Yeah, it is already almost October and I am just getting around to posting my top 10 August faves, but alas it’s been a crazy last few weeks. In case you haven’t seen this series… since I am doing a lot more micro-blogging on Instagram, here is a list of my 10 favorite things from the month of August, which may or may not have made it into a full post on the blog.
ONE:: Lipsticks, lipsticks everywhere.
I don’t know how it happened but this year has suddenly become the year in which I am experimenting with lipsticks and loving the whole process. These BITE Beauty liquid lipsticks are the ones that became my focus in August. This red is such a great hue.
TWO:: Fit Fearless Happy Conference
My sister Emily and I went to the first annual Fit Fearless Happy Conference and the aLoft Hotel downtown. The day was filled with inspirational speakers on living our best life. It was full of practical and theoretical advice. I left thinking I need to infuse my day with more positive thoughts, especially at the beginning of the day so that I can ensure I’m seeing things in a good light. Plus, one of the speakers talked about instead of looking at things as happening TO you, you should see them as happening FOR you. That really changed my perspective about things like my migraines. Often I feel like a victim to my head and the pain, but if I switch that thinking to seeing it as something happening for me so that I can learn more about what my body needs, and so I can be more empathetic to others suffering - it’s a whole different and better way of seeing things.
THREE:: Colorful Fringe Clutch
This gorgeous clutch from OneTribe Apparel was on constant rotation for days and evenings out with friends and family during the month of August. The bright pink fringe is so me. Plus it comes with a thin strap in case the days calls for more than clutching your bag all day. The company also makes gorgeous kimonos - I get complimented on mine every time I wear it.
FOUR:: Amika Hair Products
My gym bag is now filled with Amika hair products. The dry shampoo and the dry conditioner is perfect for a quick touch-up after a workout before heading out to school. The Nice Cream Cleansing conditioner is a great option for the days when my hair needs to be washed and re-set. They smell great and work like a charm. What more do you need?
FIVE:: Chicago Mural Hopping
I finally made it to a number of the gorgeous city murals - it’s been a long time in the works - including this infamous Greetings from Chicago mural, which is literally in the middle of nowhere, on a building in a basically abandoned parking lot. Pretty awesome, right?
SIX:: Make Your Own Watch
The Wristology Watches model is pretty awesome. You can construct your own watch by mixing and matching the materials and pieces you like. I picked this rose gold watch face with the dots, which reminded me of several Kate Spade designs, and then picked a band that was thick and could easily be adjusted for my skinny wrist. You can make your own on the Wristology website or purchase pre-designed ones on Amazon. Both options are economical.
SEVEN:: New Blonder Look
One of my major frustrations with my blonde hair is that it often gets a yellow, brassy hue, which I don’t like. It’s hard to maintain the white blonde look that I would like. For a couple years now I figured it wasn’t possible. But then I went to Amelia Rose Studio and Jodi worked her magic on my locks. Goodbye brassy blonde, hello a white-blonde that I love. Plus she made several suggestions of how to keep the color looking as good weeks later - which is still does thanks to her advice.
EIGHT:: Beneath a Scarlet Sky - best book I’ve read this summer
One of my goals for this year was to try and read more. So far it has been a successful New Year’s goal, especially with the help of audiobooks. I stumbled up Beneath a Scarlet Sky - the story of an Italian spy during WWII, and was immediately hooked. The things he went through, the amazing moments he escaped detection and was able to keep making a difference for the ally forces was truly amazing.
NINE:: Puristry Flower Water Toner
I’m always on the lookout for a good toner that doesn’t dry my skin out or cause it to break out. That task is harder than it might seem. When Puristry sent me its Flower Water Toner I was sold on its awesomeness from day one. I’m already more than half-way done with the bottle, and will be re-ordering when I final get the last pump out of the thing. It smells amazing, feels fresh on my skin and does a great job toning my skin without drying it out or causing it to break out.
TEN: Hottie Tea from Dr. Charo
I’ve been skeptical of all these teas that claim to give you a hot body. And rightly so, because let’s be honest, a fit body is the results of proper eating, exercise and proper overall healthy living. But the Hottie Teas from Dr. Charo do help cut down on bloating and assist with digestion. While they didn’t make me instantly hot or skinny - LOL - they did make me feel better overall. And to me, that’s a win.
