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Saturday, May 30, 2015

Ipsy May Glam Bag | Jetsetter

Hey guys! It's time for my May Ipsy Glam Bag review! This month's theme was called Jetsetter, the concept obviously being designed for those with a love for traveling. There were three possible makeup bag options for this month's theme, this being the one that I got. The other ones said "Contents: My Life," "VIP: Very Important Products." The bag itself is burlap with the words screen-printed on. From what I've read, many people like these bags a lot. I, however, am not really a fan. This is not a bag that I would ever actually use.
These are the contents of my bag!
The first item I received was a travel-sized IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+. I had never used a CC cream before so I was pretty excited to try it out. It came in the shade Medium, which is actually kind of orange, but blended decently. I used it under my eyes and on a couple of spots and it worked decently. I don't think that it was the right shade for me, but overall I was pretty happy with the product and will end up using up this sample.
Full Size: $29
The next item I received was a travel-sized Briogeo Rosarco Milk Reparative Leave-In Conditioning Spray. This spray consists of rosehip, argan and coconut oil and smells wonderful. It is a milky-white colored liquid that makes your hair smell great. I honestly did not really notice my hair being any smoother or less frizzy than normal but the smell alone is enough to keep me using this sample!
Full Size: $20
The next item I got was a pair of Eylure Naturals No. 020 Strip Lashes. I do not wear false eyelashes so I was kind of bummed to get these in my bag. The fact that the lashes have these odd, varying lengths immediately put me off, but I put them on and they look much better when they are actually on your eyes. It was nice to have a small container of glue included, and these lashes are re-wearable. However, I still don't think I will really use these.
Full Size: ~$3.33
Next in my bag was a Jesse's Girl Pure Pigment Eye Dust sample in the color Brown Sugar. This is another item that I was pretty bummed to receive. In the previous bag I got a copper eyeshadow shade that I was decently happy with, but I found this one to be very orange and a color that did not compliment my blue/green eyes at all. The powder itself is very pigmented and I would probably like it had I received a shade better suited for my eyes. Due to it's color, this is another sample I probably won't end up using.
Full Size: $4.99
The final item I received this month was a full-sized Cailyn Cosmetics Pure Lust Extreme Matte Tint in the shade Narcissist. I was a little bummed to get another lip gloss this month, but I actually ended up loving this shade. However, I learned very quickly how-not to apply it. With this gloss, a very small bit goes a long way. If you put more than a tiny bit on, it will take a while to dry and will get all over your teeth (yeah, that happened). I actually wipe the applicator on the sides of the tube first, then use a tissue to remove extra. The tint is very strong, so be sure that you don't somehow get it onto your face. This is a sample that I will definitely continue to wear!
Full Size: $19

Unfortunately, I was not quite as happy with this month's bag as I was with the previous one, but for only $10 a month, how can I really go wrong? The great thing about Ipsy is that you can retake your style quiz as many times as you want to try and get different products!

May:
Item Satisfaction Rating: 3/5
Bag Rating: 1/5
Overall Full-Size Value: $76.32



Once again, if you are at all interested in signing up for Ipsy, feel free to ask me any questions and please use my referral link! If you are already an Ipsy subscriber, what did you get this month? 


xx,

Thursday, May 14, 2015

Ipsy April Glam Bag | Beautifully Bohemian

Hey guys! Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Caitlin and I am possibly the worst blogger ever... Thank you to those who have stuck with me during this extremely busy time in my life. I am going to try and blog more frequently, but we will see how that goes.

Anyways, a couple of months ago, I signed up for Ipsy. For those of you who don't know what that is, Ipsy is a monthly beauty subscription that sends five beauty samples to your door every month in a beautifully themed makeup bag for only $10 a month! Now, I am the furthest from being a makeup expert but I felt like rewarding myself for all of my hard work in finishing college and decided to purchase a year-long subscription. For $110 I am getting a pretty pink package in the mail every month! If you are interested in signing up for Ipsy, please use my referral link! For any questions you may have, you can try and ask me below, or check out Ipsy's FAQ link!
My first bag came in April and the theme was Beautifully Bohemian. First off, Ipsy comes in a bright pink, bubble wrapped package. The outside along is enough to brighten your day when you see it in the mailbox. When I opened the pink packaging, I saw the beautiful bag for this month. It consists of beautiful colors woven into a burlap-type fabric. The inside is lined with a thin, tan fabric.
Here comes the good part. When I opened my bag I saw the five samples I was given for the month.
First, I received a travel-sized sample of Hey Honey Good Morning - Honey Silk Facial Serum. I have never used a facial serum before but I absolutely love it. I use a daily Dove moisturizer and, if Hey Honey wasn't so expensive, I would trade it in a heartbeat. It is very creamy, dries quickly and you only need a little bit of it. I doesn't make your skin feel oily or greasy, but very soft and smooth.
Full Size: $41
The next thing that came in my bag was a full-sized blush from Hikari in the shade Tango. Although this blush looks extremely bright, it looks really when it is applied lightly. I have never really worn blush before but I like how this shade looks on me and it is one I will continue to use.
Full Size: $15
I was lucky to have also received a second full-size item also. I got a theBalm Cosmetics NUDE Dude Eyeshadow Single. It is small because the original is from a pallet. I received the Fit shade, a nice copper-y shade. I like it a lot and have looked into buying the full pallet.
Full Size: $36
Next in my bag was a Starlooks travel-sized lip gloss in the shade Cuddle. I like lip glosses, but I was not a huge fan of this color. I found that it doesn't leave much of a tint, only a little bit of sparkle. This item was definitely a miss for me.
Full Size: $13
The last item included in my bag was a travel-size, roll-on Jor'el Parker Femina perfume. I am one of those people who owns a million perfumes so I was less than thrilled to find one in my bag. However, when I tried it, I loved it! Their website describes the ingredients as: Meyer Lemon, White Grapefruit, Satsuma Mandarin, Summer Forsythia, Pink Plumeria, Wild Verbena, Tahitian Vanilla and Sensual Musk. The way I would describe it is a subtle, but almost floral. Either way, I really like the scent.
Full Size: $55

Overall, I was very happy with my first Ipsy bag. I got two full-sized items and mostly items that I would use.

April:
Item Satisfaction Rating: 4/5
Bag Rating: 5/5
Overall Full-Size Value: $160

Once again, if you are considering signing up, please use my Ipsy referral link! My next review will be going up shortly as I am expecting my May bag any day now!

Are you an Ipsy member? How has your experience been?


xx,

Sunday, March 15, 2015

Apologies

Hi guys! Sorry I am literally the worst blogger ever! I have so many things I want to post but I am literally drowning in school and life and have very little time for myself. 
As I type this on my phone I am on my way to the airport for the trip I have been talking about so I will definitely have a post for each day when I get back! Posting everyday on here would be very tedious and I wouldn't have all my photos to share so it'll be worth the wait, I promise!
As for some life updates, I got my hair cut for the first time in quite a while. I didn't get much length off but it's much easier to deal with and I quite like it. I took before and after photos so I will be sure to share those with you later!
I also had my 22nd birthday last month. I didn't do anything too exciting but my friends and family spoiled me so I'll be sure to post all about that as well!
I also received some very exciting news on the day before my birthday. I have been named the valedictorian of my graduating class! Unfortunately this means I have to speak at comencement which, for someone with my fear of public speaking, is terrifying. However, I am trying not to think about that until I get back from my trip.
For those of your who read my blog, thank you for sticking with me. I'll be better at this someday! You'll be hearing from me soon!

xx,
Caitlin

P.s. This was supposed to post over a week ago and I just now realized it never posted.... Sorry! I will be making the promised updates starting a little later in the week!

Sunday, February 15, 2015

Hey Remember Me?

Hey guys! It's literally been forever since I've posted and I'm sorry about that! I feel like I've been super busy and haven't been feeling very motivated to blog. However, I thought I would give a little update on what's been going on in my life, for anyone who may be interested!

1) It's been two weeks since I lost my Grandmother. She was a super important part of my life and adjusting to her absence has been hard. I'm not one who easily adapts to changes so it is definitely a process.
My best friends and I.
2) On the 7th, we had a semi-formal dance at school. The music was pretty awful but I loved spending time with my friends. Taking pictures is always the best part.

3) I per-ordered Keegan Allen's life.love.beauty. quite a while ago and it came a couple of weeks ago. I haven't had the chance to read it yet but I am really excited to read his stories and see his photography. I will be posing a Book Banter about it as soon I've read it!

4) It's my birthday week but, unfortunately, I have the day off and all of my friends have class all day. I think I'm going to spend it with my baby cousins though so I can't complain too much. Plus, I think my friends are going to take me out that night. I can't believe I'm going to be 22, that is too bizarre.

5) I'm sure everyone knows that yesterday was Valentine's Day. Trav and I didn't do anything special. Honestly, this was our 7th Valentine's Day together so we would rather just spend time together than buy gifts or anything. We don't feel like we need Valentine's Day to express how we feel about each other.

What have you guys been up to? Did you do anything special for Valentine's Day? Let me know in the comments below! I'll be seeing you guys very soon, promise!


xx,

Sunday, February 8, 2015

Book Banter | What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? - The Buried Life

Hi guys! So I've decided to start a new section of my blog called Book Banter. I'm pretty busy so I don't have too much spare time for leisure reading, but when I do I want to write some book reviews. So first on my list: What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? by The Buried Life.
So here is a little background information. For those of you who have never heard of them, The Buried Life consists of four guys who have made it their life's mission to complete a bucket list consisting of 100 items that they have all agreed upon. The members include brothers Jonnie and Duncan Penn, Dave Lingwood and Ben Nemtin. Originally from Canada, the boys have been traveling all over the country, crossing items off of their list. The catch is, for each item they accomplish on their list, they help a stranger complete something on their bucket list! Great concept, right?
This book came out in 2012 and has since been a New York Times Best Seller! I got this book when it first came out and, lucky me, I got a signed edition! If any of you have heard of Post Secret, this book has a pretty similar format. Parts of the book are stories from the boys that contain pieces of their pasts and how they have gotten to where they are. There are also stories from people that they have met and helped along the way. However, a large majority of the book is fan submissions about things that they would like to do before they die. This, along with the matching artwork created by artists, are so interesting to read. I really like this style of book and would love if they would release another one!
If this sounds like the type of book you are into, I would highly recommend it! You can click HERE for ordering option! If you do read it, please let me know what you think! Also, they had a show on MTV for a little while so you can also look that up if you'd like to learn more!
What are some of the items on your bucket list? Do you have any book recommendations? I would love to hear about them in the comments below!
xx,

Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Forever 21 Wishlist | Spring Trends Edition

Hey guys! So Forever 21 recently released their Spring Trends Look Book and they have so many great pieces! I went through the collection and picked out my favorite items. I would love to have any of these in my closet.
I think the design on the back of this dress is just so beautiful! The front is simple enough that it could be worn for any occasion with a cardigan for more formal or with some cute heels for a night out!

This beautiful dress comes in the beautiful burgundy above (which I love!) as well as a dark grey and black. This is a cute dress that could definitely be worn anywhere. It's such a simple design, but super cute!

This dress is super simple but I think it's cute! It also comes in black!

Tops:
 1. Asymmetrical Split-Top Front - $17.90 USD
This top is just so cute! This would be a cute summer top with a cardigan or for professional wear. I love the design.
2. Colorblocked Chiffon Top - $17.90 USD
I think the colors of this top go so well together. It's a simple top but I really like it.
 3. Cutout-Black Pleated Top - $19.90 USD
Once again, a simple top but the small details are really cute. I think this would be flattering on a lot of different body types.
 4. Floral Lace Crop Top - $27.90 USD
I think this is my favorite of the bunch. I have always had a thing for floral patterns but I think the grey and white together is really elegant. I just love this top!
 5. Floral Print Crop Top - $14.90 USD
This top is similar to the last one but once again, I've got a thing for floral's.
 6. Flutter Sleeve Blouse - $10.90 USD
I think this top is so cute and comes in the three colors above (mint, yellow and lavender) as well as peach. The pastels are all so nice.
7. Layered Boxy V-Neck Tank - $17.90 USD
I think this shirt is a little more edgy, but elegant at the same time. I love both of these colors, as well as the lavender/black blouse.

Jackets:
I have always loved the idea of varsity jackets but have always found them to be a bit too bulky. However, this one looks comfortable and casual.

Have you guys looked through Forever 21's Spring Trends? What are your favorite items?

xx,

Sunday, February 1, 2015

Greif | Checking In

Hi guys. Sorry for my lack of posting but I haven't been feeling super creative lately. On Friday, January 30th, I lost my grandmother. I have never lost someone before so I am feeling really unsure of all the emotions running through me. I'm finding myself needing a little break from everything at the moment so I am not sure when I will be posting next. Thank you for understanding and I will be back as soon as I am feeling ready.

If you have any suggestions on things that have helped with your recovery in the past, I would love to hear them.
xx,

Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

Since Valentine's Day is fast approaching and many people, such as myself in years past, struggle to come up with ideas, I thought I would tell you some of the things that I have done in the past. Since this will be my seventh Valentine's Day with my boyfriend, it becomes harder and harder each year to think of original ideas. For those of you who are struggling, here are a few of my gender neutral Valentine's gifts from years past.
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The first one that comes to mind is something that I believe I found on Pinterest. I chose one of his favorite candies and bought a bunch of them. Then, I made a color coded sheet and chose different colors to represent different occasions such as "remember when's," "firsts" and places that we had been. I then attached these pieces of paper around the candy and put them all into a cute container. He had a great time reading all the little notes and got to eat some of his favorite sweets. I couldn't find the original article on Pinterest but this is pretty similar and will give you the basic idea!


Photo Source
Something else that will always be popular, no matter what gender, is cologne or perfume. This is something that is always useful and appreciated. Also along those lines is bathroom "stuff." Although they won't admit it most people, including men, like pampering themselves with a nice bubble bath every once in a while. I don't think I could name a single person that wouldn't like to receive a gift basket of cologne, bubble bath, some body wash or shower gel, maybe even some Lush products. If you don't feel like making your own, you can order one from a website such as this, although they are rather pricey! If you don't want to order one, you can maybe get some ideas as to what to include in your own there! 

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Another idea would be some kind of homemade coupon book. I have done this in the past and he loved it. Include some of their favorite things. If they like a certain kind of food, offer to cook them dinner or bake them their favorite sweets. If they are an active gym-goer, offer to go with them or to massage their sore muscles. If they hate doing chores, offer to do the dishes or the laundry. If they are a sports fan, offer to watch the game with them. These may not be your favorite activities either but they will really appreciate it! If you're looking for free templates, this site has some really cute ones!

Photo Source
This next one may not be too original but I think it is always a good option; jewelry. Now I think that any jewelry that was picked out specifically for another person is nice, but I much prefer the options where someone has put in a lot of thought and picked out the colors and contents based specifically on whom they are shopping for. This also goes for watches. I think a personalized engraving is always a nice touch. There are also lots of small shops that let you chose different charms for the other person. Plus, this helps support local small businesses! The picture above came from this Etsy store and I absolutely adore these necklaces!

Photo Source
Another option for those who don't necessarily like to partake in gift-giving on Valentine's Day is having a nice date night. This can range from going out to dinner and a movie to staying in, creating a blanket fort, watching Netflix and snacking. Honesty, either of those sounds fine to me. There is also the option of planning a trip together. A road trip is a great bonding experience, even if it is just a day trip!

Those are some of my favorite ideas! What are you doing for your significant other this year? I would love to hear about it, let me know in the comments below!
xx,

Sunday, January 25, 2015

It's The Little Things

In light of recent events, I am not feeling overly creative and frankly, I am emotionally and physically exhausted. I just wanted to take this time to thank some people, some of which may have applied to you at one time or another. 

If you have ever smiled at a stranger on the street, thank you.
If you have ever extended a helping hand to someone in need, thank you.
If you have ever donated time, money or resources to a charity, nonprofit or otherwise, thank you.
If you have ever given a hug to someone who needed one, thank you.
If you have ever picked up a gift for someone, simply because it make you think of them, thank you.
If you have ever asked about someone's day and been genuinely interested in their answer, thank you.
If you have ever helped someone pick up something they have dropped, thank you.
If you have ever "paid it forward" in a drive through, thank you.
If you have ever defended someone, especially those who cannot defend themselves, thank you.
If you have ever reached out to someone who has trouble connecting with people, thank you.
If you have ever given a compliment to someone who is feeling self-conscious, thank you.
If you have ever encouraged someone to make good decisions, thank you.
If you have ever heard someone out, whether you agree with them or not, thank you.
If you have ever allowed someone else to take the limelight, thank you.
If you have ever done a favor for someone who can't repay you, thank you.
If you have ever made someone smile while they were crying, thank you.
If you have ever encouraged someone to do the right thing, thank you.

If you are reading this and see yourself in any of these, thank you. Honestly, sometimes it is the smallest things that can make a difference. I am so thankful for the people in my life who are willing to go the extra mile. Although I have a small group of friends, I am very thankful for them and what they do. I could not ask for more from my family either. During these hard times, it can be easy to forget how strong our support systems are and how lucky we are to have them. I am trying to keep my head up and I want to do more of the things that I listed above. I hope that you will too.

If you have any other ideas of small ways to help improve someone's day, please leave them below. During this time, I could use any little tid-bits you guys may have. Thank you for understanding.

xx,

Friday, January 23, 2015

25 Random Questions Tag

Since I am feeling very overwhelmed but still wanted to get a post out, I thought I would do the 25 Random Questions Tag.
Question 1: Do you have any pets ? Yes, two adorable kitties! Look at these babies!
Question 2: Name three things that are physically close to you: One of my cats, some couch pillows and my backpack.

Question 3: What's the weather like right now ? It's pretty cold and cloudy out, boo!

Questions 4: Do you drive ? If so, have you crashed? I do, and I myself have not crashed, but I have been in a car that has. Scary stuff.

Question 5: What time did you wake up this morning ? 8:30, I had class!

Question 6: When was the last time you showered? This morning before class.

Question 7: What was the last movie that you saw ? Paranoia, the one with Liam Hemsworth.
Question 8: What does you last text message say? "Yeah! I can actually think now so that's nice!"

Question 9: What is your ringtone ? Whatever the default one on iPhone is haha

Question 10: Have you ever been to a different country? Yes

Question 11: Do you like sushi? I have never actually tried it but the thought of raw fish grosses me out.

Question 12: Where do you buy your groceries? Hannaford

Question 13: Have you ever taken any medication to help you fall asleep faster? Nope.

Question 14: How many siblings do you have ? Two, a brother and a sister.

Question 15: Do you have a desktop computer or a laptop? Laptop

Question 16: How old will you be turning on your next birthday? 22! *Insert Taylor Swift song here*

Question 17: Do you wear contacts or glasses ? Both, my vision is awful.

Question 18: Do you colour your hair ? Nope! 

Question 19: Tell me something you are planing to do today: Catching up on homework, fun...

Question 20: When was the last time you cried? I'm not actually sure. Not recently!

Question 21: What is your perfect pizza topping? Extra cheese and bacon. Yum

Question 22: Which do you prefer, hamburger or cheeseburger ? I don't like burgers.

Question 23: Have you ever had an all-nighter ? What college student hasn't?

Question 24: What is your eye colour ? Blue/green
Question 25: Can you taste the difference between Pepsi and Coke? No, I don't like soda to begin with!

If you read this, I tag you! Let me know in the comments below if you answer the questions, I would love to read your answers!

xx,