Currently // April

As promised yesterday, I'm linking up with Anne in Residence and I am Teacher Fit for current April updates. You'll surely notice a Spring theme with the prompts! Spring is probably the most beautiful period here in California so I'm thrilled that it's here.

***We went up to Big Bear two weeks ago and although we were disappointed that there wasn't much snow, the lake looked breathtaking! It was my first time in Big Bear***

What I'm Currently...

Buying: All things for Spring, which really translates to Summer as well. My big splurge of the season has been my new straw bag from Clare V. I wanted to get a more budget-friendly option because there a ton out there, but I kept going back to the petite Alice. You ladies know I'm into quality over quantity so I'm very happy with my choice. Perfect to carry with the swingy dresses I live in during the months ahead. 

Showering: with delight every morning because of the most delicious smelling bath product. I've written about my love for L'Occitane before, and it continues to be the one beauty treat I can't quite go without. It has definitely improved the eczema on my arms and legs. Gina mentioned this refillable bag and I ordered one right away!

Making: plenty of healthy (albeit extremely easy) meals. Think salads using whatever vegetables we have on hand, chicken that you simply season and bake in the oven, turkey burger patties, and eggs with chilli lime seasoning and basil pesto. Actually, I've been putting pesto on everything lately! I get mine from Costco in a big jar and drizzle it on when I want extra flavor. Try it!

Expecting: to experience some sadness when our next door neighbors move to Idaho in the coming weeks (the great mass exodus of California as they call it). I get it. Two of our close friends are also thinking of moving out of state, due to the high cost of living here. I sincerely doubt I could ever leave, but it's understandable especially with children. I know it will be hard to say goodbye to not only the sweetest neighbors' we've met, but also to their adorable little dog who loves to poke his head in our yard to say hi to Nettie. 

Cultivating: a YouTube music video playlist. Does that count as cultivation? My current favorite video is from The Lumineers. I can't get them out of my head since seeing them perform a few months ago! The video for "Sleep on the Floor" has become a fantasy of sorts for me. I would love to pick up and just go on a road trip across the country with Nate. You should watch it, til the very end. 😊

What have you guys been up to? Share any of your answers to these below!

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How To Dress Up A Kimono

Wearing // Similar kimono here, here & here, Similar cami, Old Navy Jeans, Sam Edelman pumps, Clare V bag

I love kimonos as an alternative to a cardigan or jacket when the weather warms up. I'm a pretty modest dresser, so having a light layer is a great way to feel a bit covered while not overheating. But let's be honest, kimonos are often reserved for casual weekend looks. I wore a couple last Summer over bathing suits by the pool or with denim shorts at outdoor music festivals. I never thought about dressing up a kimono for evening until I saw my best friend wearing them at different nighttime events.  I think the key is to keep the kimono the centerpiece of your outfit. Floral versions are my personal favorite, but some in fabrics such as lace also feel dressier for night. You can wear them with denim and classic pumps as I've done here, or you can wear one over a fitted dress and some metallic sandals. In fact, I saw a woman wearing her kimono over a black tank dress this weekend and she looked so pulled-together. The contrast of flowy and fitted is a formula to keep in mind with this trend. It's all about the mix.

I hope you ladies had a wonderful Easter! I'll be back tomorrow with some April updates so stay tuned.

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Skin Smoothing Favorites

We all want to look our best, and that means having great skin. It's one of the first things people notice, especially in photos. It would be nice if we were all blessed with it but I think I stand with the majority when I say I'm usually trying to conceal dark circles, discoloration, and an acne mark every now and then.

So what's a girl to do? Fake it! There's a new batch of products that are designed to help you achieve smooth skin relatively easily. I've been testing these and have discovered that not only are they perfect on-camera, but they keep you looking fresh and youthful off-camera as well.
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1. Tatcha The Silk Canvas -  Besides this being the prettiest packaged face primer I've ever seen, it's also the best I've ever tried. With my skin being rather oily, I was worried that this would create more shine. Thankfully it's for all skin types, oily included. It has a faint citrus scent and applies as a silky balm. It's slightly like other silicone primers I've used, but it absorbs much more quickly, doesn't feel as slick, and really provides a nice even base for makeup that lasts for a whole day.

2. Dr. Brandt No More Baggage - I use this as a quick fix on days where I have more puffiness under my eyes than usual. It's essentially an orange tinted gel that disappears onto the skin. It's cooling to the touch and dries to a smooth layer almost like a liquid bandage! You can feel it tightening as it dries. I know, sounds really weird but surprisingly effective. I then pat concealer on top for a well-rested appearance. This seems to go on sale frequently so look out if you want to give it a try.

Tarte Shape Tape -  Not necessarily skin smoothing but I just bought this concealer and so far, so good! It's a much thicker consistency than my NARS, and the coverage is perfect on acne marks and dark circles. I dabbed some on an old scar and it covered very well. This just might be my new holy grail! I'll do a proper review in two weeks.


Have you tried any of these products? I hope you ladies are having a fantastic week!

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Express Cardigan + Gingham Flats

There was a slight spring in my step last week, and I partly owe it to some new flats I recently added. Gingham seems to be everywhere, and although it's not a print I typically gravitate towards, the style and fit of these were too adorable to resist. I basically live in flats so when I see a pair I like, I know I'll wear them to death!

Wearing // Express cardigan, Similar cami, Old Navy jeans, Target flats

Beauty // M.A.C lipstick in Ravishing, Charlotte Tilbury palette

I've also been living in this cardigan that I've actually had since January. It's such a beautiful color that goes with all of the basics in my closet. I love pairing it with black, white, gray, and even blush. I find that when you have a simple way of dressing, branching out into different color combinations is the easiest way to liven things up without stepping out of your comfort zone. And with Spring temperatures around the corner, now is the perfect time to try some of the trends we'll be seeing in the next few months. I'm slowing incorporating some into my daily looks and I can't wait to show you ladies! I've already updated my "shop" tab if you want a peek at what I'm loving!

Are you shopping for Spring and Summer yet? What's on your radar? Linking up with Carylee and Rachelle today.

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