Back Again

Goodness, it's been awhile. I decided to dust off my little corner of the internet, give it a new name, and focus on what really matters: snippets of joy. Regardless of external circumstances over the past few years, one thing remains the same – finding the good in the every day. 

It's easy (at least for me) to get overwhelmed with the to-do lists, the pile of dishes in the sink, the "when it rains, it pours" of it all, and I find that searching for that silver lining is what keeps my spirits up day after day. 

Life has continued to chug along since I last visited this space, most excitedly that I'm engaged (!) and in the midst of the final stages of wedding planning. Of course, there has been a certain amount of anxiety when it comes to putting together an event of this magnitude, but I'm comforted by the fact that at the end of that very special day, I'll be the wife of a man who makes me laugh day after day.

Despite the big things that are happening, it's those tiny things that help keep my heart happy. Savoring a latte on a weekend morning, sinking into bed for a Sunday afternoon nap, jogging a little longer than I did the day before, silly Snapchat exchanges with my dearest friends. 

Here's to celebrating the little things! More soon. 
 

Winter Skin Saviors

 

I'm one of those rare people that actually prefers cold weather to hot, but I have to admit that by the time late February rolls around, I'm ready for slightly warmer weather. I've always been prone to eczema and dry, itchy skin, but I'm happy to report that I think I've finally cracked the code on what works to keep my skin content during this time of year. 

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream // This is certainly a no frills experience, but using this year round has essentially eliminated any of my eczema woes. And, you can pick it up easily at the drug store. 

Acure Argan Oil // I'd been a fan of the much more expensive Josie Maran version of this as a facial moisturizer for a year or so, but this Acure version is half the price and every bit as good. I use it on my face daily, and also add it to my body lotion if I need an added boost. 

Dior Creme de Rose Lip Balm // While pricey, this little tub has last been ages and is just such a pleasure to use. I apply it every night before bed, and my lips are flake free and ready to go in the morning. Plus, the rose scent is luxurious and relaxing. 

Leahlani Skincare Coco Infusion // The lovely Ashley introduced me to this gem, and it's a delightful coconut oil + fragrance experience that I save for special occasions. It doesn't irritate my sensitive skin, and the smell (I have the tuberose) is unique and beautiful. 

Deep Steep Sugar Scrub // Can you believe I never used a sugar scrub until this year? Because of my sensitive, easy to irritate skin, I shied away from exfoliating until I found this powerhouse product. It exfoliates, as you'd imagine, but it also contains coconut oil and other moisturizers that leave my skin nourished after a shower, even (and especially!) after shaving my legs. And, the brown sugar + vanilla scent is one of my favorites. 

What products have you been loving this winter season? I must say that I'm excited for the calendar to switch over to March, although I'll be fine to keep my scarves and boots in rotation just a little while longer.