Varekai

Varekai means wherever in the Romany language.  The story of Varakai is a re-imagining of the Greek myth of the Fall of Icarus.  In the story after Icarus falls he lands in a forest of wonderfully strange creatures. His fall itself is particularly spectacular. The creatures are colorful, whimsical and yet strangely organic.  Eiko Ishioka did a beautiful job designing these costumes.

Each act was so precise and exciting. In between acts during  what I assume are costume changes and set rearrangements are small acts of comical relief. My favorite of these acts were Ne Me Quitte Pas.  This act is simply the male clown character lip synching all while chasing the spotlight.  My second favorite act is the Russian Swings. In this act performers are propelled by a Russian swing and from that swing they tumble through the air onto a net. They jump from swing to swing as well. It is in this act that the rousing music begins and it signals the end of the show.

All in all this show is magnificent. If you get the chance to go I would honestly recommend it.  I have a whole new appreciation for the human body and imagination and what they can accomplish together.  Bravo!

Also my son went as well (yep my 3 month old) and he enjoyed it. He eventually went to sleep after about 15 minutes but during the portion that he did see he was thoroughly amused.
 

Review: Garnier Clean + Nourishing Cleansing Oil

Well hello...I know it's been a while since my last post and I really have no excuse except for the fact that taking care of a little person is hard work.

Last week I received a sample of Garnier Clean + Nourishing Cleansing Oil for dry skin.  Now let me say that while I love my all natural cleansers I am open to trying commercial products.  Sometimes you may stumble onto something worth purchasing.

This product claims to 'instantly dissolve impurities and long-wearing makeup with no greasy residue' and in my week long experience I found it to do exactly what it claims to do. I have combination skin and even the oily portions of my face did well. Every time I washed my face I found myself reaching for this product. 

After about a week my friends were asking what I was using and I got numerous compliments on the clarity of my skin. It removed my makeup easily and left my face feeling soft and clean. I plan on purchasing a full sized bottle today since I used the last of my sample this morning. I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone looking for a good cleanser.

Update

I know it's been such a long time but motherhood has kept me super busy.  I was due July 7, 2014 but my little one was so cozy that he decided to come exactly one week after his due date on July 14, 2014.  I wanted to wait until after I went back to work to start blogging.

Motherhood has been awesome for me.  Aidan is a very calm and happy baby.  He sleeps majority of the night and he is a very healthy 2 month old.  He coos and laughs.  He likes when I sing and dance (even when it's bad).

Other than constantly admiring my baby and working not much else has been happening.  I plan to begin blogging on a regular basis again since I'm pretty well accustomed to life with a baby now. Well I'm glad to be back and thanks for reading.

Oh and Aidan says 'Hey'.

Be Fearless

Fear-an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that something or someone is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.

How often do we let fear get in the way of us accomplishing what we dream of?  If  you're anything like me fear and doubt permeate your thoughts on a daily basis.  A few weeks ago I spoke with an old colleague of mine who I hadn't seen in years.  While catching up she inquired about a few major opportunities that I had been presented with in the past.  I summed up those inquiries with a simple 'I passed them up'.  Disappointing yes, but what was more disappointing were my reasons for never pursuing those opportunities.  I had become someone who not only let fear permeate her thoughts but I allowed fear to control what I chose to do.  I can't change what happened then and I can't change the fact that I get scared (especially with motherhood on the horizon).  However, I can change how I use that fear.

What do you mean 'use' fear?
In a previous blog post (Words to Live By) I mentioned that fear should motivate you.  Fear isn't always a deterrent.  Listen to that fear and often you'll find that it's a sign that you're doing something right.  Now this isn't to say just go living recklessly and putting your self in harm's way.  That's different and it's called stupid.  Just joking, but I don't want anyone going out and living life that way, it's harmful.

February Favorites

I know I'm late but better late than never, right?

I've been very busy moving and preparing for the arrival of our bouncing baby boy. So now that I've moved (haven't decorated yet) I guess I can get back to blogging and living my life (jokes). 

So without further ado here are my February favorites. 

• Shea Moisture Yucca & Boabab Thickening Growth Milk
• ORS Edge Control
• Neutrogena Make-Up Remover Towelettes
• Poshe Fast Drying Topcoat
• NK Nail Enamel in Bubble Gum
• Nexxus Humectress Ultimate Moisture Conditioner
• Dr. Bronner's 18-in-1 Magic Soap Citrus Scent
• Organix Repairing Awapuhi Ginger Shampoo
• St. Ives Skin Renewing Body Lotion
• Olay Ultra Moisture Body Wash with Shea Butter

Hope you enjoyed.  Thank you for reading. 

OOTD: Seeing Red

It's been pretty cold freezing here lately.  Okay I may be exaggerating but for South Carolinians snow and ice is unusual.  Well due to the snow and ice we are being asked to stay inside because quite frankly we (majority of us) don't know how deal with this weather.  You should see the accidents.

Anyways I decided to brave the cold on Tuesday and get some work done at the office as well as run a few errands.  This is what I wore:

Top: Belk / Skirt: Forever 21 / Necklace: Juicy Couture / Bracelet: Charlotte Russe / Watch: Thrifted  / Shoes:  Old Navy

This is what it looked like outside of our apartment yesterday.  This is a picture of a very busy street in the city that I live in and it was completely covered in ice and snow.  :(  

Thanks for reading.  Stay safe and warm. 

Coming Soon

Lately I've been suffering from a severe cold and it's quite frankly been kicking my butt.  However, I did want to at least post today so that everyone would know that I haven't fallen off of the blogging wagon.  I do have a few new posts that should be up shortly.  


Coming Soon:
-More Outfit of the Days
-January Favorites
-Skincare Routine
-Advice Pieces
And more more

Thank you for reading.

Ootd: Cold & Gray

This week here in the south we got a good bit of cooler weather. As pretty as it is I really do not like snow or cold weather for that matter. However, during the past few days I have gotten a chance to wear a few of my recently purchased sweaters. Here's a look at my outfit of the day and my messy closet.

Sweater: Old Navy / Pants: Dots / Ring: Gift / Bracelet: Thrifted / Earrings: Gift / Scarf:  Walmart / Boots:  ??? (Long Time Ago)

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed. 

What's In My Bag?

I've always loved "What's in my Bag" posts.  I'm always so curious to see what everyone else carries in their bags.  

I work full-time and when I'm not at work I'm generally either out with friends eating or shopping.  I end up spending hours away from apartment so I need to be able to take quite a few things with me.  I got my bag from Marshall's (I believe it was about $30) and I got it just so that I could have an everyday bag that's big enough to carry everything that I need (sadly my lovely Michael Kors had to be decommissioned).  I like designer bags but I refuse to purchased a blatant knock off therefore I picked this bag on a whim and it hasn't let me down yet.   Now to check out what's in my bag. 

As I've stated this bag is from Marshall's and it's very sturdy and spacey, I love it.  Inside there's a Bodycology Blackberry Vanilla hand lotion (smells delicious), my Victoria's Secret mini-makeup bag (it holds my lipsticks, blotting papers, face powder, nail color of the moment, lip liners, etc.), a hair tie, Carmex chapstick (the only on that works for me), Extra Strength Tylenol, my wallet, Dove deodorant, my keys, my card holder, car charger, my planner (featured in Advice:  Planning), my journal,  and some pens.   Generally my phone is also in my bag.

What are some things that are in your bag?

Thanks for reading. 

Mani Moment #1

So I'm trying a few new things and dabbling a little more in style and beauty.  I only hope that you all enjoy these types of posts as much as my other posts. I'll be working very hard to bring new content to this blog everyday.  So without further ado here's my mani of the moment.

The color is Chili by Revlon.  It's their Top Speed fast dry nail enamel.  It's an orange red which I absolutely love.  

Hope you enjoyed. 

Weekend Haul

So this weekend I went in search of maternity clothing because last week there was a constant struggle to fit into my regular clothes for work.  Honestly I was hoping that I wouldn't start getting bigger until the weather got warmer because then I could wear dresses.  Well, it looks like that will not be happening and the time for maternity clothes is now.

I decided  to try Old Navy since I had about 3 of those Super Cash tickets that are redeemable between January 21 - 29, 2014.  I wasn't really successful in finding maternity pants but I did come out with some very cute things and I also got some very useful advice from another expectant mother.  Check out what I bought.

OOTD: Patterns & Jewel Tones

Long time no post....lately I've been without my computer and camera and it's been so tough.  My phone is great but updating the blog is treacherous.  Well now that my computer is back up and running, I can't say the same for my camera (but my phone will do your now), I can get back to posting regularly.  Here's what I'm wearing today.

Top: Dots / Skirt: Dots / Shoes: Old Navy / Watch:  Thrifted / Bracelet:  Charlotte Russe / Necklace:  Alloy

Hope you enjoyed.  

This Week In Retrospect: Sneak Peek

This week has been full of surprises and a little panic.  I feel like I'm finally back to taking blogging seriously even with all of the fatigue and morning sickness (aka anytime sickness).  However, yesterday was the probably one of the scariest days of my life.  I had to leave my job early to go see my doctor for an emergency ultrasound because I believed that I was having a miscarriage (I decided to spare you all the details).  I was so scared that I may have lost my precious little bundle however when they checked mommy and baby were just fine. Needless to say I was overjoyed.  I even got to see my little 'lemon baby' and now I'd like to share with you the first glimpse of baby Smith.

He's Chillin'

I'm glad to be back to blogging and I'm eternally grateful for the health of my baby.  I hope everyone has a great weekend.  

Thanks for reading.  XOXO

Advice: Planning

"Plans are nothing; planning is everything."

-Dwight D. Eisenhower

Life is hectic and that's a fact that we all know.  Changes come up every minute and just when you think you have it all mapped out it's generally at those times that you come to a roadblock.  However, if you're looking to increase you productivity, get organized, or make the most of your free time planning is a great way to accomplish your goals.   So where do you start?  For those who are just beginning I'd like to share a few tips that have helped me.

My choice tools for planning. 

1.  Reserve a block of time during your day for planning.
For myself, this is usually at around 6:30 in the morning as I am having my cup of tea.  You can choose to map out your day whenever you please but I suggest doing this either the night before or first thing in the morning.

2.  Choose the tool that works best for you.
Whether it's an app on your phone or a planner just make sure to have something on hand that makes your tasks for the day visual.


3.  Take it day by day.
There's nothing wrong with planning ahead (monthly/annually) and I do especially when I know I have appointments, meetings, or deadlines to keep. However, my detailed planning is most effective when I list my 'to-dos' on a daily basis.  It helps me focus.

4. Mark things off.
When you've completed a task mark through it.  It's helpful to see what you accomplished and how much you can accomplish.

5.  Take it easy.
Planning is a tool for you to use to help you not stress you out.  Don't worry if you don't complete a task on the day you planned to just add it to the next day's list.  Planning is a guide and for the most part your guide is pliable.

As I always say change is inevitable and everything that we plan does not always come to fruition.  Planning is not to be mistaken with setting out a hardcore plan for your day.  It should be seen as more of a guide for your day.  Planning is a means to help you stay focused and accomplish your goals.  I hope this helps.


Thank you for reading. XOXO

Tasty Tales: Creamy Hot Cocoa

One of my favorite treats during the winter is a nice cup of creamy hot cocoa.  Here in South Carolina the past few days have been very cold, not as cold in some other parts of the world but to us it was freezing.  So what better to do than sit down with some friends and enjoy a nice hot cup of cocoa?

Today I bring you my recipe for creamy hot chocolate, I hope you enjoy this decadent treat.



For a special added treat I tip-toed over to one of my favorite blogs The Simply Luxurious Life for a whipped cream topping recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream
1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Make the whipping cream by mixing the cream, sugar, and vanilla until peaks form.  Refrigerate until ready to use.

Ingredients (makes 4 servings)
1/3 cup of cocoa powder
3/4 cup of white sugar
1 pinch of salt
1/3 cup of water
3 1/2 cup of milk
3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 splash of heavy whipping cream (optional)

Directions
1.  Boil water
2. Combine cocoa, sugar, and salt in a saucepan and blend in boiling water. Bring the mixture to a light boil for 1-2 minutes (don't forget to stir so that it does not burn).
3. Stir in milk and heat until hot, but don't boil.
4.  Add splash of heavy whipping cream. (optional)
5.  Remove from heat and add vanilla.
6.  Now serve and enjoy.


Thanks for reading.  XOXO

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

This past year has had it's ups and downs. I've accomplished so much and I'd like to thank everyone who provided encouragement and support. I hope that we can go into this year with a sense of renewal and a vibrant outlook on life.  I love you all and I look forward to sharing this year and all that it brings with you.

Remember that you are of infinite worth. You can't win them all and you weren't made to kill yourself trying. Struggle and hardship is universal and not for your own personal eternal ownership. We experience pain but we have to remember to feel it then let it go in order to grow.  We are stronger than we know. Let this year and every day signify a new beginning. Be you, be strong, and be happy.

For those in pursuit of their dreams be bold and unshaken!