Thursday, December 31, 2015

Day 365: One line a day journal


Happy New Year!  We made it to Day 365!  It's been quite a year, and starting a new year, I bought this little book to make personal notes one line at a time. 

Have you ever thought of writing a status update on Facebook, but decided against it for various reasons?  Sometimes it's because you don't want to humble brag, or over expose yourself.  But what if you want to just remember a random thought or occurrence?  I often thought of writing my statuses down in a journal, but never got around to doing it.  That is until I found this journal.  It is basically a five year record where you can write one line a day.  The beauty of it is that you can start on any day, and each year you pass that day you will see what you wrote exactly one year ago.  It's like a low-tech version of the Timehop app.  Plus, the high quality paper, gold embossing, and binding makes it something special that you want to keep around for a while!

One line a day book, $10 on amazon.com






Sunday, December 27, 2015

Day 361: Travel tote


With the amount of traveling I do, it's important for me to have my carry-on travel bag ready to go at all times.  After many many trips, I have easily ruled in and out the staples needed for both long and short flights.  

First off, is the bag.  My fuschia Longchamps 'Le pliage' (size large) is my go-to because it is lightweight, durable, and can hold quite a bit.  Not to mention it can fold up so that I can keep it in my luggage if I decide to use another bag on my return trip.  

Inside I have my wallet (and passport of course if I'm flying international), cell phone, ear buds, sunglasses and kindle.  Sometimes I carry my iPad, though I prefer to read on flights.  I have snacks such as a Kind bar or lara bar, and always some form of chocolate.  After passing through security I buy a big bottle of water to keep me hydrated en flight.  

I keep my skin hydrated as well with what I call a power pack for flights.  It includes a Burt's Bees chapstick (coconut and pear and currently my favorite), a L'occitane travel size hand cream, and Jurlique skin balancing face oil.  I also carry Systane eye drops if my eyes feel dry.  Along with a small compact mirror and hair ties, these items go in a small make-up case. which makes them easy to find in my large tote.  

Add a magazine and scarf, and I'm ready to go with plenty of space for other items I find along the way!  Duty free anyone?

Items pictured:

Longchamps 'Le pliage' tote, large, $145



Ray-ban wayfarer, $140



kitsch hair ties, $9



Whittaker's coconut block, $13.99 on amazon.com
(this is from New Zealand which is why it's so pricey)



Kind bar, dark chocolate, nuts and sea salt



 Jurlique skin balancing oil, $50



Burt's Bees Pear and Coconut Lip Balm, $3.29



Systane, $10


P.S.  Sometimes, the best things to pack in your carry-on are souvenirs from previous trips.  I love getting magazines from different destinations, such as this Vogue India I picked up at the airport in Hyderabad, and the silk scarf I found at a bazaar in Abu Dhabi.  




Friday, December 25, 2015

Day 359: Merry Christmas to you and me!

Don't you love it when you find a shopping bag hidden away in your closet that you'd forgotten about?  It's like receiving a present from your past self!

I came across this bag today, and it had two finds from one of my favorite homestores, Zara Home.  The silver wood paneled frame is timeless and elegant, and the bird in a birdcage hook is more decorative than useful with it's faux antique finish.  Since these were not needed, and more fun purchases it truly felt like a gift!


Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Day 350: Cold weather package



As the temperature goes down, and a chill sets in the air, we all want to take care of our skin.  Here are a few products that are sure to help get through the winter months:

1.  CO Bigelow Lemon Cream body wash and body cream

Feel extra pampered by layering these two luxurious products.  The body wash has a subtle lemon scent which is invigorating on those cold winter mornings.  It contains lemon oil and extract, as well as sunflower oil to moisturize skin.  Liberally using the ultra moisturizing and skin brightening body cream post shower helps lock in the scent.  Great for dry skin, it has shea butter and has been a favorite since 1870.  Found at CO Bigelow retail shops and certain Bath and Bodyworks stores.

2.  JR Watkins Sugar and Shea Body Scrub (Coconut Milk & Honey)

Heaters tend to dry out skin, and this scrub will not only make skin feel renewed, but also leave it extra soft.  Containing sugar, shea butter, and coconut oil, this scrub is a great way to exfoliate and moisturize gently during the winter months.  Found at Target stores.

3.  Burt's Bees Coconut Foot Creme

There is nothing worse than dry, cracked and calloused feet in the winter!  This foot creme is the ultimate product to protect your feet from the elements.  Use this on your feet at bedtime, cover with socks, and let the creme work it's magic.  With coconut oil, olive oil, vitamin E, and a hint of peppermint, this is a must have for feet.  Found at Target stores.

4.  Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

This face cream is a favorite for many.  It's non-greasy and light consistency makes for a great overall moisturizer.  Use it in the morning before make-up for all day wear, and at night.  You won't regret this splurge!  Found at Kiehl's shops and fine department stores.

Not only are these great for yourself, but also as gifts for the holiday season!  Enjoy, and don't forget to stay hydrated, too!