Likes & Favorites: Back-to-School

August 24, 2017August 23, 20177 Comments

Even though it’s been two years since I’ve graduated college (ew I’m cringing as I write that), I still mark a “new year” at the end of August/beginning of September. It’s probably because I’ve been accustomed to the academic calendar for the majority of my life, but as soon as there’s a hint of fall, that back-to-school excitement (even if I’m not going back to school!) sets in.

Well, this year is a tad different considering I am going back to school (sorta). This week, I’m starting grad school part time, so I’m reliving all the pre-school jitters that I’ve missed the past two years. In honor of the reinstatement of homework and papers in my life, this likes & favorites is all about the things I’m loving as I start this new school year. Even if you’re not going back to school, most of the things on this list are great if you’re looking for a fresh start this fall.

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My 5-Minute Makeup Routine

August 22, 20178 Comments

I’ll be honest with you: I’m not a huge makeup junkie. I was never one to watch YouTube tutorials, try out a million different lip shades or spend $100+ in Sephora (although I see how that’s very easy to do). No disrespect to everyone out there who proclaims themselves as a makeup enthusiast–if you can do a perfect cat eye, I have mad respect for you. IDK why, but growing up & now in my 20’s, I’m just not that into makeup.

All that being said, I do like to wear makeup & wear some almost every day (because I’m not Beyoncé and do not wake up flawless.) It makes me feel pretty and put together so I have a very simple (and quick!) routine that I do every morning. I figured I’d share it with you because it’s ideal for the mornings you’re running late for work/school or you want to go with a simpler weekday look. The best part is, this routine is less than 5 minutes (I actually timed it this morning) and most of the products I use are under $10. So for the days that you rather get a lil extra beauty sleep~ vs. put on your face, try this makeup routine instead.

only the necessities.

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Timing is Truly Everything

August 17, 2017August 17, 20174 Comments

A few weeks ago, I was at Wawa grabbing coffee before making the drive from the shore back to Philly. It was early, maybe 6:45 a.m., and I was still in my just-waking-up daze. I approached the cashier to pay for my coffee at the same time as an older gentleman.

“Oh, I’m sorry, you can go,” I sort of mumble & smile.

He smiles back. It’s one of those grandfatherly smiles. “No dear, ladies first, I’m in no rush.”

I step up to the counter. “Are you sure? I really don’t mind.” (I’m polite to a fault, thanks Mom & Dad).

He laughs. “Yes, I’m certain. You worry about life too much. Don’t worry so much.”

***

You worry about life too much.

That phrase stuck with me during my two hour drive and for a few days later. It was such an interesting thing to say to a stranger, but that morning, I needed to hear it.

He was right–I do worry too much. I’ve always been “a worrier,” but my anxiety levels reached a new high after I graduated college. All of a sudden there was no distinct path or structure my life. Every time I looked out into the future, I saw a blank slate. My worry came from not knowing how everything was going to work out. I’m a planner at heart. Type A to a T. I like knowing the who/what/when/where/why/how in every situation I’m facing.

But that’s not how life works. And I think I’ve finally learned (accepted?) that.