I visited a place near and dear to my heart. My mom's heart.
It's my mom's hometown in southern Iowa. This town used to be a mining town, and now is home to 634 people. Summers, holidays, and spring breaks would be spent visiting my grandparents--making homemade pizza or painting with my grandma or fishing down at the reservoir with my grandpa.
Coming back to this place brings back cherished memories and walking into their home brings back the history of the good 'ol days when my two sisters and I would beg to see the bison farms or make our way to the discount Amish stores outside of town where we knew we could stock up on 30 cent chewing gum (this was within the last five years that is).
It was an escape from the city. Where my mom knew everybody she ran into at the town square. One Casey's gas station, one school for K-12, one library, one bank, one restaurant. Life is slow here. Life is good.
As I walk around the dirt roads around town, I notice the beauty in the remains of what used to be. The dilapidated homes, the rusting trucks and trailers, crumbling concrete...there was a life here. There was a story here. I continue to ponder the dust and debris, thoughts pop into my head like "when was the last time someone parked this school bus and left it here to see its dying days?".
The purpose of being here was to visit family. It was also to go to a funeral. But it wasn't all sad and it wasn't all tears. It was most definitely a celebration of life. A small town turned vibrant on one of the darkest days.
Their school was rebuilt from ruins after a tornado five years ago. As we toured the new school this weekend, my mom took a detour to visit her old classroom, her mom's classroom, and even her dad's old office. Taking steps throughout the halls made my mom become fragile, I could tell that she had a hard time with all of the memories that flooded back into her head. But this school--this town--is far from fragile.
I see proud alumni. Proud neighbors. Homes being built. Railroad tracks being repaired. Ice cream shops being rumored. There are still plans for this place, still more life to live.
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In seeing destruction and rubble can be built anew, there is still peace among the chaos. The trees, brush, and prairie flowers persist to embrace the old structures and sidewalk cracks. Just as there are times when I can try to find the beauty in the rubble and focus on finding inner peace within myself.
Life goes on.
Life grows on.
Oh August.
The beautiful month. My beautiful birthday month. A month where I feel like everything aligns. Everything always feels right during this time of the year. It always feels like August was just yesterday. The harvest of summer. The sun beating just right. The days still long, but time slows down a bit going into the emergence of fall. Maybe that's just the leo in me speaking.
My previous post talked about slowing down. A sentiment I still hold true for this month and what's to come of it. There is so much more to discover this month and new explorations: of me and my surroundings. It almost feels like I've frozen the record for a moment, picked it up to inspect the disk, and put it back to keep on playing its sweet melody (shoutout if you still know what a record is...).
This month, the record keeps on playing. I've got a lot in store and am hopeful for the warmth August brings.
01. Only 15 more days—two weeks—until I leave for Italy with my cousin. We have finally booked everything. From our accommodations to our tours and activities. Thankfully, I have the advice from my neighbor who just went to Italy and my sister who just got back from Europe this past weekend to console with about my packing choices, places to visit and eat, travel restrictions, and recommendations from their recent traveling.
I know I will most definitely be packing light. As much as I want to bring really cute outfits and accessories, I know for a fact I will not want to be bothered with lugging around a ton of stuff. A backpack, purse, and a small carry on is all I'm bringing. I'm committed. Although I've been asking others what the one toiletry they stand by—I heard "lotion" and "deodorant" so I think I'm set...the anticipation builds and I can't wait to share that story on here soon.
02. I've always championed investment in "me time". The hustle of summer plans puts that on hold, but I also realize that every season brings its own vibe. Its own version of "me time". Such as, choosing to read a book outside or cozying up and drinking a cup of tea. I have the power to make and prioritize that time for myself nor should I have to defend it. #leo
03. Making moves. Career moves. I just transitioned into a new Strategic Planning role with my company, Golin! Ever since I graduated, I knew this path is where I wanted to be. And with a company and team of co-workers I truly have gotten to love working with this past year. It's not so much as a promotion, but I treat it as such. A "pivot" I would say. It will allow me to build off of my research and insights roots and challenge my creative side more. I will be working on some fun brands like McDonald's, Grubhub, Ferrara, and Allstate. After onboarding just last week in the office, I will be kicking off some new discovery projects this week.
04. Revisiting family is a big priority for me this month. Actually, in just three days I will be headed to southern Iowa to see my grandparents who I haven't seen since before the pandemic...three years ago. It will be a much needed reunion. It also is a place, a desolate and quaint place, for me to find inner peace.
What more would you need from corn fields, barns, cows, and a ton of gravel roads? This is a necessary trip for me and my family. It will be a hard trip for me and my family. But I am embracing the love that will come from it. And the love that is to come from this month.
There are moments during summer where I find that the cicadas chirp louder than my thoughts, the heat beats heavier off of my skin, the sun radiates a bit too bright, and the days are just a little bit too long. We always think of this season as a break, when really, we're aching to make the most of every sliver of sunlight we get until we're quite literally—burnt out.
The joys and radiation of this season over the years has left many beautiful memories, this one too, but lately I've been yearning for inner peace, calm, and for the days to just slow down a bit. To feel the easy summer breeze and just take a pause.
And so—I return to this blog. A place where I have been able to slow down. I can sit back, tune out the cicadas, sip a glass of cabernet, Cage The Elephant hums in the background, and I write away. Just like I used to. Just like I committed to. Just like I loved to.
I am at a point in my life where routine, ritual, and solitude are needed most. I've realized that this chick can't live without her peace. Her inner peace. Without disruption. Without interruption. I am definitely the type of person who needs to reset, recharge, and refuel her inner conscious.
However, I do find myself also boosted by those around me. My support system. My family. My friends. My love. When life gets a bit too noisy—noisier than the thoughts in my head—I've got a pretty cool superpower to help me out.
My love for myself. And those who remind me to do what makes me ME.
Those who remind me of what makes ME happy.
WHAT makes me happy.
WHO makes me happy.
And why I NEED to be happy for myself and only myself.
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On the flip side, I also need to remember the embrace and warmth summer brings. The life it brings to the apples of my cheeks. The hug it gives me every time I open my blinds. And no matter the millions of little love bites I get from mosquitos—I get a little comfort knowing I can take a deep breath and be at ease.
That tomorrow is a new day.
A new portrait to paint.
A new clear day.
It's only the beginning.
After what has already been a solid five months since the start of the new year, I can proudly say that one of my new year's resolutions has come to fruition as of a couple weeks ago. This summer my cousin Lindsay and I are embarking on a 14 day trip to Italy and France in August and it already feels like my time overseas just happened yesterday. I know travel is something I am going to incorporate into my life whenever I can and I have already been dreaming up this trip the moment I left Europe in 2019. With Lindsay already having studied in Italy in college, we both felt a longing for Italy—the birthplace of our many many great ancestors.
The Destinations
Lindsay and I both had to debate about some of the key cities we wanted to visit, but I knew there were a couple necessary stops we needed to make since I have never been and she had an idea of what cities she wanted to go back to as well. We ended up choosing Rome, the Amalfi Coast (staying in Sorrento), Venice, and then we will be finishing up the trip in Paris. All vibrant and thrilling cities all around the country, logistically we had to figure out where exactly we wanted to be and for how long during these two weeks. I'll be living out my Lizzie McGuire dreams, not to mention how Paris obsessed I was when I was 12.
We also wanted to be meticulous about where we were going and it was very helpful that Lindsay had background knowledge on the cities, transportation, and even the cultural/historical knowledge she has informed our choices. Not to mention ongoing research on both ends and just talking to others I know who have been before. We will be going at the end of August, which will be probably one of the hottest times to go, but I knew I needed to spend my 23rd birthday on the beaches of Positano—eating a wood fired pizza (or fresh seafood) and watching the sunset with a full glass of cabernet.
The Planning
All things considered, especially planning a trip with just two people, it took us about 4 to 5 months to officially book everything. Meaning, every week Lindsay and I would sit down together over Facetime bringing together our research on accommodations, flights, and things to do in each city. We understand that the state of the world could change, but we have planned accordingly so that our bookings are fully refundable or free cancellation.
We also knew that sticking to Air BnBs would be one of the safest and more secure ways of booking accommodations—and while some may not have been extremely cost friendly, we know that we don't want a hostel or run down hotel to keep us from enjoying the places we're staying in. Granted, we only really need air conditioning, running water, and a bed. We both wanted to splurge a little here and there on places where we might have a really nice ocean view, continental breakfast, or spend a little extra to have access to an in-unit washer and dryer. The Air Bnb we chose in the Amalfi Coast, for example, is on a lemon tree farm and the host was recommended by previous tenants. In addition, I also was drawn to it because the host lives on the property, makes you breakfast, and also might provide us some intel on the best places to eat, things to do, etc.
Next Steps
Speaking of things to do, our next steps will be to start booking tours and activities. Being the most American tourists we can be, I want to tour the Colosseum and Eiffel Tower, but also just find some of the hidden gems throughout each city. Lindsay and I have kept our itinerary pretty flex so that we can just have time to explore and decide what we want to do on the fly.
There are definitely more details to planning this trip, such as figuring out what to bring, but we're both pretty aligned with packing sundresses and bikinis. Leaving just enough room for all of the ceramics and even more sundresses I'm going to bring back.
This is only just the start to what is going to be the trip of the summer...and even potentially the trip of a lifetime! I cannot wait to share it with my cousin and for all of the memories to come.
I never thought I would be able to plan it on my own either and be able to do so incredibly soon—so I am very grateful for being able to even have the means to continue to do what I love and explore the world. I'll be back to document it for sure and in the meantime I'll be dreaming of Venetian canals, southern Italy coastlines, and The City of Lights. X
Makeup has always been the last step for me before I run out the door. Usually because I'm blow drying my hair or rummaging through my closet for the right top to wear, but I have always de-prioritized makeup on the list of things to do before I go out to meet up with people or even go to work. With that being said, I think I just never really worry about taking all of the time to intricately put makeup on or fuss with a specific look—I've found my key staple products that I love and it only takes me 10 minutes to throw it on and get out the door.
I know it seems like a lot of product, but I swear there's a science to applying it all quickly and seamlessly...at least with good lighting and a damp Beauty Blender that is! In addition, this has been my quick touchup routine for the past few months, so practice makes perfect...most days.
For the face...
Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer in Finland- I used to use this during college and wasn't sure why I stopped because it is just so darn stinkin good! I've struggled to find just the right tinted moisturizer that isn't too full coverage or dewy, and Nars always comes through. It also doesn't really oxidize, so my face doesn't look orange. It gives just enough coverage so that it blurs any profound imperfections.
Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla- Of course, I have to pair this moisturizer with one of the creamiest, long wearing concealers. I will say, it is a bit on the pricier side, but it's always a fall back for me because many drugstore concealers I've used start to crack on my face overtime.
Morphe Equalizer Foundation Primer- When I do remember to put on primer, I've been using Morphe's! Between this one and Smashbox, I've loved the way it blurs my pores but also helps my tinted moisturizer glide and stay on all throughout the day.
Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow Duo- I feel like if there was one product I couldn't go without, it would be bronzer. I reach for it every time and use it practically everywhere...all about that glow! I use CT even as eyeshadow sometimes...which cuts the makeup applying time down a whole 30 seconds.
L'Oreal Infallible Fresh Wear Powder Foundation- So on days where I'm just in need of a quick fix, a swipe of this miracle powder is all I need. It's been raved about and for good reason. It has all of the coverage and blurring qualities of a full coverage matte foundation. I will either use this on its own or sparingly though when I do opt for liquid foundation underneath.
On the eyes...
Morphe Micro Brow Pencil in Praline- I've been through many eyebrow pencils, and if there is a second product I can't go without applying, it's this. I just feel like once my brows are completely done and filled out, my face is framed and it makes all the difference. Really been loving this one!
Benefit 24 HR Brow Setter- Every now and then I'll remember to set my brows, or just use a brow gel to hold them in place. This one doesn't leave my brows feeling really tacky or sticky either.
Natasha Denona Baby Biba Palette- Three is simple enough for me! If I'm feelin like I'm in a bit of a need for glam, I've been using this palette to smoke out my eyes a bit. It's super creamy and smooth—I will say a little bit of fall out, but sometimes that makes it better to blend.
Diorshow Mascara- Hands down, my favorite mascara of all-time. Out of all of the ones I've tried growing up, I finally found the perfect one to curl and lengthen without clumps or making my lashes all spidery. This has become a Natalie staple for sure.
Don't forget the lips...
Fenty Gloss Bomb in Fu$$y- Okay, so I'm already in the car ready to go, but I can't forget to swipe the juiciest, creamiest, luscious lip gloss I've ever owned! It literally tastes like frosting, too. It doesn't stick or dry quickly either. One swipe—maybe a sneaky reapply—and I'm set for the night.
On this Easter Sunday as I'm writing this, I'm in disbelief that spring is just around the corner. With the promise of new blossoms (not to mention new and returning allergies), I am dumbfounded by all of the new changes as we head into a transitioning season full of life, warmth, and color. The environment definitely has an effect on my mindset, mood, and sense of self—hence me always talking about it at the beginning of a blog post—but I always feel like the atmosphere has an impact on all things happening for me, and I want to share some new beginnings and things I am looking forward to this season!
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01. Embracing new and old relationships. Maybe this whole "blossom" metaphor is a bit overkill, but I like to think that it aligns perfectly with my current social happenings and experiences as of late. This time last year, we were all trying to get back "out there". Going to outdoor patios, backyards, and anywhere and everywhere that was safe enough to actually be together.
Jump to present—I've been comfortable enough to go to bars, clubs, restaurants, movie theaters, the gym—you name it. I really didn't think I would meet anyone new or develop new friendships (let alone in my hometown), but I was wrong. I think this sudden and newfound urge to socialize has made it easier for me to meet people and feel less pressured to put myself out there. And to just be myself. And I am entirely grateful for that and the amazing people I've been able to meet and continue to meet because of it.
02. Work/life balance has been coming to fruition as the sun begins to shine and I'm itching to want to spend my afternoons absorbing any ray of warmth—I can't wait for longer days, last minute dinner plans, outdoor fires, and actually being able to work outside and sit at our patio. It really took me awhile to adjust to my routine of an 8 hour work day spent within the four walls of my bedroom—if not at our dining room table (for a change of scenery that is). However, I've just started going back into the city and am meeting more fellow colleagues. For awhile, it was hard for me to feel like I belonged at my agency, but the more and more I dedicate to meeting people in person or over the phone, the more sense of humanity I start to feel—like work isn't just work. I show up for the people and that's what continues to keep me there.
03. This travel bug I've had has not gone away. With the cadence of work life, I am constantly thinking ahead to what's next on Natalie's travel list. What next spot or destination can I look forward to. Now, I know that I've had some really stellar trips this year and a big Europe trip to come (more on that later), so I realize that it's not typical to be constantly going places every month, but hey one of my goals is to travel and as long as I am able...anchors away! Over Memorial Day weekend I will be visiting my good friend Kyra in Myrtle Beach. I went to a beach wedding not far from there on Ocean Isle and one of my most cherished memories was getting out of bed really early in the morning to watch baby sea turtles hatch on the beach and shining our flashlights on the sand to guide them to shore. I am definitely in need of some beach days that's for sure—and I can't wait!
04. Finding time to dedicate to my blog, in addition to doing the things I love and that fill me up, has been my mantra this past month. Although it took me a month to sit down and dedicate to it, I was also juggling other things such as work but being present with friends, family, and my goals as well. But that comes with creating boundaries with people and remaining true to doing the things that you love—the things that feed you. I've made many reservations for why I shouldn't put myself first, but as the queen of all things self care and holding true to prioritizing your wellbeing and mental health, it takes a whole person to be able to give the most to someone else. So within the next few months, and years of my life, I want to continue to pursue those things that fill me up and bring me joy. While not having to sacrifice or de-value my priorities and set aspirations—and making the time to continue to stay motivated in those endeavors so that I can share my whole self.
Hello, March! It's time to turn a new leaf and wish the snow be gone. The lull of dark winter nights is slowly but surely fading and I'm ready for a spring refresh in the coming weeks—life's been good these past couple of months, so I thought I would write a brief update on all the winter happenings and what I'm looking forward to this month!
01. Continuing work from home and transitioning into the office this spring. So far, I have been really embracing my work-from-home routine, especially since the thought of commuting in 20 degree weather just isn't ideal at the moment. I've been switching up my days by going to coffee shops or working at my gym's lounge before I workout and I've also really enjoyed getting to know my team more over the past couple of months. I've been able to work on some fun campaigns for Trolli Gummi Worms and General Mills cereal brands, so it's been a lot of fun and every day is different for me. I know I'll be heading back into the city soon, but for right now, I'm totally okay with waking up at a reasonable time and having my morning coffee without worry of catching a train.
02. Setting boundaries and creating time to dedicate to myself has been my motto. With balancing time to go out with friends, travel a lot more, and work full time, I have honed the ability to be fully content with just having time and peace to myself every now and then. I think I've fully grown into my introverted-extroverted self. I am okay having time at the end of a long work day to decompress or go to the gym and run it out to Lizzo. Setting boundaries for me to reset, be productive, and work on me—even getting back on my blog—has always helped me stay grounded.
03. A wedding, a wedding! No...not my wedding, silly. This month I'm headed down to Virginia for my good friend's wedding and I can't be more excited to actually be at a wedding with people my age. Now, before I get too old and sick of weddings, I just love to celebrate love with the people I love. That AND open bars AND cake.
04. Speaking of traveling, I've had a bit of a travel bug lately and planning quick, spontaneous weekend trips just seems to be in the cards for me lately. With skiing in Idaho, to a weekend trip to Georgia with my best friend, the wedding, and next...well I've got a big trip over the pond in the works for this summer, too!
While keeping tabs on happenings throughout the world (I say that so so lightly), my cousin and I have booked a trip to Italy and France later this summer. Details to come later, but we are thrilled and are fleshing out the itinerary as I speak...so stay tuned!
05. So, this is really cheesy and gimmicky, but to remember the joys of each day I've been writing down little blurbs of good things—whether it be my hairdresser keeping a clip I left in the salon a year ago or just simply treating myself to Chinese takeout, I've made it a point each day to reflect on one good thing. Big or small. It keeps me in check and focused on what matters and what makes me happy. After I write these little blurbs down on my mini Post-Its, I drop it into a blue mason jar on my bookshelf for safe keeping. When one day I find myself in need of a little uplift, I can open one of these blurbs and remind myself of all the good I've experienced. Cheesy enough yet?
The newness of spring is on the horizon and I'm ready for whatever may bloom this month. Keepin' it fresh and being open to change—or even cultivating change—in my routine is on my radar and I'm looking forward to sunnier and longer days ahead!
The Mountains are Calling and I Must Go
Last weekend was a weekend filled with firsts. I went skiing in the mountainous west with my cousins in McCall, Idaho. This was also one of my first winter trips, as my family usually hunkers down and only visits family remotely near us during the holidays. I was excited to get the chance to appreciate the snow a bit more and spend it with family I don't often get to see—along with three new little munchkins running around and just beautiful, blue sky mountain views.
Day 1: McCall & the "Little Ski Hill"
With zero experience skiing, I was going fully prepared to experience blood, sweat, and tears—sans the tears—and test my athleticism, patience, and mental aptitude for what was a pretty successful first ski run for me! Thankfully, my cousin's husband Shane was a ski instructor and their whole family was equipped with extra gear for me so I was among the experts. As daunting as that already is knowing that they regularly ski, I knew that I wanted to make the most of the trip as much as I wanted them all to enjoy it and not have to worry about me going off the mountainside.
Before we checked into our cozy Air BnB, we explored the quaint ski town, which reminded me a bit of the Wisconsin Dells—it definitely had a lot of tourists visiting for the weekend ahead of their annual ice festival, which I was really excited to see since I haven't seen ice sculptures in person before. We took a stroll around the frozen lake with their golden retrievers and stopped for some much needed caffeine before we hit up the first mountain of the evening.
The Little Ski Hill (which I report is NOT little for a first time skier) was where we ended up going that night just to get me on the skis and learn the basics—little did I know I would be basically leashed down the hill, but to my cousin Rachael's point—I was not going to live up there. Only one way down! The first hurdle for me was getting adjusted to the fact that you're on a high mountain and it definitely psyched me out. I would take many, many, falls just because speeding down it was not going to be an option for me that night. Instead, Shane was patient with me and showed me the basics to turning and weight distribution...all I'm going to tell you is that I made it down that mountain. Thanks, Shane.
Day 2: Brundage Ski Hill & Winter Tailgating
The second day was our big ski day as a family. We headed up to Brundage Mountain and from my previous day of struggling down my first mountain, I will admit I was a bit nervous considering we would be going down more similar or even harder runs. Thankfully, my cousins and I decided it would be most beneficial for me to take at least one lesson to feel more confident in my skis and also so they could go off and do their thing while I was learning on the bunny hill below.
The hardest part for me learning to ski was understanding how weight distribution and speed work for you rather than against you. The more momentum you have, the easier it will be to curve and turn down the mountain—learning how to regulate your speed was another hurdle. You can't just pizza and french fry the whole way down. It's exhausting! So, turning was really the secret to having an effortless run. And I had to make it to the top!
My ski instructor was patient with me and I finally had my turns down for the most part, it was just graduating to steeper hills and remembering to lift the weight off of my inside ski and using the whole width of the mountain to my advantage. When I finally regrouped with the family, we took the lift all the way to the top for what were just stellar views of the valley below and a quite relaxing road to ski down until I got to some of the more steeper slopes. Once we finally got down the mountain, my aunt met up with us for a winter tailgate and barbecue (bless Aunt Laura!)...and much needed beers. We ended the night with rejoining with more family that met up with us at the house and some hot toddies.
Day 3: Snow Shoeing in Ponderosa State Park
By Saturday, I was pretty gassed out and was feeling the soreness all over my body from using every single muscle to ski. My cousins and I were also ready for a break and to also just enjoy what McCall had to offer. We slept in and took our snow shoes to Ponderosa State Park for a hike!
I've never snow shoed either, but it almost feels like you're strapped into moon shoes and are walking on an elliptical since your stance is so wide and you're cutting into the snow. It definitely was a workout in itself, but the paths were pretty groomed for snow shoeing and cross country skiing. Not to mention it was cool just being able to walk through the forest and see the portrait of Payette Lake, with a majestic bald eagle crossing the horizon as we howled and cawed over the frozen lake.
After snow shoeing, we drove into town for some much needed shopping and lunch at the Salmon River Brewery as we had all of the babies with us. We wandered around town, visited some cool ice sculptures, and ended the night eating a big spaghetti dinner at my uncle's friend's house outside of town. It was definitely a day needed to just rest and have some quality family time before heading out on Sunday.
Day 4: One Last Ski in Boise
With a good lay in, the whole crew was getting ready to pack up. Time flies when you're flying down mountains! We headed into town for one last bite to eat—the most amazing french dip at the McCall Brewing Company (all the breweries, yes) where we said adieu to most of the cousins and headed out with my aunt and uncle and cousin Lindsay back to Boise. We were going to night ski one last time before I was dropped off at the airport and they headed back to Oregon.
I was feeling like mush from skiing for two days, but one more day couldn't hurt right? Mustering up the courage and what I learned to get through my first intermediate ski run (the level goes bunny hill, green, blue or intermediate, and black diamond). Also successfully going down my first green without falling. I owe it to my cousins for their patience with me and being the true ski cheerleaders as I trudged back on my skis every time, had a couple yard sales, got a pretty good battle scar on my knee, but never—not once—shedding a single tear, just powder.
They know this already, but sending another huge thank you to the Livingston crew for inviting me on their yearly ski trip and for putting up with my mother goose ski skills. It truly is a difficult sport, but I understand why so many people do it once they have the gear and experience down. The running joke was that my next ski venture is the winter olympics...so just you wait.
It's that time of year again—brisk sub-zero mornings and very deceiving sunshine. And yes, dry dry skin from walking Cooper on my lunch break. The winter nips have gotten the best of me, so I thought it was time to update you all with what's on my skincare shelf this month.
I love these rattan shelves by the way. I think they're from Five Below? At some point I needed to find something to fill up this blank corner next to my desk and these were perfect for holding some of my essential skincare items and perfumes I reach for on the daily. It's a designated spot and excuse to clutter up with all of my favorites, so let's dive in!
Eau de Parfum
I don't talk a lot about perfumes as much as I used to mainly because my favorites haven't changed all too much. I'm also usually the type to use them sparingly so they don't run out. Winter is when I love to wear warm and spicy scents—I'm not to keen on the sweet, vanilla-y perfumes. A hint of musk and some type of woodsy note draws me in!
Chloe Nomade- This mother of a bottle on the bottom shelf was a big holiday splurge for me, but when you find your perfect scent—I think it's worth buying the full bottle. This is a warm floral with notes of freesia, oakmoss, and mirabelle plum liquor...sounds decadent right? It's definitely one of those head-turning scents and is the perfect blend of spice and sweetness for fall and winter.
Jo Malone Peony and Blush Suede- A cult classic and a fragrance I've held onto for a while because I can't justify wearing it as an every day perfume. This is definitely a brighter floral with notes of peony, red apple, and jasmine. It's a very flirty scent and I always like to just dab it on my neck and wrists before I go out.
Pour Le Visage
Onto the face! I'm all about the moisture and hydration—"slugging" if you will. The more creams and preventative lotions I can put on my face the better. My skin transforms during this month while it figures out how to adapt to the snippy chill—a never ending story I suppose.
Laneige Water Sleeping Mask- So, apparently this lovely ingredient squalane with a pro-biotic derived complex are the best concoction for treating ultra-dry skin. Both add visibly hydrated and glowy skin and act as a moisture barrier to mimic the skin's natural lipids...a lot of science there, but hey! It works wonders. I'm already a fan of this water sleeping mask and douse my face in it before I go to bed, waking up feeling hydrated and fully refreshed. Best for days when my skin really needs it.
Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream- When I'm feeling like my skin is in an okay place (rarely), I will opt for a light moisturizer. Since I do have acne prone skin, this is usually my go-to anyway but since it's winter, I'm switching out and rotating moisturizers. This cream in particular is the best daily moisturizer for me. It has hyaluronic acid which is great for strengthening your skin's moisture barrier and balance out complexion.
Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment- I constantly rub my eyes during the day and night. They're usually dry, itchy, or just tired to be honest. I am always opting for a super rich eye cream and have never been let down by Kiehl's. This eye cream features avocado oil which smooths, de-puffs, and brightens. I will slather this puppy on every night—no more itchy, dry eyes!
Dr. Jart Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment- Dr. Jart is my BFF and now is this product. It is a green-to-beige transforming cica cream that neutralizes redness and evens your skin tone. The perfect fix for red and dry skin, especially when you have to hop on Zoom calls and don't have the extra minutes to fully conceal. I've constantly dealt with uneven skin and skin pigment, so this has just been a lifesaver of a product—have no fear, the green actually does go away so you don't end up looking like Shrek LOL
I hope everyone has been staying warm this month, how have you been treating your winter skin lately?
Strength has been the theme to the start of the new year for me.
Regaining my strength after the relax and rest of the holidays, finding the strength to return back to my routine, and building strength—both physical and mental. Strength has manifested itself in many ways for me, but I've noticed lately that I'm falling short of it.
However, just when I think I'm at my weakest is when I realize just how strong I can truly be. It could be as simple as waking up at a consistent time every morning, lifting heavier weights at the gym, or finding the emotional capacity to be vulnerable to trying something new or open up to someone.
I think we all have different definitions of strength and what it means for us—our physical, emotional, and mental capacities are constantly tested, tried, and worn. Especially at a time when the world is digressing into what could be another lockdown, here's to hoping. I lean on strength and cultivating strength to get through it all, so here's how:
Finding Power in Discomfort
There's nothing more discomforting than finding out that your body or mind has reached its limit. I noticed this the other day when I started benching. I don't usually go to the gym and bench a ton because I don't normally have anyone to spot me, but this time I was working out with a friend who encouraged me to try it. I've always been curious to see how much weight I was capable of handling, but to my surprise it didn't take too much weight for my left bicep to completely give out on me. I felt defeated and like I should definitely have been able to lift more.
I'm writing this with sore biceps and the realization that although my arms gave out on me, I tried and I tested my strength in a way I never have before. When mental and physical challenges test us, it's truth telling of just how strong we actually can be—even when we think we're at our weakest in the moment. We never truly know how strong we are if we just allow ourselves to submit to the discomfort of the challenge or obstacle at hand.
Leaning on People
This may seem like a given, but I find that I need the constant reminder that building strength isn't just a solo venture. Knowing that there are people who are on the same journey to find strength, in whatever form, lifts me up just as much as it lifts them up.
Specifically, choosing people who choose me; who care enough to want to stay, listen, and allow me to be my completely and utterly genuine self. I've found that these select people: family, friends, and colleagues are those who I can lean onto, learn from, and feel uplifted by.
I find it easier to get through the day when I can find at least one positive or good thing that happened, no matter how miniscule. It keeps me present and allows me to focus on the things that truly matter. One way I've started doing this is keeping a jar aside to write at least one good thing on a sticky note each day. It could have been a really, really good latte or going out with friends to play mini golf.
I jot it down, toss it in the jar, and by the end of the year I hope to have a whole jar filled with all the good that I've experienced. I think when we're trying to be strong and deal with the not-so-pretty parts all of the time, we breeze over the small joys in life.
Cultivating the power to find strength is just as difficult and dubious as finding the power to let yourself feel weak. No matter the challenge or struggle, I want to remember that it's okay to be at a discomfort with my situation, the unknown, or whatever I may be dealing with and lean on the people I trust. Remembering what matters and what uplifts me.
I am strong and you are too.
I'm sitting at a very festive coffee shop in my hometown, chai latte in hand, and it almost feels like I'm the main character of a post-Christmas Hallmark movie—whose decided that there's no better time to start blogging again than the second day of the new year. Ah 2022, what are we going to do. So many possibilities of what the new year could bring. Every season I always feel a sense of pressure to make necessary resets: whether it be taking down all of the Christmas decorations asap, re-organizing my closet, limiting my social media use, investing in a new hobby, muting toxic people—the whole lot.
What I have forgotten to do is reflect on what I have actually accomplished this past year amidst the worrying and curiosity over what could come. I graduated college, I got my first job, I travelled more than I thought I would, I started powerlifting, I met some pretty stellar folks, and besides the icky mucky bumps here and there, 2021 served me well.
I will say that I am ready for change, not so much Chicago winter, but you can only ask for so much right? I do have a couple of goals I would like to keep in mind throughout the year and things I am looking forward to. In addition, I need to treat each day with optimism and openness for the possibility of change and growth—not letting some stale or stagnant days be wasted and making the most out of every opportunity to live a bit more mindfully this year.
Moving On and Moving Out
A goal that has been pushed off my radar since I moved back home during Covid is when I would officially move out. I made it a point to do everything in my power to find a job and get on my feet after college before moving back into the city. I've romanticized the idea of what living on my own would be like. Granted, I don't want to live alone but having the power to finally have my own space, closer to the city I love, and where I can begin a new chapter is all so enchanting to me. I don't think it will be anytime in the next couple of months, but this year is definitely the year. Thankfully, my sisters and my best friend have all volunteered to go apartment hunting with me, so I would be open to sharing that process with you all later on. One big step and it will happen very, very soon—I know it.
Fostering Momentous Motivation
With the idea of moving, which is already a huge moment of change, I already know that there is still a lot of newness and experiences I have yet to have. With winter rolling back around and the Omicron variant lurking, I don't want to sink back into the comfort bubble again—whether it be repeating the same workouts at the gym (or from home), not turning my camera on during work calls, or just hunkering down because "it's too cold out".
There was a time when I used to be so vigilant and proactive about reaching for things like applying for a new executive role in a club or applying for study abroad, no matter how uncomfortable or strenuous the process was. I tell some of my friends who are finishing up college that I genuinely miss learning and having benchmarks to master: like speaking to people fluently in Spanish, the ambition I used to have when I was drafting and re-drafting my resume, the adrenaline rush I used to get before I would meet a new student to tutor. I didn't realize it then, but I was cultivating a routine that I would yearn for the rest of my life. I want to be constantly productive, proactive with my goals, and reclaim that motivation I had when I would crank out twelve page papers on the Yellowstone River in the library. I miss that Natalie, but she is back and more ready to take on whatever may come her way.
Choosing People Who Choose Me
This year brought forth a new realization of how I prioritize and care about my relationships—platonic or romantic. I've been able to experience different relations with people, more than I thought I would this year. I needed the connection and I craved it to a point where I didn't even recognize myself because I truly came out of my shell this summer. People come and go, yes, but I like to think that I try to lead every interaction knowing that I put in the effort to connect, listen, and learn something new from everyone I meet. No matter how long they stay. I want to invest my time, energy, love, and compassion with people who want to be around me.
Investing in Me-Time
Sure I've been a bit of a social butterfly this year, but with that came a lot of worrying and dwelling about other people. A lot of what I yearn for, like a newfound motivation for example, came at a time when I was fully content and driven to work on myself when nobody else was really in the picture. It ebbs and flows at different points in my life of course, but I always find that when I'm doing the things I love (like writing), I am focused and am feeding my soul what it really needs! I want to make more conscious decisions when it comes to investing in what I need and what will help me best succeed.
I am embracing the new year with grace, knowing that each and every day will be different and I have to also give myself grace when I need to slow things down and reflect. Rather than setting a template for how I want 2022 to look, I'll always go back to what my dad urges me to remember: to take it day by day.
I am ready for more laughs, more wine nights, experiencing jaw dropping views, surprising myself by reaching new heights, and maybe learning how to actually cook in the process—give or take.
What are you looking forward to in the new year?
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