Currently // November Updates

You guys, I know I've been slacking here. I'll spare the excuses and just say that I haven't been feeling particularly motivated. I went to see my therapist last week and we discussed why my moods have been affecting my productivity. I'm still struggling, but as always, she asked tough questions and put things into perspective so I'm determined to keep up a normal blogging schedule for my own sanity sake (and because she encouraged me to).

I feel so much more connected when I blog, and it's a part of my life that I want to continue. I hope you're still with me :)

Since I feel like I've been a stranger, I thought it would be a good time to share some life updates and join a link-up that was recommended to me. Here is a recap of current musings...


Anticipating - Nate and I are going to see The Lumineers and Vance Joy in December! You guys probably know how much we love going to shows and The Lumineers have been on my list for a couple years. I've already seen Vance Joy and he's amazing! If you ever get the chance, go! Any suggestions on what to wear? I normally dress down for shows (especially when there's a mosh pit involved) but this time I want to look more put together.

Realizing - That I need to ask for help more often and be open to receiving it. I hate relaying my problems, even to friends. I'd rather help others than help myself, and that can be pretty isolating and destructive.

Reviewing - So many good things, including this Laneige lip mask! Full thoughts coming soon, but it's safe to say that I'm obsessed and have been slapping this on every night before bed.

Following - I've cut way back on my social media footprint, mostly because I compare myself to others. That isn't exactly going to get me to my "stop thinking you suck" goals. Plus, I haven't been feeling as creative in my Instagram posting so I'm not looking around as much either. But, I still enjoy following my girls! Gina, Rachelle, Amy Ann, Carylee, to name a few.

Appreciating - Cooler weather! It finally feels like Fall here and I am so thrilled to be snuggled up in my fleece blanket as I type this. It's the little things in life, right?

Investigating - School. I was enrolled in copy editing and digital content courses at UCSD, but my certificate has yet to be completed. I'm so indecisive! It's like, pick a lane already! So I've been going back and forth about next semester and whether I want to continue my studies. I'll keep you posted, but I'm leaning towards yes. Education is never a regret.

Happy November! Linking up with Anne in Residence and A Hopeful Hood.

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The Day Dress

Wearing //

LOFT dress

Zara pumps, old but similar here 

Sezane bag

One of you has to tell me that it actually feels like Fall where you are! I'm begging please! Because I need to live vicariously through you, and pretend that I'm not currently sitting in front of a fan in a tank top like it's the middle of July. This heat wave has been uncharacteristic, even by California standards. It's also the topic of conversation and is annoying everyone, even those of us who enjoy Summer. It just doesn't seem right that it's 104 degrees the last week of October! 

The one perk of course (maybe the only one) is that I can still wear a dress all day and be perfectly content. After seeing this on one of my YouTube friends, I grabbed it at 40% off. I love the flutter sleeves and the flounce hemline. I always remark that the easiest way to get dressed is to throw on one complete outfit, add your favorite shoes, bag, and jewelry, and go. I can't tell you how much time I've wasted over the years trying to figure out some contrived formula when really all I need is a dress to build around! I've discovered that simplicity is key, at least for me...especially in "transitional" weather!

Linking up with: On The Daily Express, Straight A Style, Pumps & Pushups. I hope you have a great Wednesday! 

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Skincare in Your 30's

Managing your skin once you hit your 30's can be a little daunting. So many of us still have the same concerns as we did in our 20's, but we are also trying our best to prevent signs of aging. After being on birth control pills for nearly all of my adult life, my skin has changed drastically in just three months time. I used to battle dryness, and now I'm more oily and prone to cystic bumps along my chin and jawline (in fact, I'm nursing a giant monster right now). Talk about an identity crisis! Just when I had my skincare routine down, my hormones shifted and now I'm back to feeling like a teenager again...A teenager that is worried about fine lines and wrinkles on top of breakouts.

Everyone's skin needs are different of course, but I think it's imperative that we all take great care of it. It's the first thing people notice! It's easy to be careless when you're younger, but once you reach 30, it's high time to lock down a routine that works for you, invest in some quality products, and really take skincare seriously. Here is what I do for a healthy, youthful glow:

Step 1) Cleanse

I wash my face morning and night. At the moment I'm using a cleanser by L'Oreal, but I also love Cetaphil, First Aid Beauty, and Glo Skin Beauty. I don't think the brand matters so much as the effectiveness. Use whatever works for you, but don't forget to wash off the day's makeup! This is the key to having great skin.

Current cleanser

Step 2) Exfoliate

I don't exfoliate every single day, only twice per week but it definitely makes a difference! If you have sensitive skin, once a week is good enough to slough off dead skin cells. Out of all the products I use, Exfolikate is the one I recommend to absolutely everyone. It's pricey, but a little goes a long way and it's the best I've used.

Step 3) Moisturize

Moisturizing has been the area in my new routine that I've been struggling with. My old moisturizers are fairly thick and heavy, and I've been so paranoid about developing a breakout. However, keeping your skin hydrated is important for all types so I've been using my moisturizers sparingly and with a lighter hand. I apply before makeup in the morning (I use one with SPF) and at night before. I also use an eye gel to help keep my undereye area soft yet firm.

Step 4) Treat

My problem areas include some discoloration on my cheeks and around my nose, as well as old acne marks on my chin. Lately I have been using a spot treatment on my chin to get rid of blemishes, but I don't use it nightly because it can be very drying to the surrounding skin. If you have any concerns like these, a great serum can help lessen the appearance of unwanted marks.

Step 5) Prevention

Lastly, the best time to prevent lines and wrinkles is in your late 20's and early 30's. Your skin is most resilient! I use a serum with retinol and fatty acids. Below are some newer products that I'm excited to try and two of them moisturize while you sleep. I'll let you know how I like them but i've only read positive things.

Is your skincare routine similar? If you have any specific questions let me know!

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New In: Sézane Bag

If you've been reading here for any length of time, I think you'll know how much I love a good handbag. I tend to splurge on them because I see a bag as more of an investment rather than clothes or even shoes. A beautiful bag can transform your look, and with careful consideration, it can last for years to come.

 I've been on the hunt specifically for a black shoulder bag with gold hardware. I always have criteria in mind and this time was fairly simple: easy to get in and out of (no front flap or cumbersome details), no big logos, medium in size, and above all, polished enough for everyday use.

Enter the French brand Sézane, which I have fallen completely in love with thanks to some of my favorite bloggers. Do yourself a favor and take a look at their site. So much inspiration! Introducing the "abelle".

Abelle bag

It has such an elegant look without being overstated. Zip top closure, brushed rounded gold chain that's incredibly light, feet on the bottom, outside and inside pocket, suede and leather body - It really is everything I wanted. Shipping only took a week. I had never heard of Sézane until the Summer, but now I want it all!

What do you ladies think? Have you made any exciting handbag purchases for Fall?

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