February Birch Box Review

This past week I completely, 100% dedicated to my February Birch Box samples. Each day something about my complexion, hair, or normally minimal makeup routine was a little bit different. Here is what I thought (and loved) about this month's samples. . .

1. Hey Honey Take It Off Exfoliating Honey Peel Off Mask

$32.00

If you haven't tried a peel-off mask yet, this is me telling you that you're missing out. Especially if you were one of those kids in elementary school who was extra messy with the Elmer's glue just so that they would be able to  peel it off their fingers later on. The texture of this mask was originally not what I expected - it was clear and extremely sticky making it unlike any other to apply. After wiping the mask all over my facial complexion, it started to dry and about fifteen minutes later was completely transparent. The first peel was the hardest to begin; but after that one, I went to town pulling pieces both small and large. The next morning, my face was smooth as can be. In addition, I used the peel conveniently after getting an eyebrow wax. Normally, I begin to see breakouts & whiteheads pop up along my t-zone after the visit; however, with this exfoliating mask - absolutely none! Definitely an 8 out of 10 and I will be purchasing!

Before

Notice the Stickiness

After

2. Juara Candlenut Body Creme

$38.00

I was underwhelmed by this sample. As much as I love body lotions & creams, the sample was TEENY TINY especially if this is supposed to be used for my entire body. I ended up only being able to use it as a hand cream a couple of times. The product is light and fresh smelling which is nice. Its a silky smooth application and you can see how fluffy it looks by the below image. However, it was just a standard lotion - nothing special. Would I use it? Yes. Would I buy it? Nah. Especially for a steep $38.00 a jar. 

3. Arrow Revive Cooling Cheek Tint

$18.00

If you're a make-up amateur like me, liquid cheek color is about as intimidating as skiing down a black diamond your first time on the slopes. However, I couldn't be happier with the easy application and subtle turnout of this product. The shade came out extremely bright and a little intimidating but rubbed in to a tinted pinky color that climbed up my cheekbone nicely. The tint lasted all day and I got so many compliments on its appearance. Highly recommended - and you can't beat the price!

Morning - Right After Application

Evening - Right Before Heading Home from Work

4. Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

$20.00

I had never tried dry shampoo before (gasp!) so I was ecstatic to get some in this month's Birch Box. It came in handy this week Thursday morning when it was a struggle to get out of bed - so much so that I missed the opportunity to wash my hair that morning. Braving the bedhead I separated my hair into three layers (similar to when I straighten it) and applied the dry shampoo, rustling it into my roots with my fingers after each spritz. I loved the results - it looked similar to a fresh wash in that my hair didn't get unbearably greasy as the day went on. It was manageable, easy to apply, and saved me a good 25 minutes between washing, blowdrying, and styling. Cant wait to use it again!

5.POP Beauty Matte Velvet Lipstix

$24.00 for Three

I. Am. Obsessed. Not only was the color of the lipstick perfect for my skintones, the matte is right on trend with whats out in the market right now. The lipstick is easy to apply and seamless day to night material. Not to mention, I again got so many compliments. I didn't even have to reapply after breakfast either because the color stained my lips so well. Definitely purchasing!! and even wanting to try POP's other products. 

Also - please don't judge for the cheesy picture... 

#FTB (for the blog)

What are you looking forward to try?

3 Ingredient Dinner

I was wandering around Trader Joe's one busy, Sunday afternoon inch by inch (yes, it was that busy) when I smelled something wonderful. I immediately made my way to their tasting station expecting to sample some elaborately made meal I would never be able to duplicate. What I found has become a staple in my dinner rotation. 

What You'll Need:

Trader Joe's Quinoa Duo (in the frozen section)

Arugala

Dried Cranberries

Balsalmic Vinegar & Olive Oil

That's it. You don't even need a recipe. Simply microwave the quinoa, zucchini, and squash blend for 7 minutes, mix in the cranberries, and spoon it atop a bed of fresh arugula. Though Trader Joe's served it dry, I added a drizzle of olive oil & balsamic vinegar on mine for a little moisture and haven't looked back. 

The meal is fresh, healthy, and most importantly quick for those nights when you get home later than expected. So late that it's an "eat from your living room chair rather than at the kitchen table" kind of night. 

Bon Appetite!

Pinspiration

The Right Way to Air Dry Your Hair

Pretty Printables

Houseplants that Clean Indoor Air

Hair Tie Bracelet

$45.00

Summer is Coming

The Firecracker - Watermelon, Lime & Cucumber Cocktail

Dindle Suede Ankle Boot

$89.00

The ONE Thing You Must Do in Each US State

Easy Chicken Pot Pie

Giggles

Outfit Inspiration

My Favorite Mascaras

How much money do you have to waste until you find the right mascara? The answer is easy: too much. You buy the most expensive ones thinking they will work magic only to be disappointed then resort back to the drug store brands to find they are completely what you expected (yawn). And honestly....mascara is the one essential beauty product that I couldn't live without. Without it, we all look like a bunch of cabbage patch dolls. Luckily, if you're struggling with the search for the perfect one, I have found them at last!

For Curl, Try...

Lancome Grandiose Mascara

$32.00

The angle of the brush makes it easy to apply both in an upward and a downward motion. This creates exceptional curl making your lashes look longer. the rubber bristles also separate your lashes making them more defined and look better than ever.

For Definition, Try...

Chanel Le Volume

$32.00

The brush may look ordinary but it certainly surpasses extraordinary. This formula clings to your lashes like no other and plumps each one to its full definition creating full looking lashes worth batting an eye at. 

For Price, Try...

CoverGirl LashBlast Clump Crusher

$6.69

Like everyone else, I went through the drug store phase refusing to pay more than $10.00 for a "quality" mascara. While none of them gave me the satisfactory results I was looking for, Covergirl LashBlast definitely did the best job. My biggest problem with cheap mascara is while it covers the lashes, it doesn't thinken them. My lashes end up looking faint & dainty rather than bold & beautiful. This mascara provided that boldness the best.

For a little bit of everything, Try...

Diorshow Lash Extension Effect Volume Mascara

$27.50

Dior is known for their miracle mascara. If you're looking for it all, Diorshow provides volume, length, and definition in one single swoop. For extra effect, pair with the Diorshow primer. There's even a Limited Edition Duo Set for the price of just the mascara . . . that's how much they believe in it!

Forever Finds

I have the itch to get to Forever 21 this weekend. Though most of my friends would rather do anything (yes, anything) than search through the good and the bad of the typically large and mismatched assortments, it brings a somewhat calming sense to me. Something about taking my time browsing the options sparks my creativity and I always leave with such great, trendy finds and impossible-to-beat prices. 

Open Shoulder Kimono Sleeve Top

$22.90

This color would look worse on me than most (talk about washed out) but I am obsessed with the design. I could see this pairing perfectly with some cutoff high-wasted shorts & gladiator sandals this summer. 

Active Mesh Insert Leggings

$22.90

I haven't tried Forever 21 activewear yet but have heard nothing but good things (surprising, right?) And for the price, how could you not just try them? These could be worn to the gym or with a cute tee and Chuck Taylor's for errands. Try with a big chunky sweater and Keds in the winter - it's my "I look cute to run some errands without trying too hard" look.

At First Step Heels

$34.90

Now that I'm a working woman, I cannot have enough black shoes. I am constantly rotating between the ones I have and am always looking for new ones. Love these lace heels for both work and weekend!

Surplice-Front Cami Jumpsuit

$14.90

I want this like...yesterday. I could see where it might not look as great on me as it does the model, but if this is in stores, you bet I'll be trying it on in any and all colors. This would be great with a killer statement necklace and a cute cork wedge in the summer or with a blazer and high heel for work.

Layered Disc Necklace

$6.90

I have been loving my gold layered necklace similar to this one. I layer the already layered necklace with another gold short chain and a longer pendant. It instantly transforms a simple top to a statement piece. This one would be perfect for even more layering.

Happy Shopping!

Thoughts

Here's what's on my mind recently. . . 

1. Friends

I have always been one of those people who recognizes that true friendships are so much more significant and fulfilling than multiple friendships. I have been so blessed to have been surrounded by my childhood friends, college friends, and new, Charlotte friends each and every weekend. I think the Lord placed everyone here for a reason. Because I have a job that I let continuously place unnecessary stress on myself, I am beyond blessed to have such a strong support system within the same city. The girls that live here have been second to none in making Charlotte feel as homey as it possibly could have. I don't know what I would do without their genuinely loving friendships.

2. Easy Dinners

When you work all day, head straight to the gym afterwards, and then come home to face the pantry, the last thing you want to do is follow an extensive recipe. I have learned the value of easy, yummy, AND healthy meals more than ever this year. A few from the last week include:

BBQ Rubbed Rex Fish - pan seared for 3 min each side, then baked for 12 minutes

Grapefruit, Walnut, Feta & Arugala Salad

Roasted Baby Potatoes (broil the last 2 minutes)

Ladyfingers Chicken Pot Pie - Defrosted & Baked for 1 hour

Steamed Peas & Carrots

Mixed Green Salad with French Vinaigrette

Sesame Ginger Salmon

Whole Grain Rice

Brocollini

3. Flowers

My boss brought us flowers last week as a sweet Valentine's surprise. I forgot how much of an effect they can have on your mood. Lately I have been dragging my butt to work dreading each and every day. As much as I hate to admit that, I think that coming to terms with how you're really feeling rather than trying to pretend or fake otherwise is a relief. When the fresh, red tulips arrived at my desk it was an instant mood booster and reminded me of the simple things each and every time I looked away from my computer. Because of this, I stopped by Whole Foods on my way home form work tonight to pick up some fresh tulips for my roommate for her 23rd birthday tomorrow. I am hoping she gets as much joy out of them as I got out of mine!

4. Tea

I never drink tea. Well, let me correct that statement...I used to never drink tea. Until I was introduced to Liquid Planet's South African Sunset Tea. I had no idea that tea had the same energizing effect that coffee provides. And something about hot tea in a warm mug warms your heart as much as it does your hands. Definitely planning on restocking - only $9.99 for a 15 count pack!

5. Running

Can the cold weather disappear already? It seems as if winter is slowly shifting later and later, creeping into Spring's bubble. I miss running outside in the warming weather and can't wait for this weekend to test drive the sixties. As it starts to get prettier outside, I really want to find another half marathon to run. I'm thinking about either the Asheville Half Marathon & 10K in June or the High Country Half Marathon in Boone, NC in July. Though hilly, the course would be beautiful and the perfect weather. Thoughts?

Gym Lately

With this freezing weather, it's easy to get tired of the monotonous gym routine. That is why during the winter, I find myself having to switch up my workouts in order to stay focused & active. It's easy to make excuses but I hope some of these tips and cute workout clothes will make your time spent on the treadmill a little bit more enjoyable!

1. Try a Class

It's a proven fact that you work harder working out around others. Classes offered by your gym can be a great way to swtich up the routine and revive any lost motivation. Some of my favorites include Athletic Conditioning, Cycling, & Hot Yoga. Whether you want an old high school practice, kick-your-butt class like Athletic Conditioning to an intense stretching, yet challenging session like Hot Yoga there are a variety of classes that meet every need!

2. Break it Up - Use Different Machines

Treadmill = boring. Treadmill + Eliptical + Stair Stepper = exciting. Instead of mindlessly spending your entire allocated workout time on one machine - mix it up! I can workout twice as long with an interval routine simply for the pure excitement of the change in workout. Try 15 minutes on the elliptical as a warm up, 15 minutes on the stair stepper at high intensity to kick your butt, and then 15 minutes to cool it down at the highest incline the machine will let you go at a 4.5 mph pace.

3. Break it Up - On the Same Machine

If it's a busy night at the gym, you might not have the luxury of jumping from one machine to the other. Instead, break up your workout on one machine. 

Elliptical - choose a hill workout to break up both the intensity and incline, then pedal forward for 7.5 min, backward for 7.5 and repeat. Youll instantly feel a difference in muscles being worked by pedaling backwards!

Treadmill - start at a 4.5 min pace at the highest incline the treadmill will go for your workout. After 10 minutes, lower the incline and bust out the fastest pace you can go for another 10. Finally, finish off the last 10 minutes however you like. Whether its a light jog, back to an intense incline, or just walking it out the interval training is fantastic for your heart. 

Stair Stepper - I have a slight obsession with the stair stepping machine. Not the ones that simply go up and down (never really have gotten the hang of those) but I am talking about the ones that actually move like stairs as you go. Bust the level up to at least a 10 right off the bat. Continue stepping normally for 2.5 min. After that, switch to every other step for 2.5 min. Finish off the last two minutes of the interval by facing the right and stepping sideways for a minute and facing left the last minute. Repeat this sequence as many times as you can.

4. Strength Training

Machines are boring when it comes to strength training. Instead, utilize free weights! Here is my typical routine:

Arms: 12 lb set of weights

30 side to side lowers 

20 bicep curls (rotating left and right arm)

10 fly wings (rotating left and right arm)

15 overhead dips - works triceps & back muscles

Legs: 30 lb bar over shoulders

15 squats

20 lunges (alternating legs)

30 calf raises

Abs:

30 second plank

50 bicycle crunches

50 heel touches

50 normal crunches

5. Workout Gear

If you look better, you feel better! So treat yourself to some cute, new workout gear and get back to the gym! Here are some of my winter favorites

Asics - GT 2000
$120.00

Athlete Mind Over Capri Leggings

$69.00

 

Gap Fit - Mesh Back Tank

$34.50

Lululemon Pleat to Street Hoodie

$128

Old Navy Braided Headband

$4.97

Easiest Appetizer Ever

It's hard to think of "fresh" food without summer's colorful farmer's markets. However, if you need a quick, affordable, delicious snack/appetizer/side dish/all the above - you have GOT to try this guacamole. Even with avocados that weren't quite ripe enough to use (oops, I admit it) this simple recipe turned out to be a hit during last night's big game. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

- 4 Avocados

- 1 Small Tomato - cubed

- 1/2 Red Onion - chopped, the smaller the better

- Lime Juice

- Salt (I used sea salt, I swear its so much better)

- Tortilla Chips

Method

1. Peel the avocados, discard skin and pit. Smash avocados in mixing bowl

2. Add cubed tomato & diced onion

3. Add lime juice generously

4. Add sea salt

5. Taste - adjust lime juice & sea salt to your liking

6. Mix & Serve!

I served this batch with Tostitos - Hint of Lime. So crisp & delicious. 

I also recommend Trader Joe's tortilla chips - shown below (for tasting, of course!)

7 Valentine's Day Dates That Aren't Going Out to Dinner

So many people hate Valentine's Day. Confession: I used to be one of them....both single and taken. I've heard every excuse in the world and to each and every one of them I say - make it an excuse to celebrate! An excuse to plan, love, laugh, create, and just be. Use it as something to take your mind off of everything else. An excuse to try something you keep saying you want to do but never actually book. Here are seven of my favorite "excuses" to choose from. Happy Valentine's (or Galentine's!) Day!

1. Chef Alyssa's Galentine's Day Cooking Class

What better way to spend time than learning something useful? On Wednesday, February 10th from 6pm to 9pm, Chef Alyssa's Kitchen is hosting a celebration of girlfriends by teaching the art of local winter harvest ingredients in delicious, mouth-watering meals. The event takes place in Charlotte's Atherton Market. 

2. Pizza & A Movie

This is a tradition of mine. When is the last time you picked up a great pizza, bottle of wine, and picked a movie you never made time for in theatres? Plus, what girl wouldn't take up the opportunity of snuggling up in some PJs and just staying put. 

3. U. S. National Whitewater Center

This goes down as one of the best dates in history. Even though I wasn't strong enough at the time for a swinging pull up (I've been practicing!) it didn't ruin the day. From paddle boarding, to white water rafting, to zip lining, to high ropes courses this place has it all. Not to mention, the live music on stage is GREAT and they are always serving up local brews after a long day on the courses. Tip for firth timers: pack lightly! The lockers are annoying to go back and forth to and if I remember correctly they charge you for going in and out of them. 

4. Treehouse Vineyards Tasting & Tour

This is on my list. Not too far from Charlotte, this would make the PERFECT day trip. Since Valentine's Day is on a weekend this year, you could take advantage of the "story based" wine tours and tastings (whatever that means) as opposed to the typical weekday ones. Though I haven't had the chance to try this out yet, I have heard nothing but great things from girlfriends!

5. NoDa Self Guided Brewery Tour

This goes down as my all time favorite date with Hayden. Last summer, when I was in town visiting him, we couldn't find anything to do on a rainy Sunday. We headed over to NoDa Brewing Company to have a drink and decide. That's when it hit us - let's try a flight! One flight lead to another and by the time we were done we had added Birdsong Brewing Company, Heist Brewery, and The Beer Growler to our list. Such good conversation on top of incredible new brews.

6. Hearts-a-Bustin' 5K

Hayden and I often spend time together through runs. He has always been a great runner and I have forced myself to pick up the hobby for both my health and my sanity. The Hearts-a-Bustin 5K runs through the Carolina Thread Trail starting at the Botanical Gardens. What better excuse to gorge out at a nice Valentine's Dinner than to do some good for your health earlier in the day?

7. Cook Him Dinner

Let's face it, you pin 14x more recipes than you ever get to test out. Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse! Haven't you ever heard that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach?? Nothing says I love you than playing chef and making a DANK meal. Put him in charge of wine and take it easy enjoying each other's company. Bonus for couples who turn the TV off during dinner. What you see up top was last Saturday's meal: BBQ Rubbed Rex Fish, Grapefruit & Walnut Salad, and Broiled Baby Potatoes

What are your Valentine's Day Plans?