Discoveries and rediscoveries. Let’s put it that way. Figuratively in the realm of inner strength, literally with the most mundane things.
I’m staring at the above photo, wishing my August was as pristine as the ocean, as blissful as it can be. But that wasn’t the case. I don’t mean to sound like Nega Nancy but it’s true, August was the worst one yet. For me. For my family. But we’re hanging in there, gripping mightily, hoping fervently. Blogging and vlogging, albeit sporadically this month, had been therapeutic because it allowed me to relax, even for a brief moment.
“I discovered that I was vulnerable but along the way, I rediscovered my old feisty self”
The Artis Oval Blush 7. This used to be my least favorite foundation brush but with time comes refinement in how the bristles feel, apply and buff foundation and/or tinted sunscreen. Better late than never. Good thing I didn’t throw it away because I love it now, more than ever.
Elde Lip and Cheek Rush. I bought this gem last year and while it garnered a rave review, it got lost in the pile. I was searching for a nude pink lightweight lipstick and lo, it resurfaced when I did a purge not too long ago. I have only worn this on the lips so I can’t say so much on the cheek side, performance-wise. It doesn’t boast of any long-wearing formula, just the most natural, and a very short one at that, list of ingredients.
Ricinus Communis Seed Oil*, Cocos Nucifera Oil*, Theobroma Cacao Butter*, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Brassica Campestris/Aleurites Fordi Oil Copolymer, Copernicia Cerifera Cera, Candelilla Cera, Silica, Tocopheryl Acetate, Citrus grandis Peel Oil*, Aroma**, Geranol**, May Contain: Mica (Cl77019), Titanium Dioxide (Cl77891), Iron Oxides (Cl 77492, Cl 77499, Cl 77491)*, Ultramarines (Cl 7772, Cl 77007), Red Lake 31 (Cl 45380)
Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil (Warm Brunette). I first discovered this three years ago, as reviewed here. One fine afternoon, while killing time at Sephora, I decided to re-purchase it. Glad I did! It’s like being reunited with your high school bff (which by the way is going to happen pretty soon for me, yay!). Despite not being around for a long time, we pick up where we left off. Natural-looking, don’t we all desire our brows to look like that?
“Amidst the turbulence, I rediscovered fight or flight. In silence, I discovered wisdom”
Vans Classic Slip-ons. My weekend had been hectic as hell so I needed to dress comfortably from head to toe. I love slip-on sneakers and this pair from Vans fits the bill. I know they aren’t the most fabulous shoes to rock but that’s the least of my priority, to be blunt about it (are your shoes vegan? read this post on how to find out).
Australian Gold Mineral Sunscreen. Reef-friendly, not tested on animals, and vegan, these mineral (physical) sunscreens don’t leave icky greasy feel to the skin. Sunscreen use is one of my favorite topics on the blog (I wrote aplenty); it’s also part of my patient education, whether they are getting laser treatments from me or not (read why use sunscreen). Side note, chemical sunscreen ban will take effect in year 2021 here in Hawaii so retailers and consumers are gearing up for it. Side note again, if you are prone to acne and/or have sensitive skin, physical (mineral) sunscreen is your safe choice (read skincare for all ages).
Backpacks. With my weekend basically composed of errands, running around and such, I found backpacks to be the most fitting bag to carry. Hands-free and spacious for all my weekend essentials, including my camera and mini-tripod (read how to take your own photos like a pro with a phone), they complete my laid back weekend outfits. I will be filming my favorite vegan backpacks soon, you bet this one from Angela Roi (reviewed here) will be included.
What about you? how was your August? what are you looking forward to this September?
SHOP TODAY’S POST
So sorry to hear you’ve been having a tough time! You look great though!
Thanks much
Wonderful picks! I love those Vans! I have those Australian Gold sunscreens and think that they are fab!
I’m so sorry to hear you had a bad month! You look gorgeous as always!
Thank you. Hopefully September will be better
Any time family gets sick it affects our lives. I often found that blogging got me away from those troubles. I liked August since some of my health issues are going away and I have more energy. I still had some issues but they were healing and not depressing. I also got to spend a lot of time with my beloved grandchildren and we made up a lot of games. As far as items I found some loves like the Hard Candy Feelin’ Mauvy palette and Mally blush and rediscovered UD Naked foundation. I hope your September is better.
Thankfully September is almost here with a chance of a new month with hopefully lots of positives for you! You know, I still haven’t tried the Artis brushes!
My August flew by in a matter in moments and I’m not ready to get back to the everyday hustle of the school year. I love my summers off and enjoy the special moments with my kids. I’m sorry you had a rough month, I hope that Sept treats you better.
I’m sorry your august was so hard. I really hope your September is better!
August was so busy for me. I’m hoping to settle back down now. So sorry you had a rough month. I hope things get better. I really enjoyed this post!
Thanks Stacie!
August was really busy for me! Hopefully I can fit some breaks and fun into September
Vans are my jam. I just bought two more pairs. One is the Van Gogh skull slip ons!
I’m sorry that your August was so stressful with your MIL’s health problems that i’m sure affected your whole family in many ways. I hope things improve. I was fortunate and I had a particularly nice August in spite of the passing of two dear friends, one old and one youngish.
August was super hot here and I worked a lot. I bought the Norvina palette and love playing with it.
This post reminds me that I need to add a couple of more Artis brushes to my stash!
Vans Slip Ons are always so comfy and these would practically go with everything! I hate that August wasn’t the best for you, hopefully September will bring a bright new change for you and your family! <3
This reminds me I need to pull for my Artis brush more!