Joining with 1000 Voices for Compassion: One Simple Way to Embody Compassion

I am so excited about the opportunity to join with other bloggers to write about compassion today!

For me, compassion begins as something intangible, a slippery thought that draws me beyond my normal mode of operating, and invites me to consider the creatures around me in a new, kinder, and more gentle way.

It is very important to me that those moments of compassion become embodied in some way.  Whether compassion takes the form of kind words to another, giving myself the time and space to relax in a bubble bath, or simply smiling with understanding at the father calming a crying baby in the grocery store, I want to be a living expression of compassion in the world.

Hubby and I moved from a suburb of Atlanta to a suburb of Chicago in 2008.  I had never seen homelessness in such stark, harsh reality before reaching Evanston, IL.  There were usually one or two men of various ages who waited outside my local Jewel-Osco to ask for food, money, basically anything others were willing and able to spare.  

I remember the first of many times I shared what I could spare with one particular gentleman.  I rarely carry cash on me, and so I had intended to get him something from my cash back option at the checkout line.  But, after my long trek through the store, I completely forgot.  I felt horribly.  So, I frantically dug about in my parcels, and pulled out several oranges.  His ability to ask and willingness to express genuine gratitude astonished me.  I remember him commenting on how helpful they would be fighting off sickness in the oncoming winter.

Through our years of graduate school, and early marriage, Hubby and I have been reliant on the compassion of family and friends more than once.  After surviving an apartment fire in which we lost everything, I clearly remember what it is to go to sleep in a foreign bed with nothing more to my name than the clothes on my back.  In the financially tight moments since that apartment fire, I am eternally grateful that I have never had to know the coldness of sleeping on concrete, the hunger of not knowing where my next meal is coming from, nor the harshness of untreated mental illness.

I'm writing about compassion and homelessness, because I believe that it is an invitation to move beyond our society's judgement that we ought to "pull ourselves up by our bootstraps."  I believe that it isn't even about generosity.  It is about knowing what I can spare and what I cannot spare.  John the Baptist had a simple, yet practical, teaching about love: if you have two coats give one to someone who does not have a coat.  

I still rarely carry cash.  I'm a graduate student on a tight budget, and I would definitely give away more than we could afford if I carried cash in my pocket.  However, I saw a YouTube video HowTo about Backpacks for the Homeless, and I was inspired.  So, I carry little kits with me in the car so that when someone asks, I can offer what I do have to spare!

I keep one kit in the car at a time.  After I give one away, its time to make another.  Every kit is a little different based on what extras I have on hand when its time to make a new one. 

This kit Includes:

- Lotion, Shampoo, Conditioner, Bath & Face Soaps: from a recent hotel stay.

- Washcloth: purchased as a bundled pack of 10 from Target for $3.

- Toiletries Bag: purchased from the $1 Spot at Target.

- Paper and Pen: from a recent hotel stay.

- InTouch Magazine: encouraging reading material.

- Quaker Chewy Dipps: took a few from a box I bought for Hubby's lunches.

Total Out of Pocket Cost: ~$5

I give out of my home what I can spare for someone who does not have a home.  This is one way I embody the compassion I want and need to be more present in the world around me.  I hope that this contribution to the 1000 Voices for Compassion helps to inspire you to consider how compassion is a part of your every day life!

What does compassion mean to you?  How do you embody it in your life?  When are you most in need of compassion from others or from yourself?

My Current Favorite Products for my Wavy Hair! +Tutorial!

I have been embracing my wavy hair for a number of years.  During that time I have tried a number of various products, techniques and hair cuts to enhance my shy waves.

I think I have finally found an easy and effective system that works for me:

I wash & condition my hair; even if I use a co-wash product, such as the one I have from DevaCurl, I'll use a mask just for the added moisturizing benefits.  

I make sure to comb my hair in the shower; once I get out, its a few finger combs with products, and then no touchy!

I personally love a really good turban wrap for hair.  It coaxes my wet hair to form beautiful waves while keeping it from dripping everywhere.  I have to make sure that my hair doesn't get too dry or else products don't work very well.

Here are the products I use:

- Curl Keeper Total Control for Frizzy Hair Original: I love this stuff!  Wow.  Okay, so I gently apply this product to my hair as though it were conditioner.  This is the first thing I apply to my hair once I take the towel wrap off.

- Roux Anti-Aging Hair Serum Leave-in Treatment: I like how this product adds volume to my hair at the roots.  It also helps my hair appear brighter and healthier.  I add this second, massaging it  into my scalp and the roots of the hair

- Davines Replumping Hair Filler Superactive: This stuff is seriously my best friend.  I separate hair into two sections: one over each shoulder.  Then I apply 2-3 sprays of product per side.  Finally, I gently tousle my hair to encourage the waves.

- Then I allow my hair to air dry!

- Parlor by Jeff Chastain Moisturizing Sea Salt Spray: I add this after my hair is dry just to rejuvenate the waves, add a little volume, and finish the look!

Care & Maintenance:

- I put my hair into a half-pulled through ponytail bun when I go to bed.  This keeps my waves from flattening out while I sleep.  It also means that my hair is sometimes wavier on day #2!

- I have an empty sample size of the Davines SuperActive bottle that I've filled with water to evenly wet my hair the next morning and reactivate my waves.

- I sometimes use dry shampoo, but with this much product in my hair already, it usually just makes my scalp itch.

- I play around with different styles on days 1 & 2: headbands, pulling half my hair back in a clip, or putting hair in a high, scrunched ponytail are all fun ways of making my hair look last longer!

Interested in more Blog Posts about Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle? Check out some more blog links here!

#DIY Friday: Aromatherapy for This Beginner!

Okay, so I've been having a difficult time staying focused and awake while working on my comprehensive exams (as I'm sure we're all aware by now).

So, as part of my latest reviews, I've been becoming increasingly interested in essential oils and their benefits!

My first serious project was to create a home fragrance that I could put on my desk to help me focus, concentrate, and feel a little bit more upbeat than I have lately.

*      *      *      *      *

I gathered all my materials:

- Small Jar: I found this diffuser set on clearance at Marshall's for $2.99!  It came with an oil in a separate container so I'm using this set for my own!

- Reeds: Mine came in the set I found on clearance, but you can find them either on Amazon, Pier 1 Imports, or likely any boutique that specializes in essential oils. ( I struck out at my local Target, as a side note).

- Lemon Essential Oil: this is supposed to relieve depression and anxiety, which is great for me!  I struggle with anxiety based depression, which tends to disrupt my ability to concentrate, stay on task, and be productive.  Since I received some for review, I figured, this would be the perfect place to start!

- Mineral Oil: simple baby oil helps to carry the solution up the reeds

- Alcohol: Either vodka or rubbing alcohol.

*      *      *      *      *

Then I Put Them Together:

- Mix 1/4 cup of Mineral Oil and 2 Tbsp. of Alcohol

- Add 1 1/2 Tbsp of Essential Oil

- Pour mixture into small jar and add reeds

Final Product:

Perfect for my desk! 

*      *      *      *     *

Care & Maintenance:

- Flip the Reeds every few days

- Refresh with more essential oils as needed

- Replace reeds when they become completely saturated with oil

I hope that you've enjoyed this little DIY post!  What other DIY projects would you like to read about here?

My #MOTD ~ Foundation & Contouring

So, yesterday I shared with you the new-to-me colors and brands of eyeshadows and lip colors I recently played with to create this daytime look.  Today, I want to talk about the products and techniques I used for foundation and contouring to create the rest of this look!

First, I applied CoverGirl's foundation all over using the silicone applicator.

One of the goodies that came in my first Influenster VoxBox was this new product from CoverGirl called Ultra Smooth Foundation.  (So, I got this item for free for review purposes.) It comes with this odd little silicone applicator.

At first, I really didn't know what I thought about this whole package.  But after using it just once, I am totally convinced that this is an amazing pair of products!

I love the consistency and color of the foundation.  The applicator works wonderfully!  Plus, it gives me the perfect amount of coverage.  We all know how hard that is to find in a foundation, right? 

Next, I applied bronzer using Beauty Junkees Angled Kabuki Brush (affiliate link) with BareMinerals Bronzer under my cheek bones.  

I followed up with adding BareMinerals Blush to my cheeks with the Bellangé Brush & Bronzer Brush.  

Finally, I used BareMinerals Mineral Veil and matching brush to blend out the whole look while creating a soft finish.

I hope that you've enjoyed this mini-tutorial!  Happy Contouring!

My Eyes & Lips! #MOTD + Mini-Tutorial!

I really do love playing around with makeup!  I think that playing with lips & eyes is the best part of doing my daily makeup looks.

Here's what I used today on my eyes & lips:

- Cailyn Mineral Eyeshadow Powder in Autumn:
Lid using UBU no.30

- Ulta Color Pure Eye Shadow in YOLO:

Crease to Brow using UBU no.35

- Cargo Cosmetics Liquid Eye Liner in Black:

Applied in a thick line just above the lashes

- Mirenesse Mattfinity Lip Rouge in Paris:

Applied very carefully, blotted & allowed to set!
(Much happier with this second use than the first time!)

What I used on my Brows and Lashes:

- Beauty Lashious Eyelash Curler:

Used as close to lash roots as possible

- Laura Geller GlamLash in Black:

Applied from root to tip, top & bottom lashes, 2 coats

- Ellen Tracy Neutral Eye Shadows:
Used mini brush to accentuate brows

- Ellen Tracy Brow Pencil in Brown:

Used with Beauty Brow Tool to shape and define brows

What do you think of my #MOTD?  What other kinds of beauty posts would you like to see here?

Its like asking the Wizard of Oz for the Perfect Eye Gel!

Every woman needs her ideal eye gel, and if you're in the market, I'd recommend considering this Super Youth Eye Gel from Oz Naturals!

Product Description:

- Formulated to address all major concerns for eye areas including dark circles, puffiness, as well as fine lines and wrinkles

- Award Winning Formula considered to be the most effective and complete eye treatment available according to Allure Magazine

- Non comedogenic as well as free from parabens, sulfates, and alcohol

- Includes high quality ingredients such as Cucumber Hydrosol, Organic Jojoba Oil, Botanical Hyaluronic Acid, Wildcrafted Periwinkle, Organic Licorice, Wildcrafted Eyebright, and Vitamin E 

- Cruelty Free, Vegan Formula that is 100% natural and 75% organic

What I Love about Oz Naturals:

- Highly Effective at reducing/ eliminating puffiness  and dark circles around my eyes.  I can actually feel my skin tighten ever so slightly after application!

- Smells wonderful!  The mix of licorice, cucumber, Frankincense, and other ingredients creates a highly refreshing and pleasant scent.

- I have peace of mind knowing that I'm putting high quality ingredients on my skin.

Oz Naturals Super Youth Eye Gel is available on Amazon for $17.49 for .5 fl oz.

Verdict: Yay!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Tomoson.com and made possible by Oz Naturals.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

My MOTD with Fantastic & Frugal Makeup Brushes!

I am so excited to share these brushes with you!  I am always on the hunt for a good find, and this fantastic Makeup Brush set from Bellangé certainly qualifies!

MY #MOTD with Bellangé Brushes!

How I Use This 10 Piece Kabuki Makeup Brush Set from Bellangé for My MOTD:

Product Description:

- 10 piece Kabuki Makeup Brushes with Makeup Bag

- Made with soft, luxurious synthetic bristles

- Each brush labled with name, use and number on the handle

     

Set Includes: 

- Foundation Brush

- Flat Top Brush

- Contour Brushes (large)

- Contour Brushes (small)

- Eye Brushes

          

What I Love about Bellangé Brush Set:

- High Quality: no shedding!

- Very soft

- Includes a variety of brushes

- Each brush is clearly labeled and numbered!

- Highly Effective for working with powders and creams!


You can find Bellangé's Bellangé Makeup Brush Set (affiliate link) on Amazon for $15.00!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Bellange.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

February Birchbox Unboxing!!

One of my favorite Birchbox's yet!  Check out why!

Here's my Birchbox this month!

Product Information:

Reviews:

- Beauty Protector: Love this product!

- Derma e: I really don't need another scrub, so I'll be putting this in an upcoming giveaway (stay tuned!). No review for this.

- Juicy Couture Hollywood Royal: Love this scent! Its fresh, a little fruity, and totally sassy!

- Marcelle Gentle Makeup Remover: Great for sensitive skin and highly effective at removing even waterproof mascara!

- theBalm Lip Gloss in Read My Lips: Fantastic color.  Highly moisturizing.  Will definitely consider investing in a full size when the time comes!

If you would like to score 5 awesome samples every month, earn points toward products you love, and to party it up, then check out Birchbox's monthly subscription (affiliate link)!  

Its only $10/month! Plus, by reviewing your samples & posting to social media, you can earn up to $6/ month toward products in the Birchbox store! SWEET!

My Foray into Fashion Part #3: A Little Striped Dress & Makeup Of The Day!

I love this dress!  I scored it from the GAP on clearance, and with my $10 off from Birchbox's December Box, it was only $8.00!!  Its a fantastic stretchy dress with pockets and 3/4 sleeves! I feel really cute in this dress.  It stops just above my knees, is totally comfortable, and quite versatile!  And for once, I'm happy to be in clothing that hugs my curves a little bit! I'm totally in love!

I paired this dress with a stunning statement necklace I got in my Rocksbox for January.

I had the best time doing my makeup for this outfit!  

I tried out extremely subtle contouring with the larger brushes from the Bellange Brush Set I've been using in preparation for an upcoming review!  I used Bareminerals Bronzer, Blush and Finishing Powder. (My new homework assignment is to get serious with the contouring practice!)

I decided to draw on the bright red in my dress so I played up my lips with L'Oreal Colour Riche Lippy in #304 Ruby Opera.

I complimented my bright lip with a nude shadow on my eyelid and a very black cat eye.  I used Benefit's They're Real Liner and Mascara to achieve the effect.

Thanks for accompanying me on this journey of self-acceptance, fashion and beauty!  I hope that something I shared here has inspired you to try something new, too!

     

Beauty Blogging Lessons: Vitamin C and Serums!

I have learned a lot about vitamin C since I began blogging.  I thought I knew everything there was to know in today's market about vitamin C.  You know: Its in OJ, its good for you, and your mom swears by it for curing colds, right?

Yes, but that's only part of the answer.

Vitamin C when used topically is also very good for your skin!  

Here's How:

- It has been clinically shown to boost collagen production, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

- It lightens overall pigmentation of the skin, which brightens skin complexion.

- It offers a small amount of UV protection.

*     *     *     *     *

Okay, so Vitamin C is good for our skin.  It will take about 6 months of consistent use to see a serious impact.  I've been using vitamin C serums for about 2.5 months, and I've already started to notice some changes in my skin tone and complexion.  So, I'm excited to see what 4 more months will bring!

But these serums are not cheap, and there are so many to choose from!  What should be be looking for when selecting a Vitamin C Serum for our skin?

*     *     *     *     *

What to Look For in a Vitamin C Serum:

- Dark Container: vitamin C is unstable and breaks down when exposed to light so it needs to be protected to remain potent.

- Pump Dispenser: vitamin C will break down when exposed to air as well, so try to find a dispenser that limits air exposure of the product.

- 5%-20% concentration of Vitamin C: 20% is the highest amount of vitamin C your skin can successfully absorb.

- pH balance of 3: this is the ideal pH of Vitamin C for absorption by the skin.  If the label is unclear, contact the manufacturer to ask.

- Be Aware that many Vitamin C Serums can have a very pungent smell.  If you have a sensitive nose, look for comments/ reviews that talk about the scent of the serum before you invest!

*     *     *     *     *

I hope that this is helpful to you!  Of the Vitamin C Serums I have reviewed thus far, the ones I have been found most impressive include (in no particular order): 

InstaNatural (for most pleasant scent)

Oz Radiance (for best value)

Radha Beauty (for best serum as part of a skin care line)

Valencia (for current favorite)

**Review Coming Soon!**

What other products or product types in skin care would you like to learn about more on my blog?  Which ingredients  in skin care products would you like to learn more about?

Merry Memebox! Loving my first Memebox!

I am really excited about my very first Memebox!  I won 30+ points in a giveaway last fall, and I finally cashed them in! 

Beautiful Box!

I love all the goodies! I scored this box for $29.99; I spent 30 memebox points and got it for free! 

Product Card

side #1

side #2

My look with all the products!  I love it! :-)

Have you ever gotten a Memebox?  Which box(es) did you get?  What did you think of them?