The one mascara that I have been grabbing every time I use makeup is the Revlon lash Potion mascara. It has really grown on me since I first bought it. This was one of my Amish store bargain buys that I posted about last year. It has a great lengthening formula and is great at opening the eyes up more. 

For my eyeshadow base, I use Urban Decay's Primer Potion. I've gotten way more into primers this year and love the way they can make my makeup last. I never knew why I was oblivious to any primers at all. I actually bought this version of the Primer Potion at Nordstrom Rack for only 10 bucks! It's a steal and I think I'll have to go stock up on some more for the future because it's pretty much the same as the new version they came out with. There's really no creasing or makeup moving around at all and I will continue to use this product forever until Nordstrom Rack stops selling it.   

I haven't been wearing liner too much lately, but when I do, I have been loving the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Velvet Liner. I feel like this liner has really changed the game for me and has been applying very smoothly. When I want to create smoky looks, this liner really does the job. 

I have never been a huge fan of shadow sticks, but when I bought this on a whim at that Amish store, I was so glad I did. The Maybelline 24 Hr Color Tattoo in Creamy Chocolate has been amazing under the eyes and for lining my lids. It gives off more of a bronze tone and looks beautiful on a golden eye look. I really love the look of it. 

Next, is this Essence Brow Pencil that has been quite the handy tool when it comes to fixing my un-sculpted brows. When I'm not using my Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow, I grab this and naturally touch up my brows for a subtle definition. It's not too waxy and is very easy to use, especially for beginners. I love taking this pencil on the go.

I have fully transitioned to using this palette and cannot get my paws off of it. The Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance palette has been my holy grail palette these past two months. The colors are insanely pigmented and look great on just about everyone. Check out my in depth review I wrote last week, here. 

Powder is something that I use almost everyday to just keep my face matte and oil free. I have been on the lookout for a really nice pressed powder and Mac Studio Fix powder has really stood out to me. I'm one to keep repurchasing a powder if I love it, however, I think I will definitely have to keep this one stocked in my collection. It has a cute compartment for a puff pad to take easily on the go, which I love and keeps me matte all day long. 

On the bandwagon of primers, I have been using and getting the most out of my Laura Geller Under Makeup Mattifying Primer. I put a dime sized amount and just use my hands to spread it all over my face before applying makeup (kind of like a moisturizer in a way). It's really great under any foundation and I can't put on makeup without it. It makes all the difference and allows my face to stay oil free all day!

I hope you guys enjoyed my compiled favorites for this past month. I have a lot of great things planned for February and am excited for what this year brings. What has been your favorite products this month?

It's always great to put off time to pamper yourself and I am a true believer in it. Among the chaotic week filled with work, school, and other things, we kind of forget to think about ourselves every once and awhile. In the beauty franchise, many brands have their own skincare lines and very nice, high quality (and high priced might I add) skincare products. Most masks you find at Sephora can range from $20-$100+ dollars. For most of us, we find ourselves at our local drugstores looking for the best masks for the cheapest price. 

Especially for an easy and inexpensive mask, the Que Bella range of masks are so individually made for different skin types and my friend gave me this awesome pack of them (I think I already used one of them to try it out).  

Each mask is priced at around two bucks; there are cream, gel, and sheet masks and are all made with 80% natural products. Obviously, with it being very inexpensive, they are not made with 100% natural ingredients and contain preservatives to let them last for a longer period of time. There's a very generous amount of mask in each packet so, you could easily share these with friends who have the same skin type as you.  

So far, I have used a couple more of these masks and really like them. They're not you're 24 karat masks, but these are really great to use as a little pick-me-up on a cozy, Sunday night. These are sold at Target and I believe Walmart and Ulta, as well. 

Sometimes, with cheaper masks, I find them to make my skin tingle a bit. I haven't had any allergic reaction to it, so I think they're okay for sensitive skin. A couple of the masks tingled, but I read on the back that it was normal for them to do that. If you are a bit skeptical, I would recommend reading the ingredients to see if you are prone to a reaction from it or just buy one and try it to see. These are super fun to do at sleepovers and parties, so I would definitely recommend these for anyone of you looking for a cheaper way to look gawrgeous! See you guys on Thursday. XX

Another shade I fell in love with was Buon Fresco, which is a very rich taupe (in the center above Red Ochre). I think this shade is great used all over the lid and nothing else. I have heard every blogger rave and express their love for this palette and I thought I could add to the mix for any of you looking for a new palette to try out. I think palettes can be hard to find or just hard to own because they can be expensive, too big, or maybe they just aren't the right shades you like or are comfortable with. Everybody has their own preferences and that's what I love about the variety of palettes out there. Have you tried this palette yet? 

If you've ever strolled past the Nordstrom cosmetic counters, then you have definitely ooed and awed at the endless amounts of makeup and perfumes. Specifically the Jo Malone counter, or at least I have. I'm going to be honest, the blogging world (and Katelavie, thanks Kate) made me get this perfume and I couldn't be happier about it. 

I have had many different types of perfumes in my life and I don't think this one is similar to any of them at all. I've never had anything from Jo Malone and I never knew how much I would love all of their perfumes. To speak very candidly, this stuff ain't cheap. I asked for this perfume as a Christmas gift this year and it was truly generous of my parents to get it for me. Prior to asking for this perfume, I did go into Nordstrom (the only place close to me that sells it) and try out all of the other perfumes to make sure I knew which one I loved the most. I'm not very picky with scents, so one can imagine how hard it was for me to decide. 

On Jo Malone's website, I wanted to do some research as well as trying the scents out in store, they have many scents and many other products to choose from. They have colognes/perfumes, candles, lotions, room sprays, diffusers, soaps, body washes, and really nice gift sets for the holidays. They have pretty much every scent for anyone's taste, men and women: citrus, fruity, floral, spicy, woody, and light floral. I was very stuck between this one, the Peony and Blush Suede, and the Lime Basil and Mandarin scent. I'm all about sweet smells and really enjoyed these two. I honestly would have been pleased with any of the scents, though.

The colognes come in two ratherly small sizes: 30 ML (1 oz) or 100 ML (about 3 oz). It seems like a very small amount, but it's not like you need a huge spray bottle to get anything from it. One spritz goes a very long way and I would most likely use this on special occasion. Most perfumes these days come in very small sizes, too so that's another thing you have to consider. 

I decided on the peony scent because I loved the freshness it had to it. The lime and mandarin one was just a tad too strong for me and I think this floral one is perfect for any time of the year because the other one seemed like a very summery scent. If you know me and my love for Soap & Glory's Sugar Crush, then you know why I was drawn to this lime scented perfume! It's very youthful and lasts all day without leaving that icky, old person smell that's not really pleasant at all on your clothes. If I had to buy another perfume, I would probably stick with the florals and might try out the spicier scents, too. I think the smaller size is the way to go if you are wanting to try out more of their colognes. 

During the winter I really try to focus more on taking extra care of my skin. Recently, I have noticed more dryness and breakouts, probably due to different products and the very quick drop in temperature. It's been in the negatives for about two weeks here in Chicago. I've especially been trying to not over use products and make sure I am moisturizing while also treating my acne without drying it out even more. 

There have been a lot of products that I noticed that have made a huge difference this season in my skin. I'm all about pamperment and I think it's an important thing to do for yourself every once and a while. 

I was wandering around my Target during winter break and literally stopped dead in my tracks when I noticed this on the "new in beauty" shelf. Next to all of the Neutrogena wipes and Burt's Bees holiday gift sets, were these Zoella Beauty Ginger Fizzers. I have no idea where they came from because they were the only products from Zoella's range there. They are not as exciting as the Lush Bath Bombs, but they leave a very warm and spicy scent to any bath. I just love putting things in my baths anyway, so this was a really surprising treat to find at Target since they don't sell her line anywhere. 

I really got into all of the facial sprays this winter and have really loved rosewater and everything rose scented. The Mario Badescu Facial Spray is perfectly refreshing and hydrating when I have dry patches on my face. It's also a really nice makeup setting spray, too. 

I know I have mentioned the Lush Yoga Bomb before and I had to go repurchase it because it is just a really great, relaxing bath bomb to have. I love coming home from a hot yoga class and soaking into a bath and plopping this bath bomb in. 

When I take showers and baths, I like to use my First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser to fully clean out my pores and help reduce some of the oil that naturally builds up. I find this cleanser to be really helpful and is very great with my sensitive skin. It has a fresh scent to it and a little goes a very long way because it lathers nicely on my skin. 

I have also been using many different lotions lately (because I'm obsessed and receive them as gifts all the time). Firstly, the Body Shop Mango Treats Gift Set was one gift I received this year and it comes with a loofa, mini lotion, and mini shower gel. I love the mango scented line from the Body Shop and this cute lotion is perfect to take with me to travel with during the holidays. I also pop the Burt's Bees Nourishing Milk and Honey Body Lotion into my purse for travel and to help keep my hands from drying out from the cold.  

A nice way to finish off the winter pampering is with a facial mask. I love Lush's masks (and we all know that), but there have been some drugstore masks that I quite enjoy as well. If you are looking for easy and inexpensive facial masks to do, the Que Bella masks are really nice to use. Especially the Deep Cleansing mask and the Pore Minimizing masks are great hydrating and oil preventing masks. These are really fun to do with friends because everybody's skin type is different and you can pick and choose the one best for you. I have a lot more and I think I want to review all of them for you guys, so let me know! 

I am a skincare freak and love trying new things. It's cold and unfortunately, the warm months are still far from arriving. My skin is on a roller coaster ride right now and can't decide how to react to this oppressively cold winter. Hopefully it'll get better. What's been in your holy grail winter skincare routine? 

The formula was actually very smooth and silky on the face. I swatched it and thought I was touching butter. Compared to my drugstore powders, there is an obvious difference. This powder does not crumble or has a lot of fallout which is great when you've just put on a nice outfit and it basically snows all over your new dress. I think the biggest thing I noticed with this powder was the way it kept my face incredibly matte and shine free. Specifically around my T-zone, I get insane amounts of oil on occasion and this powder really helps to lock it in and prevent any oil from getting through. Drugstore powders usually don't last for a very long time, but this one really does, even with full coverage foundation on underneath it. 

I like to apply my powders with a brush, but I do notice that using a Beauty Blender or any makeup sponge helps for setting under eye concealer and this powder can act as a baking powder if desired. I love Mac's sleek and simple packaging that also features a little compartment for a sponge to use on the go! It's little details like that that I just love about any makeup brand. They take the time to create great, useful products and Mac has really impressed me. This being the first Mac face product I have used, kinda makes me want to try out the Mac Studio Fix foundation next. 

Whether you are looking for a new powder, wanting to try something new to add to your makeup collection, or just want to know what's good, try this! I know it's a lot of money to spend on a product, but this goes on like butter and is really great for sensitive skin. Sometimes it's nice to treat ourselves and powder is something that I use almost every single day (not on no-makeup days obvi). I think it is a very practical thing to spend on once you find the right powder that works for your skin type and doesn't react poorly with your skin. For me, this is a great powder and it will probably be a continuous product I use in my routine. What face powder do you guys love?

This past year seemed like it flew by way too fast. I know years can bring good things and unfortunately bad things to us and we sometimes associate them with how we felt about the year. I feel like this year has been a huge roller coaster ride. Now, I'm not so keen on resolutions. I know I may have mentioned resolutions, but to be totally honest, we forget and make mistakes. That's why, for 2017, I want to set goals for myself because if I do mess up or forget to do something, it'll just be another reason to try again and keep reaching that goal. I went to a yoga class last night actually and my instructor was explaining to us that we sometimes lose ourselves in these resolutions or "rules" we set for ourselves when really, we should be setting goals to become our better selves. 

I know you may not know my yoga instructor or have any reason to believe what she says, but I have taken it as a way to make my life a little less stressful among the chaos and twists and turns of reality. I have mini goals and very personal goals that I kind of want to share. My first one being, I would like to open up more on my blog. I know I talk a lot about products and things I like, but I seem to have lost the personality a bit and would like to start being more...uncensored. Uncensored from a fear of what people might think if I reveal or expose myself a bit on here. I mean it's my blog anyway. So, here goes.

I have the tendency to hide in my little, brunette shell and sometimes that's okay, but most of the time it's not. I would like to be able to express myself in my writing (more than what I have already) and just be completely blunt about things. I think I have been a little distracted on my blog lately and haven't really expressed myself to my full ability. I wish I could have said some things differently or just taken a step back to think about things for a bit, then just share them and see what happens. I'm just gonna be me more. 

Stop Worrying About Things Too Much

With school, my blog, future college plans, and my personal life, I am way WAY too invested in who, what, where, when, and the why of everything. Instead of worrying about my tests, I'm worried about when I'm gonna get to upload a post or go return that sweater that was too big or something like that. I have always struggled with this. It's not like I had a priority mishap, but maybe too many. I mean for one thing, I have always been great at organizing, but that comes from the fear and my anxiety of not having anything organized or in place. Sometimes I need to step back and I forget to. A lot of the times, things are just out of my control. 

Listen More and Be Present

I know it might be cheesy, but my English teacher actually made me think of this. She was talking to our class about participation in discussions that we have throughout the year and she kind of criticizes us on how unnatural we are when the only reason we talk is to respond, not to understand. Besides her grading on us for just giving a word, that's not how discussions play out in real life (if you can believe it). Sometimes, it's better to listen and then respond to understand or even contribute to furthering the discussion. We don't always think before we talk and that's something I need (and a lot of people) work on. It might be good to just hear what someone else has to say and be present in the conversation. 

I think as humans, it's in our nature to look at someone and want what they have or desire to be something or someone else. I'm guilty of it and so is everybody else (unless you're magical or something). I've been trying to focus on bettering myself especially when it comes to exercising and trying to improve myself. I've been doing yoga for almost over two years now and yeah, there have been times when I see someone who can go into a pose I can't go into or who can lift more weight than I can. 

I forget that I am the one in control of change and I am the one with this body that I was given and am so grateful to have. I'm healthy and thankful for my body. I need to remind myself that I can only compare myself to who I was yesterday; that girl who could barely balance on one leg to that girl who can do a headstand and hold it for one hour (if she was dared that is). 

Focus On The Good and Appreciate Things

Straying away from the bad comparisons and hate we give ourselves and I give myself sometimes, I forget to focus on what actually matters most and what makes me happy. I don't always remember to think of the good, "little" things that happen everyday. There's always going to be a new day, and it's up to me to make it what I want of it. It's raining? Go out and sing in the rain. Life is never going to give us greatness and it's up to us to make something of it. I fall into a trap of having something stupid like bad costumer service ruin my day (even if it's the absolute worst!) and I never remember their side or the things that kind of matter more. 

These were just five of the most important things I think I need more improvement on this year, but just for "funsies" I thought I would make a list of some other smaller goals I would like to try and accomplish in 2017:

I hope this brought in some insight and inspiration for any of you needing help with setting goals or any idea as to what their new year might bring them. As for this blog, I plan to keep pushing through this whole year! I want my blog to be more of a reflexion of myself and just improve my connection with all of my readers (who i dearly appreciate so very much). I think I will cut myself some slack and lay off blogging every now and then. All I want to do is create and write what I feel in the best way I can. That can only happen if there is inspiration and I want it to be great for everyone. I will try to accomplish these goals and if it seems like I'm off track (blogging wise), let me know! Also, if you would like to talk to me (which I hope you do), please visit my "contact" page to find my email! I would love to get to know all of you guys better as we start the new year. 

What goals have you set for yourself for the new year?

P.S. Oh I forgot, I think I am going to stop with the "xoxo, Nat". I don't know, I think it's time for some change, aesthetically if that's alright. What do you guys think? Obviously, I'll continue the questions. ;)

Nars Velvet Matte Tint Foundation in Finland- This is a new addition to my makeup collection and was my Christmas present to myself. A girl can't go wrong with a really nice and great quality foundation, amirite? I was looking for an awesome matte foundation that wouldn't sink into my skin and show my dry skin or make my face oily after a short period of time--and it is great at avoiding all of those things. I will be doing a separate review of this foundation to get into further depth, but this is a really awesome product and I am already using so much of it. My very first Nars face product is a success!

Travel Size Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla- I actually went in store to be color matched for my foundation, then I bought it online at Sephora and needed a couple more bucks to get free shipping, so I was like what the heck, and bought a mini Nars concealer to try out as well. It is very creamy and I am really impressed by the way it doesn't crease it all under my eyes throughout the day. 

Revlon HD Matte Lip Color in Love- This was one of my Amish store finds recently this year and I scored it at only a dollar. It truly is one of the best drugstore matte lip colors I have found and I love the vanilla scent it has and how long it really lasts and doesn't crumble on the lips. It's one of those matte lip products that won't sink into the creases of your lips and really hydrates them as it stays in place all day. Definitely a great find and a very pretty red for the holiday season.

Milani Conceal and Perfect Foundation- I think one of the greatest drugstore foundations I found this year was this Milani one. I was inspired by many Youtubers raving about how great the formula was and I was looking for a new, long wearing foundation. Even before the Nars one came along, this foundation is super buildable and is great to use with a damp beauty sponge. It doesn't crease or slide around and you hardly need a quarter size amount to get full coverage. 

Soap & Glory Glow All Out Highlighter- I think this year was the year that highlighter really made its mark. Especially in my makeup regime, I never thought about highlighting and didn't quite know about how to do it or where the best products were. Surprisingly, the best highlighters can be right around the corner at your local drugstore and Soap & Glory has to be the main victor when it comes to inexpensive and great quality products overall this year. Specifically their highlighters. This one is not your overly top "KimK" highlight, but is very subtle and adds a really nice glow to the cheek bones.

Mac Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation in NC20- This is also a new addition to the collection and I have been on the search for a new and reliable powder that would make my skin oil free and very, very soft. I also want to write about this powder soon to give you all a full review on it, but so far I have really loved it. I was never one to want or be that interested in Mac, just because there are so many other great brands out there, I was so distracted by all the beauty noise! This powder really gets the job done and is very pretty on top of any foundation. 

Mini Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Rose Gold- This was a part of the Paint it Pink Sephora Favorites set and I have really made a dent in this little guy! Becca is really known for her timeless highlighters and products and they have become so popular in the beauty blogger world. I really love the smoothness and pigmentation of this highlighter/shimmer pigment. I actually use it more as an eyeshadow and love it. Plus, it's rose gold people.

Mini Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Captivating- I was never into blushes and I don't normally go out to just specifically buy one, but man I have fallen in love with Tarte's blushes. This was another part of the Sephora Favorites set and gives off the perfect peachy toned look. These blushes are incredibly smooth and opaque. 

Essie Polish in Tassel Shaker- Another great clearance find was this Essie polish that is a glitter topcoat with really pretty copper and gold flakes in it. Perfect for New Years and just a really pretty polish in general. I love using it on an accent nail to add a bit of flare to my nails. 

Maybelline The Falsies Push Up Drama- I don't know why, but this mascara really sticks out in my entire collections of drugstore mascaras. It was really hard, to be honest, to choose and not pick out the Maybelline Lash Sensational as my favorite (which it is), but this one just made every eye look "pop". It does a way better job at lengthening and bringing the lashes out more, especially on the sides of my lashes. 

Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Palette- Ugh. Really no words for how great this palette is. I mean, just look at it... I will definitely be reviewing this, too. Let's just appreciate the artistry incorporated in this palette. Well done, Anastasia, well done. I really haven't put this down since Christmas. 

Jo Malone Peony and Blush Suede Cologne- I am very indecisive when it comes to picking out perfume scents and to be honest, bloggers made me ask for this for Christmas (thanks guys). I do have to say, this is probably one of the best perfumes I have ever owned, smelled, and used (and most expensive might I add). If you are looking for a great quality and smelling perfume, that you don't mind splurging on, I would really recommend Jo Malone's. I use this only on occasion, so the smaller bottle is completely fine. This will probably be talked about more later!  

Beauty Blender- Last, but not least is the ever-so-talked about sponge. The thing we all "think" we need in our collections. The "infamous" sponge that costs so much, but works so damn well (to speak candidly). I got this in the Paint it Pink set as well and wasn't wanting to waste $20 on one sponge when I could spend a bit more and get a ton more products for my buck. If you are a crazy makeup lover, this sponge is well worth it and has changed the way I apply and use my makeup. Especially when you use it damp, it seamlessly blends and smooths out your makeup. Another favorite of mine is the Real Techniques sponge for like a quarter of the price. I just had to include this little guy because it's a "life changer". 

Well, I guess that was all of the products I thought made the biggest impact in my makeup regime this year, even though there were still a ton more to talk about. I love reminiscing over the things that made me happy over the year and what I have accomplished. I think we're all ready to see what this new year brings and what new makeup I will discover. I wish everyone a happy new year and a relaxing holiday.

What product made your 2016 worthwhile?

Xoxo, Nat