sure it's very radical to say I don't know how other people workout, but I'm not sure I do? Like in this world of extremes, what does the average person feel when they're moving their body intentionally? I don't have endorphins during or after a workout, so do other people feel tired or angry or sometimes miserable (I'm working on not doing things that make me miserable, just FYI)? I guess I just always went in to something thinking that if I could do it as shown I could, even if it was really hard or wasn't fun. Isn't that like all working out? Because so far the only thing I've successfully quit is Couch to 5K, and that was because I deliberately told my brain when I went in that if I didn't like it I was "allowed" to stop. And now I'm suddenly worried that I'm the strange one and had no idea because we only have comparisons for the best and worst, not the average person who just wants to move their bodies sometimes. <br /></div>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-74997986794791446902022-01-07T11:10:00.001-05:002022-01-07T11:10:00.210-05:00Friday Book Club: 2021 Reads! Since I'm about to start a new read for 2022 (yeah, right), I thought it would be worth my while to at least pretend I had been consistently reviewing books throughout the year by creating a wrap up. Between new-to-me and re-reads I finished <b>58 books in 2021</b>. Nowhere near my best but also not as bad as 2020. <br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiQDtQg3c-KBc7_qMl2XL3UjFnPkMLoMsaeN5FJNMH9W5pzvCWdUilZCVDTTenEzfCr4xkpGkvMwY4Tnq_o4lSsJdcgL16zs-xSMZL_0svjDoCY3Zoq3YpOmtAfWECH-2ijHRswXHtkE_53jk81r518qSeReJGGNNdnFauwJxS3zZegYgNHNz5gohRcFg=s3300" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3300" data-original-width="2550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiQDtQg3c-KBc7_qMl2XL3UjFnPkMLoMsaeN5FJNMH9W5pzvCWdUilZCVDTTenEzfCr4xkpGkvMwY4Tnq_o4lSsJdcgL16zs-xSMZL_0svjDoCY3Zoq3YpOmtAfWECH-2ijHRswXHtkE_53jk81r518qSeReJGGNNdnFauwJxS3zZegYgNHNz5gohRcFg=s16000" /></a></div><br />What's probably most surprising looking at this collage is how many
books were just kind of in the miasma of the year and didn't make any
lasting impacts in my memory. Trying to pick from the new, I'd say my Top Picks were:<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0831QRN8T/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1" target="_blank"><u>Hench</u> by Natalie Zina Walschots</a><br /><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BNYYRK7/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1" target="_blank"><u>Morning Glory Milking Farm</u> by C.M. Nascosta</a><br /><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fated-Blades-Ilona-Andrews-ebook/dp/B09G9VJTKT" target="_blank"><u>Fates Blades</u> by Ilona Andrews</a><br /><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Soulmate-Equation-Christina-Lauren-ebook/dp/B08LDYBGJD" target="_blank"><u>The Soulmate Equation</u> by Christina Lauren</a></b></span><br /><br />And while it feels a little anathema, I'd still have to say <b><u>Hench</u></b> was the must read book of the year. I remember what it was like to get sucked in to that book and just be absolutely blown away by how it portrayed women, anger, disability and perceived weakness, while also being incredibly kick ass. As in Violent with a capital "v". You've been warned. <br /><br />(<a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/09/26/917017722/hench-counts-the-cost-of-those-high-powered-superhero-battles" target="_blank"><b>Jessica P. Wick at NPR</b></a> has a much more thorough review if you'd like to read actual thoughts and feelings about the book. Sorry I suck.)<br /><p></p>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-922833425217947202021-12-27T14:30:00.001-05:002021-12-27T14:30:16.544-05:002020 - 2021 Annual Wardrobe Round Up / 2022 Resolutions<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjvH_uCwoBLJAqU5CW1xa1wKSu6OIRlAEbK5kwOiG71daCLRHoJ2zlT-z_-KUZMAYRpGefIFqwJOhBrGanrAqdrzSJHlvt2vSocMUSU_85LmVI5_hqFJjOXGjL6Cfuto104tt23Ds8Dmm8_Gs_9BLFUk63sxJESw876fYjcMxKkiM5dD7W9U1--tOHlgw=s1528" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjvH_uCwoBLJAqU5CW1xa1wKSu6OIRlAEbK5kwOiG71daCLRHoJ2zlT-z_-KUZMAYRpGefIFqwJOhBrGanrAqdrzSJHlvt2vSocMUSU_85LmVI5_hqFJjOXGjL6Cfuto104tt23Ds8Dmm8_Gs_9BLFUk63sxJESw876fYjcMxKkiM5dD7W9U1--tOHlgw=s16000" /></a></div><br /> Well y'all, we've reached the end of another year, and another clothing resolution wrap-up.<br /><br />My intentions were to catalog my wardrobe with the SmartCloset app, and buy no more than 60 individual clothing items. The TLDR of the SC story is I like uniformity in projects that ask for pictures and it became impossible. Every time I tried to attack a section it was hours of Googling for product photos and them removing extraneous model and background bits, or planning it around a time when I could lay out the piece of clothing in my apartment and THEN deleting the background, etc. <br /><br />Me no likely. <br /><br />I am tentatively contemplating whether a bare bones spreadsheet would be better, especially since I’m moving. I think the wishy washy-ness of it all is whether I now consider it a worthy goal at all. I love those Instagramers who use SC (or similar apps) to easily create outfits and then show how it transforms into real life. But I neither post often enough, or with enough day to day outfits, to make it feel like the time necessary to get it up and running would be a good use of the hours. I do not consider myself a clothing minimalist or maximalist. There is no magic number I want to “hit” so other than an exercise to make sure that I am intimately aware of each and every item of clothing I own, it’s almost… neutral in terms of usefulness? We’ll see. I’m hesitant to set myself up for another miss, but also excited to just move my clothing out into new and more closets that should actually give me the chance to see everything. Doing small seasonal switches helped, but I think this will be even better.<br /><br />Next up is the biggie, which was to purchase no more than 20% less in number of clothing items than last year, which would have been 60 pieces. I actually ended the year at 64. Which was shocking to me mostly because I WAS A DUMB DUMB AND MESSED UP MY SPREADSHEET. So I've been sitting here for the past month feeling like a failure (even though CostumingDrama says you can't fail a goal, which is true) when in reality I'm only over cause I went thrifting last April and I'm still judging the results. This is the first time I've ever tried to set a limit, and while I didn't make it, I would call 4 items well within the margin of error and makes me feel like I have more control over myself/my wardrobe, than I had gone into the year feeling. <br /><p></p><p>(I also took the liberty for my own edification to track not just the number of items, but the cost, which I won’t be sharing here but maybe horrified me. A little. I’d never actually done that part before, but felt like living in ignorance wasn’t the better way to go.) <br /></p><p><br />Another thing I learned more about this year was my relationship to thrifting, online specifically. I was following a lot of vintage/second hand clothing accounts in 2020 and I can’t say that anything I purchased via those channels were particularly long lasting in my closet. I don’t know what it is about the fact that I know my measurements and sh*t STILL doesn’t fit or looks different on my plus size body vs the example plus size body, but it’s a bummer. I know that it’s “better” to take clothing out of circulation vs buying new from even ethical/sustainable brands, but this non-returnable, do or die, decision required for vintage shopping is NOT IT. I need to try things on. I need to be able to see the viability of pieces, especially when you consider that I can alter things somewhat myself. But I barely even manage success buying secondhand things from brands I know my size in (looking at you Poshmark and the two LOFT jumpsuits I bought in 2020 that were both fails). I don’t think buying secondhand but ending up with pieces that I then have to re-home is particularly sustainable either (let alone for my budget), so I might have to accept that that percentage will go down in 2022.<br /><br />So the question becomes, what about the next year? As I said previously I may try to catalog my wardrobe, I may not. We’ll see. But I do think having the goal, as hard as it was, was good for me. So I’m gonna bring it back, 60 items – but the twist is that to account for how I went over last year I’m going to subtract my overage right from the top. Is this is a terrible idea? PROBABLY WHO KNOWS. But I so infrequently wear real clothes that even the pieces I buy and love aren’t being appreciated enough. I’m really looking at a wardrobe of clothing for a life I no longer live and don’t know when I’ll live again, as depressing as that sounds. I’m very concerned that the middle ground I had between athleisure and fun/fancy dresses is gone and other than work there might be a big chunk of clothing that won’t be worn regularly. But to dwell too long on that lies madness and tears, so let’s just keep trying. Keep going in the direction of a wardrobe/closet I love and is useful to me, and if I can continue to try new brands doing good things in terms of both style and size inclusivity, that’d be great too. <br /><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBfhbAE79i4Q8ECPhAI8RHFNw_eBoawlorH7mwIZC9i_QWZQOqZu_ru6fS_0cy0lBsD4ci2l6DFocgxcAqxqWxvTKSXWwDobH75PRDBklbEHuG5c2hrZa_4JW7qq2AqLxsljy7tR3rx65cZq4HYqiKUlYKfBcJq4Xm8bWtDB3AYgErpl03Ytsm6l5eZg=s2076" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2076" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBfhbAE79i4Q8ECPhAI8RHFNw_eBoawlorH7mwIZC9i_QWZQOqZu_ru6fS_0cy0lBsD4ci2l6DFocgxcAqxqWxvTKSXWwDobH75PRDBklbEHuG5c2hrZa_4JW7qq2AqLxsljy7tR3rx65cZq4HYqiKUlYKfBcJq4Xm8bWtDB3AYgErpl03Ytsm6l5eZg=w208-h400" width="208" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMOYl3VcJFs7ejUDQ66r9MFJg-drewL-e_pyDQ9ldeKPD3-CfFxbhjeduM5BE6vJuEg-eus3tTE8ZVRhoTXF48tFJ-ppHx3BafV_LxLpOUgO7YiioP-r6T1EiGXEuk9e4OZKatdTOTbmNL7fo_-dM8Z8sWHsUD_yNcjBN_9bceX3Jdx6Y8Plps2eRJHQ=s2076" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2076" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMOYl3VcJFs7ejUDQ66r9MFJg-drewL-e_pyDQ9ldeKPD3-CfFxbhjeduM5BE6vJuEg-eus3tTE8ZVRhoTXF48tFJ-ppHx3BafV_LxLpOUgO7YiioP-r6T1EiGXEuk9e4OZKatdTOTbmNL7fo_-dM8Z8sWHsUD_yNcjBN_9bceX3Jdx6Y8Plps2eRJHQ=w208-h400" width="208" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJbKF2JfnlR9LyExCqn5m3OfmWCL7YPogDw4Zp_vkElcUpZuDsNnJHiSfd14Gh1diMsjKTerz3tYdK2Je3E8Nj_vfQxXKOhTIYPAXikQj41EeEwN-lLC8NAWrZAZU2y0nXcCGSwe3TlKEWd9NR0zCm36i3ofLB_PT9qcB-FYU56lEoBD5N5rJAlkeIZw=s2076" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2076" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJbKF2JfnlR9LyExCqn5m3OfmWCL7YPogDw4Zp_vkElcUpZuDsNnJHiSfd14Gh1diMsjKTerz3tYdK2Je3E8Nj_vfQxXKOhTIYPAXikQj41EeEwN-lLC8NAWrZAZU2y0nXcCGSwe3TlKEWd9NR0zCm36i3ofLB_PT9qcB-FYU56lEoBD5N5rJAlkeIZw=w208-h400" width="208" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTzq0nPTLajLemolSdEaRa3qKTpRLjRDUPJEg3f8TY0ks401JOLmKHXgjaz7a94MpABD1IZafoaUVmWcGStHAMRbJJdMKDn2VgAkF6z3VnMWAn51j5WQbittFCMs1vIK_DD7vGdBAUYWW3WAx4scCSd6GgTZzHAdqRN3w2RCIVdBEn3MAKYnEaXs5GEg=s2076" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2076" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTzq0nPTLajLemolSdEaRa3qKTpRLjRDUPJEg3f8TY0ks401JOLmKHXgjaz7a94MpABD1IZafoaUVmWcGStHAMRbJJdMKDn2VgAkF6z3VnMWAn51j5WQbittFCMs1vIK_DD7vGdBAUYWW3WAx4scCSd6GgTZzHAdqRN3w2RCIVdBEn3MAKYnEaXs5GEg=w208-h400" width="208" /></a></div><br /></div>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-57882231518653790752021-07-25T16:15:00.002-04:002021-07-25T16:15:47.349-04:00a cliche for a reason<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6js-xo7WT4/YP3B5Cmi9zI/AAAAAAABS7g/IUo7yY3fuLofUduiekoQIzNDyesqxfmYgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC05012.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6js-xo7WT4/YP3B5Cmi9zI/AAAAAAABS7g/IUo7yY3fuLofUduiekoQIzNDyesqxfmYgCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/DSC05012.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nS2dV_HQtbA/YP3CMTTJEgI/AAAAAAABS7o/gbYvH6qNg-4aBABprqWg_58GJktXKIkVwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC05033.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nS2dV_HQtbA/YP3CMTTJEgI/AAAAAAABS7o/gbYvH6qNg-4aBABprqWg_58GJktXKIkVwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/DSC05033.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t6sBFxnBDsQ/YP3Ct9g6YQI/AAAAAAABS7w/fOOX6nSZYVIF5cJFjfI3vnxV5AQJXXgvQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC05049.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t6sBFxnBDsQ/YP3Ct9g6YQI/AAAAAAABS7w/fOOX6nSZYVIF5cJFjfI3vnxV5AQJXXgvQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/DSC05049.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wMVG9VRfrL8/YP3C_qjndSI/AAAAAAABS74/GjwYfKTrmtUxWPQFM-kszcHRBhXscDd-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC05047.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wMVG9VRfrL8/YP3C_qjndSI/AAAAAAABS74/GjwYfKTrmtUxWPQFM-kszcHRBhXscDd-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/DSC05047.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gtf2hK3l7B4/YP3DPQOvZyI/AAAAAAABS78/8L7KNgR9I4E7qzSqTajjw2qvu8QEixUTwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC05064.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1285" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gtf2hK3l7B4/YP3DPQOvZyI/AAAAAAABS78/8L7KNgR9I4E7qzSqTajjw2qvu8QEixUTwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/DSC05064.jpg" /></a><center><b>Top: </b>Elexiay (1X, Poshmark) ~ <b>Pants: </b>Zara (XL, Poshmark) ~ <b>Earrings</b>: Katerina Makriyianni (The Outnet) ~<b> Boots: </b>Aldo<br /></center><br /></div>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-48551280060432850602021-05-14T11:16:00.006-04:002021-05-14T11:24:37.035-04:00Half Caked - First Impressions (& all the pictures!)<p>I know that things have been very makeup heavy around here lately, and I'll go back to outfit/other content eventually, but please indulge me while I introduce another new to me brand, <a href="https://halfcaked.com/" target="_blank"><b>Half Caked</b></a>!<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IHLYt6MgQQM/YJWo5D3wCEI/AAAAAAABQ2E/UdkN1ozLdaQZcgeznmq-vRgrx1zw4g8FQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_Intro%2BVer%2B1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1860" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IHLYt6MgQQM/YJWo5D3wCEI/AAAAAAABQ2E/UdkN1ozLdaQZcgeznmq-vRgrx1zw4g8FQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Intro%2BVer%2B1.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tjFFG6ALCqY/YJWpy7Ex73I/AAAAAAABQ2Q/5zlSqd8tFSYwXLjjnTrxdyQKF4vmh3_ywCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_All.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1723" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tjFFG6ALCqY/YJWpy7Ex73I/AAAAAAABQ2Q/5zlSqd8tFSYwXLjjnTrxdyQKF4vmh3_ywCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_All.jpg" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(And yes, I felt pretty much compelled to do a photo shoot with my childhood Polly Pockets, have you LOOKED AT THAT PACKAGING?!)</span></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j_xh07BObf8/YJ6JQb43L1I/AAAAAAABREo/U8tJKc1q_GsmY3VIp413F69yLsrqDvCwwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_Candy_Paints.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1869" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j_xh07BObf8/YJ6JQb43L1I/AAAAAAABREo/U8tJKc1q_GsmY3VIp413F69yLsrqDvCwwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Candy_Paints.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://halfcaked.com/collections/candy-paint-1" target="_blank"><b>Half Caked Candy Paint Lip & Cheek Tint</b></a>,<b> $8-$9</b></span></i><br /></div><div><br />Now normally I wouldn't buy five products at one time, but I admit I'm a little desensitized to what is "normal" and their VERY reasonable base price combined with a 10% off coupon code I found online was too much for me, lol. The <b><a href="https://halfcaked.com/collections/lip-fondant/products/hotter-than-wasabi" target="_blank">Lip Fondant</a></b> was an unexpected gift with purchase. <br /><br />This would usually be where I throw a billion high resolution pictures at you, and they'll still be below, but <b>SPOILER ALERT</b>: these products are fine. The blushes are more pigmented than expected but blend really easily, and yet I'm still a little heartbroken that nothing I bought was the dupe for Kjaer Weis Sun-Touched the way I wanted it to be (sweat drop smiley face). <b>Coolness</b>, the bronzer/contour shade in purple packaging, is *cool*. Like so cool that I actually can't use it as a bronzer at all, though I'll probably continue to experiment with it as a proper contour (I put together a quick couple of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/goodredherring/" target="_blank">Stories on Instagram</a>, comparing it to the Salt New York in Medium if you're interested). <br /><br />If you don't mind the slight unknown of ordering online, my opinion is to go for it! But maybe narrow it down to like, three, max, because there are so many wonderful blushes out there to try ;).<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Packaging P0rn</b></span><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-suL1-BIGlrA/YJ6OicenHQI/AAAAAAABREw/kzqAoDGaKI0SFa6CrrE3ouY1D99iYE1igCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_Candy_Paint_Coolness.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1725" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-suL1-BIGlrA/YJ6OicenHQI/AAAAAAABREw/kzqAoDGaKI0SFa6CrrE3ouY1D99iYE1igCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Candy_Paint_Coolness.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eTDKdHG6fmc/YJ6On-A5wuI/AAAAAAABRE0/CV5rsCPdTVwF2JsmhSrIHm4ManYBVzCJwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_Candy_Paint_American_Pie.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1670" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eTDKdHG6fmc/YJ6On-A5wuI/AAAAAAABRE0/CV5rsCPdTVwF2JsmhSrIHm4ManYBVzCJwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Candy_Paint_American_Pie.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-25VZwR1sufU/YJ6OtDFfxcI/AAAAAAABRE4/Xrgj7goGUpAYG7zK2jSOLq66mLJEUcDbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_Candy_Paint_Club_Paradise.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1824" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-25VZwR1sufU/YJ6OtDFfxcI/AAAAAAABRE4/Xrgj7goGUpAYG7zK2jSOLq66mLJEUcDbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Candy_Paint_Club_Paradise.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gQ8nQIuTPE0/YJ6OxYSoVGI/AAAAAAABRE8/1ezNdq-YPSU3fDoXrjffzsQFUtP360VZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_Candy_Paint_Disco_Lemonade.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1933" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gQ8nQIuTPE0/YJ6OxYSoVGI/AAAAAAABRE8/1ezNdq-YPSU3fDoXrjffzsQFUtP360VZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Candy_Paint_Disco_Lemonade.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eT9RbC57BBw/YJ6O1mmQ6oI/AAAAAAABRFE/4hZ-ghD29VcBo0vU92_VvsUzWYyE6lU1ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_Candy_Paint_Millions_of_Peaches.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1734" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eT9RbC57BBw/YJ6O1mmQ6oI/AAAAAAABRFE/4hZ-ghD29VcBo0vU92_VvsUzWYyE6lU1ACLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Candy_Paint_Millions_of_Peaches.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9aASZZf0zDc/YJ6PdcnGvKI/AAAAAAABRFo/-yM4goav0wAfd6tS0xmw7huD2oww-rSEQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_Lip_Fondant_Hotter_Than_Wasabi.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1896" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9aASZZf0zDc/YJ6PdcnGvKI/AAAAAAABRFo/-yM4goav0wAfd6tS0xmw7huD2oww-rSEQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Lip_Fondant_Hotter_Than_Wasabi.jpg" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Swatches</span><br /></span></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aNJYeNWvNGo/YJ6PALrP_AI/AAAAAAABRFI/Y-X5-E0IbEEgE5f4MCt724p-x3OFV7IqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_Candy_Paints_Blush_Swatches.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2047" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aNJYeNWvNGo/YJ6PALrP_AI/AAAAAAABRFI/Y-X5-E0IbEEgE5f4MCt724p-x3OFV7IqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Candy_Paints_Blush_Swatches.jpg" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8EIKmx2RN78/YJ6PJG4Eh0I/AAAAAAABRFY/kG1OA5X6AfoVKX2HoV5TcYIjpxPSGQMGwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1974/Half_Caked_Candy_Paints_Bronzer_Swatch.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1788" data-original-width="1974" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8EIKmx2RN78/YJ6PJG4Eh0I/AAAAAAABRFY/kG1OA5X6AfoVKX2HoV5TcYIjpxPSGQMGwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Candy_Paints_Bronzer_Swatch.jpg" /></a></div><br /></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OD0BuzoxD8Q/YJ6T-cz7hII/AAAAAAABRGA/9zdypsioFTIRcs5vOLNhq0wkBvKM3nOIACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Half_Caked_Candy_Paints_All_Swatches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1303" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OD0BuzoxD8Q/YJ6T-cz7hII/AAAAAAABRGA/9zdypsioFTIRcs5vOLNhq0wkBvKM3nOIACLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Half_Caked_Candy_Paints_All_Swatches.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></span>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-49402791574076455982021-04-20T12:59:00.000-04:002021-04-20T12:59:44.772-04:00FitGlow Beauty Conceal+ - First Impressions and Comparisons<p>Long time no blog! I'm not going to apologize really, it's 2021 and my sense of hope and/or optimism is rapidly fading. BUT. What hasn't faded is my desire to provide accurate swatches on the internet that are easily accessible to other Brown skin girls, because when I want to buy a new-to-me product blog posts are my ride or die. Which is why today we're going to do a quick run down of a handful of samples from <a href="https://fitglowbeauty.com/" target="_blank"><b>FitGlow Beauty</b></a>.<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7hyonYa2D5s/YH78A1E-w_I/AAAAAAABQLE/RUHvWoMUZw4URLiG5RxJx1NDaFeDCzKyACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/FitGlow-Beauty-Samples-Flatlay%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2015" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7hyonYa2D5s/YH78A1E-w_I/AAAAAAABQLE/RUHvWoMUZw4URLiG5RxJx1NDaFeDCzKyACLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/FitGlow-Beauty-Samples-Flatlay%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b><a href="https://fitglowbeauty.com/products/try-me-sample-bag?_pos=1&_sid=c47e0648f&_ss=r" target="_blank">Try Me Sample Bag</a>; $29 + FREE Shipping (Save 20% with the code <span style="color: red;">FITGLOWFAM</span>)<br /></b></i></span><br /></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h25IQndM45Y/YH7-H0n5S0I/AAAAAAABQLM/b7OgNT0vaZQboHYz4E0Ug7R37hQB7UwEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/FitGlow-Beauty-Samples%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h25IQndM45Y/YH7-H0n5S0I/AAAAAAABQLM/b7OgNT0vaZQboHYz4E0Ug7R37hQB7UwEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/FitGlow-Beauty-Samples%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b><a href="https://fitglowbeauty.com/products/try-me-sample-bag?_pos=1&_sid=c47e0648f&_ss=r" target="_blank">Try Me Sample Bag</a>; $29 + FREE Shipping (Save 20% with the code <span style="color: red;">FITGLOWFAM</span>)</b></i></span></div><div><br />I love sampling programs. Full stop. I don't mind paying for the privilege to know whether a product will work for me, and I don't have to spend any additional shipping time on returns or replacements. And in the case of these particular concealers, if they DO work for you, it's a generous enough sample that you're not going to need to purchase the full size for a little while. <br /><br />FitGlow Beauty's program allows buyers to choose six samples from a wide range of their makeup and skincare products. As you can see from my pictures, <a href="https://fitglowbeauty.com/products/conceal" target="_blank"><b>Conceal+</b></a> samples are in 5g snap lid plastic containers, with <a href="https://fitglowbeauty.com/products/lip-colour-serum" target="_blank"><b>Lip Colour Serums</b></a> coming in minis of their full size compatriots. Pro is that these are clearly easy to pack on their end, Con is that the concealers had that slight plastic-y smell that for some cream products indicate that they're near the end of their shelf life (though as an unfragranced product, the concealer just may smell like this all the time due to the wax and oils in their ingredients deck).<br /><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-apZ-gEYfQdw/YH8AKeiX93I/AAAAAAABQLY/9dtzwTFcdR4EvT7u9kEfX_Z82P2LgP1kgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/FitGlow-Beauty-Conceal%252B-Samples%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1787" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-apZ-gEYfQdw/YH8AKeiX93I/AAAAAAABQLY/9dtzwTFcdR4EvT7u9kEfX_Z82P2LgP1kgCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/FitGlow-Beauty-Conceal%252B-Samples%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://fitglowbeauty.com/products/conceal" target="_blank">Conceal+</a> in Shades C3 (Medium), C3.5 (Medium Tan), C4.5 (Deep Tan), C5 (Deep); $42 (Save 20% with the code <span style="color: red;">FITGLOWFAM</span>)</b></span></i><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9tP3chJeFWg/YH8AqrSLt0I/AAAAAAABQLg/q-ZgyMXyrQ8FQ3IgYT19WF2-7IUMx88CQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/FitGlow-Beauty-Conceal%252B-Swatches%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2020" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9tP3chJeFWg/YH8AqrSLt0I/AAAAAAABQLg/q-ZgyMXyrQ8FQ3IgYT19WF2-7IUMx88CQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/FitGlow-Beauty-Conceal%252B-Swatches%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://fitglowbeauty.com/products/conceal" target="_blank">Conceal+</a> in Shades C3 (Medium), C3.5 (Medium Tan), C4.5 (Deep Tan), C5 (Deep); $42 (Save 20% with the code <span style="color: red;">FITGLOWFAM</span>)<br /></b></span></i></p><p><br />Upon my initial testing I was surprised by two things: 1) while the model examples of FitGlow's website aren't particularly helpful, <a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1571/7611/products/Conceal__Swatch_Guide_Update02_600x.jpg?v=1594649184">the color wheel </a>is relatively accurate to real life 2) this concealer COVERS. It definitely benefits from the ability to warm it up on your fingers, and a little goes a very long way. Unfortunately none of this did much for the fact that there isn't really a good match for me here. I can't say that with 100% conviction because Shade C4 wasn't available to sample at the time I purchased, but none of their offerings appear to have the yellow undertone I prefer to brighten throughout the center of my face. C3.5 is too gray for me and C4.5 was a decent face match outside the eye area, but the rarity with which I spot conceal means it's not something I'd use often. <br /><br />Still I hope these real life swatches help, especially for a brand that's online only. I also took the time to swatch some of the other concealers in my collection, though the ILIA and Kosas are the only ones I'm using right now with any regularity. Hashtag thanks-panini-none-of-my-makeup-suits-me-after-a-year-inside.<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OdPrX1BK8qs/YH8IOsqM0yI/AAAAAAABQL4/5eWBzVemJhEYJRtjUEKY5O6HjUahT_7wwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/FitGlow-Beauty-Comparisons%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1643" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OdPrX1BK8qs/YH8IOsqM0yI/AAAAAAABQL4/5eWBzVemJhEYJRtjUEKY5O6HjUahT_7wwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/FitGlow-Beauty-Comparisons%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Left to Right:<br /><a href="https://iliabeauty.com/products/chicory-sc1?variant=21457215389776&geoip=false&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9_mDBhCGARIsAN3PaFMNDAJ2SB1zUBywWfYQjT1fbnzSmJMnzwho380-hPgteGOwmlZxJyYaApPzEALw_wcB" target="_blank">ILIA True Skin Serum Concealer</a> in "Wasabi" ($30); <a href="https://kosas.com/products/revealer-concealer?currency=USD&variant=32907927781433&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Google%20Shopping&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9_mDBhCGARIsAN3PaFN5v9kT1ZDxSlla4Vry3Ke_dVz4s0TvXJnv6klY1QQ5TX1tu1uGJR0aAjSsEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Kosas Revealer Concealer</a> in "05" ($28); <a href="https://fitglowbeauty.com/products/conceal" target="_blank">FitGlow Beauty Conceal+</a> in C3, C3.5, C4.5, C5 ($42); <a href="https://www.patmcgrath.com/products/concealer?variant=31204859183173&glCountry=US&glCurrency=USD&utm_source=google&utm_medium=pla&utm_campaign=patmcgrath&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9_mDBhCGARIsAN3PaFOvVZgYFGuS7hpo_sCdMDszXMznH72sZJPxl8OsRGrg_VSMrerZ21saAjW4EALw_wcB" target="_blank">Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Sublime Concealer</a> in "LM14" ($32); <a href="https://www.cledepeaubeaute.com/concealer-spf-25/0730852141575.html?gclid=Cj0KCQjw9_mDBhCGARIsAN3PaFP2TmkVq7jC3NTElR-V8mzTImhLmrx4wbWjYXi9TmRtegyCn31OMvAaAsfCEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Clé de Peau Beauté Stick Concealer</a> in "Honey" ($73)</b></i></span><br /></p><p><br />Phew! All the things there. But I'm done - short and sweet because these didn't work for me, but I do hope this information helps you. And as always, if you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out and let me know!<br /></p>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-13538880712265721892021-02-03T10:05:00.023-05:002021-02-03T10:05:01.372-05:00What's a Honey Mask? A Head to Head (to Head) Review<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mEUrmUCNRbU/YBl5zglZblI/AAAAAAABMp8/4F9NI2hKu-A4Gw6rHAxIpOEtYo_wwQcbQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/honey%2Bmask_all_packaging.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1547" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mEUrmUCNRbU/YBl5zglZblI/AAAAAAABMp8/4F9NI2hKu-A4Gw6rHAxIpOEtYo_wwQcbQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/honey%2Bmask_all_packaging.jpg" /></a></div><p>I'm not sure what it says about me or my intelligence that I didn't think about writing this post sooner. Especially since (to be honest) I bought two of these after being inspired by all the hype around one. Oh well, c'est la vie, because today friends, we're talking about honey masks. <br /><br /><b>What is a honey mask?</b> I think it's best described not only by the prevalence of honey in the formula, but by the intended effects: hydration. Across the board honey masks are primarily intended to improve moisture/hydration levels in the user, which is why you'll see that and plumping in almost every description below. In my opinion/experience most aren't super "active" in terms of acids/exfoliation, and they can be left on the skin for long periods of time without concerns, especially in regards to potential irritation. Let me know if you have any questions, and I hope this gives you some idea of whether your skincare routine would benefit from one! <br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4tuYSuyoxw/YBl6s4MptJI/AAAAAAABMqM/x-2-ue7aInYpH6RRxESHIhw4so81SQaLwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/honey%2Bmask_all_interior.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1647" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4tuYSuyoxw/YBl6s4MptJI/AAAAAAABMqM/x-2-ue7aInYpH6RRxESHIhw4so81SQaLwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/honey%2Bmask_all_interior.jpg" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Clockwise from the bottom left: Hyaluronic Honey Mask, The Petal Honey, The Honey Mud</b></i></span><br /></div><br /><div><b><b>Product: </b></b>The Honey Mud<b><br />Brand:</b> May Lindstrom Skin<br /><b>Price:</b> $90 for 3.38 fl oz (<span style="color: red;">$26.63 per oz</span>)<br /><b>Description: </b><br /><i>An
exquisitely distinctive union of raw honey, silver, white halloysite
clay, and aromatic plant oils marry with our unique, natural exfoliating
acid to envelop you in an intoxicating and highly-addictive cleansing
and masking ritual.<br /><br />This cushy, luscious pudding frees you of the
day’s pollutants, infusing skin with enzymes as it plumps, softens, and
revives circulatory rhythm to restore optimal hydration and luminance.</i><br /><b>Recommended Time Worn:</b> Up to 60min <br /><b>Does it dry down? </b>Yes.<br /><b>Fragrance? </b>Yes,
via various essential oils and extracts (Cananga Odorata (Ylang-Ylang)
Oil, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense)
Oil, Commiphora Myrrha (Myrrh) Oil, Juniperus Virginiana (Cedarwood)
Oil, Citrus Sinensis (Orange) Peel Extract, Gaultheria Procumbens
(Wintergreen) Leaf Extract).<br /><b>Source: </b><a href="https://www.maylindstrom.com/collections/shop-all/products/the-honey-mud" target="_blank">May Lindstrom Skin</a><b><br />My Thoughts:</b> I'm not gonna call this mask the OG, but it's definitely the one that grabbed my attention first. Between Caroline Hirons and the various bloggers who were in love and sang its praises I knew I had to try it, almost (kind of) regardless of price point, but it was SOLD OUT. And it stayed sold out. And then to the horrors of almost everyone, it was announced that it was coming back "better than ever" aka reformulated. In other words I can't compare this to the original Honey Mud, only speak to how it works in its current iteration, and generally that opinion is "like, but don't love". Or maybe not <br />"don't love" but "don't understand the hype". <br /><br />Unlike the other masks in this post, the Honey Mud does dry down due to the presence of Kaolin Clay in the ingredient list and with the inclusion of Wintergreen Extract, an organic form of salicylic acid, it's on the more active side. It doesn't tingle, but I do tend to classify this as more purifying and thus really enjoy using it when I feel like my skin is congested or on the edge of breaking out. It's not drying on my oily skin, though depending on your skin type you may want to mist while wearing it, preventing any dry down.On the other hand I do completely agree with the lush descriptor, as it's got a wonderfully thick, non drippy texture and a sweet, almost cocoa like smell. Plus it can be used either as a mask or a day to day facial cleanser. Generally, I think this mask ends up being the most well rounded when it comes to seasons of usage (ie Winter vs Summer) and ways, but perhaps not as hydrating as the other two below. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BTYzBVTKtfM/YBl87ZIGjII/AAAAAAABMqY/9srDhbZg_iAw5U32wICuEpERVQ1OjA5XACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/honey%2Bmask_all_interior%2B2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1902" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BTYzBVTKtfM/YBl87ZIGjII/AAAAAAABMqY/9srDhbZg_iAw5U32wICuEpERVQ1OjA5XACLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/honey%2Bmask_all_interior%2B2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Left: Hyaluronic Honey Mask, Right: The Honey Mud</b></i></span><br /></div></div><div><br /><b><b>Product:</b> </b>Hyaluronic Honey Mask <b><br />Brand:</b> Truth Treatment Systems<br /><b>Price: </b>$49 for 1 fl oz (<span style="color: red;">$49 per oz</span>)<br /><b><b>Description</b>: </b><br /><i>Hyaluronic Honey Mask provides skin with essential water hydration for all skin types. Contains a high concentration of water-binding hyaluronic acid, which aids the skin in essential water retention and enhances overall hydration and plumpness. Pure Colorado Clover Honey boosts this mask’s ability to bind water to the skin, while providing a natural source of lactic acid and honey enzymes for additional skin softening and brightening. Vitamins C and E, and Aloe Vera nourish and calm the skin, making this the perfect finishing mask for any facial protocol.</i><br /><b>Recommended Time Worn: </b>10-15min <br /><b>Does it dry down? </b>No.<br /><b>Fragrance?</b> No, but there are a few flower extracts at the end of the ingredients list (Bixa Orellana Leaf Extract, Jacaranda Mimosifolia Flower Extract, Kalanchoe Pinnata Leaf Extract).<br /><b>Source:</b> <a href="https://harbenhouse.com/collections/truth-treatment-systems/products/truth-treatment-systems-hyaluronic-honey-mask-1-oz" target="_blank">Harben House</a><br /><b>My Thoughts:</b> I'm so thankful for <a href="https://www.instagram.com/goalstogetglowing" target="_blank"><b>Vanessa</b></a> of <a href="https://goalstogetglowing.com/" target="_blank">Goals To Get Glowing</a> for introducing me to Harben House. Not only is it a(nother) family run business, they stock a variety of brands I've never heard of before, but not so many that I can't stumble upon gems like this. But because I love you I will start with the things I don't like about this mask: it is the most expensive per ounce and it only comes in the 1 fl oz jar, meaning most people will go through it relatively quickly. Next it has that vaguely unpleasant non-fragrance smell and the texture is not that aesthetically pleasing. But what I like? Well I really like that my face feels pleasantly cool throughout the entire time I'm wearing it, it has no dry down but doesn't drip, and rinses away to (in my opinion) leave a brighter, soft to the touch result. <br /><br />Now I'm aware that brighter is <i>super</i> subjective (and arguably racist/a colorism holdover) and it's not even something I would attribute to any significant lightening of leftover spots of hyperpigmentation. The best way I can describe it is that it's just as if overall my face is simply better, subtly, in a way that I really like. Could just be an after effect of the hydration and plumping that is the mask's main goal, but I suspect it also could be attributed to that organic source of lactic acid and the honey enzymes. But that price... I ordered my first jar in mid-November of last year, and I'm down to one application. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ybqv51umFLw/YBl_Neo_NlI/AAAAAAABMqk/MWalpKlvsqwtZZ6LxOtkI6kotIkM0qjJwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/honey%2Bmask_all_texture.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1216" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ybqv51umFLw/YBl_Neo_NlI/AAAAAAABMqk/MWalpKlvsqwtZZ6LxOtkI6kotIkM0qjJwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/honey%2Bmask_all_texture.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><b>Product:</b> </b>The Petal Honey<b><br />Brand:</b> Take Care<br /><b>Price:</b> $50 for 8 fl oz (<span style="color: red;">$6.25 per oz</span>)<br /><b><b>Description</b>: <br /></b><i>Incredibly soothing, this facial honey is packed with the most nourishing ingredients that support all skin types — especially reactive and sensitive skin. You can apply all over face and use as frequently as desired. <br /><br />I (creator Becky Waddell) personally love this mask when my skin is feeling dry and sensitive, or when I have breakouts that need to be left alone but I have the urge to mess with them. It’s just so calming and gentle.</i><br /><b>Recommended Time Worn: </b>No limit given. <br /><b>Does it dry down?</b> No.<br /><b>Fragrance?</b> No, unless you count the roses the honey is infused with. <br /><b>Source:</b> <a href="https://takecareshopdc.com/collections/masks-exfoliants/products/the-petal-honey" target="_blank">Take Care Shop</a><br /><b>My Thoughts: </b>This is the new kid on the block to me, but it's made a strong first impression. Initially created as part of a masking set that encouraged parents to introduce self care routines and conversations with their children, you can now just buy the honey mask (which was perfect for me). And for something that is unmistakably the experience of applying honey to ones face, it actually wasn't that unwieldy? I brought out an old, repurposed, foundation brush, dipped it directly in the jar, and applied it directly to my face (the product spreads easily once introduced to the heat of your skin). It smells strongly of what it is, local honey, though once on the face it's not overwhelming - and the addition of rose petals is visually appealing and I'm sure does something important I don't know, lol. The one downfall of the simplicity of the formula is that it did have a tendency to drip; not significantly, and it could have something to do with how much I applied, but for the hour or so I wore it I cleaned up a few drops from my chest and decolletage area. Probably means it's a great bath mask though?<br /><br />Rinsing was much easier than I thought it'd be, and my face felt (broken record here) plump and moisturized. I think especially as we continue throughout this long LOONNNGGGG WINTER of cold dry air and indoor heating, it will be nice to come back to this and leave it on for as little or as much time as I have. Or a great pairing to the other splurge I made last year, the Sodashi Scalp and Hair Mask, because that's another product that's recommended to leave on for an hour if you have the time. Oh, and I could actually use it as a designed as the vehicle of a dry mask I bought... a while ago before I knew I wasn't the type of person who should buy anything that requires finicky mixing. </div><div><br /><b>And that's it! </b>I wanted to do this round up in hopes that even though I don't give you a definite must buy or favorite, you would have some more information to reference when you're thinking of adding one to your own routine. Generally I think a good rule of thumb would be to ask yourself "how long do I want to wear this mask" and keep that answer in mind as you browse the interwebs. <b>Thanks for joining me on this rather lengthy word journey, and if you have any questions let me know!<br /></b><br /><p></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_yPy_2jGyHw/YBmAU30MygI/AAAAAAABMqs/DmRz8alY324tF_UNW834-fIU_qkUmWntwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/honey%2Bmask_all.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_yPy_2jGyHw/YBmAU30MygI/AAAAAAABMqs/DmRz8alY324tF_UNW834-fIU_qkUmWntwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/honey%2Bmask_all.jpg" /></a></div><br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-50801599721595512332021-01-29T10:50:00.004-05:002021-01-29T10:50:01.487-05:00Friday Book Club #24<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ldbE_ndKB20/YBA--Fzm9II/AAAAAAABMlw/zGL47spOdfE71ussKehVo6-mRw4SNlGGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Friday%2BBook%2BClub_January%2B2021%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ldbE_ndKB20/YBA--Fzm9II/AAAAAAABMlw/zGL47spOdfE71ussKehVo6-mRw4SNlGGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Friday%2BBook%2BClub_January%2B2021%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><p>Could I spend Friday Book Club talking about more than one book? Yes, absolutely. I may in fact immediately do a February post for a few of the other ones I've finished lately, but today all I really want to talk about is <u>Mikoto and the Reaver Village</u>. <br /><br />(And I'm switching the stylistic font choices of this series temporarily, because I can't imagine anyone wants to read a billion paragraphs in italics.)<br /><br /><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mikoto-Reaver-Village-Amaranthine-Saga-ebook/dp/B08FWWQDJ5" target="_blank"><u>Mikoto and the Reaver Village</u> by Forthright</a> (Fantasy)</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UpRBTTEtWPQ/YBA__HlytII/AAAAAAABMl4/lh9ytwtcomIAy1i6glzUvwQG1WVWKt9LQCLcBGAsYHQ/s499/mikoto%2Band%2Bthe%2Breaver%2Bvillage.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="311" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UpRBTTEtWPQ/YBA__HlytII/AAAAAAABMl4/lh9ytwtcomIAy1i6glzUvwQG1WVWKt9LQCLcBGAsYHQ/w124-h200/mikoto%2Band%2Bthe%2Breaver%2Bvillage.jpg" width="124" /></a></i></b></div><b><i>This summer is his last chance to win his first love. </i></b><i><br />Wardenclave
has always been a place of secrets and sway. For most of the year, the
remote mountain village is closed off from the rest of the world, but
each spring, they issue invitations to the most promising young reavers
all over the world. Summer skill camps provide opportunities for the
elite to train with the best. And by longstanding tradition, for teens
of the In-between to evaluate the compatibility of their peers. Glint
Starmark’s reputation as a matchmaker has been holding true for
millennia. <br /><br />At seventeen, Mikoto Reaver is the youngest headman
in Wardenclave’s history. He’s had very little time to adjust to his new
role before their close-knit community opens its doors to children of
pedigree, the specialists who will mentor them, an allotment of
battlers, and a celebrity or two. Glint means well, but Mikoto won’t
commit until he can speak to the only girl he’s ever loved. There’s just
something about her. </i><p></p><p><b><br />My Thoughts:</b> I discovered Forthright what feels like a billion years ago (but was actually July 2018) via a <a href="https://ilona-andrews.com/2018/tsumiko-and-the-enslaved-fox/" target="_blank">blog post by Ilona Andrews</a> and I've pretty much been obsessed ever since. It's just something about their books. Maybe it is as Andrews says, that they are low heat and high intimacy, but as the series goes on it is one I consider anchored by romance but romance adjacent. As the cast grows I think the plot moves by the strength of all the characters, not just the main couple and the combination forces me to pay attention, especially in a story like Mikoto's.<br /><br />Each book builds on information from the previous one, but in particular this book is tied to <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H4ZHLLL?notRedirectToSDP=1&ref_=dbs_mng_calw_1&storeType=ebooks" target="_blank"><u>Kimiko and the Accidental Proposal</u></a> and heavily features the characters from it. And as many times as I've reread that since it's original publishing in 2018, there were moments where I had to wrack my brain to correctly remember the relationships and for me that meant, when combined with the plot, Mikoto was a slow read. That almost never happens. But I felt immersed and caught by these characters and the unexpected couple at the heart of the story. <br /><br />The world of the Amaranthine is familiar but different, and the decisions the main types of people (Amaranthine, Humans, and Reavers) make are based on rules that feel foreign but are never arbitrary. Thus when individuals make decisions that my brain might initially take umbrage with, I usually need to step back, reread, and consider how one reacts in <i>this </i>world. From that viewpoint it almost always makes sense, even when it can read a little cold-blooded. <br /><br />I feel like a lot of that might end up coming across as vague, but I really<i> really</i> enjoyed reading this book. It made me want to own a physical copy, so I can have the feel of it and become familiar with where on an actual page my favorite parts are. The only thing that prevented me from immediately rereading it was that I went back and read Kimiko instead. Forthright is right up there with my other favorite authors, whose books I pine for but then end up despondent because I finish them in a day. I definitely think you should read it, but it does not stand alone so read the other three first. But that's not a bad list to have in front of you lol. </p><p><br /></p>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-73693732732377387522021-01-15T12:51:00.001-05:002021-01-15T12:51:00.955-05:002021 Wardrobe Resolutions <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gMlk0fK_D0s/X_-HaBcshPI/AAAAAAABMXY/BWS8MU2iCGk_GQAtw9ouv-NdeEAvaFO4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1800/Practice%2Band%2BProgress%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1157" data-original-width="1800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gMlk0fK_D0s/X_-HaBcshPI/AAAAAAABMXY/BWS8MU2iCGk_GQAtw9ouv-NdeEAvaFO4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Practice%2Band%2BProgress%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div><p>Megan Batoon says in her most recent <b><a href="https://youtu.be/19H6t9kTHU0" target="_blank">video</a></b> that 2021 just feels like an addendum (if not the unasked for epilogue) of 2020, and honestly? Same. <br /><br />I don't typically do resolutions, thus the general preponderance of content that specifically pushes improving oneself in various ways doesn't usually get to me. And while I can't say if that specifically is what changed this year, either way, the beginning of January has been ROUGH to say the least. I never like the cold, bleak period after Christmas, but combined with what felt like unending days of allergy terribleness and it was a special hell of Groundhog Day sadness. That to be completely honest is still mostly hanging around, which I think is true for the majority of us who are paying attention to COVID (+ US politics) and trying to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.<br /><br />But I did find a little joy in reporting back my wardrobe additions for 2020, so I'm going to do my best to keep things going in 2021, starting with a word of the year. This year, for good or for ill, I've decided to go with Practice. That perspective, that practice brings progress but not perfection - because perfection isn't possible - really speaks to me at this time in my life where I'm struggling with any sense of normality. But I'm going to keep trying to push that overall purchase number down while also pushing the percentage of secondhand up, and after being inspired by <b><a href="https://www.patreon.com/marielleelizabeth" target="_blank">Marielle's</a></b> round up I'm starting with a concrete goal of:<br /><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Reducing the number of new-to-me items this year by 25%.</b></span><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br />And 25% brings me down to 60 items, which is approximately (if I decide to think of it that way) 5 items per month. Now objectively this sounds like a totally achievable goal, but it's.... January 14th at the time of writing and I've purchased 6 items. So. We'll see. It's about practice (again) and I've never had a concrete goal of this type so what the hell. It's something different at least. Next goal:<br /><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Capture existing wardrobe in a tracking app.<br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">(For fellow Android users, Smart Closet specifically.)</span></b></span><br /></p><p><br />Now I admit this one is totally inspired by <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/frisky_gatos/" target="_blank">Frisky Gatos</a></b>, but again, I think it's good to know, really know, what I own as I try to bring down even more the number of pieces I add to it. She has an incredible Instagram post about using an app and how she uses it to stay aware of what she actually has. As a goal I would probably say this one is the most intimidating, entirely due to the fact that it is tedious and super time consuming. It took me about 2 hours to do coats/outerwear. JUST COATS AND OTHER OUTWEAR.<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3hgTDqwHRiU/YAC3mfFgjNI/AAAAAAABMYw/147lkLbqEhUpEEBOJFs0tgXDc2CLmyYHwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2005/20210114_162748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2005" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3hgTDqwHRiU/YAC3mfFgjNI/AAAAAAABMYw/147lkLbqEhUpEEBOJFs0tgXDc2CLmyYHwCLcBGAsYHQ/w345-h640/20210114_162748.jpg" width="345" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>(Pushing a boulder uphill, but pushing it nonetheless.)</b></span><br /></p><p><br />I figure this means it's a slow goal and it won't have an end date other than 2021. After the slog of outerwear I managed to eventually finish sweaters and then denim, so I do think it's manageable. Just kind of the opposite of fun (for me). I definitely won't be tracking pajamas, and I'm 50/50 on athleisure and active wear. I have enough sports bras that I'm almost 100% positive I don't want to track them, but since I do some sort of physical activity everyday it's also the category I wear the most. I don't know how I'll feel about this later on in the year, so it's going to the bottom of the list with a huge maybe sticker next to the category. <br /><br />Those are the primary goals, the last one is an open ended, kind of "if it doesn't make me sad" goal, and thus won't go in bold type: track the dollar amount of what I spend on clothing. I tried doing this... maybe 7 or 8 years ago? And got horrified and crapped out early. Which probably means I should have forced myself to do it again the next year, but WHATEVER. Young and less committed me will not be held to these ridiculous standards! We're living and learning here g*dammit! Now even if I successfully do this I'm not promising to share the final number, I feel like that might bring me to the "do or die" ledge of living some portion of my life on the internet, but ultimately I think I want to know. Or that's how I feel today anyway. <br /><br />But that's it! Two big goals, one baby goal, who the hell knows how it'll all go. Thanks for sticking with me even though the global pandemic has me super disinclined to put on real clothes. <br /></p><p></p>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-90050499661060521142020-12-22T11:25:00.002-05:002020-12-22T11:25:52.728-05:002019 - 2020 Annual Wardobe Round Up<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ARObbsatUTU/X-EdAClpRPI/AAAAAAABKvM/1b9JNTc8e1YqQ0uggMbBnG07MLdzsLqrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s922/realtalk.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="330" data-original-width="922" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ARObbsatUTU/X-EdAClpRPI/AAAAAAABKvM/1b9JNTc8e1YqQ0uggMbBnG07MLdzsLqrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/realtalk.jpg" /></a></div><p>2020 huh? Hell of a year. And as I told a friend on Facebook, I'm not sure I held tight to my goals during my desperate attempt to survive it with my sanity intact. Way back at the <a href="https://www.thegoodredherring.com/2020/01/2020-wardrobe-resolutions.html" target="_blank">beginning of January</a> I had said my word for the year was <b>Intentional</b>. I wanted to get more intentional about my purchases, my closet, and the things I spent money on, in an attempt to mitigate clutter in my own life while also (maybe) doing a small part to help reduce my environmental footprint. But you know what the world got instead? A freaking GLOBAL PANDEMIC. Fun times.<br /><br />But not, so so not. <br /><br />I was not one of those bloggers that created quarantine content. I could not find myself in my hobbies and instead I'm going to close out 2020 having read the least amount of books I have in years, not watched shows I started and enjoyed (*cough* Picard *cough*) or movies, and definitely bought more individual pieces of clothing than I intended. Retail therapy is a hell of a drug and while I'm a little ashamed to show you what I bought this year, it's also the project I set out for myself so f*ck it.<br /><br />*<i><b>Ethical/Sustainable</b></i><br />^<i><b>Thrifted</b></i><br /><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2_pZz1SrcFU/X-EiEggbEUI/AAAAAAABKvg/2dI-dgFWsA0iWGSbBQgPCOpmMN1yyr51wCLcBGAsYHQ/s311/winter.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="311" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2_pZz1SrcFU/X-EiEggbEUI/AAAAAAABKvg/2dI-dgFWsA0iWGSbBQgPCOpmMN1yyr51wCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/winter.png" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;">1. White Linen Dress (<a href="https://www.thereformation.com/products/lora-dress?color=White">Reformation</a>)*<br />
2. Linen Pants (<a href="https://www.thereformation.com/products/calabria-pant?color=Khaki">Reformation</a>)*<br />
3. Rain Jacket (<a href="https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/men-blocktech-single-breasted-coat-online-exclusive-419985.html?dwvar_419985_color=COL32&cgid=men-sale-outerwear-and-blazers#start=65&cgid=men-sale-outerwear-and-blazers">Uniqlo</a>)<br />
4. Jumpsuit (<a href="https://www.freepeople.com/shop/charlie-coveralls/?category=jumpsuits-rompers&color=001&quantity=1&type=REGULAR">Free People</a>)<br />
5. Leggings (<a href="https://www.target.com/p/women-s-contour-curvy-high-rise-7-8-leggings-with-power-waist-25-all-in-motion-black/-/A-79467935?preselect=77357530#lnk=sametab">Target</a>)<br />
6. Sparkling Jumpsuit (<a href="https://www.bhldn.com/products/jelena-jumpsuit?color=Copper%2FGold">BHLDN</a>)<br />
7. White Turtleneck (<a href="https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/button-sleeve-turtleneck-sweater?category=sale-sweaters&color=011&type=STANDARD">Anthropologie</a>)<br />
8. Kick Flare Jeans (<a href="https://www.goodamerican.com/products/good-curve-black030-jeans">Good American</a>)<br />
9. Faux Leather Jack/Blazer (<a href="https://www.modaoperandi.com/nanushka-r20/cancun-oversized-smoking-blazer?color=orange&size=L&country=US&gclid=CjwKCAiA-P7xBRAvEiwAow-VaSjJOOP_Nl6mUhzShYz04hmQXP8936tErXBn5HlO8vI4vK5ptX5JxRoCXs4QAvD_BwE">Nanushka</a>)<br />
10. Black Silk Dress (<a href="https://www.jagabuyan.com/">Jaga</a>)*<br />
11. Shirt Dress (<a href="https://www2.hm.com/en_us/productpage.0788846004.html">H&M</a>)<br />
12. Angel Dress (<a href="https://hestersunshinestudio.com/hbh-shop/angel-cher-dress">Hester Sunshine</a>)*<br />
13. Black Blazer (Ralph Lauren via Buffalo Exchange)^<br />14. Black Cashmere Sweater (Poshmark)^<br />
15. Black Trousers (It's A Man's World)^<br />
16. Black Corduroy Pants (It's A Man's World)^<br />
17. White Linen Pants (Clothes Encounters DC)^</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></p><p></p><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9nC_oj4_FwU/X-EixOcZPnI/AAAAAAABKvo/Z6BAKCyjG-oxfXt1nWABEfGF3FfIo4BuACLcBGAsYHQ/s311/spring%2Bcopy.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="311" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9nC_oj4_FwU/X-EixOcZPnI/AAAAAAABKvo/Z6BAKCyjG-oxfXt1nWABEfGF3FfIo4BuACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/spring%2Bcopy.png" /></a></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"> 1. White Linen Dress (<a href="https://www2.hm.com/en_us/productpage.0856388002.html?utm_source=rakuten&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=3096943_ShopStyle%20%20Collective&utm_content=10&utm_term=US_Network&ranMID=43148&ranEAID=*2nGiS3mv0Y&ranSiteID=.2nGiS3mv0Y-fLfQ76ZZRQHdoaPambnrVw">H&M</a>)<br />
2. Cashmere/Cotton Henley x2 (<a href="https://www.esbyapparel.com/products/bianca-henley-black">esby</a>)*<br />
3. Black Thicker Henley (<a href="https://www.esbyapparel.com/collections/sale/products/piper-pant-winter-plaid">esby</a>)*<br />
4. V-Neck Sweater Tank (<a href="https://wray.nyc/products/harbor-tank">WRAY</a>)*<br />
5. Red Linen Jumpsuit (<a href="https://wray.nyc/products/ferry-jumpsuit-2">WRAY</a>)*<br />
6. Sweatpants (<a href="https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/lou-grey-signaturesoft-plush-wide-leg-pants/5072827/full?utm_source=email&utm_medium=transaction&utm_campaign=V5T200ordcfm_031820_proddescr8&utm_channel=email_tran_ret_p&sp_source=email&sp_medium=transaction&sp_campaign=V5T200ordcfm_031820_proddescr8">Lou & Grey</a>)<br />
7. Sweatpants Set (Abercrombie - <a href="https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/mini-mockneck-sweatshirt-38432820?seq=06&faceout=model">Top</a> & Bottom (<a href="https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/ruffle-waistband-joggers-39522819?categoryId=62890933&seq=01&faceout=model">similar</a>))<br />
8. Hoodie (Abercrombie - <a href="https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/crewneck-sweatshirt-39676319?categoryId=161767&seq=02&faceout=prod">similar</a>)<br />
9. V-Neck Sweater (<a href="https://firstriteclothing.com/collections/fall-2019/products/long-v-sweater">First Rite</a>)*<br />
10. Collared Sweater (<a href="https://firstriteclothing.com/collections/fall-2019/products/seed-stitch-henley">First Rite</a>) *<br />
11. White Daisy Tank (<a href="https://www.nyandcompany.com/dusk-embroidered-top-in-responsibly-sourced-cotton/A-prod19960036/?An=1438847531&prodNo=49">NY&Co</a>) <br />
12. White Mini Dress (<a href="https://www.nyandcompany.com/sunny-shirtdress-in-responsibly-sourced-cotton/A-prod20050051/?An=1438847531&prodNo=46">NY&Co</a>) <br />
13. Green Smock Dress (<a href="https://www.nyandcompany.com/savanna-mini-dress-in-responsibly-sourced-cotton/A-prod20050048/?An=1438847531&prodNo=41">NY&Co</a>)<br />
14. Linen Jumpsuit (LOFT via Posmark)^<br />
15-16. Smocked Dress (<a href="https://www.thereformation.com/products/sable-dress?color=Ivy">Reformation</a>)*<br />
17. Pants (<a href="https://henningnyc.com/collections/shop/products/bank-pants-1">Henning</a>)*<br /> </span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_gJnzwbaI8k/X-Ek9QqacNI/AAAAAAABKwM/aogqve7WyVIAKPSmuZ1xBv5LqDCKtxR7gCLcBGAsYHQ/s280/summer.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="280" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_gJnzwbaI8k/X-Ek9QqacNI/AAAAAAABKwM/aogqve7WyVIAKPSmuZ1xBv5LqDCKtxR7gCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/summer.png" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">1-3. Workout Shorts, Various Brands (Poshmark)^<br />
4. Floral Maxi Dress (<a href="https://www.esbyapparel.com/collections/dresses-jumpsuits/products/caterina-dress-denim-floral?variant=31345448058937">esby</a>)*<br />
5. Linen Jumpsuit (<a href="https://www.esbyapparel.com/collections/dresses-jumpsuits/products/savannah-jumper-tanstone-stripe?variant=31345517920313">esby</a>)*<br />
6. Hawaiian Shirt (<a href="http://www.amalgamated-clothing.com/">Amalgamated Clothing</a>)</span><span style="font-size: x-small;">^<br /> 7. Sweatpants (Adidas, <a href="http://www.amalgamated-clothing.com/">Amalgamated Clothing</a>)^<br />
8. Tiger Print Maxi Dress (<a href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-us/shop/product/mara-hoffman/net-sustain-lolita-knotted-tiger-print-organic-cotton-maxi-dress/1206084?cm_mmc=LinkshareUS-_-*2nGiS3mv0Y-_-Custom-_-LinkBuilder&ranMID=24448&ranEAID=*2nGiS3mv0Y&ranSiteID=.2nGiS3mv0Y-5aVS5T1hy9P7e8yW9Z2Z0A&siteID=.2nGiS3mv0Y-5aVS5T1hy9P7e8yW9Z2Z0A">Mara Hoffman</a>)*<br />
9-10. Yellow Athleisure Set (Girlfriend Collective)*<br />
11. Floral Shirt (<a href="http://www.getupvintage.com/">Getup Vintage</a>)^<br />
12-13. Vintage Men's Slacks (<a href="http://www.amalgamated-clothing.com/">Amalgamated Clothing</a>)^<br />14. 70's Floral Shirt (<a href="http://www.amalgamated-clothing.com/">Amalgamated Clothing</a>)^<br />
15. Vintage Michael Bolton Tee (Ebay)^<br />
16. Olive Anorack (<a href="https://www.marinelayer.com/products/tacoma-anorak?variant=31227070840906">Marine Layer</a>)*<br />
17. Black Tunic (<a href="https://www.lilithefirst.com/collections/sale/products/jasmino-chain" target="_blank">Lili the First</a>)*<br />
18. White Button Down (<a href="https://www.lilithefirst.com/collections/sale/products/man-blouse" target="_blank">Lili the First</a>)*<br />19. Jean Shorts (AE via Ebay)^<br />20. Leggings (Reebok via Poshmark)^<br />21. Fair Isle Sweater (Thrifted, Little Amulets)^<br />22. Linen Blazer (<a href="https://www2.hm.com/en_us/productpage.0872713001.html">H&M</a>)<br />23. Sleeveless Mock Neck (<a href="https://www.vincettastudio.com/collections/tops-1/products/raw-edge-shirt-camel">Vincetta Studio</a>)*<br />24. Denim Short (H&M)<br />25. Linen Dress (Thrifted, <a href="https://www.shopberriez.com/" target="_blank">Berriez</a>)^</span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-brNYGa_qHO8/X-EkIzyh71I/AAAAAAABKv8/0d2jU-Hsng8GO3-ybmHvNG33HZtpl9psgCLcBGAsYHQ/s311/fall.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="311" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-brNYGa_qHO8/X-EkIzyh71I/AAAAAAABKv8/0d2jU-Hsng8GO3-ybmHvNG33HZtpl9psgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/fall.png" /></a></div>1. Cardigan (Etsy)^2. High Rise Pants (<a href="https://www.anntaylor.com/the-paperbag-belted-pant/531539?skuId=29149827&defaultColor=2222&catid=cata000014&priceSort=ASC&selectedColor=2222">Ann Taylor</a>)<br />3. Linen Mix Swing Top (<a href="https://www.anntaylor.com/the-paperbag-belted-pant/531539?skuId=29149827&defaultColor=2222&catid=cata000014&priceSort=ASC&selectedColor=2222">Ann Taylor</a>)<br />4. Men's Pullover (Amalgamated)^<br />5. Linen Dress (Shop Berriez)^<br />6. White Cotton Pants (Vintage, Vincetta Studio)*<br />7. Turtleneck (COS)<br />8. Sweater Vest (COS)<br />9. High Waist Trousers (H&M)<br />10. Oversized Cable Knit Sweater (United Colors of Benetton, Ebay)*<br />11. Wool Coat (The Real Real)^<br />12. Sweatshirt (<a href="https://www.thereformation.com/products/hunter-sweatshirt?color=Pine" target="_blank">Reformation</a>)*<br />13. Plaid Jacket (Sell Trade Plus)^<br />14. Quilted Pullover (<a href="https://www.marinelayer.com/collections/gals-last-call-medium-large/products/reversible-lady-corbet-navy-red-heather?variant=28642863448138" target="_blank">Marine Layer</a>)*<br />15. Sweater Dress (<a href="https://www.asos.com/us/m-lounge-curve/m-lounge-curve-knitted-midi-dress-with-high-neck/prd/14934567" target="_blank">ASOS</a>)<br />16. Wool/Sweater Coat (Madewell via Sell Trade Plus)^<br />17. Muscle Tank (The Outrage)*<br />18. Sweater Vest (H&M)<br />19. Boyfriend Sweater (<a href="https://shopparkstory.com/collections/sweater/products/brene-sweater-mulberry-grey" target="_blank">Park Story</a>)*<br />20. Wool Trousers (Escada/The Real Real)^<br />21. Velvet Set (Shop Berriez)^</span><p></p><p></p><p><br />Which is, drumroll please, a whopping total of:<br /><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>80 new to me pieces of clothing </b></span><br /></p><p><br />Which I would cheer and say is less than last year, but I stopped counting workout gear when I realized that was all I was doing in 2020 and I wanted enough pieces that laundry wasn't a constant concern. So some of them are captured, but there are probably another handful that escaped and I can't lie to you, I don't care. <br /></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xARDJjvinZ4/X-Id2mje4CI/AAAAAAABKxo/IOIT_8WEkLkcbJcSp070ddi0x3KGEGd_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/2020%2BWardobe%2BAdditions%2B-%2BItem%2BBreakdown_Blog%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1563" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xARDJjvinZ4/X-Id2mje4CI/AAAAAAABKxo/IOIT_8WEkLkcbJcSp070ddi0x3KGEGd_ACLcBGAsYHQ/w488-h640/2020%2BWardobe%2BAdditions%2B-%2BItem%2BBreakdown_Blog%2Bcopy.jpg" width="488" /></a></div><p></p><p></p><p><br />The biggest deal, and the area where I'm most proud of my improvement, is the ratio of secondhand/thrifted to new pieces.<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-neGHeI_v2vg/X-IbjLXlaLI/AAAAAAABKxE/EUx25QyVoJUSG3bq0yV7es0LU_OTXC8jwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/2020%2BWardobe%2BAdditions%2B-%2BSource%2BType_Blog%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1563" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-neGHeI_v2vg/X-IbjLXlaLI/AAAAAAABKxE/EUx25QyVoJUSG3bq0yV7es0LU_OTXC8jwCLcBGAsYHQ/w488-h640/2020%2BWardobe%2BAdditions%2B-%2BSource%2BType_Blog%2Bcopy.jpg" width="488" /></a></div><br /><p><b>37.5%</b>! That's a really big change from the 8% it was in 2019! I will say the goal in 2021 is still going to be buying less, especially because I have a very wibbly wobbly relationship with thrifted clothing (oh hi hello weird sizing discrepancies) that has only been exacerbated by current circumstances which have pushed most purchasing online. But it's been a year friends, and I think I have a decent idea of what I'd like my word to be for the next one. <br /><br /></p><p>And remember - <b>be excellent to each other, wash your hands, and cover your fac</b>e (& follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kinggutterbaby" target="_blank">kinggutterbaby</a> on Insta).<br /></p>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-74228658852536541642020-10-21T11:59:00.009-04:002020-10-21T17:01:35.227-04:00another day another sweatshirt<p> Soooooo......<br /><br />I'm not sure what to say. I feel like if I actually take the time to write about how I'm doing it's going to read as the manifesto of a depressed person that it is, but I guess I can say that I'm still here. I have not acclimated to this new normal. It makes me sad, lonely, and the onset of holidays I can't celebrate is just another reason why most things suck. I don't know if I want to keep my wardrobe or donate half of it, though donating it feels like giving in to the idea that I'll never be in a position to enjoy that type of life again which, WOOF, is rough.</p><p><br />I don't know friends. I just don't know. <br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4t9OXBt6kV4/X48KEqJlQwI/AAAAAAABJzI/7HBvbHk5rXINGk9IsXleMy2__9fPVqKrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/reformation-hunter-sweatshirt-vincetta-studio-vintage-pants-mango-dad-sneakers.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1825" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4t9OXBt6kV4/X48KEqJlQwI/AAAAAAABJzI/7HBvbHk5rXINGk9IsXleMy2__9fPVqKrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/reformation-hunter-sweatshirt-vincetta-studio-vintage-pants-mango-dad-sneakers.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sNK82oARIfI/X48KhtcQDgI/AAAAAAABJzQ/tg4jN6focv8PA6l3VfLS_Uie8Uddg_GCACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/reformation-hunter-sweatshirt-vincetta-studio-vintage-pants-mango-dad-sneakers2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1834" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sNK82oARIfI/X48KhtcQDgI/AAAAAAABJzQ/tg4jN6focv8PA6l3VfLS_Uie8Uddg_GCACLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/reformation-hunter-sweatshirt-vincetta-studio-vintage-pants-mango-dad-sneakers2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nvWRHH9ISL8/X48Ko7yegxI/AAAAAAABJzU/hvWMmPLfuqsKwcqsQ2uAag7yeAEsrDOPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/reformation-hunter-sweatshirt-vincetta-studio-vintage-pants-mango-dad-sneakers3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1932" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nvWRHH9ISL8/X48Ko7yegxI/AAAAAAABJzU/hvWMmPLfuqsKwcqsQ2uAag7yeAEsrDOPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/reformation-hunter-sweatshirt-vincetta-studio-vintage-pants-mango-dad-sneakers3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ek7_tTclLXo/X48LIkapndI/AAAAAAABJzg/zuKx-oIH2pMNhxOY7NtIUp67tSb6mP3QACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/reformation-hunter-sweatshirt-vincetta-studio-vintage-pants-mango-dad-sneakers4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1892" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ek7_tTclLXo/X48LIkapndI/AAAAAAABJzg/zuKx-oIH2pMNhxOY7NtIUp67tSb6mP3QACLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/reformation-hunter-sweatshirt-vincetta-studio-vintage-pants-mango-dad-sneakers4.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Sweatshirt:</b><a href="https://www.thereformation.com/products/hunter-sweatshirt?color=Pine" target="_blank">Reformation</a> (XL, <a href="https://amzn.to/35kXjAG" target="_blank">similar in mens</a>) ~ <b>Pants: </b>Vintage (<a href="https://www.vincettastudio.com/" target="_blank">Vincetta Studio</a>, Waist ~38") ~ <b>Sneakers: </b><a href="https://shop.mango.com/us/plus-size/shoes-sneakers/contrast-panel-sneakers_77064007.html" target="_blank">Mango</a> (9) ~ <b>Bag:</b> Coach (thrifted, <a href="https://amzn.to/2IOHSJD" target="_blank">similar)</a> ~ <b>Sunglasses: </b>Urban Outfitters (Old) ~ <b>Masks: </b><a href="https://tiredofwinning.store/products/but-her-emails-non-medical-face-mask-set-of-3v2?variant=32043671814199" target="_blank">Tired of Winning</a><br /></div> Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-54883481172779148712020-09-21T10:12:00.002-04:002020-09-21T10:12:01.841-04:00Danessa Myricks Beauty - New In & First Impressions<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FiWJqgTz65U/X2I7AbyXkTI/AAAAAAABIi0/W8QaOBVvD-MGx_jfolOnJOwADqhBEyETgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/danessa-myricks-flatlay.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FiWJqgTz65U/X2I7AbyXkTI/AAAAAAABIi0/W8QaOBVvD-MGx_jfolOnJOwADqhBEyETgCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-flatlay.jpg" /></a></div><br />During the most recent holiday weekend I finally caved and purchased some more items from <a href="https://www.danessamyricksbeauty.com"><b>Danessa Myricks Beauty</b></a>. I've had an eye on them ever since picking up those pieces from last year's Makeup Show, but her brand has so many options it's intimidating, which is why I'm so thankful for the melanated YouTubers who have been reviewing it lately, lol. This time around I actually picked up some complexion products in addition to color, and while I don't have firm opinions yet, I'm always of the opinion that more pictures and more swatches are good for the reviewing community as a whole. I hate Googling for what feels like hours and never finding a real life swatch outside of a product page (which are usually photoshopped in weird ways ANYway).<br /><br />First up are three of the <a href="https://www.danessamyricksbeauty.com/product/vision-flush" target="_blank"><b>Vision Flushes</b></a>, which the website describes as "<i>a highly pigmented, smoothing, multipurpose liquid color product with a satin/semi matte finish that can be used on the eyes, lips, and cheeks.</i> " After ultimately deciding that last year's purchase, the <a href="https://www.danessamyricksbeauty.com/product/illuminating-veil-2" target="_blank">Illuminating Veil</a> in Attraction, was too dark to work as a good highlighter for my skin tone, I went with two blushes and one highlight in this new-to-me formula. <br /><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jiyn1Vqrdo0/X2JB0wfhmDI/AAAAAAABIjI/bYf99_xNoiU2hWvIxCXhaALX-L6OtTS4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/danessa-myricks-vision-flush-ballet-slippers-sweet-nectar.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1683" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jiyn1Vqrdo0/X2JB0wfhmDI/AAAAAAABIjI/bYf99_xNoiU2hWvIxCXhaALX-L6OtTS4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-vision-flush-ballet-slippers-sweet-nectar.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Danessa Myricks Beauty Vision Flush in Sweet Nectar and Ballet Slippers, $20 each</span></i></b><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vVYcveDwMF0/X2JB7jc1BRI/AAAAAAABIjM/pl59D4-aSqYZ0XsKwymr1u48L8w0NRnGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/danessa-myricks-vision-flush-sweet-nectar.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1655" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vVYcveDwMF0/X2JB7jc1BRI/AAAAAAABIjM/pl59D4-aSqYZ0XsKwymr1u48L8w0NRnGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-vision-flush-sweet-nectar.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Danessa Myricks Beauty Vision Flush in Sweet Nectar</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KNlgo8pRQDo/X2JCBqOhxII/AAAAAAABIjQ/377d_U0EIh8zSF2amNVhQx6soXFkuSScgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/danessa-myricks-vision-flush-ballet-slippers.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1753" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KNlgo8pRQDo/X2JCBqOhxII/AAAAAAABIjQ/377d_U0EIh8zSF2amNVhQx6soXFkuSScgCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-vision-flush-ballet-slippers.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Danessa Myricks Beauty Vision Flush in Ballet Slippers</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KW-DKhn7wH0/X2JCM3cS6rI/AAAAAAABIjc/So_tVytXh30MK-Mjj6m8boWlK76o0fqdwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/danessa-myricks-vision-flush-tiara1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1672" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KW-DKhn7wH0/X2JCM3cS6rI/AAAAAAABIjc/So_tVytXh30MK-Mjj6m8boWlK76o0fqdwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-vision-flush-tiara1.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Danessa Myricks Beauty Vision Flush in Tiara, $20</i></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> </i><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C2YIJmAYCLw/X2JCSteUWZI/AAAAAAABIjo/0I_X5Uqc3h8pCEb9CgDWj7cAVVowYhQ3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/danessa-myricks-vision-flush-tiara2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1667" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C2YIJmAYCLw/X2JCSteUWZI/AAAAAAABIjo/0I_X5Uqc3h8pCEb9CgDWj7cAVVowYhQ3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-vision-flush-tiara2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Danessa Myricks Beauty Vision Flush in Tiara</span></i></b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Each Vision Flush is housed in a plastic screw top component, with an easy to use sponge tip applicator. I haven't tried applying these directly to the skin yet, but they come out with enough product to easily put on a palette to use with a brush. Also there's really no difference in formula in regards to texture, so it's not goopy or drippy. <b>Sweet Nectar</b> is a bright orange, brighter than I expect to be honest, while <b>Ballet Slipper</b> is a lovely mauve. <b>Tiara</b> is a neutral pearl, without any chunks of glitter. <br /><br />Next up is one of the best things I think Danessa Myricks Beauty has to offer - SAMPLES OF THE FOUNDATION. We're in unprecedented times friends, and foundation is hard enough on a regular day. Letting people buy sample sizes of a highly pigmented coverage product for $5 is genius and greatly appreciated. The <a href="https://www.danessamyricksbeauty.com/product/vision-cream-cover" target="_blank"><b>Vision Cream Cover</b></a> is "a versatile foundation-concealer hybrid using the latest texture minimizing technology to create a silky-smooth finish." I picked up three colors based entirely off of <a href="https://youtu.be/8C9ukDmGJVQ" target="_blank"><b>Kinkysweat's</b></a> video because she's my shade twin 99% of the time. Much props and thanks to her and her incredible lighting.<br /><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJALfEo6uco/X2Jf1-Z83tI/AAAAAAABIlA/BMQREmqh9WA0e9AL5Ieb-JpAPV4mLzJGwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/danessa-myricks-vision-cream-cover1%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1764" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJALfEo6uco/X2Jf1-Z83tI/AAAAAAABIlA/BMQREmqh9WA0e9AL5Ieb-JpAPV4mLzJGwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-vision-cream-cover1%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div>Danessa Myricks Beauty Vision Cream Color L-R in N05, N06, and W04, $5 each<br /></span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-occxYwINBtg/X2Jf9YfAFtI/AAAAAAABIlE/4hZaaEZhKqct-6GnHQ2_oLFJ50Dcm5wzQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/danessa-myricks-vision-cream-cover2%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1624" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-occxYwINBtg/X2Jf9YfAFtI/AAAAAAABIlE/4hZaaEZhKqct-6GnHQ2_oLFJ50Dcm5wzQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-vision-cream-cover2%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Danessa Myricks Beauty Vision Cream Color L-R in N05, N06, and W04</b></i></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">As of writing this post I've used the foundation twice and can say 1) it does indeed cover a lot, 2) it's still easily sheer-able, just by using less and really priming your application brush, 3) it did NOT like being applied on top of a silicone heavy primer (ala the <a href="https://us.kryolan.com/product/hd-micro-primer" target="_blank">Kryolan HD Micro Primer</a>). It did this very weird collecting in pores thing that I was able to tap out with my fingers, but was a noticeable change from the first application. Oh, and I would agree with Kinkysweat that N06 is the closest to my skin tone but a *tad* dark. Probably imperceptible if you weren't as anal as we (clearly) are. <br /><br />But still, even with all these pictures I can hear a voice from the distance calling: "B*tch, where the hell are the swatches?!" And happily I can provide! I apparently just wasn't thinking about how I usually organize my post and took them all together so... mammoth swatch party ahead. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lppolLjkw0A/X2Jafmfr26I/AAAAAAABIkU/6Vqk1qjl32slumQPzf5XY1t8vI3cPWFjQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1800/danessa-myricks-vision-cream-cover-vision-flush-swatches1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1542" data-original-width="1800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lppolLjkw0A/X2Jafmfr26I/AAAAAAABIkU/6Vqk1qjl32slumQPzf5XY1t8vI3cPWFjQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-vision-cream-cover-vision-flush-swatches1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BLTAf6lUXME/X2JbcjxWYDI/AAAAAAABIks/uGrGiYu15FM82lvb-DQLbilxPzvl6hm3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/danessa-myricks-vision-cream-cover-vision-flush-swatches2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1612" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BLTAf6lUXME/X2JbcjxWYDI/AAAAAAABIks/uGrGiYu15FM82lvb-DQLbilxPzvl6hm3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-vision-cream-cover-vision-flush-swatches2.jpg" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Danessa Myricks Bueaty, Vision Flush L-R in Tiara, Ballet Slipper, and Sweet Nectar; Vision Cream Cover L-R in W04, N06, N05</b></i></span></div><p><br />And that's pretty much it! About as exciting as any of my first impressions are, but like I said - I'm super motivated when I can't find what I'm looking for on the internet, so here's hoping some of this eventually helps out a person in the near or distant future (if we still have a distant future in the United States, hehe... he... he....).<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kz_qhk1cfk8/X2JfRENY3nI/AAAAAAABIk4/4MzDfE943dIcH8b5C8m-zMU9ADb4ajaBwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/danessa-myricks-aftermath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kz_qhk1cfk8/X2JfRENY3nI/AAAAAAABIk4/4MzDfE943dIcH8b5C8m-zMU9ADb4ajaBwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/danessa-myricks-aftermath.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-37972364993539631402020-09-08T12:17:00.001-04:002020-09-08T16:55:38.390-04:00fields of gold<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9VqUJcbFcVI/XxS3zBdzjpI/AAAAAAABGEk/PsmsD2pxGyUb_l90oToGB2Z8-lbB28giwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/free-people-floral-maxi-dress5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1154" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9VqUJcbFcVI/XxS3zBdzjpI/AAAAAAABGEk/PsmsD2pxGyUb_l90oToGB2Z8-lbB28giwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/free-people-floral-maxi-dress5.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Dress</b>: Free People (L, Old)</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photos by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/whitetowelsonly/">whitetowelsonly</a></i></span></div>
Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-68158885434183600932020-08-03T15:07:00.001-04:002020-08-03T15:07:23.030-04:00a Color & Co reviewNobody asked and 4 months ago I wouldn't have said I'd dying my hair at home anyway but... here we are!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pt6F3Z44lCE/XyhSGMSTZ3I/AAAAAAABGos/zu1A0kQAOPg76G-s9bj7YI5b4dDWWD6tQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Dana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pt6F3Z44lCE/XyhSGMSTZ3I/AAAAAAABGos/zu1A0kQAOPg76G-s9bj7YI5b4dDWWD6tQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Dana.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Before </i></div>
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<b>What are we talking about: </b><a href="https://www.colorandco.com/?campaign=Brand&group=Brand&device=c&keyword=colorandco&matchtype=e&adposition=&creative=374996429696&gclid=Cj0KCQjw6575BRCQARIsAMp-ksOOmruo3ph5IyM6Ts9cQYcGoGxgTXMFcHI2_TxwmaguQJblf3uISKsaAiUsEALw_wcB">Color & Co Personal At-Home Haircolor by L'Oreal</a><br />
<b>Why:</b> Because my roots are like, RIGHT THERE, aren't they? And also I'm not at the home haircut stage - yet.<br />
<b>How much is it? </b>Varies I'm sure, I found a 25% off promo code (25COLOR) which pretty much paid for shipping so the total was $22.<br />
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I'm not going to lie to y'all, I'm sure this was a boredom purchase. And an anxiety induced purchase, since I am definitely that person who likes to get their hair done when they're unhappy. But since I never really got into the home cut phase (1. curly hair, and 2. generally that's much harder to come back from), hair dye it is.<br />
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All of these home hair dye sites that have popped up are very similar in that you answer a bunch of questions about your current state and where you want to be, which they then use to pop out a color recommendation. Except for the fact that the first question is gendered (boooo), what I liked about <b>Color & Co</b> was that as soon as I said had full highlights it immediately popped up with a message strongly urging me to talk to a stylist. I am nervous person and I appreciated that they were like, talk to a real person or don't blame us if you f*ck it up.<br />
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I ended up chatting with a very nice man named <b>Paul</b>, who talked me through all initial questions and what my options were once I said I wanted to go back to red. He got to see my natural hair, the dyed hair, all the highlights, and do that thing responsible people do like tell me to do a strand test. Also, I really appreciated the way the service would (apparently) immediately send out a new color with free shipping if I didn't like the way it came out, and that I could video chat with them again if I needed help during the actual application.<br />
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Ultimately we decided on a demi-permanent color that would dye my hair but not cover my highlights - thus keeping all the built in depth that my regular go-to gal Josephine (WHO I SO SO MISS) had done.<br />
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Four days after placing my order I got my kit, which again due to Paul's foresight, included two applications of color to tide me over until my renewal (which I could delay, but hey, who the hell knows where we're all be in 8 weeks).<br />
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<i>(Don't judge these photos ok? I decided pretty late on in the real life process to take pictures for the blog, so eh lighting and cat hair is par for the course.)</i><br />
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<i>(This onesie is sold out, but I found the <a href="https://amzn.to/2EPEbl3">same thing but with pants</a>!)</i></div>
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I planned it out so that I could apply the dye post-workout, and according to their instructions, 20 min on my roots and then 20min all over. They send you one of those little brush things and while I can't tell you I have the best technique, I did a few parts in the back and front right at my roots on both sides of my head, applied dye, massaged, waited. After that I applied the rest of the bottle all over, massaged again, fanning the hair in my fingers, honestly just kind of copying what I remembered as typical when I got my hair done professionally. After that it got plopped in a bun on top of my head for 25 min (as per Paul, more time would potentially make the final affect darker, but since we weren't lightening my base color a little extra time wouldn't hurt).<br />
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BUT WHO CARES, YOU'RE REALLY JUST HERE FOR THE AFTER RIGHT?<br />
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<i>Immediately post blow drying</i></div>
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<i>After curling, because WTF right? It's gonna be braided in two days anyway. </i></div>
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<i>(<a href="https://amzn.to/2EPEbl3">O<span style="font-size: x-small;">nesie link</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">, but to be clear the one I'm wearing is shorts on the bottom. But for $10, it's kind of a bargain regardless.)</span></i></div>
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So in the end I have to say I'm happy with the results. Could it be redder? Absolutely, but that would involve permanent dye and I'm not sure I'm ready for that - though I may talk to a stylist about it. My roots are definitely tinted and the color took well throughout the ends without any patchiness. <b>BUT. </b>The best part about this result is that it built on the color I already had. I have always gone for heavy highlights because I prefer the depth that that look allows, and Color & Co benefited from the step up. I can't honestly say that my results are typical and I want to be clear about that. If your hair is lighter than me or has any sort of natural variations in color you'll probably be fine, but my roots are a dark brownish-black - my results are this red because of lifting done in a salon. </div>
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Still I think <b>Color & Co </b>delivered on the promise of the box - you see the Light Burgundy Brown part up there, I think that's exactly what we got - and I would do it again. Some of the other competitor sites I looked at would allow me to upload a picture (but it never loaded) or other alternate options in case I was unsure, but this was the only one with a big red stop sign saying PLEASE TALK TO A PROFESSIONAL, which I definitely benefited by. Where else am I going to talk to a man that literally says "you've clearly put a lot of time and money into your hair, we don't wanna mess that up."</div>
Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-45185637571226986042020-07-27T12:08:00.000-04:002020-07-27T12:08:03.579-04:00sunshine If you're my friend IRL then I probably sound like a broken record, but I really do love <b>Girlfriend Collective</b>. They're my favorite sports bras across the board, and these track pants 100% live up to the rest of what I've tried from the brand. Throw in the fact that items are made using recycled plastic and the sizes range from XXS to 6X (which is reflected in their marketing) and [chef's kiss].<br />
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<b>Sports Bra/Crop Top: </b><a href="https://www.girlfriend.com/collections/bras/products/lemon-paloma-bra">Girlfriend Collective</a> (XL*) ~ <b>Track Pants: </b><a href="https://www.girlfriend.com/products/lemon-summit-track-pant?variant=32315951284287">Girlfriend Collective</a> (XL*) ~ <b>Sneakers: </b>Nike (9, Old) ~ <b>Necklaces:</b> Thrifted & <a href="https://www.missoma.com/products/lucy-williams-gold-roman-arc-coin-necklace?currency=USD&country=US">Missoma London</a> ~ <b>Sunglasses: </b>Kate Spade (Old)<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>*Fit Note: GF runs true to size IMO, and before this the previous Paloma Bras I'd purchased were all in size large. I sized up because I wanted to have a little more length in the body, and I'm very happy with that decision. Ditto on the track pants, I probably could have gone with my normal large, but I didn't want them to be super fitted. </b></i></span></div>
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Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-20600188307116345162020-07-22T12:17:00.000-04:002020-07-27T12:08:14.644-04:00a different kind of floralSo on the first trip out to <a href="https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Pages/publiclands/central/sunflowers.aspx">McKee-Beshers WMA</a> this year my friend Jessy and I were faced with two things: people, and in my preferred spot, sunflowers that were distinctly NOT in full bloom. But on one of our very few field trips into this new normal where (to be honest) everything is still terrifying and terrible, we were not deterred. We instead ended up hiking further and deeper in parts of the area I hadn't explored before, got very inspired, and 100% want to go back when it's not a billion degrees outside to explore even more.<br />
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Also, why are these trips the ones where I always end up sweating like I've never sweat before? <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IURgmukCYGc/XxSq_9H1MpI/AAAAAAABGDA/eVQ306qFAGEHdA2N4j9zJaRr1vxRDOo_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/esby-apparel-caterina-dress-denim-floral4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1407" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IURgmukCYGc/XxSq_9H1MpI/AAAAAAABGDA/eVQ306qFAGEHdA2N4j9zJaRr1vxRDOo_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/esby-apparel-caterina-dress-denim-floral4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Dress: <a href="https://www.esbyapparel.com/collections/dresses-jumpsuits/products/caterina-dress-denim-floral?variant=31345448058937">Esby Apparel</a> (XL*) ~ Necklace: <a href="https://www.missoma.com/collections/lucy-williams-x-missoma/products/lucy-williams-gold-large-horn-necklace">Missoma</a> ~ Earrings: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/122008400/gold-octagon-hoop-earrings-geometric?ref=shop_home_active_19&frs=1">NadinArtDesign</a> (2.5cm)</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photos by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/whitetowelsonly/">whitetowelsonly</a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>*Fit Note: Esby says this dress runs true to size, and for the most part I agree with them. I like how oversized the XL appears on me, but due to my slightly narrow shoulders I've hand sewn in a couple darts in the back so the sleeves won't slide down. The material doesn't have any stretch, so just keep that in mind if you decide to invest!</b></i></span><br />
<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-78889563106911175602020-07-14T12:00:00.000-04:002020-07-14T12:00:04.490-04:00Salt New York - First Impressions I want you to know that it took everything in me to stop this post from having so many pictures in it that it became obnoxious. I'm always very conscious of what I wish I was able to find online when I'm doing my pre-purchase research, but in the end I decided we didn't need up close and personal glamour shots of each crème tint pro individually LOL (but also DM if you want one/some, cause I may have taken them anyway...).<br />
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<i><a href="https://saltnewyork.com/collections/bundles"><b>The Palette Mini + 4 Crème Tint Pro Bundle, currently 30% - $58.80</b></a></i></div>
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<a href="https://saltnewyork.com/">Salt New York</a> popped up on my radar last year, almost entirely due to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/heykackie">Kackie Reviews Beauty</a> (review video linked <a href="https://youtu.be/4k8Hy4qsc-o">here</a>), who was in the middle of her "Clean Beauty 2019" push. And since I admit to being just as susceptible to marketing as anyone else, I watched along while she tried out a bunch of different products at varying price points.<br />
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I decided after her video that I really wanted to try the brand, but what I couldn't find were enough reviews to really inform my purchase. Brand founder <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kikigmakeup/?hl=en">Kiki G (Katelyn Galloway)</a> is a working makeup artist, and while the products were created out of her own desire for a more well-rounded and inclusive offering from cream products, when it comes to makeup I depend on "real people" to make a decision. Online swatches and models are all well and good - I'm not saying the website doesn't do it's best - but I just couldn't get a feel for how it would work for me. Plus, everything was back-ordered even before the pandemic hit.<br />
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But we're all here right? Clearly I threw caution to the wind and bought some stuff, or this post would be spectacularly useless. In the end I just decided that even if I hated everything, at 50% off the bundle I was at least supporting a woman owned, made in the US brand and that's never a bad way to spend some (very reasonable) dollars.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h8_aMUFnfrI/XwYxL7R-SBI/AAAAAAABFZo/kAXiP0rH-_A1bubDzjvL4-N1jMttqfyqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/salt-new-york-creme-tint-pro-palette-mini-all%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1192" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h8_aMUFnfrI/XwYxL7R-SBI/AAAAAAABFZo/kAXiP0rH-_A1bubDzjvL4-N1jMttqfyqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/salt-new-york-creme-tint-pro-palette-mini-all%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><b>The Palette Mini with the following <a href="https://saltnewyork.com/products/radiant-creme-tint-pro">Crème Tint Pro</a> pans: Radiant Formula in Beige and Warm Tan, Lip + Cheek in Coral, Sculpt + Bronze in Medium (0.15oz, $16)</b></i></div>
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And speaking of dollars, here's how the Crème Tint Pro stacks up against some of my other cream blushes:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lohRJ3RBswY/Xwch5vLhnQI/AAAAAAABFbc/-8fN4twDlDsP9RjBMOrsMewvnTxHbhE4ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cream%2Bblush%2Bcomparison%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lohRJ3RBswY/Xwch5vLhnQI/AAAAAAABFbc/-8fN4twDlDsP9RjBMOrsMewvnTxHbhE4ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cream%2Bblush%2Bcomparison%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>(You're so welcome for those mind blowing Photoshop skills, brought out because I forgot to take this picture in real life.)</i></b></span></div>
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Really the only other product you're maybe getting a better deal on is the <a href="https://kosas.com/products/velvet-melon-cream-blush">Kosas blush/highlighter duo</a>, and that's if you're ok with the pre-made palettes. I picked up two of their high intensity duos and while I love the blushes, the highlighters in both are a bit deep for me so their usability is arguable. The <a href="https://kjaerweis.com/products/cream-blush-iconic-edition-sun-touched?variant=4479196987450">Kjaer Weis</a> formula is one of my favorites ever, but $32 for JUST the refill is steep - you're really looking at investing $40 or $56 if you don't already have a case to put it in. I'm not so over the edge that it doesn't occur to me how expensive that is - if you're better than I am at moderation maybe it doesn't hurt so much, but I am <i>aware</i>. But I digress.<br />
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Keeping in mind my collection and what I like/tend towards using most often, I picked up 2 highlighters, a blush, and a bronzer. While I would typically not open everything due to what I currently have in rotation, each product has a 24 month shelf life so I figured it wouldn't be too bad. All four products are housed in the Palette Mini, a sturdy faux leather case with gold colored zipper, which firmly holds each product via magnets. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lGMxjeuROVA/XwYyHnjdiUI/AAAAAAABFZ4/eudlBC9Gf08qef4f2WdDNEbNbF_2uhGLACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/salt-new-york-creme-tint-pro-palette-mini-swatches%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1175" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lGMxjeuROVA/XwYyHnjdiUI/AAAAAAABFZ4/eudlBC9Gf08qef4f2WdDNEbNbF_2uhGLACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/salt-new-york-creme-tint-pro-palette-mini-swatches%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZrdwynme1M/XwYyLZRG3FI/AAAAAAABFZ8/9yB0xEDkkMYkFXKjB905LSSkM_BeDQu3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/salt-new-york-creme-tint-pro-palette-mini-sheered-out-swatches%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1289" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZrdwynme1M/XwYyLZRG3FI/AAAAAAABFZ8/9yB0xEDkkMYkFXKjB905LSSkM_BeDQu3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/salt-new-york-creme-tint-pro-palette-mini-sheered-out-swatches%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><b><i><b><a href="https://saltnewyork.com/products/radiant-creme-tint-pro">Crème Tint Pro</a> </b></i>Swatches L-R: Radiant Formula in Beige and Warm Tan, Lip + Cheek in Coral, Sculpt + Bronze in Medium (0.15oz, $16)</b></i></div>
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The Crème Tint Pro pans are "organized" (quotes because obviously they're just recommendations, buy what you want) into undertones and skin depth. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPFnxt9AE4A&feature=emb_logo">Kiki G's video</a> does a great job of describing how each pan varies as warm or cool, and what depth of skin tone (light, medium, deep) it is intended to suit. I kept that in mind for blushes and bronzer (I freakishly don't have a coral blush) but when it comes to highlighter I just couldn't make up my mind. Over the course of a normal year the depth of my skin tone can actually vary a lot, and after having been burned by the Kosas duos I picked up both Beige and Warm Tan and have NO regrets. I can tailor the highlight to my skin and mood on any given day which is excellent :D.<br />
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And there's more! You can head over to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/goodredherring/"><b>my Instagram</b></a> right now for an IGTV dedicated to these products (don't hate me for the lack of editing, one step at a time, lol).<br />
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<b>But as always, if you got a question let me know!</b></div>
Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-48072972611784172392020-07-08T11:26:00.000-04:002020-07-08T12:55:19.523-04:00pretending at normalitySo as has been established at this point, I live alone. Living alone during a global pandemic that necessitates you not being around people you don't live with has been... not fun. While the numbers across the US are rising rapidly because of a lack of any true leadership and a complete disinterest in actually managing anything from the current administration, there are a few rays of sunshine. First, I bought a car.<br />
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<i>(Did I want to buy a car? Not really, but here we are.)</i><br />
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Getting the car (and a COVID test) has allowed me to create a little bubble of friends that I could see safely, which has done wonders for my sanity, and explore a little wider afield than I would usually. Here I'm sharing a few pics from Butler's Orchard, where large outdoor fields and timed tickets meant that people could go out fruit picking in their masks but not feel overwhelmed. And hey - new dress. Which, I just checked, is like 75% off and made with sustainably sourced cotton. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oh2xuVlJ9Nk/XwTx4vL0NLI/AAAAAAABFXQ/5u-Dz8r15dwnRv_Gi_9t90pvhUpNbpwIgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ny-and-company-happyxnature-kate-hudson-savanna-mini-dress-coach-belt-bag-soludos-sandals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1304" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oh2xuVlJ9Nk/XwTx4vL0NLI/AAAAAAABFXQ/5u-Dz8r15dwnRv_Gi_9t90pvhUpNbpwIgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ny-and-company-happyxnature-kate-hudson-savanna-mini-dress-coach-belt-bag-soludos-sandals.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qdZngK14HOs/XwTyAkTFcnI/AAAAAAABFXU/lbcBqCFd7NIhFk9dk9JXYglzoGgh_6ASACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ny-and-company-happyxnature-kate-hudson-savanna-mini-dress-coach-belt-bag-soludos-sandals2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qdZngK14HOs/XwTyAkTFcnI/AAAAAAABFXU/lbcBqCFd7NIhFk9dk9JXYglzoGgh_6ASACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ny-and-company-happyxnature-kate-hudson-savanna-mini-dress-coach-belt-bag-soludos-sandals2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3nYx2sdpkZU/XwTyIdK6III/AAAAAAABFXY/WeXn-gWIkhUNHFnHTIYsmwM0k81rT4XCQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ny-and-company-happyxnature-kate-hudson-savanna-mini-dress-coach-belt-bag-soludos-sandals3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1257" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3nYx2sdpkZU/XwTyIdK6III/AAAAAAABFXY/WeXn-gWIkhUNHFnHTIYsmwM0k81rT4XCQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ny-and-company-happyxnature-kate-hudson-savanna-mini-dress-coach-belt-bag-soludos-sandals3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7FFy4hNyIVM/XwX6Xl3xbeI/AAAAAAABFYk/Xu70Lz9bhAYgtDiH0Bj1apVLIub60jTrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ny-and-company-happyxnature-kate-hudson-savanna-mini-dress-coach-belt-bag-soludos-sandals5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1119" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7FFy4hNyIVM/XwX6Xl3xbeI/AAAAAAABFYk/Xu70Lz9bhAYgtDiH0Bj1apVLIub60jTrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ny-and-company-happyxnature-kate-hudson-savanna-mini-dress-coach-belt-bag-soludos-sandals5.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Dress:</b> <a href="https://www.nyandcompany.com/savanna-mini-dress-in-responsibly-sourced-cotton/A-prod20050048/?An=1438847531&prodNo=41">NY&Company</a> (XL) ~ <b>Belt Bag:</b> Coach (Thrifted, Poshmark) ~ <b>Sandals:</b> Soludos (9, Thrifted, Posmark, <a href="https://poshmark.com/listing/Soludos-brown-leather-banded-shield-sandals-5ef241536914123450b0f2ad">Same in a size 7</a>) ~ <b>Sunglasses: </b>Kate Spade (Old) ~ <b>Necklace:</b> <a href="https://www.missoma.com/products/lucy-williams-gold-roman-arc-coin-necklace">Missoma</a> </div>
Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-14304125501756982572020-06-27T12:33:00.003-04:002020-06-27T12:52:09.536-04:00Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion So yesterday I threw up a picture on my Insta Stories of a skincare product that had just arrived in the mail and was reminded that not everyone is as much of obsessive as I am, lol. I'm trying to do better about responding on the topics that y'all bring up and not just the randomness in my brain, so here's quickie post about the <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06X3R1LL3/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B06X3R1LL3&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=11c41a5d9172e5a42c22f544699b6753">Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion</a></b>!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uDTsO_NmZKk/XvdusvqyxUI/AAAAAAABE3k/CD9p6NojOaMGTuXYA32JUVGfCDzRjE_KQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Hadalabo-Gokujyun-Premium-Hyaluronic-Acid-Lotion%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1464" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uDTsO_NmZKk/XvdusvqyxUI/AAAAAAABE3k/CD9p6NojOaMGTuXYA32JUVGfCDzRjE_KQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Hadalabo-Gokujyun-Premium-Hyaluronic-Acid-Lotion%2B.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06X3R1LL3/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B06X3R1LL3&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=11c41a5d9172e5a42c22f544699b6753">Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion</a>, $15.99</b></i></div>
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Going back a bit to about Hada Labo itself,<br />
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<i>"HADA LABO—which is translated as “Skin Lab”—is a technologically advanced Japanese skin care line researched and developed at the Rohto research facility in Japan. It is the result of more than 100 years of product development and the continued research efforts of Rohto Pharmaceutical Company, Ltd., a leading manufacturer of pharmaceutical products and cosmetics.<br /><br />Using the power of Super Hyaluronic Acid, Rohto has updated the time-honored and long-admired Japanese ritual for beautiful, younger-looking skin. This combination of high-tech, modern technology and a traditional approach to pampering application is at the heart of HADA LABO. It provides the perfect balance in your skin care regimen—and perfect harmony for your skin."</i> - <a href="http://hadalabousa.com/aboutus/">Hada Labo USA</a><br />
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Now hyaluronic acid, a substance that's naturally occurring in the skin, works to attract and bind water. For dehydrated skin (vs dry skin - lacking moisture/oil), incorporating hyaluronic acid can improve plumpness, brightness, fine lines and wrinkles - all those kind of things. I've also had a facialist say that milia can occur/be exacerbated by dehydration. I have had oily skin my entire life, and now at 34 I think it's inching toward combination, and knowing that I'm already stressing my skin due to the anti-acne products I regularly use, hyaluronic acid for me is an easy ingredient to incorporate to help support the overall health of my skin.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RKuemEiPjuI/Xvdxx25I7II/AAAAAAABE4g/3HX7-px9dOkkZw5CCCj4r71pFPi-Byx6wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Hadalabo-Gokujyun-Premium-Hyaluronic-Acid-Lotion2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1316" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RKuemEiPjuI/Xvdxx25I7II/AAAAAAABE4g/3HX7-px9dOkkZw5CCCj4r71pFPi-Byx6wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Hadalabo-Gokujyun-Premium-Hyaluronic-Acid-Lotion2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06X3R1LL3/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B06X3R1LL3&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=11c41a5d9172e5a42c22f544699b6753">Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion</a>, $15.99</i></b></div>
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Now, the Premium edition of Hada Labo's lotion has five different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, that absorb at different levels of the skin. It's a slightly thicker texture and often marketed towards more mature skin, and using multiple layers can even replace a moisturizer - especially in hot weather. And guess what friends - I have gifs!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FUCNia7PPKo/Xvdy5Ba07OI/AAAAAAABE4s/rTqduNYLFMgl54Ld-hj-XndFVY7_zBCSgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Hadalabo-Gokujyun-Premium-Hyaluronic-Acid-Lotion%2BDrop.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="360" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FUCNia7PPKo/Xvdy5Ba07OI/AAAAAAABE4s/rTqduNYLFMgl54Ld-hj-XndFVY7_zBCSgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Hadalabo-Gokujyun-Premium-Hyaluronic-Acid-Lotion%2BDrop.gif" width="360" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d2JaScRqRfM/XvdzD3ZySVI/AAAAAAABE40/6Xb0T_G4sioJsnxInm_gYWQqOWAkV5AwACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Hadalabo-Gokujyun-Premium-Hyaluronic-Acid-Lotion%2BSwatch.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="360" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d2JaScRqRfM/XvdzD3ZySVI/AAAAAAABE40/6Xb0T_G4sioJsnxInm_gYWQqOWAkV5AwACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Hadalabo-Gokujyun-Premium-Hyaluronic-Acid-Lotion%2BSwatch.gif" width="360" /></a></div>
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I'm not out here on YouTube but I knew that what was really important to share was the texture of the product, as well as the efficacy. Also, IT'S UNSCENTED AND THAT'S AWESOME. I've only used it a couple times so far, including this morning, and I'm still developing my opinion. While it's called a lotion I use this right after cleanser in the morning, before serum, and a night after cleansing and any exfoliating step I might be using. I like having a hyaluronic acid product in my line up because even if I don't immediately see a difference, it's a ingredient I use for long term skin health. I can say immediately it's easy to use and doesn't cause anything I apply afterward to ball up or go weird, which is great. Also, it's $16 so....I don't mind continuing to play with it and see how it goes.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Got a question I didn't answer? Let me know!</b></span></div>
<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-23241224630867980682020-06-22T12:37:00.000-04:002020-06-22T12:37:04.615-04:00Chantecaille - First Impressions I realize this is a bit of a random post, or random for the times at least, but I really wanted to share for two reasons:<br />
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1) Chantecaille is a brand I've been intrigued by for a while, and<br />
2) I want to support and encourage the work that Creators like <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/aarcher120"><b>Kinkysweat, aka Alicia</b></a>, are doing.<br />
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Back on June 5th she used one of her Friday Night Lives to do a <a href="https://youtu.be/cxQ4CGpCscE">Q&A with Angela Barthel</a>, a Team Lead from Chantecaille. Both Black women, the conversation flowed between the two of them about their experiences in the industry and also incorporated questions from viewers - and they weren't all softballs. I wouldn't say that all of Angela's answers were 100% to my liking, but I have to give props where props are due, and she stuck it out even while sometimes visibly uncomfortable. Black and other people of color (BIPOC) want to spend money on luxury makeup, and are no longer satisfied with waiting for the next round to find a color that's appropriate for them. We no longer want to be after thoughts. So yes, I benefit from this purchase because I wanted these products and the exclusive GWP was/is nice, but I also wanted to communicate to Kinkysweat and Chantecaille that people are watching. We will put our money where our mouths are, but excuses about formula to explain a lack of diversity in your shade range? That's not gonna cut it long term.<br />
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But you're probably here for the products huh? ON TO TOO MANY PICTURES!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8MuuSR4FQo8/Xuo4_-JfD4I/AAAAAAABETY/ggg_M4J6eB8Qd8fFqY-YSIuGFYxSKwCeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_haul_hummingbird%2Bcollection_blur%2Bpowder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1425" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8MuuSR4FQo8/Xuo4_-JfD4I/AAAAAAABETY/ggg_M4J6eB8Qd8fFqY-YSIuGFYxSKwCeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_haul_hummingbird%2Bcollection_blur%2Bpowder.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><i>All the things, details to follow (obviously, I'm not a monster)</i></b></div>
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<i><b><a href="https://chantecaille.com/collections/powders/products/perfect-blur-finishing-powder">Perfect Blur Finishing Powder</a>, $80; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08B7ZMXSC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B08B7ZMXSC&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=ca3f3d7ee23c7019ae77568e9be56263">Radiance Cheek & Highlight Duo in Coral Manta Ray</a>, $84</b></i></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Uhh, sorry about the hair in the photo. Cat Mom problems HAHAHA ¯\_(ツ)_/¯) </span></b></i></div>
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First up are the two things I paid for, the <b>Perfect Blur Finishing Powder</b> and the <b>Radiance Cheek and Highlight Duo</b>. I've been chatting with a couple friends lately about the fact that I consider myself a try-er. I want to (for the most part) get use of the things I buy, I'm not super into the idea of collecting for the sake of having it, but I love trying things in case something new could be better, and these seem to be good products to try. Neither have any overt fragrance, but are super soft with the gelée texture that you'll see in some Tom Ford bronzers. Since is this just a first impressions I can't say too much about either, but the blur powder upon application does seem to set without mattifying, which I like but may be too little for the summer heat. It also doesn't leave any sort of white cast, which is great. The highlighter in the duo is AMAZING, and the blush is nice but I applied it with a pointed, natural haired brush and I'm not sure that was the best choice.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nrKyffzj5xc/Xuo_KCoW4PI/AAAAAAABET4/Z_5MA9aVx3AkPCSrY7JJjaS0AslfkzffACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_hummingbird%2Bcollection_perfect%2Bblur%2Bfinishing%2Bpowder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1153" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nrKyffzj5xc/Xuo_KCoW4PI/AAAAAAABET4/Z_5MA9aVx3AkPCSrY7JJjaS0AslfkzffACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_hummingbird%2Bcollection_perfect%2Bblur%2Bfinishing%2Bpowder.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4cA5pSoMsBo/Xuo_P-S1kKI/AAAAAAABET8/wwL3o7vmOUUZK9YI7iWQQBiTkeFfRtMkACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_hummingbird%2Bcollection_perfect%2Bblur%2Bfinishing%2Bpowder_inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1385" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4cA5pSoMsBo/Xuo_P-S1kKI/AAAAAAABET8/wwL3o7vmOUUZK9YI7iWQQBiTkeFfRtMkACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_hummingbird%2Bcollection_perfect%2Bblur%2Bfinishing%2Bpowder_inside.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-squOygIAprM/XupAjqsg-XI/AAAAAAABEUQ/zEl68SIx9Rk_4mXuHnkXc6bxrTk7HfTjQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_ocean%2Bcollection_summer%2B2020_radiance%2Bchic%2Bcheek%2Band%2Bhighlighter%2Bduo_coral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1157" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-squOygIAprM/XupAjqsg-XI/AAAAAAABEUQ/zEl68SIx9Rk_4mXuHnkXc6bxrTk7HfTjQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_ocean%2Bcollection_summer%2B2020_radiance%2Bchic%2Bcheek%2Band%2Bhighlighter%2Bduo_coral.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-39ZGAB2h0ug/XupAoMngmcI/AAAAAAABEUU/Zohbbckl2wQDn0q8VhSzOh962DOOJV_RQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_ocean%2Bcollection_summer%2B2020_radiance%2Bchic%2Bcheek%2Band%2Bhighlighter%2Bduo_coral_inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1480" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-39ZGAB2h0ug/XupAoMngmcI/AAAAAAABEUU/Zohbbckl2wQDn0q8VhSzOh962DOOJV_RQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_ocean%2Bcollection_summer%2B2020_radiance%2Bchic%2Bcheek%2Band%2Bhighlighter%2Bduo_coral_inside.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><b><a href="https://chantecaille.com/collections/powders/products/perfect-blur-finishing-powder">Perfect Blur Finishing Powder</a>, $80 (Top); <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08B7ZMXSC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B08B7ZMXSC&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=ca3f3d7ee23c7019ae77568e9be56263">Radiance Cheek & Highlight Duo in Coral Manta Ray</a>, $84 (Bottom)</b></i></div>
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And swatches!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hXaQNMc32b8/XupDEiLTYcI/AAAAAAABEUo/jLf_R0HOSwcbdAWEjsV57FW4nfiLFvnfACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_blur%2Bpowder_radiance%2Bchic%2Bcheek%2Band%2Bhighlight%2Bduo_coral_swatches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1118" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hXaQNMc32b8/XupDEiLTYcI/AAAAAAABEUo/jLf_R0HOSwcbdAWEjsV57FW4nfiLFvnfACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_blur%2Bpowder_radiance%2Bchic%2Bcheek%2Band%2Bhighlight%2Bduo_coral_swatches.jpg" /></a></div>
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Next up is the Gift With Purchase (GWP) that Angela Barthel secured for viewers with a $150 purchase (down from what would usually be $300, so I am thankful cause without being able to see things in person I am much less likely to spend that kind of cash). It came in a super cute little green makeup bag, which hey, if I'm ever allowed to travel again I would 100% use.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XpV6NiliXaw/XupHERRnhfI/AAAAAAABEU4/mYte-jDC3F4-Ux3u7PHLMucaYPPiVnYhwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_gwp_gift%2Bwith%2Bpurchase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1597" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XpV6NiliXaw/XupHERRnhfI/AAAAAAABEU4/mYte-jDC3F4-Ux3u7PHLMucaYPPiVnYhwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_gwp_gift%2Bwith%2Bpurchase.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JiW0BO6TPY/XupHIOApiRI/AAAAAAABEU8/ujQYxuCRWlkszyMDpU9uvCP8C6HNuKkTACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_gwp_gift%2Bwith%2Bpurchase_inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1226" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JiW0BO6TPY/XupHIOApiRI/AAAAAAABEU8/ujQYxuCRWlkszyMDpU9uvCP8C6HNuKkTACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_gwp_gift%2Bwith%2Bpurchase_inside.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0822K1P2S/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0822K1P2S&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=0002ed11eab3865a32da4e3cd53c7a9b">Stress Repair Concentrate+ .10 oz</a>, $198 for .5 oz; <a href="https://chantecaille.com/products/bio-lifting-cream?_pos=1&_sid=0cfe31104&_ss=r">Bio Lifting Cream+ .17 oz</a> , $342 for 1.7 oz (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0863FR7G1/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0863FR7G1&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=23bd1b87d7fbf30469f62013c2c659df">also comes in a travel size</a>); <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002JWKY8U/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002JWKY8U&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=cfe878bb3811aaf61c3f9f35e08c1334">Rice and Geranium Foaming Cleanser .27 oz</a>, $64 for 2.46 oz; <a href="https://chantecaille.com/collections/lipsticks/products/lip-chic-supporting-amazon-conservation-team?variant=31694526644320">Lip Chic in Coral Bell</a>, $48</b></i></div>
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As you can see the kit came with 3 super sized samples of skincare, and one full size lip product. If I was being *super* picky (which I can be) I'd be a bit disgruntled that some of the skincare products were switched out - the <b>Bio Lifting Cream </b>for the <b>Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask</b> (which I got way back when in the SpaceNK Advent Calendar and love for winter), and the <b>Rice and Geranium Foaming Cleanser</b> for the <b>Nano Gold Energizing Eye Serum</b> (I've tried samples of this cleanser before and it's fine? Just not mind blowing). BUT, the <b>Stress Repair Concentrate</b> is already an eye related product, and at this price point trying one of them is fine. But on to the fun product - the lipstick!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2fnnxgy0JRg/XupSwpSxpcI/AAAAAAABEVY/4XAWCVjC7EcVA442Fl2iDKM_7RuEE-GxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_lip%2Bchic_coral%2Bbell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1302" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2fnnxgy0JRg/XupSwpSxpcI/AAAAAAABEVY/4XAWCVjC7EcVA442Fl2iDKM_7RuEE-GxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_lip%2Bchic_coral%2Bbell.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a-0-R6AYsLE/XupS1W2xm5I/AAAAAAABEVc/5FhNw-yVEaoqdIN-AQU_SJ3eDE7niWuUwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_lip%2Bchic_coral%2Bbell_swatches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1492" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a-0-R6AYsLE/XupS1W2xm5I/AAAAAAABEVc/5FhNw-yVEaoqdIN-AQU_SJ3eDE7niWuUwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_lip%2Bchic_coral%2Bbell_swatches.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><b> <a href="https://chantecaille.com/collections/lipsticks/products/lip-chic-supporting-amazon-conservation-team?variant=31694526644320">Lip Chic in Coral Bell</a>, $48</b></i></div>
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I fell in love with the glossy swatch Angela did on the live and it lives up to that hype in person. It applies like a lip balm but gives this beautiful glossy affect that if I wasn't wearing a mask every time I leave the house, I would be even more excited about.<br />
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I promise to do a full face for y'all in the future, but so far so good and I don't really have any regrets about anything. It's funny though, because the only thing I've been making any headway into finishing is skincare, but makeup is still the thing I can fall head first into buying so easily. If you have a question about anything in particular, make sure to leave a comment or send me a DM or on Insta and I'll answer what I can!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3t87D0dUrrg/XupUuLtJToI/AAAAAAABEVs/wfmvDh5Ef3k3vjWEO943rCr3IUZ8oEyEQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_haul_hummingbird%2Bcollection_blur%2Bpowder2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1291" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3t87D0dUrrg/XupUuLtJToI/AAAAAAABEVs/wfmvDh5Ef3k3vjWEO943rCr3IUZ8oEyEQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chantecaille_haul_hummingbird%2Bcollection_blur%2Bpowder2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Quick
update on some of the links in my posts. As you see in the sidebar
disclaimer, some of the links in my posts are now going to be affiliate
links. If you choose to use them, affiliate links allow blogs like mine
to make a small commission off your purchase with no additional cost to
you. It's a great way to support the content you love and I really
appreciate y'all sticking around in the fast paced world of the
internet. Got a question about the links? Feel free to send me a DM or
drop me a comment! </i></span>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-51604076893269194862020-06-13T12:10:00.000-04:002020-06-17T13:36:09.364-04:00Friday Book Club #23<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YqHyv-0c_6g/XuUHv8JLNBI/AAAAAAABED4/2O9EerWHaqISNCoAmQa2af0jpMF4h42MQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Friday%2BBook%2BClub_June%2B2020%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YqHyv-0c_6g/XuUHv8JLNBI/AAAAAAABED4/2O9EerWHaqISNCoAmQa2af0jpMF4h42MQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Friday%2BBook%2BClub_June%2B2020%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div>
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So... it's been a while huh? I actually checked and apparently it's been almost a year (July 2019) since my last Friday Book Club post and I'm both horrified and not so much. I've been saying to friends that when my stress levels go up I find it super hard to read/watch anything new, because the anxiety of wondering how things will end is too much for my brain. Which is why at the beginning of the year I started tracking things in a more simpler form over on Twitter using the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GRHReads?src=hashtag_click">#GRHReads tag</a>, and wow can you see the ups and downs of being an emotional reader. And hell, this doesn't even cover the books I've started and stopped after a sentence or a paragrah, or the ones I completely DNF'd partway through.<br />
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It's been rough out there y'all.<br />
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But I've decided to give myself a break and if I reread something and just want to share how much I love it, I'm allowed - even if I've posted about it before. The joys of it being my own little piece of the internet hahaha. 99% of my reading is for pleasure, and I want a happy ending, with preferably low angst. No apologies. The world is way more than enough hard truth on any given day. And with that, here are a few of the more recent works that I've read new/reread old and enjoyed the heck out of.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07R8WYCRB/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B07R8WYCRB&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=1a21c445cf8260662074c1552ea989c1"><u>Badger to the Bone</u> by Shelly Laurenston</a> (Paranormal Romance)</b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KhnK7p4hfKk/Xt_o7BlDlJI/AAAAAAABEAM/--2dcgQLrek3mrTcdw_KY3tTuRVLphf0ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/badger%2Bto%2Bthe%2Bbone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="334" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KhnK7p4hfKk/Xt_o7BlDlJI/AAAAAAABEAM/--2dcgQLrek3mrTcdw_KY3tTuRVLphf0ACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/badger%2Bto%2Bthe%2Bbone.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
She’s the woman he’s been hired to kidnap. But ZeZé Vargas has other ideas . . . like getting them both out of this nightmare alive. Just one problem. She’s crazy. Certifiably. Because while he’s plotting their escape, the petite Asian beauty is plotting something much more deadly . . .<br />
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Max “Kill It Again” MacKilligan has no idea what one of her own is doing with all these criminal humans until she realizes that Zé has no idea who or what he is. Or exactly how much power he truly has.<br />
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But Max is more than happy to bring this handsome jaguar shifter into her world and show him everything he’s been missing out on. A move that might be the dumbest thing she’s ever done once she realizes how far her enemies will go to wipe her out. Too bad for them Zé is willing to do whatever it takes to keep her alive . . . and honey badgers are just so damn hard to kill!<br />
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<i><b>My Thoughts:</b> I have read and reread this book an embarrassing number of times since it came out at the end of March. The conclusion to Laurenston's Honey Badger Chronicles trilogy, it is peak ridiculousness. I'm not sure how to describe something so laugh out loud funny that also features some of the best kick ass and confident heroines that I've ever come across. Laurenston takes her stories seriously but they've never serious, which is why they've been comfort reads for two decades. Highly recommended, especially if you miss a good ol' action movie in theaters - you won't be disappointed.</i><br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08275LCFP/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B08275LCFP&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=b6cbf25ca148ed9a9279adc697cf2a6d"><br /></a>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08275LCFP/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B08275LCFP&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=b6cbf25ca148ed9a9279adc697cf2a6d"><b><u>Alpha Night </u>by Nalini Singh</b></a> <b>(Paranormal Romance)</b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgR4y6C60Vs/Xt_pA6NoK-I/AAAAAAABEAQ/avfVL7XyBK8eYk_2FdP2Qnp9Hlm3k2DHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/alpha%2Bnight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1060" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgR4y6C60Vs/Xt_pA6NoK-I/AAAAAAABEAQ/avfVL7XyBK8eYk_2FdP2Qnp9Hlm3k2DHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/alpha%2Bnight.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
Alpha wolf Selenka Durev’s devotion to her pack is equaled only by her anger at anyone who would harm those under her care. That currently includes the empaths who’ve flowed into her city for a symposium that is a security nightmare, a powder keg just waiting for a match.<br />
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Ethan Night is an Arrow who isn’t an Arrow. Numb and disengaged from the world, he’s loyal only to himself. Assigned as part of the security force at a world-first symposium, he carries a dark agenda tied to the power-hungry and murderous Consortium. Then violence erupts and Ethan finds himself crashing into the heart and soul of an alpha wolf.<br />
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Mating at first sight is a myth, a fairytale. Yet Selenka’s wolf is resolute: Ethan Night, broken Arrow and a man capable of obsessive devotion, is the mate it has chosen. Even if the mating bond is full of static and not quite as it should be. Because Selenka’s new mate has a terrible secret, his mind surging with a power that is a creature of madness and death…<br />
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<i><b>My Thoughts:</b> Welp, as I suspected, this book brought my heart all the uncomplicated joy. Which is probably a little strange to say because one of the MCs, Ethan, has suffered all sorts of trauma in his life, but his relationship with Selenka? WONDERFUL. As the latest in Singh's very long running Psy-Changeling series (even if it's part of the Trinity sub-set) it's very hard for me to say this book is a stand alone. The romance, like in all her books, is done with relatively low angst within this one story, but the larger plot has been in the works for a while. Which is a lot of words to say YMMV if you haven't picked up the previous books. I know that Singh will make it worth your while (and yay for all the books you now have at your fingertips!) so may I tempt you to get started if you haven't?</i><br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07QPHT8CB/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B07QPHT8CB&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=13d652920ed630ca4e3a94565e80eb02"><b><u>The House in the Cerulean Sea</u> by TJ Klune</b></a> <b>(Alternate World Fantasy(?))</b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--GTc5hfWUNk/Xt_pE02HuTI/AAAAAAABEAU/eA3Dle0mzv013FwHZlQD1Y_h1I4UrWzKwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/The%2BHouse%2Bin%2Bthe%2BCerulean%2BSea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1027" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--GTc5hfWUNk/Xt_pE02HuTI/AAAAAAABEAU/eA3Dle0mzv013FwHZlQD1Y_h1I4UrWzKwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/The%2BHouse%2Bin%2Bthe%2BCerulean%2BSea.jpg" width="128" /></a></div>
Linus Baker is a by-the-book case worker in the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. He's tasked with determining whether six dangerous magical children are likely to bring about the end of the world.<br />
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Arthur Parnassus is the master of the orphanage. He would do anything to keep the children safe, even if it means the world will burn. And his secrets will come to light.<br />
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<i><b>My Thoughts: </b>This was a bit of a random buy for me, picked up on the strength of Twitter and my experience with Klune's absolutely ridiculous <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B081FZ17RP/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B081FZ17RP&linkCode=as2&tag=goodredherrin-20&linkId=db2e4d72b5eda2292e273dd9f6e482b9">Tales From Verania series</a>. And despite the relatively high price tag, this book 100% delivers. I think the story most closely hews to Urban Fantasy, but it is also gives off very strong Studio Ghibli vibes. It's a story about found family, appreciating uniqueness, and finding the inner strength to do what's right, with the perfect amount of unabashedly queer romance. It's slow burn with some wonderful characters and I really hope it's just the beginning of more to come. </i>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Quick update on some of the links in my posts. As you see in the sidebar disclaimer, some of the links in my posts are now going to be affiliate links. If you choose to use them, affiliate links allow blogs like mine to make a small commission off your purchase with no additional cost to you. It's a great way to support the content you love and I really appreciate y'all sticking around in the fast paced world of the internet. Got a question about the links? Feel free to send me a DM or drop me a comment! </i></span>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-25043407419323194082020-06-03T14:25:00.002-04:002020-06-03T14:25:39.037-04:00Black Lives Matter...and my Black life matters. I decided I didn't want these to just live on Instagram.<br />
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-72731229972465903642020-05-16T12:08:00.001-04:002020-05-16T12:08:02.261-04:00Angel Cher BabyIn the past I've talked about how I'm a bit of an instant gratification person (SHOCKING). That doesn't mean I keep everything I buy - I'm a shopper at heart and really enjoy trying things on, but if it doesn't work it doesn't work. But when I saw <a href="https://hestersunshinestudio.com/hestersunshinebio">Hester Sunshine's</a> final show for Project Runway on Instagram I was HOOKED. The diverse selection of races and body types was inspiring, and this dress tugged all my heart strings. It is impractical for my life style and not actually that "consistent" with anything else I own, but the joy it brings me doesn't matter.<br />
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Delivery was a bit delayed due to...well <i>everything</i>, and I think every event I would have worn this to this year has been cancelled, BUT WHATEVER I LOOK GREAT AND CAN WE JUST GIVE ME THAT ONE THING.<br />
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<b> Dress:</b> <a href="https://hestersunshinestudio.com/hbh-shop/angel-cher-dress">Hester by Hester</a> (Size XL*) ~ <b>Boots: </b><a href="https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/jeffrey-campbell-landyn-zip-bootie-women/5481750?origin=category-personalizedsort&breadcrumb=Home%2FSale%2FWomen%2FShoes%2FBooties&fashioncolor=White&color=white">Jeffrey Campbell </a>(Size 9) ~ <b>Sunglasses:</b> Urban Outfitters (Old)</div>
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<i>*This dress fits perfectly once on, but I just wanted to let y'all know there's a bit of struggle getting the waist over my hips. The fabric doesn't have any real stretch, so I would say so far the brand seems true to size, but just be aware of how your body carries its weight. </i>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-69347261738735118292020-04-20T16:31:00.002-04:002020-04-20T16:31:19.608-04:00March 8, 2020So as you can probably guess, I've been sitting on these photos for a while. A last minute post-brunch decision, from before the world went to hell. And then as things got worse - and worse - and somehow worse again, it became really hard for me to imagine a time when I'd be back to regularly posting. Which is not what this is (I'm sorry, think you'll have to find someone else for your at home/quarantine content), but I decided I wanted to remember this day, and this friend, and the lovely weather and brunch we had at <a href="https://www.unconventionaldiner.com/">Unconventional Diner</a>.<br />
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The end.<br />
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<b>Vest/Duster: </b><a href="https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/tandy-longline-utility-vest?category=sale-jackets-coats&color=096&type=STANDARD">Anthropologie </a>(Size L, Old) ~ <b>Sweater:</b> Poshmark (Size L) ~ <b>Skirt: </b>Memade-ish (Originally a Natori slip from Buffalo Exchange, <a href="https://www.asos.com/us/daisy-street/daisy-street-button-front-midi-skirt-in-leopard-print/prd/13514223?clr=&colourWayId=16478928&SearchQuery=leopard%20skirt">Similar</a>) ~<b> Sneakers:</b> <a href="https://www.asos.com/us/vans/vans-classic-old-skool-black-sneakers/prd/11972926?affid=25251&_cclid=Google_CjwKCAjwkPX0BRBKEiwA7THxiMrdvVaecibK2ua_jWnBFv7_-XhlcbBHZ081tN01b1OauI0jY60cARoCRZoQAvD_BwE&channelref=product+search&mk=abc&ppcadref=2080915396%7c82297856091%7caud-385210184099:pla-294682000766&cpn=2080915396&gclid=CjwKCAjwkPX0BRBKEiwA7THxiMrdvVaecibK2ua_jWnBFv7_-XhlcbBHZ081tN01b1OauI0jY60cARoCRZoQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">Vans </a>(Size 9) ~ <b>Sunglasses: </b>Kate Spade (Old) ~ <b>Necklace: </b>Thrifted~ <b>Crossbody:</b> <a href="https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/calpak-belt-bag/5275445/lite?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&breadcrumb=Home%2FAll%20Results&color=bronze">CALPAK</a></div>
Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458036521329476452.post-13739145392504000152020-03-10T12:29:00.002-04:002020-03-10T12:29:21.825-04:00no man's landI think, *think*, it might be safe to say that DC is transitioning to Spring. You can never completely tell, but I get the feeling the next couple blog posts are going to be the end of straight hair for a while. Once my scalp starts sweating it's a no go, lol.<br />
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Also, is anyone else doing a wardrobe culling? I'm trying not to be too hard on the winter stuff that didn't get worn because the season just wasn't that cold this year, but looking forward to Spring/Summer I feel the need for less even if I'm not sure how that will exactly look. Take today's outfit. Before pulling it together I would have said it was time for this turtleneck to go. It's a super slim fit and kind of sheer, neither of which really appeal to me. But like this? It was the perfect non-black/white neutral, balanced both of the corduroy pieces, and really made the whole thing complete. I know I shouldn't keep a piece just because of one outfit, but did remind me of the efficacy of sometimes boring pieces, even if there are a couple things that aren't ideal.<br />
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I feel similar about undershirts - I know, objectively, I have too many t-shirts. BUT, now that I'm wearing thinner knits more often, these shirts function perfectly as a sweat barrier, and having more of them on hand means I'm not doing laundry as often. Which for a person who doesn't have a washer/dryer in unit, really speaks to me. It's a bit of a conflict in my closet right now, a desire for less while also making sure that the pieces I love are around longer to be worn when I want to. Combined with a deep hatred for laundry.<br />
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CONUNDRUMS ABOUND.<br />
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<b>Shirt: </b>The Frankie Shop (Old, One Size) ~ <b>Turtleneck:</b> <a href="http://https//www.jcrew.com/p/shops/reimagined/tshirtstanktops/tissue-turtleneck/K4227?color_name=bright-cerise">J.Crew</a> (Old, Size XL) ~ <b>Pants:</b> Thrifted (It's A Man's World in Richmond, VA, Men's 36) ~ <b>Shoes:</b> <a href="https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/sam-edelman-lior-loafer-women-nordstrom-exclusive/4690357/lite">Sam Edelman</a> (Size 9) ~ <b>Bag: </b>Coach (Thrifted) ~ <b>Sunglasses:</b> Urban Outfitters (Old) ~ <b>Belt:</b> Free People (Old)</div>
Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16575102289771053822noreply@blogger.com0