Hydroxatone BB cream review

Hydroxatone BB cream

Hello! So recently I had put in an order with Ulta. I had ordered a few things and they were doing a promotion of sorts. The promotion was: spend 'x' amount of money and get a free make up bag full of sample goodies! The samples ranged from make up to moisturizer to shampoo and so on. So it was definitely a deal I could not pass up. One of the sample was Hydroxatone BB cream. (as seen above)

I've never really tried BB cream before. 1) It's a bit on the expensive side 2) I try really hard not to put on layers of make up. My skin will break out if I do. And who wants that? So I thought you know what? It's a free sample I'll try it and see how my skin takes to it. So far no break outs! Hallelujah! It's very light on the skin and hardly noticeable once blended.

Please excuse my vainy hand! This is what the product looks like on my skin (top)
This is what the product looks like once blended (bottom)

It is in medium. I didn't get to pick the color for the products. It definitely suits my skin tone even though I'm never in the "medium" area.
On the back it says it is a multi-benefit formula. The benefits include:
1) Advance anti-aging technology
2) Protection
3) Immediate perfecting coverage

I can not say whether or not the first one is true. I mean I've only been using it for a week. And you know, aging is something that is noticeable over a few years...so.
Also, it has SPF 40 in it. Which is a big deal to me. I'm really into SPF and think more people need to become aware of how beneficial it is. Even if you live in a place that rains more than 365 days a year. You should still put on some SPF.

All in all, I love this product. It's definitely something I would recommend to someone with sensitive skin (or not) and to anyone who just wants coverage!

I hope you enjoyed this review.
Talk to you soon!
Bye

\

Crazy amounts of shopping

Okay. So I may have dropped a bit of money in the past week, but hey, great deals and sales! I got and H&M haul, Ulta haul and so Christmas gifts out of the way. So it was quite successful! But any who, when my stuff comes in I'll be making a post on it. Also, I'm working on how to make holiday cookies with coconut flour so stay tuned for that. Next week we are holiday baking! I'll take some picture and maybe post some recipes. See you soon!

Sweater weather tag

(Photo: Google)

I got this tag from Prettylittledoodahs and thought it would be a fun little thing! :)
Hope you enjoy.

1. Favourite candle scent?

This year I've been really into soy based candles. And my favorite for fall is one I had gotten at Hallmark and it's a woodstick candle. So it sounds like a mini fire in a fire place and it smells like cinnamon-y and warm. It's wonderful.

2. Coffee, tea or hot chocolate? 

Tea. Though I do like the occasional coffee or a nice hot chocolate. Oh! Peppermint hot chocolate!

3. What's the best fall memory you have?

Nothing in particular stands out. But I do remember a lot of walks home from school during this time of the year. And seeing family. 

4. Which make up trend do you prefer: dark lips or winged eyeliner?

Winged eyeliner all the way! 

5. Best Fragrance for fall?

Hmm...there is this one that I had found a few years ago and have yet to find it again. I think it may have been discontinued but it was sweet and pepperminty. Can you tell I enjoy peppermint?

6. Favourite Thanksgiving food?

All of it? Gravy. Potatoes. Stuffing (with no onions) Turkey. 

7. What is autumn weather like where you live?

At first it was unseasonably warm and dry. We didn't get rain ALL of October. Now it's upper 60's and starting to get rainy.

8. Most worn sweater?

My navy blue knit I got from American Eagle...3 years ago? Poor thing has seen better days. But I love it.

9. Must have nail polish this fall?

There is one by Julep Maven that I've been loving it's a slate gray color. It goes well with so many things.

10. Football games or jumping in leaf piles?

Can I jump in a pile of leaves while watching a football game? I love both. But I may have to pick football.

11. Skinny jeans or leggings?

Skinny jeans. On me, I don't like just leggings. If it is paired with a dress, skirt, shorts, etc then it's okay. But just alone, no.

12. Combat boots or Uggs?

Combat boots. Uggs just don't seem like they keep out the water and stuff.

13. Is pumpkin spice worth the hype?

Kinda. There are so many holiday flavors. I actually like caramel brulee latee's. Shh!

14. Favourite fall TV show?

Okay. Let's start: Supernatural, How I Met Your Mother, Castle, Legend of Korra, Once Upon A Time...

Yay! So if any of you would like to do this go on ahead! If you do plan on doing it tell me, I want to see what you guys like during this time of the year. Hope you guys have a wonderful day. Bye!

Winter LUSH haul!

So I know a haul for some people means buying out an entire store of their merchandise. To me, a haul means you bought something, even if it is one thing. Yesterday I had finally made my way to LUSH. In the town I live in we don't have one but two towns over there is one in the mall. I was super excited to go because I knew they would have Cinders. One I had been wanting for awhile now because I have heard many good things about it. I already knew what I wanted and had a spending "limit". I picked up three bath bombs.

Of course I had gotten cinders. I personally have never tried it but like I had said I've heard many good things.

Look at this cutie. Bombardino! Let us just say he is winking. ;)

Ickle baby bot! This is one of my favorite ones at LUSH. I mean, look at him! Plus I love the smell, it's very relaxing to me.

They gave me a small soap sample when I was there. I don't know if it was a promotional or what. But it has a minty smell and to me it's invigorating. 

This is what it looks like. It's a very pretty blue.

Well that is it for my haul. I'm very excite to use these! Have you tried any of these or other holiday ones? 

A bit of a wedding planning update

I've gotten nowhere. Oops. Or more like I've made little no attempt at going forward with any of it. Skyler and I have come up with the basics. Like, color scheme, location, honeymoon, date. But beyond that, not much else. I have been obsessing with wedding shoes I have seen on The Knot. Oh man there are some amazing shoes! But I can't spend $900 or more dollars on just that. I'm not sure what I want to go for: heels or flats. I'm 5'8 so I think it can be either way for my height. Also, I have started working out and eating healthier in order to be down to my goal weight in time. It's going well. So I plan on making posts on different things I am liking, such as, dresses, shoes, hair styles, make up, etc!

Alba Botanica Shampoo review

Alba Botanica Shampoo

Hey! Have you ever struggled with shampoo before?  I have and I hate having to go through many brands looking for ones that work on my hair. Everyone's hair is different and therefore not every shampoo is effective. Which means you do have to be patient (something I am SO not good at) and look, look, look! Recently I have made the switch from typical brands, such as, L'Oreal, Maybelline, Covergirl, Garnier Fructis, etc. And have been looking for products that aren't tested on animals. Doing this is not easy. I have a hard time finding things that meet the criteria  So when I came across the brand Alba Botanica (Parent company Haen Celestial which also makes Avalon Organics) I was thrilled to find a shampoo that was cf! For anyone interested these shampoo/conditioner and other hair care products are cf:

• Giovanni
• Dessert Essence   

So the main questions are, does it work? Is it effective? And I'll tell you, the answer is yes! I love this shampoo! It doesn't have many of the harmful chemicals many shampoos have and it really gives my hair moisture and my hair just feels...clean. It doesn't suds up like a lot of shampoo's but that is due to sodium laural sulfate. Ick. I only use it on my roots because I want to target where it's oily, and condition the ends. The packaging is cute, very tropical to me. The only down fall (which it may not be for everyone) is that I find that I have to use a lot. I don't know if it's because I'm use to suds or what. It smells like coconut as well, which is a big plus! It's not a fake smell either. I would definitely recommend  this product to anyone.

Have you tried any new shampoo's, conditioners or other hair care things? If so tell me what you think or if you have made a post link me! 

The kitten fiasco

Guess what? We got two cats! Recently our baby bunny had passed on and we wanted to fill the empty void that was left. So Skyler had a co-worker whose mother-in-law could no longer take care of her kittens and we decided that we would adopted them from her. They are both 6 months old and full of love and energy! Here are some pictures:

The tan/brown one is named Mocha and the black and white one is named Loki.
I plan on adding more pictures over time and there are many to be found on my instagram.

Best friend tag!

So I would've made a Youtube video of this but oddly enough my point and shoot AND computer are having camera technical difficulties! So, I shall type it out! Enjoy.



Question #0: What is her/his name?
Sarah Shinn

1. How and when did you meet?
   Hmm...let's see. 7th grade?! Oh man. We had a mutual friend I think and maybe one class together? But we didn't become best friends until 10th grade
   
   
2. What is your favorite memory together?
   Too many to count...is what you would think I would say! But, I think one of my favorites was when she and 2 other friends drove 5 hours to see my high school graduation :) To this day I can't be more grateful
   
3. Describe  in one word.
   Understanding
   
4. What's their dream job?
   Musician
    
5. What's your favorite makeup brand?
   I honestly don't know.
   
6. What is something that annoys you about the other person?
   Nothing haha oh other than have incredible musical talent! But it's only "annoying" because I'm jealous. You go girl :)
   
7. If you could go anywhere in the world together, where would it be and why?
   Somewhere in Europe? England!
   
8. What is your favorite inside joke?
   June bug. Rolled up napkin.
   
9. Who takes longer to get ready?
   I don't know. Seems like an odd question.
   
10. Favorite season?
    FALL!
    
11. Favorite song?
    I don't know. I know she likes The Wanted, Landon Austen...and a few others
    
12. What’s it like being friends with someone who’s obsessed with youtube?
    I wouldn't say she is obsessed. She makes videos of songs she has written. More like dedicated to keeping a dream lit
    
13. Heels or flats?
    Flats? Sarah please correct anything I am wrong on.
    
14. Pants or dresses?
    Skinny jeans last time I was told (3 years ago...)
    
15. Favorite animal?
    Dog?
    
16. Comedy, horror, or chick flick?
    Comedy or chick flick.
    
17. Blackberry or iPhone?
    Iphone. That's a given haha
    
18. Favorite movie?
    THE PROPOSAL
    
19. What is something weird that you eat?
    Egglant! That stuff is so weird looking omg.
    
20. Do you guys have anything matching?
    We bought the same shirt once. From Forever 21 I think or wet seal
    
21. What's your favorite TV show?
    Friends I think. I am just going of social networking posts she has made haha

Woo. Well I don't think I have ever doubted myself more than right now! If you have a friend you want to do this for go ahead. I tag everyone :) 

Homemade cinnamon chai tea with milk

Hello! So first off, I cracked my computer screen. I accidentally dropped my laptop and it just cracked. It's not like I've never dropped it before but whatever. 

Anyways today I want to make a quick post about how I make chai tea with milk. I guess it would be a latte then? 

Well lately I've been on a huge tea craze! I've been going through 5+ cups of tea a day. Mainly just green tea and black peach tea. Today though I decided to make something a bit different. 

Homemade chai tea with milk:

-one bag of chai tea

-hot water. I just use my coffee pot to heat water. Yay for being a college kid.

-milk. I used almond milk. But use whatever you have, there is no specific type of milk you need to use. Also I just poured till I got a color I liked. Like tea darker? Use less milk. Like tea lighter? Use more milk. 

-sprinkle on cinnamon. Again, use however much you desire.

-optional: sugar. I didn't use any because I don't like chai sweetened but add it for a sweet kick

For you tea lovers I hope you enjoyed this quick recipe! Leave a comment if you made it or have your own recipe! 

E.L.F cosmetics haul!

Make up haul time! So I got this bundle of fun about a week ago and have finally had the time to sit down and tell you about it! I love when I actually can blog about something. Sometimes I get such a bad writers block that I just sit at my computer and cannot think of a single thing to talk about. It's a pain in the...well anyways. A few reasons why I love E.L.F is because they are cruelty free and they are super budget friendly! If you haven't heard of them I suggest you go check them out!
Let us get into it shall we?

E.L.F cosemtics

I only got four things. But they are four wondrous, marvelous things! I got:

• Mineral infused mascara
• HD mattifying cream foundation
• Under eye concealer and highlighter
• Baked eye shadow in NYC

This is the mascara. It is in black and it is the typical wand. Of course my camera didn't focus on the words so much as the dust...
This stuff is really great!

This is the cream foundation and it is in porcelain. It comes with a mirror and sponge.

Alas, the under eye concealer. I need this so badly. I have the worst under eye circles and this is a life saver! It is in fair.

This is what I was most excited for! I'm a huge eye shadow junkie. I love the colors on this palette so much! They are so pretty and I just don't want to ruin them. They are great colors for everyday wear or a night out! This is the NYC palette. 

What is your favorite E.L.F cosmetic? 

Wedding chaos

Oh my gosh. Have you ever planned a wedding? If not, it's insane. I haven't even really got into the middle of it all but what I have done so far is already stressing me out. We are doing a very simple wedding, but I still need cake ideas, dress ideas, venues, etc. There is a lot to plan. One of the biggest things I have struggled with was keeping people updated on our plans. I know, that's just not okay. But it is what it is. I plan on creating a wedding blog because that's the only way I can keep people updated. I will make blog posts on wedding hair styles, cake fun, and lots of other great things! Not dress shopping or my final dress because Skyler can't see it before the big day :)

How to start becoming cruelty free part 1

The cruelty-free life

This post isn't to shove my views down your throat. This post is explaining what my life style is and what is really happening behind factory doors

Why did I choose to become cruelty free? I used to have a bunny. Her name was Snickers.

Isn't she a cutie?
She actually passed away recently. But she was one of the soul reasons why I decided to go cruelty free.
I had conscious knowledge that there was possibly testing happening. I didn't really look into it though. Plus I thought testing, probably wasn't that bad. I'm sure we all have had that same thought. Then when I was on tumblr I had seen a post (given that the source was so incorrect) it was a girl showing what it was like for animals to be tested on. Of course they weren't actually hurting her in the same way they do to animals but it is quite graphic. Then in 2012 I had discovered Lush. You know, that lovely bubble and bath place. And they told me that they were the ones who had done the campaign I had just mentioned. Lush is completely cruelty free. They don't test, parent company doesn't test or third party company doesn't test. They are the goddess...god of being cruelty free.

Why does testing happen? It happens because companies want to make sure that the chemicals they use aren't going to cause an issue to a human who will use it. Or if it does cause an issue, they can put a warning. Can we think about this for a second? It's 2013...by this point we should be developed enough as a civilization that we should know what can and cannot be put on us and we should have other methods of testing on not a living creature. Plus, if they have a need to test their products, what does that say about their ingredients?

Who is victim?

Mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs and many other animals. There are products (maybe not cosmetics) that are tested on dogs and monkeys. Animals we see as companions are being subject to cruel treatment. They are forced to have chemicals in their eyes, nose, ears and mouths. These animals are tested on and then carelessly tossed. 

There are many companies that claim the leaping bunny seal of approval. Therefore, research is highly required. What I mean by "they claim" is that their parent company tests or a third party tests. If the parent company or third party is testing, then the product isn't cruelty free.

There are many companies that test, many that you may purchase from currently. L'oreal, Maybelline, Covergirl, Garnier, Bobbi Brown, Smashbox, Estee Lauder and a lot more!

This website has a good list. 

What companies could possibly be cruelty free in that massive list?
The leaping bunny has a very reliable list, go check it out! There are many budget friendly brands out there that are 100% cruelty free. The website does put icons by some companies about whether or not they have a parent or third party that tests. 

Some helpful websites that you can look at are:
Leaping bunny

Peta (I personally don't use them as a resource)
Google

Apps:
Buycott 

(Though out time I will continue to add to these lists, if you know of any, leave them in a comment)

I plan on making a few more posts about cruelty free things. I plan on putting lists of budget friendly companies and high end companies.
I also plan on finding websites and resources on how to help and make a difference. 

Luvocracy

Hey, how are you? It's been awhile. But I wanted to make a quick post about the website luvocracy. :)

If you haven't heard of this website I suggest you go check it out. It's like Pinterest and amazon collide. It's a great plus to hear about products from people who aren't being influenced. It's also a place where if someone buys something off of your board you get website credit! How cool is that? So if you have an account or plan on getting one head over and be sure to find me! My username is tori3jensen 

Hope to see some of you over there :)

Major writers...block.

So I've been racking my brain trying to think of what to write about or review. Sadly, I have yet to come up with much. Between work, my rabbit having pneumonia and preparing for school (Spring) I have been going non stop. I've had no energy and no "me" time. I apologize for my blog becoming boring. Hopefully soon I'll be able to come up with some new, fresh ideas! :)

Wanderlust

“All that is gold does not glitter,

Not all those who wander are lost.” 

― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring

I know that lately a few of my posts have not been related to beauty. But the point of a blog is to talk about whatever you want. It doesn't have to be one thing, unless, of course you want it to be.
Something that I've always wanted to do was travel. Even though I may have a "small" fear of planes. But, I want to see the world. I have never been outside of the United States. I really want to go to many European countries, such as: Ireland, England, Denmark, Switzerland, etc. Also, I want to go to many Asian countries as well. I love culture and understanding why each country has it's own uniqueness es. I love the difference in food, music, language and just about everything else. I feel like in America there isn't much of our own culture and any culture we do have (from people bringing their own countries culture over) is smothered by the America life style. Someday I hope to move out of the country. But that is a huge thing for someone who has never been out of the country before haha. If I ever do get to travel I don't want to live and be like a typical tourist. I want to do what the locals do and mingle with them. It's a future goal of mine and I plan on achieving it :)

Halloween costume

I love Halloween. Ever since I was an itty bitty tot and tripped in my ghost costume when I was 5 whilst trick-or-treating. I love dressing up and of course the candy aspect. I think I may be (unknowing) a secret cosplayer to some extent. I love being someone other than me. I love getting into costume and putting on the make up. It's exciting! This year I plan on being either Sailor Moon or Misty from Pokemon. I'm leaning more towards Sailor Moon because I like her costume more.

I love it so much! I also plan on learning how to do the make up for her. I will try my hardest to do it to the best of my abilities and put up a tutorial on how to. I plan on using ELF cosmetics for all the make up aspect. So it'll be a simpler anime make up and budget friendly. Halloween doesn't have to mean $500 worth of stuff. It can be very wallet safe ;)
So check back for updates on the make up! Also, what do you plan on doing for Halloween or dressing up as?

Youtube cover song of the week

I love going on youtube and finding songs I like and finding covers of them. There are so many people out there with amazing talent. I like all kinds, vocal, instrumental or both. So I decided I wanted to do a weekly blog post on my favorite cover or covers of the week! (Hence the title) :)

The covers will be from a wide range of genres. But mainly alternative/folkie sound.

This is an instrumental cover of Dropkick Murphy's song State of Massacusetes. It's quite impressive! Dropkick Murphys have a very Irish sound to them.

Pompeii by Bastille cover

For some reason this one won't post as a video. But this is a instrumental and vocal cover. And it's amazing!

Julep Maven October box 2013

First off, I tried to make a video of the unboxing and my computer decided it wasn't going to use any sound even with the microphone on. So I don't even know what to do with this computer sometimes.

On to the contents and goodies hidden with in the magical Julep box. October, October, October (mentally create some chant with the word October) This months box is by far my favorite. I didn't put any add-ons there are a lot of people who do. I've seen some boxes with 10+ nail polishes in their them! I'm a college kid so rent is more of a necessity. I got the standard box. Mine is Boho Glam, which is very much my personality. :)

Yes, I organized it to look pretty. First look inside the box.

"Don't ask permission" -Joan Jett

Candy corn! I know this is a huge no-no candy to except from strangers but one, it's cealed and two, is Julep Maven a stranger anymore? (it also came with a ingredients list for anyone who could be potentially allergic to anything in it. It has no high fructose corn syrup. 3 for you Julep Maven, you go Julep Maven) I also saved this from my Fiance for you guys to see.

And of course, the nail polishes! I adore both of these! At first when I saw the one on the right online I thought it was more gold than yellow. I'm not a huge fan of gold, but in person it is definitely more yellow! I have some serious nail art "halloween inspired" plans with these colors so stay tuned through out the month :) My nails are bare in the previous photo because I plan on doing them today.

And my favoritest thing of all. A duo eyeliner pencil with sharpener. It's like the Julep god's heard my silent prayers of wanting a good eyeliner pencil. One side is black (good for up lid) to help tighten upper water line to get a more flawless, fuller lash line. And the other half is brown great for bottom water line. I don't wear much on my bottom water line because it makes my eyes look dark and my dark circles under my eyes even darker. (I have so horrid dark circles. Comment if you know of any really effective undereye concealer)

That is it for the October box! I loved everything and it was such a nice surprise yesterday when it showed up. (I've been crazy stressed because my bunny, Snickers, has pneumonia.) If anyone get's any other Julep box or even Boho Glam tell me what you thought of this months box!

See you later!

Money over matter?

This post today is not typical how-to, advice, etc. This is more of a rant I suppose.

I understand that many of my views can be very strong or opinionated. I understand that I could offend people but when a blog is supposed to be about you and your views that's what I'm going to use it for. I will apologize in advance if I do offend, that is not my intent. The intent of this post is to let off some steam. So recently (as in today) I was talking to one of my friends via chat. This person isn't who upsetted me. I was bothered by a more general idea. We got on the topic of a school we both attended and how it's ridiculous the pressure that, that school puts on the students on academics. I know that there is some idea that the pressure is good because college is like that. But, when you have to bring in massage therapists and puppies to de-stress the students that's going to far. The school we used to attend is on the top 50 high schools in the US. In this article it gives some quick points about the schools. So for our school aside for talking about outstanding achievements, API scores, so on and so forth it talked about how the average students family income is over $100,000 a year. With this I will start the main point of this post.

Since when has a school been known for it's students family income? Since when has that been a factor in anything? When I went to that high school there were many students (including me) who didn't even come close to that amount a year. When 15-18 year olds are walking around in huge name brands and designer everything there is a problem. I understand everyone wants to look good/professional. But Juicy couture and Louis Vuitton aren't the only brands out there who will make you look presentable. Target, Forever 21, Plato's closet, etc. Can make you look just as good for way cheaper. Something I've noticed about blogs online and youtubers is that it seems the only reason they have a blog or channel is because they want to show off their name brands. I don't care if you can afford Dior eye shadow or Chanel lipstick. If you can't apply it and use it properly then I don't know why you are wasting your time, my time, internet space and money. You shop at Brandy Melville? No one cares. One their clothes are not quality and two so does everyone else on the internet. So you are becoming a clone. Your parent or guardian bought you $200 Vera Wang pants? Well life is going to be tough for you sweetie. One day you will have to support yourself. One day you will have to decide what's more important, $500 jacket or rent? Plus many people I see on blogs and youtube use the exact same thing. Why are you even on the internet? You and 5 other people made the same review! It's okay not to buy commercial products. Plus those companies are cheap and use many harmful chemicals. Plus, you know, those cute little critters that are very common to be seen during spring, particularly around Easter? Yes, rabbits. They get tested on by L'oreal, Maybelline, etc. Commercial products. They get tested on with chemicals that would burn our skin. So they sure as hell hurt the rabbits. But that's not an issue...it's just an animal. (Sarcasm heavy applied) It really erks me when I see people going out, trying new brands are over looked because they can't afford the expensive stuff.

I'm not sorry I made this post. If you feel inclined to unsubscribe you are more than welcome to. I'm not going to be upset. It is your choice. This is completely my personal opinion from my own personal experiences in high school and even now in college.

Who am I? With pictures and words.

Something I realized is that I never put any info about myself on my blog. I'm basically a faceless, nameless, no personality or characteristic person :o
I don't know exactly what I should put for some basic info but here it goes:

Name: Victoria Jensen but I rather people call me Tori

Birth date: March 3, 1993
Where I live: Arizona, USA
Favorite place I've been to: Fort Bragg, CA

this was going to be my senior picture, oh well.

Single or Taken: Taken, engaged to be exact.

Best friend: Sarah Shinn (Go check out her youtube channel show is an amazing singer!)

this was from a few years ago

This was my first best friend. 

This is one of my circle of friends. (Left to right) Leesa, Me, Nicole and Sarah. 

So...I don't know what else to tell about myself. I'm a pretty closed off person. So I will put some pictures of years past! 

This is the first photo of Skyler and I. We weren't together at this point and he was too embarrassed to be tagged.

Health, fitness and eating right.

(Image via truprep.com)

Am I the only one who struggles with being consistent with being healthy and exercising? I don't know how many times I've tried to lose weight and go to the gym or do weights and eventually fall off track.
I have an "emotional eating" issue. If something bad happens or if something is stressful I tend to eat, and not healthily. I tend to eat comfort food, such as, breads and sugar. It's something that I apparently learned from other people, I don't know. For most of my childhood and teenage years I was told I was fat, needed to loose weight, etc. Or told very indirect comments: Everyone could stand to loose 10 pounds. But normally I wouldn't let those comments get to me...

(Trigger warning for anyone with eating disorder)

My junior year of high school I was told by people (I won't disclose any names) that I was fat or that my eating habits could lead me to being obese. Day after day I was told this. I played softball in high school and we practiced 3 hours a day Monday-Friday. Like normal, I didn't think anything of it. Then I started dating a guy who was skinnier than me. No, I didn't get any disorder from this person. I do not by any means blame this person for anything. I do have someone to blame, myself. My "disorder" started roughly a good month before we started dating. But in March of my Junior year I couldn't take the criticism anymore. Early that year I had two full fledged break downs (the kind where it was like an out of body experience? The first time I laid on my bedroom floor for 3 years and couldn't move and the second one I packed up all my stuff and destroyed my own things) But why that happened is something completely for another time...
But I started limiting how much I was eating. I started reading books that triggered me. It was so self destructive. I was doing softball 3 hours a day and eating only 500 calories. You need 1200 at a minimum for my height (5'8'') to function, if you're doing sports actively you need 2000. So 500 is horrible and I could have done some extensive damaged to my body. I completely lost myself at that point.

It's been 4 years to this month that I stopped hurting myself and decided to try and eat balanced and exercise and I have lost more weight and felt more confident than I ever had my Junior year. Currently I am 5'8'' and 164 pounds, my goal is 130. I am happy with what I am doing now and wish I could helps those who are where I was my Junior year. I'm going to tell you this:
Limiting your intake or forcing yourself to rid your body of nutrients is not the way to go.
Eat healthy and go out for a walk or bike ride and you'll feel amazing and confident!
Everyone is beautiful no matter what size. As long as you are taking care of you! Don't loose weight because someone said something or because this person weighs this much or because the media tells you what's "acceptable". Do it for you.
I plan on making post about my rises and falls with my health journey and I would love to know what you guys do i.e meals, fitness tips, fun idea's, etc!

International Day of Peace

(Image via google)

This post is a personal/political view.


Perhaps this is one of the most common wished for things. Young kid, adults, elderly, etc. wish for this at some point in life. This thing is world peace. Ever since I was a child I had wished for peace, hearing stories on the news about war and bombings and blood shed has made me shiver with disgust. Tomorrow, September 21,2013 it will be observed. Quick fact: it was first celebrated in 1982. It is really shocking how there can be people who are willing to take other people's lives and hurt each other. World peace won't be achieved through aggressive force, it can only be achieved through patience and verbal outreach. There are many oranizations and companies that are making/signing petitions. Those of you who are Lushies, the company itself is a huge supporter. Peace One Day is doing an outreach and want to make the biggest movement in history

Peace One Day Thunderclap

That link will send you to the Thunderclap website where you can spread the word!
So for anyone who is or have ever thought about world peace give this group a look and take the time to spread the word. The more people come together the quicker we can see a better world. And it may not be in our life time but another way to achieve it is by not being selfish. So maybe your grandkids or great grandkids may see it but we were the ones to help the world move in the right direction. I hope you decide to take a stand.

I hope you have a wonderful International World Peace day!

How I take care of my hair

There are many ways people take care of their hair. There is no perfect way to do it and there's no wrong...no there are wrong ways to take care of your haha. I dyed my hair 5 times in 6 months and took horrible care of it. It stopped growing after a certain length due to being damaged and dead. So about a month ago (give or take a week) I chopped inches off my hair to give it a fresh start. Upon cutting it I decided to make a conscious effort to take proper care of my hair, and here's what I do:

I only wash my hair 2 times a week. This does not mean I don't shower everyday. I don't have poor hygiene. But I typically wash my hair Mondays and Thursdays and on Mondays I shampoo and condition with Joico. After that I use macadamia natural oil deep repair masque and run that through my hair paying close attention to my roots and let that sit in my hair for 50-60 minutes. I only use the deep repair masque once a week (you can use it up to two times a week) but once works well for my hair. While I'm waiting I'm not just hanging out in the shower for an hour letting water run. I get out wrap it up, I use a plastic grocery bag. That's college kid budget for you. But honestly, you don't need a $20-$100 hair holder thing. Use what you already hair and it helps the environment. I usually watch tv or YouTube videos during this time or even do chores. Just don't go out in direct sunlight. It doesn't specify that on the bottle you shouldn't go outside but the masque is intense and so is the sun and could potentially hurt your hair further. Then I wash it out. I part my hair and let it air dry most days. Once it is mainly dry I use the macadamia oil on my ends. If you are going to use a heat tool run the oil through out all of your hair. Dot use too much it'll look oily and gross. A good amount is a dime size. Then style as pleased. The second time I wash my hair is on Thursday nights. I just shampoo and condition, dry my hair, run macadamia oil in the ends and typically put my hair in braids. So what do I do when my hair is getting oily on days I don't wash my hair? Dry shampoo. Get to know it, it'll be your best friend. I use Batiste because they are budget friendly and cruelty free. I know there are people who like the product and people who don't. I personally do. But it's all trial and error with hair products. Find what works with your hair don't buy something and pretend you like because someone said they liked it. Anyways, I spray this in my roots, give it time to sit (about a minute) and brush your hair. Use as much as you desire, again it's all trial and error. Your hair will not only be non greasy but the volume will be insane! Also, I spray in part conditioner part water into my hair for a little extra softness sometimes. I hope this post helped and maybe will lead anyone with questions about hair care in a good direction! :)

Macadamia Natural Oil review

Hello! I wanted to start this post off with a big ol' sorry! For many reasons. First, I've been gone for a few days, today's post is short, no pictures or links. My computer decided it was going to over heat and kill the video card. Sad times.The video card is a major piece to make the laptop run effectively and just run in general. So I'm using Skyler's (my fiance) mom's computer and this poor thing has seen better days. So I can't right click or highlight anything...so I'm sorry if my post become very boring and horrible. Please bare with me :) I'm hoping to be up and running with a fixed computer soon!


I've had Macadamia products for quite some time now. I absolutely adore their products! I have the Deep Repair Masque and Healing Oil Treatment and both have worked wonders on my hair. I only use the deep repair masque once a week (it says you can use it twice a week but one time works well for me) I leave it in my hair for about 50-60 minutes to really let it get down to the roots. After that I wash it out and dry my hair and this treatment leaves my hair so soft and healthy looking! Once my hair is mostly dry I run the healing oil treatment through my hair (don't use too much in one area it will make your hair look greasy) it's a great heat protectant for anyone who is looking for a natural one that isn't full of chemicals, and could potentially create product build up in your hair. Most days I just run it through and don't use any heat, it just really helps your hair stay healthy. Both I have made these two last for close to 6 months, then again I don't like over loading my hair with products. Macadamia Natural Oil is cruelty free (how awesome!). Honestly it's definitely a product that is worth trying. I have heard that there are people who are not fond of the smell, but I actually really like it. So if you are curious about the product go check it out! I got mine at Ulta. If you have tried these products leave a comment down below and tell me what you think.

Lush Ickle Baby Bot review

(Image via Lush Cosmetics)

Hello everyone! So I feel as though I'm a bit late on the band wagon for Lush reviews. I've been a Lushie for quite sometime now, thanks to Youtuber Zoella. I don't know how I ever over looked this place but I'm very happy that I have found it and purchased from them. What I really love about Lush is that they are cruelty free and vegetarian/vegan friendly. They are a good company all around. I haven't tried every little thing there, I've tried a few bath bombs, a few bubbles and one face mask. But I love baby bot. Isn't he just adorable? I love the color of blue as well. I've only used half of it because I like to split all of my bath bombs in two to enjoy them longer. Baby bot is their cheapest bath bomb and it is vegan friendly. It smells very fresh. That's the best way to describe it for me. It has a very fresh, spring smell and it left my bathroom smelling good for awhile after. It turns the water blue (not as blue as Big Blue.) It is a great bath bomb for those on a tight budget but want to try out Lush :) 

Where are the holidays?

Hey everyone! Is it me or do the months (August and September) drag by because of the holiday seasons that follow suit? Well I love the holidays. There was a time that I dreaded them (it seems as if many people have had that phase) but I came to the realization that no matter who I am celebrating with or where it doesn't matter. As long as you just enjoy. I love the people, the weather, the food, the lights, etc. This holiday season my plan is make more DIY gifts instead of retail ones, though I will buy retail things here and there. I also want to make DIY decorations. So when it gets closer, more in October/November I will start making posts on my progress with: Project Gifts. I think I'm witty. But I'll also post steps so you can also try.

Tarte eyeliner look

(My eye prior to applying eyeliner)

(My eye with Tarte eyeliner)

(Finished eyeliner with mascara and some eyeshadow)

So I know people have asked what the Tarte eyeliner looks when it's applied. So I decided to take some pictures! One, my camera isn't new and super advanced. It's a basic point and shoot and 3 years old so the pictures aren't amazing quality. Two, I'm no professional at applying eyeliner, it's tricky. And I don't like winged eyeliner on myself (I do like how it looks on other people). Also, my eyeliner is running out sadly so it was a fight to get it to go on both of my eyes so that's also why it isn't the best application ever. But as you can see it gives a very fine line and it is a great eyeliner for people who like to do winged eyeliner! 

P.S: I don't do my water line cause the point was to show the eyeliner on my upper lid.