Updated Skin Care Products [Spring Edit]

I often change my skincare up with the seasons. Even though my skin is super oily, it still needs more moisture in the Winter but as the seasons transition, I tend to use lighter and lighter products with the warmer weather. Here are my current skin care products for Spring.

Lancome skincare is quite pricey, but as far as skincare goes I don't mind shelling out the extra cash. If you've been around my blog for even a short while you'll know I don't generally spend a ton on makeup or clothes, always looking for a good sale or dupe, but when it comes to my skin I definitely think it's worth investing in. Currently, I'm using the Lancome Absolue face cream and eye cream, but there are cheaper lines from Lancome that work just as good. The products I use are for daytime but they do also have nighttime products which are amazing. The set I bought came with a toner and another Lancome product but it was a Christmas set. Their sets are always changing but they have a Spring line which includes these two products here. I always try to buy their sets because they are way better value for money. This day cream also contains SPF 15 which I always look for in a day cream.

I use this Studio Micro Shaping Cream by Studio 35 Beauty at night. It's more affordable than a lot of other skin care but is meant to lift and even skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. In the colder months, I like to use a face oil at night, often with good-for-your-skin ingredients like Morrocan and Jojoba oils. I find that during the warmer months oils prove too heavy for my skin so this cream is nice and light while still giving my skin the moisture it needs. You can purchase it here.

As far as toners go I'm kind of switching between two at the moment. The one on the left is a lot creamier and thicker so it was great for winter. The one on the right is an exfoliating toner which I've actually never used before but am really loving. It's light and refreshing so it's been the one I've been using more lately. Both are from Lancome and as far as high-end products go, these toners are actually on the more affordable side, particularly the exfoliating one. You can purchase them here.

I always use a hand cream and currently I am loving this Moroccan Rose one by Tree Hut. It's super thick, which I actually prefer all year as my hands are dry regardless of the weather and it smells absolutely amazing. It's really relaxing so I particularly like using it at night right before bed. You can purchase it here.

I've done an in-depth review on this serum in this post, and I'm still using it and loving it so that says a lot. This serum is really light weight so I use it year round. It has retinol which is good for firming the skin and preventing wrinkles. This serum is probably the most affordable skin care product I've ever bought and the fact that it really works makes it Holy Grail for me. You can purchase it here.

I've also included this Lashaderm lash serum in a previous post and I am still using it. Lash serums seem to last forever and while I might not use the same one, I always have one in rotation. This one does seem to thicken my lashes but doesn't make them longer as far as I can tell. Still, they are a lot stronger and healthier than if I didn't use one. You can purchase it here.

Those are what I'm currently using for my Spring skin care...do you guys change up your products with the seasons? Let me know what your favorite skincare product at the moment is! XO

Throwback Workout

Perhaps I should've saved this post for tomorrow, so I could do the customary "Throwback Thursday" but I never was very good at following schedules. I'm taking it way back today by talking about my current favorite workout, which happens to be a step aerobics one. Yes, I know this particular workout peaked in the 80's, but when I was in college (no, it was NOT the 80's) I took several step aerobics classes and always found them to be really fun. A workout without it feeling like a workout, which in my humble opinion is the best kind! I've been kind of stuck in a rut lately and whilst sitting and thinking of what I really enjoyed doing that was indoors (stinking Utah weather!) I remembered my love of the step. I dug out my old equipment, YouTubed some videos (which happen to be current, not the old Jane Fonda versions) and I've been doing it ever since. If you've never tried it, I encourage you to do so--a lot of beginners start with no step just to get the moves down and that is a major workout in itself! Here are my favorite videos as of late:

I particularly like Jenny Ford's workouts because they're short so even if you're pressed for time you can get a good workout in (I'm telling you, this is cardio to the tenth degree!) and she is easy to follow.

Have you guys ever done a step aerobics workout? Happy mid-week everyone! XO

You can purchase a step and additional risers here!

Current Favorite Combo [Spring Edition]

Right now, I'm full speed into Spring (even though currently it's a blizzard outside). Still, once that first warmth of the season hits there's no looking back. I'm loving fresh and light pinks at the moment and these are two of my favorites!

This BH Cosmetics blush in the shade Vivacious is super duper gorgeous. It's an illuminating baked blush so it's all shimmery and pretty and highly pigmented. Truth be told, I kept forgetting about this as it looks like your run of the mill pink blush in the pan, but swiped across the cheeks it's so pretty and glowy, it's definitely something I've been reaching for more often. Plus, it's only $5.50 here and you know I love a good deal. I'm thinking of going back and getting more colors.

This OXX lipstick is another sweet gift from my friend Rainbow. Originally I thought it was going to be a bright, bold pink, but in reality it's a much more subtle, perfect for everyday shade. This one's in the shade Barbie Pink (gotta love that name) and I know it's available at Kmart in New Zealand and Australia. Unfortunately, I don't think it's readily available stateside.

It's all pinks and bright fun colors for me for the next little while...what are you loving as we're changing seasons? Happy Tuesday everyone! XO

BH Cosmetics Missy Lynn Palette

BH Cosmetics is easily becoming one of my favorite affordable makeup brands. The cute packaging, the quality makeup and the ridiculously low price tag definitely make me want to buy the entire BH range. I'm really loving this palette recently; it's neutral with a smokey purple twist which makes it easy for everyday but also adds a little extra something to your eye look.

The pigmentation is truly stunning on these creamy shadows, which are super blendable. With shadow primer these last all day and don't smudge, budge or melt off.

The two baked highlighters are beautiful as shimmery bronzer but also make gorgeous coppery eye looks.

I love this little quote featured under the full-sized mirror. "Start with Confidence. Finish with Success." Cute packaging gets me every time.

What palettes are you loving this month? XO

BH cosmetics
Missy Lynn Palette - $8.00

Girl at the Rock Show

No, I seriously haven't been to a rock show in forever...it's more about the mellow music for my husband and I these days. This is a typical outfit I'd wear for a night out of dinner and music.

I love the boho vibe of this outfit. I'm giving you an example of what I'd wear to a concert, but really, if I could this would be my everyday uniform. Hats are the best because I really can't be bothered with my hair. The rust color of my blouse is one of my my favorite colors right now and of course, wide leg jeans are totally my jam.

I love this bag for a night out because inevitably the keys, my husband's wallet and whole slew of other things end up in my bag, so I can't be carrying no tiny clutch for these things. Also, note to self, next time wear purse and take photo on opposite side of shirt tag...#bloggerfail

These clogs are some of my absolutely favorite shoes ever! You might be thinking, "Kim, aren't these a little high to wear out to a show?" Well, admittedly the shows my hubs and I go to these days mostly have seating...which totally makes us sound super cool and ready to rock.

Also I wanted to mention the site TickPick again. I talked extensively about the site in this post, but honestly if you go to a ton of shows/plays/sports events, then you can save major money by buying your tickets here. You can also find tickets to sold out events. This is not a sponsored post, and I'm not an affiliate of Tick Pick, I just use them all the time and think it's a brilliant place to buy tickets. If you know me you know I'm all about discounts. Also, I just found out they have a blog where they feature upcoming events, what's the new big thing in music, sports and events and fan pictures! You can find their blog page here or search/sell tickets on their site here.

Let me know what you guys would wear out to your favorite concert! Happy Monday friends. XO

Blackberry Refresher

So you guys know that when I make something, I like there to be like a hundred different variations to it so that anyone can change it up to their liking. Enter in this drink. This is a blackberry spritzer that is perfectly refreshing as the weather turns warm and I seriously cannot get enough of this fizzy drink.

I used:
Blackberries
Sugar
Coconut Rum
Raspberry Rum
Sparkling Water

So here's the thing, you can virtually use any fruit, any flavored rum, and any type of sparkling water (or even champagne) and this would be just as good. I happened to use blackberries because they were on sale at the store this week. I muddled the berries with sugar using a fork and place them at the bottom of the glass. Side note, you can freeze the berry/sugar concoction to use for ice cubes in the drink, just as good! On top I added equal parts coconut and raspberry rum (now this doesn't seem like a large amount but remember how small a champagne flute is) and topped it all off with sparkling water. I only had grapefruit flavored sparkling water and while I wasn't sure how the combination would go...it was actually super delicious. I also love that you can make this in a big patch by pureeing a ton of berries in a food processor and using a pitcher...or you can make it as a single for those nights you just need a night cap. As always, this is a recipe where you can add as little or as much alcohol as you like and totally make it to your liking. I also love this recipe topped off with champagne...which would be totally amazing with some OJ and muddled pineapple...a sort of island mimosa if you will. The possibilities are endless and if you know me, that's exactly what I like in a recipe!

Muddle the berries and sugar using a fork

 I garnished the glass with a blackberry because I thought it looked really cute. I feel like this would be good to serve at Easter brunch or even with a back year BBQ. Let me know if you've tried something like this! XO

Chi Chi Creamy Matte Liquid Lipstick Collection

I hesitated to talk about this product because it's not readily available in the U.S. I mean, the website does ship internationally, but for a price. I eventually decided I had to because I just loved this trio too much not to share. Chi Chi cosmetics is an Australian based makeup brand and I've heard some rave reviews about their products. So when my lovely friend and fellow blogger Rainbow, from Rainbow Rose-blossom, sent me this goody it's no surprise that I actually squealed in joy. Thank you Rainbow for your generosity, you are seriously the bees knees!

I have a love-hate relationship with most matte lipsticks and liquid lipsticks are a whole other ballgame. I like the theory of a long lasting lipstick that is both creamy and matte but in reality, it doesn't really seem to exist. I've found that with most long lasting lipsticks, especially matte finishes, my lips get super duper dry and adding more product only results in a thick, gunky, unattractive mess. If I know I'm only going to be wearing the product for a short time then I'm usually fine but to be honest, most days my makeup needs to last (albeit some touchups) for 10+ hours.

What I loved about these lipsticks were that they were truly creamy. I've never tried another lipstick with this formula, it was definitely matte but stayed creamy, meaning it didn't really dry all the way down...but it still had a matte finish. I know, kinda blew my mind too. The downside to that is that they could be incredibly messy because they didn't really dry. I wore the pink and had no issues but when I tried the red I literally had red lipstick everywhere, from my desk to (randomly) the side of my neck. If you try these you definitely need to watch any contact with the lip area or these will get everywhere. Another plus was despite the creaminess, they were incredibly long lasting. After eating the top (creamy) layer wore off leaving behind a pretty pigmented hue on the lips. The downside to that? When the red did get everywhere it was a nightmare to try and remove. Hence, why I did not swatch my hand...these lipsticks stay on all day and beyond. Since the lipstick goes on creamy I was able to reapply as needed and not have the layers get too thick or dry. Overall, I'm super happy with these lipsticks and am eager to try more products by the brand. Another huge thanks to my friend Rainbow who so kindly gifted these to me! Love you, girl!

Rainbows lovely blog: Rainbow Rose-Blossom
Chi Chi Cosmetics website: Note that all orders to the U.S. have a flat rate $20 shipping fee, with free shipping over $100.
Pink lipstick: Socialite
Red lipstick: Lady in Red
Purple lipstick: Drama Queen
Boxed Set: Liquid Lipstick Trio

*Side note and super important mention...these lipsticks smell like strawberries! XO

Ramblings

Warning: This is going to be a rambly post

I had every intention of doing a makeup post today, but you know what they say, best-laid plans and all that. So I have this thing where whenever I have a great idea, or I make plans, or I want to start something new I always have to do it first thing the next day. Like I can't just drop what I'm doing and start now. It's why I go forever between blog posts or why I feel like after so many days I can't respond to comments on a previous post. I feel like I have to start fresh. I can't decide if this is the only thing I can control or simply out of my control. I start out every day with the intention of finally getting my crap together, only it never really works out that way. Which I'm learning to be okay with. Only it does make planning my life out semi-hectic and actually having any sort of routine near impossible.
Another thing, if I feel like I can't read and comment on posts I hesitate to post on my own blog. I know it's silly, but I dislike engaging if I can't fully commit. I feel like I want my blogging relationships to go both ways, so if I don't have the time to comment on other blogs I feel guilty getting comments of my own. Is this abnormal? Quite possibly. I'm okay with that too. I feel better having friendships than a personal agenda.
Let me know when you guys like to start new plans. Is it weekly? Daily? I hope everyone has a fantastic Tuesday! XO

Milani Earthy Elements Palette

I really, really wanted the Plum Milani eyeshadow palette but low and behold it was all sold out, as most newly released coveted beauty products are. Needless to say, I just couldn't leave empty handed -- you understand. I spotted this Earthy Elements Milani palette in the same collection and the matte orange just spoke to me. Okay, okay, that's a little dramatic, but you know what I'm saying. It was too pretty to pass up. And this isn't just another nude palette...it's got a little twist on it. I love the sleek gold packaging, how small it is which makes it easy for travel and how beautiful and pigmented the shadows themselves are.

Aside from the "base" color, which looks like it's a quite beautiful highlighter but is in actuality a chunky mess, all the colors are smooth, buttery and beautiful. Have you guys tried one of these new palettes yet?

Real Life

The blogger curse. You know what I'm talking about. The idea that everything about your blog has to be perfect. Overthinking every single word you type. Making sure every picture you post is aesthetically pleasing; that the light is perfect, the background amazing and your best side is being captured. Here I am about to go and break all those rules.

Don't get me wrong, I love looking at pretty pictures as much as the next blogger and am always looking to improve my blog, whether it be my pictures or content. But, to be honest, you guys are my friends. And in real life everything isn't perfect. So when you really make it a goal to post when you said you would, and all you can squeeze in is some pictures of you in sweaty makeup after doing errands all morning and working for 5 hours in a cafe that's about 100 degrees then you just post anyways because you'd feel worse if you didn't. And since your readers are your friends you know they won't mind.

So here you guys go, my Sunday, sweaty makeup, working all day outfit post. Also, right after these pictures were taken I ran out into the rain and spilled coffee all over myself, so it definitely could have been worse.

By the way, my husband has definitely turned into a full blown blogger hubby. Pretty sure my face in the last picture is in response to his, "are you sure you want this to be your background?" Speaking of real life, I wear my hair like this probably 6 out of 7 days out of the week. It's why my husband chose the picture he did when creating my banner. #reallife

I hope you all have an amazing Monday my beautiful friends, I hope it's the start of a great week! XO

Another cute orange owl sweater here
Hair scarf similar here
Shoemint Daz boots similar here

Weekly Roundup : Friday Faves #25

What is it about the weekend that makes us so giddy? Even if I'm working at the shop (like I am this weekend) it just feels different and more relaxed. The whole weekend vibe is real and whatever it is that makes our brains so excited for it I'm definitely ready for it. Here's another roundup of what I'm loving this week!

I've never tried the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water but when I saw this version which removes waterproof makeup, cleanses and refreshes I knew I had to give it a go. This cleansing water does feel a bit oily but it does remove all my waterproof makeup without a lot of rubbing and tugging which is always a good thing. It's also on the affordable end of Micellar waters so there's that.

I originally purchased this scrub because it contained peppermint and jojoba beads. I was sick at the time and the thought of a cool peppermint-y scrub on my face sounded like heaven. While this does smooth, cool and refresh the skin, I can't say much for the smell. It smells of Windex, which is both disgusting and concerning. The product itself, however, has proven to be effective so glass cleaner smell aside, it makes the cut.

This NYX blush claims to be a blush+illuminator+bronzer. What? This is definitely an illuminating blush...I don't see bronzer anywhere in this product. That being said it is a gorgeous, shimmery pink with just the right amount of punch to it. Mine is in the shade Pink Fetish.

This bh cosmetics creme luxe lipstick in the shade Vixen is seriously stunning. It's a bit magenta, a bit purple and with some blue undertones. It's just freaking gorgeous. The staying power is also ridiculously long lasting, even through meals. It's also super affordable so there's really no excuse for you not to have this!

Last but most certainly not least is my fellow blogger and friend Johnna, who you'll find over on The Sentimental Cynic. Her blog is extremely magical; her photography is amazing and her posts are pure poetry. Some of my favorites are this one here and this one here. Go over and have a peek at her blog, I know you will fall in love!

Well guys, that about does it for this week. I hope you all have a most wonderful weekend! XO