MYSTERY BLOGGER AWARD – NO. 3

August 17, 2017

Happy Friday Eve friends, welcome back to Southern Lights! I have graciously been nominated for the Mystery Blogger Award by the lovely Joy from Joy The Witch! She studies film, loves fall (just like me), and has an affinity for all things fashion and beauty! Her content is amazing, her smile could light up any room and she is ultra-supportive here in the blogging community; if you haven’t checked her out, I would totally recommend you doing so! So thank you Joy, I truly appreciate your support!

The Mystery Blogger Award was created by Okoto Enigma and she describes this award as “An award for amazing bloggers with ingenious posts. Their blog not only captivates; it inspires and motivates. They are one of the best out there, and they deserve every recognition they get. This award is also for bloggers who find fun and inspiration in blogging, and they do it with so much love and passion.” So with all of that being said, let’s get into the rules!

RULES:

Thank the person (people) who nominated you & link their blog(s).
Name the creator of the award & link to their blog.
Answer your nominators questions.
Tell readers 3 things about yourself.
Nominate 10-20 people.
Ask your nominees 5 original questions.
Share links to your bests posts.
Notify your nominees by commenting on their blog.

*Five questions from Joy:

Do you have any tattoos? If so, what is it? If no, why not? I don’t have any tattoos. I never really liked anything enough to feel comfortable putting it on my body and having it there for the rest of my life.
What made you start blogging? I just really wanted a space where I could talk about things that I was interested in and passionate about; I guess I just wanted a space that was all my own. I thought about going the YouTube route but I’m terribly awkward and pretty uncool (lol) so I figured that I would be better suited typing my thoughts out instead of getting in front of a camera. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll give the whole YouTube thing a try, but for now, I like where I am!
Do you believe in animal rights? Well this is a loaded question.
If you could choose any fictional world to live in, where would you live? I just want to go to Hogwarts!
Do you like pineapples? Yes! I love pineapples, they are my favorite fruit!

* 3 Facts about me:

I am 30 and I love it.
I love country music.
When I see Justin Timberlake or BSB in concert I scream louder than I did when I was 12….how that’s possible I’ll never know.

* My favorite blog posts:

* And the nominees are:

All of my lovely followers! Answer as many or as few as you would like! I can’t wait to read your answers in the comments below!

* 5 questions for my nominees:

What is your guilty pleasure?
What is your ultimate comfort food?
Do you prefer zip-up or pullover style hoodies?
What is your favorite holiday?
Do you watch YouTube? If so, who are your favorite influencers?

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**So that’s it for this Mystery Blogger Awards post. Sorry it was so long but I hope you guys enjoyed it! Thank you (again) to Joy for the nomination, I really appreciate it! As mentioned above, I would love for all of you to answer some of the questions below! I hope you guys are having an awesome Thursday and I hope you have an excellent weekend planned!**

-B

WEDNESDAY SPOTLIGHT – TO THE BONE

August 16, 2017

**TRIGGER WARNING: This post contains images, information and a review of To The Bone. If you are easily triggered, please protect yourself and proceed with caution**

Happy hump day friends! I’m back with another edition of my Wednesday Spotlight series and today I plan on reviewing To The Bone, a Netflix original that was released on July 14th to mixed reviews. Many critics found it empowering and insightful, while viewers (especially those with ED) found it to be harmful and romanticized. Many viewers were outraged and had already formed their opinion after seeing the film’s trailer, which in my opinion, is a bit unfair. I think it’s hard to judge something based on a 2 minute clip, and if I’m being honest, I think people were ready to lash out. I mean I get it, I understand that everyone’s experience with ED is different. Not all people look like Lily Collins, and not all people who struggle with an ED come from a white, upper-middle class, dysfunctional family…but many of them do. I feel like in the ED community we have been waiting and hoping for someone to start the conversation and as soon as someone does, we jump on them for doing it the wrong way. Constructive criticism is always helpful, but sometimes I feel like we become so outraged when what’s depicted doesn’t 100% fall in line with our experience that we discredit the work that’s being done. While I know that not everyone will agree with my take on the film, I hope that we can have a respectful conversation where everyone feels safe and welcome to express their views & concerns!

**DISCLAIMER: I am not a medical professional and my views surrounding this film are my own opinions and are not meant in any way to be taken as medical advice. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to the NEDA Helpline at (800) 931-2237**

To The Bone is loosely based on writer and director Marti Noxon’s real-life experience with ED. The film follows a young girl, Ellen (Lily Collins) who is battling Anorexia Nervosa and is entering her fourth treatment facility. Her family dynamic is less than desirable and she reluctantly agrees to enter a group home, run by Dr. William Beckham (Keanu Reeves) after her sister begged her to “really try this time.” Ellen moves into the house and is greeted by 6 other patients with their own recovery stories. She is cynical, borderline unfriendly, but somehow easy to love (at least for me). Maybe because I understand her thought process in that moment, or maybe because I can see past the “I’m tough and have everything under control” exterior, either way, I didn’t have a hard time liking/rooting for her!

Contrary to many viewer’s opinions, I feel this film offers an accurate portrayal of everything this illness embodies…at least from my perspective. Skeletal frames, “calorie Asberger’s” and measuring your arm to ensure that it still fits between your fingers are all consistent behaviors of those that are suffering from Anorexia Nervosa. One thing the film did well (IMO) was highlight a different treatment method, and while I understand that certain situations would prohibit this from being a viable treatment option, showcasing something different is a nice change from what we typically see in the media. I especially love that the film chose not to push family therapy on Ellen after realizing that it was going to do more harm than good. People may not agree with the alternative approach that Dr. Beckham employs, however I think it’s important to note that conventional treatment options don’t always work for everyone. I’m not saying you can’t have success in a traditional treatment setting, you absolutely can, but I do think it’s important to explore other avenues, especially when someone is unable to move forward (i.e., Ellen).

I think having Lily Collins portray Ellen, added an authentic element that is sometimes lost in movies that depict mental health in any variety. Her (and the director’s) personal experience with this insufferable illness helped to create a dialogue that was honest and thoughtful (IMO). This movie, more than anything, is the journey of choosing to heal yourself, and I’m happy that Ellen finally chooses herself over her illness in the end. This is important to note because recovery certainly doesn’t happen overnight; it’s often a long and drawn out process that can take years of anguish & despair to complete. Recovery includes more soul searching than any one person would ever willingly sign up for and I think it’s important to see the (many) failures in Ellen’s recovery journey. They are a normal occurrence and in no way mean you can’t have success, it just means you have to try again. I’ve always said that recovery isn’t an “all or nothing” thing, if it was, I’d be in big trouble. Bad days, weeks or months don’t discredit the hard work you’ve put in, it just means that you have more work to do….but don’t we all?!

So let’s talk about the images depicted in To The Bone; I understand that many people find them to be jarring, and you should, but what does a movie about Anorexia Nervosa look like without these images? I think in order to understand the illness and what it can truly do to the body, these images are necessary. In no way did I find any of the skeletal frames to be glamorous or romanticized; they were just true, accurate depictions of people that battle this particular illness everyday. For those that think this film makes eating disorders (specifically Anorexia Nervosa) look glamorous, I ask you how? There was nothing beautiful about Ellen’s appearance and if anyone is watching this at home challenging that statement, we need to be having a completely different conversation. As parents, sisters, brothers, friends, etc., we need to be aware of what young girls (and guys) are watching; if the material is triggering in any way, they shouldn’t watch it until they are older or in a different place in their recovery. I think To The Bone gets it right by including a trigger warning in the beginning of the film, which allows viewers to make the best decision for their mental health in terms of whether or not to continue watching. If you or someone you know would struggle seeing emaciated images, calorie counting & NG tubes (among other things) I urge you to reconsider watching this film. Marti Noxen covers everything from struggle & despair to promise & hope, and if you feel comfortable viewing some tough imagery, I would 100% recommend it.

While I recognize that not everyone suffering from AN looks like Lily Collins, I also recognize that many people do. I hope this is just the tip of the iceberg and the start of a wider conversation. I would (and hope) love to see more cinematic portrayals that depict a wider variety of eating disorders and the people who suffer from them. This is an insufferable disease that continues to destroy our young women (and men) at a rapid pace and anything we can do to better educate ourselves and understand this illness is invaluable and supremely important.

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If you or someone you know is suffering, please visit the NEDA website or reach out to a crisis specialist at (800) 931-2237. I know not everyone will agree with my thoughts on this film, and that’s okay. I just hope that we can have a healthy conversation that can promote healing and change within the ED community!

-B

ULTA HAUL + MINI REVIEW

August 15, 2017

Good morning loves, I hope your weekend was nothing short of amazing and I hope this week has gotten off to a great start! For today’s post I thought I would share my latest ULTA haul with you guys! Some of the products below may look familiar as a couple of them were highlighted in my Favorites & Hate Its post from last Friday! However, since not EVERYTHING was highlighted, I figured I would show you everything from my order and give you a little mini review along the way!

* 1. NYX Multi-Finish Shadow Palette – $17.99: Out of everything I ordered, this was the product I was most excited to get my hands on; unfortunately I didn’t like it at all. The shadows look beautiful in the pan but after swatching them and putting them on my eyes, they were just okay. I decided to go with this palette because it featured a variety of finishes: matte, shimmer and “sparkly metallic” (-aka- ultra-glittery) and I thought it would be perfect for creating a nice, feminine date-night look. The sparkly metallic shades were a little too glittery (IMO) for me and the shimmer shades were not as opaque as I was hoping. I hate to say it, but this was dud all the way around for me. I definitely plan on returning this and getting something different.

* 2. Ulta Beauty Demi-Matte Foundation – $14: I will be honest, this came as a free gift with my purchase and I have yet to try it out. I picked mine up in the shade ‘Classic Ivory’ and after swatching it on my cheek, it seems to be a decent match. It has an SPF of 20 and there are 10 shades within the line; however there only appears to be a couple of shades suitable for darker skin tones, so keep that in mind if you are interested in trying this out.

* 3. NYX Lip Lingerie Liquid Lipstick – $6.99: I have used these lippies before and never really had any issues with them…until now. I purchased the shade ‘French Maid’ and had a terrible time trying to apply this to my lips. It was thick, drying and just plain cakey looking. I don’t know if it’s just this particular shade, but either way, it wasn’t my favorite and I plan on returning this as well.

* 4. Essie Nail Polish – $9: If you’ve read my Favorites & Hate Its post then you already know this didn’t work out for me. I love, love, love the color (‘Borrowed & Blue’), but the application is not my favorite. I’m not a fan of the thinner brushes and I’m even less of a fan of the Essie formula. I feel like I’m definitely in the minority when it comes to my feelings regarding these polishes but I find them to be streaky, sticky and incredibly difficult to work with.

* 5. NYX Pore Filler Primer – $13.99: I typically use the Too Faced Primed & Poreless ($30) primer but since I was running low I thought I would pick up a more budget friendly option and give it a try. Unfortunately this was another fail for me. Aside from it smelling like baby powder, which I don’t like, I also found it to be incredibly chalky and hard to work with. It was thicker than I was expecting and was impossible to blend. Have you guys tried this product? Did you have trouble applying it to your skin?

* 6. Ulta Beauty Melisa Michelle Palette – $20: All-in-all this was a really nice palette; the packaging was beautiful and the shadows were pigmented and easy to blend. It came with a 3 strip highlighter, a bronzer, a liquid lipstick & 9 eyeshadows. For $20 dollars, that’s an incredible value. I have ultimately decided to return this palette, not because I didn’t like it, but because the liquid lip and the bronzer simply will not work for my skin tone and I have very similar eyeshadows already in my collection.

* 7. Mario Badescu Aloe Vera Toner – $15: I. LOVE. THIS. STUFF. This is an ultra-mild toner that is suitable for those with sensitive skin (hi, that’s me). The Aloe Vera helps to soothe irritated skin all while helping to remove dirt and unclog your pores. If you have been looking for a toner that is gentle and soothing, look no further, this is it!

* 8. Maybelline Color Sensational Lipcolor – $7.49: I have used these lippies before and wanted to pick up another one in a more nude/pink shade. I picked up the shade Pink Wink and I love it! They are creamy, pigmented and incredibly easy to apply. BONUS: right now at ULTA Maybelline lippes are BOGO 50% off!

* 9. Maybelline Color Sensational Matte Metallic Lipcolor – $7.49: Metallic lips have been all over the internet lately, and while I think ultra-metallic lips are beautiful, it’s not a super wearable look for me. With that being said, I still wanted to give the trend a try so I opted for Maybelline’s Matte Metallic lippies! I picked up the shade ‘Copper Rose,’ and while I have yet to wear it on my lips, the swatch on the back of my hand was stunning! I think this color will be perfect for fall and I can’t wait to play around with this a little more!

* 10. EVA NYC Surfs Up! Texture Spray – $8.99: I have been on the hunt for a good texturizing spray that wasn’t too heavy or too expensive and I think I may have found it. This adds the perfect amount of volume and grit to my hair without weighing it down or being greasy. The smell is divine and it does a great job of creating a piecey look when I curl my hair! If you’re in the market, check it out!

* 11. Wet N Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder – $4.99: This was definitely the star of the show! I had heard such great things about this highlighter and let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint! I picked up the shade ‘Precious Petals’ and I’m obsessed! It can go from subtle to intense in a matter of seconds and at this price point, can you really beat it?! There are 6 shades in the line and I’m hoping to get my hands on ‘Blossom Glow’ soon!

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So that wraps up this Ulta haul/mini review!! I hope you guys enjoyed this post and let me know down below if you’ve tried anything mentioned above!

-B

FRIDAY FAVORITES & HATE ITS

August 11, 2017

Happy Friday, friends! I hope you all have something wonderful & relaxing planned for the weekend! Today I thought I would bring you another favorites post but also throw in a few un-favorites as well! If you follow Stephanie Ledda (SMLx0) on YouTube, then the title above probably looks very familiar to you! Shoutout to Stephanie for the inspiration behind this post and the title, and if you haven’t checked out her channel, you totally should. She’s incredibly genuine & relatable and has the cutest pups around! So without further ado, let’s jump right in.

* 1. Dermalogica Ultracalming Mist – $37: I know I have mentioned this before on my blog but I have been using it a lot recently. My skin has definitely been more problematic over the last week (or so) and I have found that going in with this face mist before my makeup application (or after doing a purifying face mask) works wonders! NOTE: This products smells a lot like vinegar to me, I know, not pleasant. However it doesn’t linger for more than 3-5 seconds after spraying the skin so I tend to look past this small, annoying detail.

* 2. Tarte Shape Tape (Fair Neutral) – $25 & Maybelline Fit Me Concealer (Fair) – $6.99: These are my go-to concealers. The Shape Tape is thicker and more full coverage; whereas the Fit Me is a little creamier (not runny though) and more of a medium coverage. I tend to only use the Shape Tape in the inner corner area of my eye and the Fit Me everywhere else. If I’m having a particularly hard day with my skin, I might use the Shape Tape to spot conceal any blemishes that I have but I typically just stick to the Bare Minerals Mineral Concealer ($20) for that!

* 3. EVA NYC Surfs Up! Texture Spray – $8.99: This is one of the only products in my recent Ulta order that I actually plan on keeping. I have been on the hunt for a texturizing spray that I actually like and that doesn’t break the bank and I think I finally found it! The scent is divine, it helps create volume and it gives you that piecey look when wearing curls or loose waves. If you haven’t tried it, you totally should!

* 4. Maybelline Color Sensational Lipcolor – $7.49: Maybelline has been killing the lippie game lately. I have 2 shades from this line: Pink Wink & Plum Paradise and love them both. They are hydrating, pigmented and easy to where. If you’re more of a matte lippie kinda gal, I love their Color Sensational Creamy Matte Line as well as their Matte Lip Ink line! BONUS: Right now at Ulta, Maybelline lippies are BOGO 50% off!

* 5. Wet N Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder (Precious Petals) – $4.99: I know this has been all over the blogging/YouTube world for a while now, but guys, this highlight is BEAUTIFUL…and it’s under FIVE DOLLARS!!! They have a variety of shades but this is the only one I have…so far. If you have been looking for something that can go from daytime to nighttime and doesn’t break the bank, give this bad boy a try, you won’t be sorry!

* 6. Mario Badescu Anti-Acne Serum – $20: I know that I’ve talked about this product before but it’s worth mentioning again! I have been reaching for this a lot lately since my skin has been in need of some extra TLC. It works wonderfully on sensitive, ruptured skin and doesn’t cause any irritation. If you’ve been looking for a soothing anti-acne product, look no further!

* 1. Fitbit Charge 2 Heartrate + Fitness Band – $149: I am currently completing the Shift Shop workout program through Beachbody On Demand and my Fitbit Charge 2 has been a great accessory! It tracks heart rate, sleep patterns, all-day activity & exercise. It’s water resistant, lasts about 5 days before needing a charge & the bands are interchangeable. NOTE: I have the purple in a size small!

* 2. Ultimate Pub Trivia – $20.61: Fun Fact about me: I love board games! David and I play this all the time and really enjoy it. I know it’s probably not for everyone, but we love it! If you like games and have been looking for a new one, give this one a try!

* 3. Nike Women’s Twill Adjustable Hat – $18: I have recently started wearing a hat when I work out and I love it! I find that it helps keep my hair out of my face and if I’m working out outdoors, it shields my poor eyes from the sun!

* 4. 90 Degree by Reflex High-Waisted Power Flex Capris – $18.99: I know, I know, I’ve talked about these a million times before, but guys you seriously need to try them! I have them in 6 different colors and they have quickly become my favorite workout tights…of all time. They are durable, affordable, comfortable and opaque…what more do you need?

* 5. BP. Stich Patchwork Plaid Scarf – $19: I know this might seem silly since it’s still 5676764367 degrees outside, but I wear scarves just about everyday. Unfortunately my employer likes to keep the temperature at a cool 60 degrees so my need for a scarf is severe. I always keep two in the drawer by my desk just in case I forget to grab one before I leave the house…I’m telling you, it’s serious y’all!

* 6. Butterball Turkey Burgers (Sweet Onion) – $5ish: These. Are. Amazing! That’s really all I can say!

* 7. Adidas Women’s Adipure 360.3 Training Shoe – $70ish: I got these shoes last year after dealing with some debilitating and painful workouts due to plantar fasciitis. They are comfortable & durable and I absolutely love them! Since then, Adidas has come out with a variety of different training shoe options and I have linked a couple here and here!

**Disclaimer: I don’t actually HATE any of the products listed below, they just didn’t work for me and my skin!**

* 1. NYX Ultimate Multi-Finish Shadow Palette (Sugar High) – $17.99: Guys, I was SOOOOO disappointed in this palette. I got this in my most recent Ulta order and was so excited to play with it but unfortunately it just didn’t wow me. The palette features 12 shades (4 matte, 4 shimmer & 4 sparky metallic) and not a single one REALLY stood out. The term “sparkly metallic” is another way of saying glittery. After swatching these I had glitter all over my hands and arms….which is not ideal. The matte shades were just okay and the shimmery ones were eh. It wasn’t terrible, but I definitely think there are better options out there.

* 2. Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel – $50: Guys, save your money, this is not even close to being worth $50 dollars (IMO). I love the face wash from this line but the clearing gel REALLY missed the mark. It was really harsh on my skin and did nothing to help clear up any existing blemishes! This gets a huge thumbs down from me.

* 3. L.A. Girl Pro Coverage HD Foundation – $8.99: Nope. This did not work for me AT ALL. It made my skin incredibly dewy (in the worst way) and oxidized like CRAZY. I ended up having to take off my foundation in the middle of the day because I looked like an Oompa Loompa…it wasn’t my best makeup day. I even went back and tried the lightest shade in the line and even that was too orange after about 45 minutes. I wanted to love this so much after hearing such rave reviews but unfortunately it just wasn’t meant to be. So if you are a fair skinned girl like me, beware, it’s a little orangey for my liking.

* 4. Essie Nail Polish – $9 & Orly Bonder – $10: I very well may be the only person in the world that doesn’t love Essie nail polishes. I own about 4-5 different shades but unfortunately experience the same result with all of them. I’m not a fan of the thinner brush that Essie polishes have but would be willing to overlook that small detail if the polish performed better on my nails. I just find that it chips way too easily and is very streaky when I go to put it on. I don’t know guys, I just can’t get behind the Essie polishes, I’m sorry. 🙁 As for the Orly bonder, I know a lot of people swear by this base coat but I just don’t like it. I find that my polish chips much faster whenever I use this product and it just doesn’t seem worth it to me. What is your favorite base coat? Help a girl out!

* 5. L’Oreal Pure Clay Exfoliate & Refine Mask – $12.99: I know so many people that love this mask, and while I don’t hate it, it just didn’t work for me. It caused me to breakout really badly on my cheeks and forehead and took forever to clear up. If you have sensitive skin and want to try this out, I would recommend leaving it on for no more than 3-5 minutes the first few times to ensure that you don’t have any adverse reactions. NOTE: for those of you that enjoy the L’Oreal masks, they are currently BOGO 40% off at Ulta!

* 6. Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge – $6.99: I used to love the RT foundation sponge, but lately they have just been plain terrible. They rip after the first couple of uses and don’t blend in the foundation the same way they used to (am I crazy? It’s different right? It’s not just me). I have since started using the L’Oreal Foundation Blender ($8.99) & the Ulta Foundation Sponge ($4.99-$10) and am really enjoying those!

* 7. Dr. Brandt Pores No More Primer – $45: I didn’t like this primer AT ALL. It didn’t fill in my pores, it didn’t keep me matte & it often balled up on my skin when I tried to apply it. For $45 dollars I need more from a primer. What is your favorite pore filling primer, I’m always looking for a new one!

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So that’s it for this edition of Friday Favorites & Hate Its. I hope you enjoyed this post and I hope you all have the best weekend! What were some of your weekly favorites and hate its? Leave me a comment down below, I’d love to know!

-B

THURSDAY SPOTLIGHT: FML MY LIFE PODCAST

August 10, 2017

Happy Thursday guys! Today I am bringing you another installment in my ‘(Wednesday) Spotlight’ series, only this time I’m doing it on a Thursday, I hope that’s okay!? Today I will be featuring something a little different: a podcast…about movies! I know what some of you are thinking; “Brittney, what are you doing? You don’t even watch movies,” and while that may be true, I know that many of you do. So since I have a front row seat (David (my BF) is on the podcast), I thought I would share the goodness that is FML My Life with all of you fine folks! I don’t know if any of you are familiar with Fantasy Movie League (FML), if not don’t fret, neither was I; but the FML My Life podcast is a show dedicated to the FML game and to those who play it! If you’ve always been intrigued by fantasy sports and the healthy anxiety (on my end) that goes along with it but weren’t really into football, baseball…or really anything else, this might be the perfect place for you! I know this probably sounds ultra-confusing, but I promise it’s easier than it sounds! I will tell you a little about the game and then give you all the deets for the podcast below! So if you’re a movie buff that likes pop culture, witty banter, and 4 dashingly handsome co-hosts (check out their bio page), then keep on reading!

**All of the following information was provided by David Hammock, one of 4 co-hosts on FML My Life. So not only will this information be much easier to understand than the nonsense listed above, it’s also much more accurate, you’re welcome!**

THE GAME

Fantasy Movie League (FML) is a lot like fantasy sports, but instead of scoring points via quarterbacks and wide receivers each Sunday, your score is based on the box office each weekend. You begin every week on Monday with $1000 and fill out your personal cineplex with eight screens of whatever combination of uniquely priced movies you see fit before Friday. It’s easy to learn, not-so-easy to master, and lots of fun whether you’re a novice or an expert thanks to the vibrant community.

If you’re interested in playing FML (it’s FREE!), head over to https://fantasymovieleague.com/ to sign up — it’s super quick and super easy. A new season starts in just a few weeks, so it’s a great time to join, get a few weeks under your belt, then hit the ground running when Fall Season starts on Monday, August 28. (Note: this may be the only time you’ll ever see Fall and August in the same sentence.)

THE PODCAST

The FML My Life Podcast is a show dedicated to the Fantasy Movie League game and to those who play it, but also has a little something for everyone with movie talk, pop culture discussion, and four handsome hosts, 75% of whom are named David (it’s worth tuning in for the confusion alone). So whether you end up playing FML or not, please give our podcast a listen, follow us on Twitter, and check out our website!

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Shout out to David for explaining that much better than I ever could! Guys, I’ll be straight with you; I don’t listen to any other podcasts (though I’m open to suggestions), I don’t play FML (though I am intrigued) and I’m the furthest thing from a movie buff you could find, but this podcast is incredibly entertaining. Despite my boyfriend being one of the co-hosts, you should know that I don’t watch or listen to anything I don’t like (I still refuse to give Lord of The Rings a try), so If I’m willing to give it a listen, it’s totally worth your time! Even though they reference the FML game during the show, it’s not done in a way that would deter you from listening if you don’t play the game! So if movies, pop culture discussion & witty banter are your thing, this is the podcast for you! Be sure to check out all of their links and socials above and let me know what you think!

What’s your favorite movie(s)? Are you a movie buff? Do you play FML (or any fantasy games)? Do you have a favorite podcast(s)? Let me know in the comments below!

-B

LIEBSTER AWARD NO. 3

August 9, 2017

Good morning lovelies, today I’m back with another blogging award! I was nominated for my THIRD (holy-cow) Liebster Award by the beautiful author of In A Messy World. If you guys are at all interested in lifestyle posts with mental health reflections, then you should check out her blog here! She’s so sweet and incredibly engaged with the blogging community! So thank you for the nomination girl, your support doesn’t go unnoticed!

RULES:

Acknowledge the blogger that nominated you!
Answer 11 questions from the blogger that nominated you!
Nominate 11 blogs!
Give your nominees 11 questions to answer!

QUESTIONS FOR ME:

What is my favorite memory? Oh goodness, I have so many good memories. Graduating college, going to my first Auburn football game. Meeting David at the ACC Championship Game. Competitive dancing. Seeing BSB for the first time (don’t judge me). I have a pretty exhaustive list.
What is one thing you regret, and if you could go back what would you do differently? Hmm, I don’t really regret too much. I 100% believe that everything happens for a reason.
What are your goals at the moment? Stick to a fitness regimen and continue creating great content for all of you ladies (and gentleman)!
How are you feeling right now? I’m feeling okay! A little sleepy, but good! What about you?!
What did you have for dinner today? I haven’t had dinner yet as it’s only 10:30 in the morning. However I plan on making chicken cordon bleu meatballs with asparagus for dinner! If you want to see how I make them, you can check it out here!
When was the last time you cried? Oh goodness, I don’t know. I’m not a big crier.
The funniest joke you’ve heard? Goodness I’m terrible at these questions. Is it bad that I can’t remember a single joke that I’ve been told?!
Do you have any pets?! I do! I have a kitty named Ginge, and my Grandpa has a sweet pup named Bear!
What is your favorite song? I can only pick one?!? I feel like that’s not possible. I love “Meet Virginia” by Train; I don’t know what it is about that song, but I still love it. “3 A.M” by Matchbox 20 (what a classic), “Below My Feet” by Mumford & Sons, & “I Want it That Way” by BSB (another classic), just to name a few!
Who inspires you the most? A lot of people inspire me. Jesus, my mom, David, David’s parents, Jordan, Aunt Hollie, Ameera, Mary Ann…I have a lot of inspiration in my life. I’m very lucky in that regard!
What are your hobbies? Do shopping and watching sports count?! lol. But no really, writing/blogging, dancing…there are probably others but I can’t think of them at the moment!

QUESTIONS FOR MY NOMINEES:

What is the best vacation you’ve ever been on?
Do you watch YouTube? If so, who are some of your favorite influencers to watch?
If you could only shop at one clothing store, where would it be?
If you could only use ONE makeup product, what would it be?
What is your favorite dish to make/eat?
How would you describe your style?
Is there a designer that you always have luck wearing?
What is your favorite makeup brand?
What was your favorite subject in school?
What is your guilty pleasure food wise?
What is your favorite movie?

MY NOMINEES:

ALL OF YOU LOVELY LADIES (AND GENTS)!

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I hope you guys enjoyed getting to know a little more about me! I have left this award open for anyone who would like to participate! You can answer as many or as few questions as you would like! I can’t wait to chat with you all in the comments about the questions above! xoxo

-B

SUMMER LOOKBOOK: PART 2

August 8, 2017

Happy Tuesday friends, I hope you all had a nice, relaxing weekend! Mine was good, David & I FINALLY watched Moana (I know, I’m late…shocker) and I really enjoyed it! I also started the process of cleaning out my closet and prepping it for a new desk/vanity! Eeekkkk! Guys, I’m so exited about this! I’ve been kicking it old school and doing my makeup while sitting on the floor…it’s been fine but I’m definitely excited to have a dedicated space to sit, relax and store all of my stuff! Of course when everything is all moved in and set up I will be sure to share some pictures with you all! Anyways, as promised, I’m back with Part 2 of my Summer Lookbook; I have included 2 date night looks, a casual look, and an athleisure look for you guys! So without further ado, let’s jump right in!

* 1. 1. State Off The Shoulder Top – $79: Given the popularity of off-the-shoulder tops, I thought this was the perfect choice for a night out on the town. The belled sleeve is adorable, the white is just right, and think this would be perfect for those cooler summer nights. If you’re looking for something a little more affordable, this lace one from B.P. is ultra-cute!

* 2. Quay Cherry Bomb 60mm Sunglasses – $55: You guys already know that I love Quay Australia. I personally think the color scheme and style of these sunnies work perfectly with this outfit! However if these aren’t your cup of tea, they have a TON of styles to choose from! Just head over to Nordstrom.com and check out some of their other options!

* 3. Too Faced Melted Matte Liquid Lipstick – $21: You guys know I’m not a HUGE fan of liquid lippies, (though I am trying to broaden my horizons and try out more of them), but I do enjoy the too faced color selection and formula! I think Queen B pairs beautifully with this particular look but I’m sure there are many others that would look just as great!

* 4. Madewell 10-Inch High-Rise Skinny Jeans – $128: Guys, these jeans from Madewell are amazing. I know $128 dollars is steep, but they are the most comfortable jeans I have ever put on. They are super soft and I love the Hayes Wash! If you are willing to splurge, check these bad boys out!

* 5. Kate Spade Park Row Gold 34mm Watch – $225: Kate Spade does it again! I’m sure that none of you are surprised that another KS watch made the list! I know $225 is crazy pricy, but this is such a quality piece and will definitely last you for years! The gold is beautiful and the pearlescent face is stunning; it’s a classic that can easily be paired with any outfit!

* 6. Sole Society Plated Disc Choker – $54.95: I don’t know if any of you watch Leigh Ann Says on YouTube, but if you do then this choker will look incredibly familiar to you! Ever since I saw her wearing this on her channel I have been obsessed, and I think it would look PERFECT with this top! If you’ve been on the hunt for the perfect gold choker, your search is over!

* 7. Nordstrom 3.48CT TW Cubic Zirconia Studs – $98: I mentioned these in my pre-fall lookbook that I published a couple of weeks ago and think they work perfectly with this look as well! If you want to see how I styled them in my previous post, you can check them out here and here!

* 8. Steve Madden Stecy Sandal – $69.95: Unlike the other Steve Madden sandals that I linked in my last post, these showcase a skinnier heel. I feel like when these are paired with a nice ankle cut skinny jean, they create a really flattering silhouette!

* 9. Sole Society ‘Tasia’ Print Foldover Clutch – $39.95: I love clutches like this! The print is vibrant & classic and could be dressed up or down! At just under $40 dollars I think this is a fun piece to add to your wardrobe!

* 1. B.P. Raw Edge V-Neck Tee – $17: Another casual outfit, another basic V-neck tee. honestly guys, just get one of these in every color and you’ll be set! I literally wear these tees with EVERYTHING. They are loose, comfortable and can be dressed up or down. They are the real MVP!

* 2. B.P. 55mm Mirrored Sunglasses – $12: How cute are these sunnies!?!?! And the best part is they are only TWELVE dollars…eeekkkk! I love anything tortoise shell and I just thought these were perfect for this casual, lunch with the girls sort of look! What do you think? Are you as obsessed with these sunglasses as I am?!?

* 3. Topshop Ashley Ripped Boyfriend Shorts – $55: I talked about these cutoffs in my last lookbook post! If you’re looking for something that has a little more coverage and a looser fit, you might really like these!

* 4. Baublebar Tassel Earrings – $42: I have linked similar tassel earrings from Baublebar in previous posts, but I think these might be my favorite! I love the rose gold/white color scheme and think these are a fun addition to this casual outfit!

* 5. Fossil Claire Drawstring Small Crossbody Bag – $94.80: The size of this bag is just perfect; it can fit all you need plus a little extra! I love the tassels and the brass-tone hardware and think this can help add a little edginess to any outfit! If you’re looking for a more affordable option, check this one out!

* 6. Steve Madden Donddi Flat Sandals – $59: I have a pair of these sandals in tan and they have lasted me soooo long. They are simple, durable & comfortable…I mean what more could you need?! BONUS: They come in 5 different color varieties and I don’t think you could go wrong with any of them!

* 7. Olivia Burton Big Dial Bracelet Watch – $150: For the size and quality of this piece, I think $150 is a steal! I know that I have linked a ridiculous amount of watches over my last few posts, but I just like to show different options and styles so that you can get a feel for what’s really out there! I love that they can take any outfit to the next level with minimum effort! If you see a style you like, get it! You won’t regret it!

* 8. Julep It’s Whipped Matte Lip Mousse – $20: During a recent trip to Ulta, one of the sales associates picked this out for me and I loved it! It is so comfortable on the lips, it almost feels like nothing! It’s insanely pigmented and easy to apply! So if you are a matte lip kinda girl and have never tried these, head to your nearest Ulta and give them a whirl!

* 1. Topshop Molly Button Mini Slipdress – $55: How precious is this dress?!? This basic piece can be dressed down with flats or dressed up with a nice strappy sandal! I think this is perfect for brunch, date night, or a day out on the town with your mom! It’s loose, comfortable and pretty; what more could you ask for in a dress?!

* 2. Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Champagne Pop – $38: I’m sure you have seen this highlighter everywhere and for good reason! This is one of the most universally flattering highlighters I have ever seen. It works for lighter skin tones as well as deeper skin tones. I’m not sure how Jaclyn did it, but she really nailed it with this product!

* 3. Clinique Cheek Pop – $23: I have always been a big fan of Clinique skincare but it wasn’t until recently that I started using Clinique makeup. I love their Beyond Perfecting Foundation and these cheek pops are divine! They have 8 shades and feel silky to the touch! They are vibrant without being overpowering and compliment a number of skin tones!

* 4. Baublebar Amber Layered Necklace – $48: I thought this was a fun piece to add to this simple, delicate look! Layered necklaces are incredibly on trend and I think baublebar has some of the best and most affordable on the market! If you’re not into the layered trend, this would be a nice option as well!

* 5. OPI Infinite Shine 2 Icon Nail Lacquer – $12.50: You guys know I’m a sucker for KL Polish, but since not everyone has access to that brand, I thought I would try and link something a little more accessible! I love OPI polishes; if I’m not using KL Polish, I am probably using OPI. The shade pictured above is Miami Beet, one of my all-time favorite nail garnish shades! I think it adds a nice pop of color to this otherwise very muted & pastel look!

* 6. Urban Decay Beached Bronzer – $28: Every summery look needs a little bit of bronzer! I recently started using this and I love it. I have mine in the shade “Sun-Kissed” and I find that it’s very flattering on my skin tone (aka pale)! It’s a nice in-between bronzer; it’s not too cool & it’s not too warm, it’s just right! If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option (because girl, $28 dollars is STEEP for a bronzer), you guys know one of my favorites is the Physicians Formula Bronze Booster ($14.99); it’s matte, sun-kissed and beautiful!

* 7. Baublebar Tassel Earrings – $42: Since I’ve already mentioned how cute these are, I’ll spare you the long, drawn out details! just know that they’re cute and you should get them!

* 8. Docle Vita Jaz Sandal – $69.95: I mentioned these sandals in Part 1 of my lookbook and I think they would be PERFECT for this outfit! I love the way the rose gold/copper tones pair with the delicate blush color of the dress! If you want to see how I paired them with another outfit, check it out here!

* 9. Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick – $20: This is another cult favorite within the liquid lipstick community! ABH has an incredible color range that would look amazing on a variety of different skin tones. They tend to be a little drying on me (but most liquid lippies are) so I wear a gloss over top and love the look it gives! Do you like ABH liquid lippies? What’s your favorite shade?!

* 10. Ted Baker London Kate Print Dial Leather Strap – $155: I believe I showcased this watch (or a similar one) in my Pre-Fall Lookbook and knew it was the perfect addition for the look pictured above!

* 1. Victoria’s Secret Double V-Neck Tank – $24.50: I love the Victoria Secret Sports Line; their leggings, bras and tanks are super cute & uber comfortable. I thought this double V-neck tank was the perfect fit for a summer athleisure look, especially if you have a cute, strappy sports bra that you want to show off! It’s constructed with semi-sheer mesh, so it’s perfect for those disgustingly hot summer days while still providing some coverage! This tank comes in 5 colors and I would definitely recommend picking up a couple as they can go from the gym to lunch with no problem! If you’re someone who likes a little less mesh and a little more coverage, this one is a nice option!

* 2. Victoria Sport Braid-Back Sport Bra – $24.50: This is the perfect sports bra to wear with the double V-neck tank pictured above. They come in a variety of colors and are great for lounging around and other low-impact activities (running errands, shopping, going to lunch, etc.)! However if you’re looking for something to actually work out in, I would suggest this one!

* 3. B.P. 55mm Mirrored Sunglasses – $12: I linked these same sunnies (in a different color) in Part 1 of my Summer Lookbook and I couldn’t help but add them to the look pictured above. I love the style of these sunglasses and for $12 dollars, you really can’t go wrong!

* 4. C9 Champion Women’s Freedom Asymmetrical Leggings – $27.99: Fun fact about me: I love Target activewear! They have cute, affordable pieces that work well for the gym and for brunch! These asymmetrical leggings come in 3 different color varieties and BONUS: you can save 20% when you use the code: C9SAVE20, making them just over $22 dollars!

* 5. Ted Baker London Kate Print Leather Strap Watch – $155: I’ve talked about this piece before so I’ll spare you the details; just know that it’s cute! That’s all I can really say! 🙂

* 6. Nordstrom 3.48CT TW Cubic Zirconia Stud Earrings – $98: I know these are no longer on sale but I still think they are worth the price! They hold up so well and can bring any outfit from uber casual to slightly more polished in a matter of seconds!

* 7. New Balance FuelCore Coast V3 – $64.99: Guys, can you believe these are only $64.99?!? I can’t handle how cute these are; they come in 3 different colors and I basically ~~need~~ want all of them! New Balance for the win!

* 8. Fossil Claire Drawstring Small Crossbody Bag – $94.80: I highlighted this bag in one of my outfits shown above and thought it paired nicely with this look as well. Its perfect size and classic look can go with just about anything!

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So that wraps up my summer lookbook series! I’m sorry I couldn’t get this up for you guys yesterday but life happened! Because I made you wait an extra day, I threw in a bonus athleisure look at the end! I hope you enjoyed reading through the lookbook as much as I enjoyed creating it! I would love to know what some of your summer must-haves are! Leave them down below! xoxo

-B

SUMMER LOOKBOOK: PART 1

August 4, 2017

Happy Friday guys! I hope y’all are having a wonderful day and I hope your weekend is even better! I mentioned a couple of posts ago that I wanted to get up a summer lookbook for you guys, so here it is! I know that summer vacations are all but over and that some of you are already settling into your fall & winter wardrobes (depending on your location) but since I live in Georgia and will be dealing with a heat wave for the next 2 1/2 months, I thought I would share some of my summer fashion favorites with you all! I am going to share part 1 with you today and I’ll be back tomorrow (or Monday) for part 2! Despite battling warm weather here in the South, I have made sure that many of the outfits listed below can easily transition into fall! As always, I will link everything you see in the photos so let’s just jump right in!

* 1. Free People Pretty & Free off The Shoulder Romper – $58.80: Off the shoulder pieces are incredibly on-trend right now. They are fun and flirty and can be dressed up or down! This romper is great because the shorts aren’t too short and you can easily transition this in to fall given it’s longer sleeves! BONUS: It’s currently on sale for $58.80 (40% off) at Nordstrom!

* 2. Skagen Hagen Mesh Strap Watch 34mm – $109.90: You guys already know my obsession with watches. I love how this offers a mix of silver and rose gold tones without looking busy or tacky. It’s feminine, classic & chic, you can’t really go wrong! NOTE: This watch is part of Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale and will only be $109.90 for a limited time. After August 6th, the price will go up to $165!

* 3. BaubleBar ‘Artemis’ Beaded Tassel Drop Earrings – $34: Bauble bar for the win! These tassel earrings are the perfect compliment to this off the shoulder romper! The style is flattering and the color is fun! Bauble Bar has a variety of tassel styles that would fit any outfit and personality, so if you’re looking for some fun accessories, check them out!

4. Halogen Leather Clutch – $52.93: I thought a clutch was the perfect pairing for this outfit! It holds all of your essentials while being simple and delicate! It comes in 2 colors: black & pink dust and would be easy to pair with just about anything! BONUS: It’s currently on sale for $52.93 (originally $79).

* 5. Steve Madden Carrson Sandal – $89.95: These sandals come in both satin and suede finishes with a variety of colors to choose from. I think they are the perfect shoe for dressing up this romper for a fun summer date night look!

* 6. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Luminous Lipstick – $34: These lipsticks are stunning. The packaging is beautiful and the product is even better. There are 10 shades in the line and I think ‘Amazing Grace’ & ‘Bond Girl’ would compliment this look beautifully! If you’re in the market for a high-end lipstick, pick one of these beauties up and give them a try!

* 7. Charlotte Tilbury ‘Lip Lustre’ Lip Lacquer – $22: I almost ALWAYS go in with a lip lacquer if I use a Matte Lipstick, as I tend to struggle with drier lips. The Charlotte Tilbury Lip Lacquers are so beautiful (shocker) and pair perfectly with the Matte Revolution lippies! There are 10 shades and I think ‘Blondie’ would be perfect for this look!

* 8. Kate Spade ‘In A Flash’ Bangle Set – $ 49.90: I know I have mentioned this set before but I just can’t get enough. Kate Spade does a great job creating classic, chic pieces that never go out of style! This bangle set comes in 3 different color varieties and I think the Berry shade is absolutely stunning!

* 1. Adidas Originals Loose Crop Tank – $30: With the warmer weather comes a plethora of athleisure crop-tops! I don’t love that particular look on me but I can recognize how many people would! This cropped tank is flattering & flowy and would be perfect for a 10am spin class or a brunch date with the girls!

* 2. AERIE Lace Racerback Bralette – $15: If you don’t plan on working out in this outfit then I think this black bralette would be the perfect addition. It’s comfortable, affordable and cute…what more could you ask for?!

* 3. B.P. Cotton Ball Cap – $15: Everyone needs a classic baseball cap in their wardrobe. They are perfect when going for a run and equally as great when you’re heading to lunch with your mom and don’t want her to know that you haven’t washed your hair in over a week (guilty). At $15 dollars, you need this hat in your life!

* 4. Zella Autumn High Waist Moto Ankle Leggings – $49.90: I have talked about these before and I will talk about them again! Zella leggings are durable, comfortable, trendy and ultra-flattering! The moto design makes it look like you put in maximum effort when in reality you just threw on a pair of leggings! If you are looking to splurge (a little), then check these out!

* 5. Kate Spade ‘Amirissa’ 54mm Polarized Aviators – $133.90: Baaahhh! How cute are these sunnies? Kate Spade does it again! The aviator style adds to the edginess of the leggings and really puts this outfit over the top! If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, check these out! Note: The Kate Spade Sunnies are apart of Nordstrom’s Anniversary sale and will go up to $200 dollars after August 6th!

* 6. Kendra Scott Elaina Bracelet – $65: I thought this was the perfect bracelet for this look. There are 11 different color/stone varieties and the one pictured above is Iridescent Drusy/Silver! These are nice because they are simple, yet pretty! You can dress them up or dress them down, I don’t think you can really go wrong with these! I personally LOVE the Iridescent Drusy/Rose Gold shade. Swoon!

* 7. Adidas Swift Run Sneaker – $84.95: I. LOVE. ADIDAS…but you already knew that! They are trendy, comfortable and ultra-flattering on the foot. They never give me blisters and look great with any outfit!

* 8. Skagen Hagen Mesh Strap Watch 34mm – $109.90: See my thoughts on the outfit details above**

* 9. Sole Society Faux Leather Backpack – $59.95: Backpack bags are super on trend and I can totally see why. They can fit any and everything and are functional while still being cute. However in my experience they tend to be super pricey. So after perusing the Nordstrom website this morning, I found this gem for just under $60 dollars! If you’re into the backpack trend but don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars, give this one by Sole Society a try!

* 1. B.P. Raw Edge V-Neck Tee – $17: If you’re looking to throw together a quick casual outfit, then a basic V-neck t-shirt is a necessity! They are so easy to pair with jeans, leggings, skirts or shorts and look chic while being effortless. Do yourself a favor and grab a couple of these, you won’t be sorry!

* 2. Kate Spade ‘In A Flash’ Bangle Set – $49.90: **See detailed information under the first outfit graphic**

* 3. Nadri Halo Pendant Necklace -$48: Sometimes you need to add a little sparkle in your life, and this pendant necklace from Nadri offers just enough! It comes in rose gold, silver and yellow gold varieties and I don’t think you could go wrong with any of them! If you’re looking for something that is dainty but pretty, I think this is the piece for you!

* 4. Topshop Ashley Ripped Boyfriend Shorts – $55: A Classic pair of cut-offs is essential for the summer! These distressed boyfriend shorts from Topshop are relaxed and flattering with just the right amount of distressing! If you are looking for a relatively affordable pair of cut-offs, go to your nearest Topshop and try these on!

* 5. Quay ‘It’s My Way’ Sunglasses – $55: The Quay brand is blowing up all over the internet; there are hundreds (if not more) of influencers reppin’ these sunnies and I totally understand why! There are so many styles to choose from and they are relatively affordable (in the grand scheme of things)! If you’ve been looking for some new sunglasses and don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars, check this brand out and see if anything strikes your fancy!

* 6. Rebecca Minkoff Major Leather Strap Watch – $150: Oh look, another watch! I just can’t help it! I love the neutral, leather strap and think this would look good with anything!

* 7. Dolce Vita Jaz Sandal – $69.95: These are the perfect slides! I love the coppery gold straps and think they help bring an outfit from ultra-casual to date-night chic in an instant!

* 8. Nashelle Ija Stackable Hammered Rings – $73: I know that $73 dollars is a lot to spend for 3 rings, but these are so nice and will last you for years! I love the mixed metals and adore the hammered look! If you’re looking to invest in some classic pieces, check these out!

* 9. Calvin Klein Drawstring Bucket Bag – $89.60: You can never go wrong with Calvin Klein. Whether it be jeans or bags, they are always on point! I love a bucket bag with this look because it’s functional while still being cute! It’s big enough to fit all of your essentials and then some! If the backpack style purse isn’t your cup of tea, this might be a good option for you!

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So that’s it for Part 1 of my summer lookbook! I hope you enjoyed the looks I created and hope you’ll come back to see part 2! What are some of your summer fashion essentials!?!? Let me know in the comments below!

-B