My Rant on Inspiration

Inspiration is such a fickle thing.  

There are some days when I'm completely overwhelmed by it - everything has a meaning and the most obscure things can stir a plethora of creativity from somewhere deep inside me.   The way sunlight shines through my windows and plays on my perfume bottles has inspired stories.  (See here.)  So has that favorite song that comes on the radio at just the right time - putting you in that perfect mood.  And there was a time when magical editorials were all the vacation I needed.  

Lately, inspiration has been a bit harder to find.  And maybe it's just me.  Maybe I read too many blogs.  Too many fashion magazines.  Spend too much time pinning.   Maybe I'm jaded because lately it's been harder for me to find things that are day-dream worthy.  When I first started my blog I was *so* passionate about everything I wrote and so excited to share my stories and experiences.  I want to get back to that.  I know these creative ruts are part of being artistic in any form, but think about  it - so much has already been done, seen, and written about I think it's time to get back to the roots of why we all write our blogs, or tell our stories in the first place. 

Beauty Crush Monday: Clarisonic Plus

I pondered the purchase of a Clarisonic Plus for months before I actually bought one.  Because let's face it - they're pricy lil' buggers.  I read countless reviews on Amazon, Sephora, and other beauty blogs until I became convinced that this really was "the miracle beauty tool" everyone claims it is.     I've never been someone with terrible skin - but I wouldn't call my complexion enviable either.  I have an oily t-zone, the occasional acne, and clogged pores were a problem I just thought I'd have to live with.  I've always worn a foundation and powder and have desperately wanted to be that person that could go naked-faced and still feel confident.     I've had my Clarisonic Plus for two months now and it really has lived up to all the hype.  After using  it my face glows.  I've found that products like moisturizers and serums absorb much better into my skin, and best of all is I've ditched my foundation for a tinted moisturizer I would have only dreamt of using in the past. Overall, my skin is just much more clear.  It's been a life saver this winter and shluffs away dry skin so my complexion is bright.  I am more impressed with it capabilities on my face than on how it exfoliates my body - but still it's very effective.  If you've been on the fence about buying one - I highly recommend you do - it really is one of those products that can completely change your beauty routine. 

Moved

Hope is the thing with feathers.

Emily Dickinson

I pinned this picture last night, and for some reason it really struck a chord with me.  It made me remember why I blog.  Why I love fashion and why I want to travel, wear beautiful clothes, and do things that I find inspiring.   Life is too short not to live out your dreams.  And I feel it's important to remember that.

Oh. Yes.

After much planning my spring break is finally booked.  This post is dedicated to the beach, Coronas, sunshine, and bikinis.   And all the lovies I’m gonna get to share it with. Let the countdown begin!

 

Beauty Crush Monday: Rose Petal Salve

I'm a self confessed beauty junky.  I love trying new products and switching up my beauty routine, and probably once a week I'll think to myself, "I should blog about this." And then I don't, and it's silly because who likes to play a guessing game when it comes to buying beauty products?   Yep, no one.

So every Monday I'm going to share with you a product that I feel is noteworthy enough to dedicate a post to.  First up is Rose & Company Apothecary Rose Petal Salve.  I got my first little tin of this when I was living in London.  The first thing I fell in love with was the smell - it's floral but not too sweet, and authentically smells like roses.   It's also just incredibly versatile.  I use it on my lips, to tame unruly eyebrows, and on my chapped hands.  I much prefer this product to Smith's Rosebud Salve.  It's less sticky and the smell is much prettier.   It lasts forever and at around $9, it's a beauty balm everyone should own.

Cutest 'Kini Ever

I'm all about the pastel bikini this season.  And what color shows of a tan better than the palest of pinks?  I'm in love with this Miu Miu number and I can assure you, if I was given a free shopping spree, this would be the first thing I'd buy. The flowery little top is so whimsical and carefree, it's the perfect thing to wear on lazy beach days. 

Peek A Boo

I've never been one to flaunt my tummy.  It has always seemed too risque, and in my opinion my abs have never been great enough to want to put on display.  However, this spring and summer I'm seriously reconsidering.  The hottest body part to show off has got to be the upper abdomen.  It was the focal point of nearly every Spring/Summer 2013 runway show and the look translates beautifully to street wear (as seen below).  Also, is there any greater motivation to get one's bum to the gym?