Top 15 of 2015 – Non-Beauty!

Today I’m sharing my Non-Beauty Top 15 of 2015!  Unlike my beauty favourites, this one was a little harder to compile.  I tend to use my beauty products on a daily basis but some of the things on this list – like the tv show I mention below for instance, wasn’t something that came to mind automatically.  Anyway, my list is below – let me know if you enjoyed any of these in 2015 as well!:

1. Gap Cozy Plaid Scarf (not pictured): I put one of these in my Fall favourites post, as well as my Gift Guide for her because these scarves are just the best.  I’ve had people mistake mine for cashmere because its just so soft.  I can’t stop raving about these, I wish I had purchased a few more prior to Christmas when they were on sale.
2. Gapfit gFast Leggings: I scored these for 50% off at Gap’s Black Friday sale and I’m so impressed with them. I love that they have a thin drawstring on the inside so that you can tighten them if need be and they are the perfect rise – not too high and not too low.
3. Splendid Cities Adult Colouring Book: When I first got this colouring book I used it all the time.  Then Christmas came and I kind of forgot about it.  Now that all the craziness is over I’m starting to use it again; I like to use it before I go to sleep as it helps me relax.
4. DL1961 Denim:  I acquired my first pair of these jeans @ Winners last Spring and I fell in love with them immediately.  Perfect fit, super comfortable and the best thing – they don’t lose their shape (like, at all). In the Fall I got a really great deal from Macy’s on my second pair, this time in the Angel fit and I love them just as much (maybe a little bit more!).  Highly recommend these if you’re looking for premium denim that is actually worth it’s premium price tag.
5. Lucky Brand Giorgia Lace-Up Ankle Boots: I have weirdo feet (high arches, wide at the front, narrow at the back) so it’s hard for me to find footwear that actually fits and doesn’t kill my feet.  These have worked out so well for me and I wear them with almost everything because they’re such a versatile, basic style.  Bonus – they’re on sale right now!
6.  The Sac Cambria Crochet Large Tote:  Sometimes (okay, pretty much all the time) you can find the most amazing things at Costco – and this was one of those things.  I paid $30 for this bag last summer and it took about 5 minutes for me to fall in love with it and for it to become my go-to summer purse.  It’s super lightweight, durable and roomy.  And it’s cute!  Plus it works really well as a carry-on bag too.  These retail for double the price so if Costco gets them in again this year I’d highly recommend getting your hands on one.  Honestly though, I’d pay the full price for another one of these when mine needs replacing because I just love it so much!
7. Express Portofino Shirt: I adore these because they’re so easy to wear.  They look great paired with dress pants or a skirt for work and are just as fab when worn with jeans.  Plus they come in almost every colour and fun print imaginable .  I own 5 of them so you could say I’m a little obsessed.
8. Reef Flipflops: I’ve been wearing Reef flip flops for years and they are the only ones I will buy.  A little pricey but they offer way more support than the cheaper kind and they have really cute styles.  And they last forever!  I’m on my second pair of Twisted Stars but my first pair lasted me 2 years (and I’m really hard on shoes!)
9. Monogrammed Mug (Sold out – alternative): My parents got me and D these for Christmas and we’ve grown very fond of them.  I’ve been using this a lot over the last few weeks, filing it up with tea and soup and I’m very impressed with how much it can hold.  These make for a great gift for anyone, at any time of year!
10. The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Easily one of the best shows I’ve watched all year.  It’s light-hearted, hilarious and just so enjoyable to watch.  I’m eagerly awaiting Season 2!
11. Ed Sheeran: I was lucky enough to see Ed in concert earlier this year and it solidified my admiration of his talent.  He had no band behind him, it was just him up on the stage, playing his guitar.  Unfortunately the venue he was performing in wasn’t the best for acoustics but he still blew me away.  If you don’t have his album X, stop what you’re doing and get it now.  You won’t regret it.
12. Quitter: Closing the Gap between Your Day Job and Your Dream Job: My friend gifted me this book back in October and I just finished reading it over the holidays.  If you are struggling with figuring out what you want to be when you grow up AND what the path from your day job to your dream job should be, I’d highly recommend you read this.  I’ve taken so much from this book and I’m going to start applying what I learned on a daily basis in 2016.
13. Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Hot Chocolate: My new favourite Starbucks drink!  I can’t drink coffee or tea lattes (they make me shaky) and there’s not many teas that I actually like, so I’m really glad I discovered this.  I get mine 1/2 fat and 1/2 sweet with no whip and it’s deeeelicious!
14. Open Table: This is one of the most-used apps on my phone!  It’s an online restaurant reservation service that allots you points for reservations you make and honour, and it includes reviews from diners as well.  I use this regularly at home, as well as when we travel.  I used it so much last year that I’m close to receiving a $130 Dining Cheque!  Pretty good deal for just making some reservations I would have made anyway.
15. PicMonkey: I discovered this photo editing tool a few months into my blog and I’ve been using it ever since.  It’s also great for making photo collages and the best part is, it’s FREE!

Thanks for reading!

This & That Fridays – January 8

You may (or may not) have noticed I’ve been absent for a bit – I was lucky enough to contact pink eye on New Years Eve (which is also my birthday) and then some kind of horrible virus the next day after and I’ve been out of commission since.  I’m finally starting to feel better which is good because I was beginning to think it was never going to end and I was going to have a sore throat for the rest of my life.  That and I’ve been going a bit stir crazy being stuck in the house for over a week.

So, on to the first This & That Friday of 2016!  I spent copious amounts of time on the couch and in bed over the last week and I turned to Netflix to get me through it.  I decided to give The Mindy Project a try and I can’t believe what I’ve been missing.  This show is HILARIOUS and Mindy Kailing is brilliant in it.  As is her wardrobe!

If you’ve ever had pink eye you know how frigging horrible it is.  I had it in both eyes and the skin around my eyes was so dry, flaky and sore.  I had picked up a small Origins sample kit on Black Friday that included the Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask and I used it religiously over the last week and it made such a difference.  It significantly healed my dry patches after just one use and completely after a second.  I have used this a couple of times on my entire face as well and woke up with plump, super soft, hydrated skin.  I haven’t tried many Origins products but I think I’m going to explore them a little more.

We watched the final Hunger Games instalment (Mockingjay Part II) over the Christmas break and I have to admit I was a little disappointed.  It seemed to drag on a bit – they really shouldn’t have split it into two.  Have you seen it?  What were your thoughts?

I’m not a big tea drinker but I LOVE this maple tea.  It’s delicious enough on its own, even better with a bit of honey mixed in.  I usually pick mine up @ Homesense/Winners for $4.99.

I spent a lot of time watching YouTube videos this week as well – and normally I skip the ads that come up when I can.  However, this Aussie commercial cracks me up every time and I always watch it through to the end.  Have you seen it?  #ihatenature

I’ve been contemplating getting a hot brush for a while now and finally bit the bullet and picked up Hot Tools’ version via Chatters for a smoking deal (a little less than 50% off).  It just came in the mail yesterday and I can’t wait to try it out.  Review to come!

Writing this up has pretty much exhausted me so I’m going to wrap this up.  I hope you’re having a good start to 2016 so far  (unlike mine!).

Thanks for reading!

Gift Guide for Her

I couldn’t do a Gift Guide for Him and not do a Gift Guide for her.  Most of these are things I have previously received as gifts or similar to things I have purchased for myself – and love.  And if I don’t have them, I know I’d enjoy them.  And I think others would enjoy them too!

1. Gap Cozy Plaid Scarf ($34.95 CAD) – I purchased one of these a month ago and I’m in LOVE with it.  It’s so soft and the perfect size – large enough to use as a shawl but not too big that it’s bulky when used as a scarf.  The colour above was in stock yesterday and is now sold out so if you want one of these, get yourself to GAP asap!
2. Victoria’s Secret Fireside Long Jane Pajamas ($54.50 CAD): Victoria’s Secret always has the cutest, coziest pj’s!  Love the colourful print on these.
3. Project Candy Box – 3 Month Subscription ($70.50 CAD): For the sweet tooth on your list!  A box full of candy on your doorstep each month.  Sign me up!  Bonus that this is a Canadian company and charges in Canadian funds!
4. Tiffany Notes Alphabet Disc Charm Pendant and Chain ($165 CAD): You can never go wrong with anything from Tiffany’s.  But who wouldn’t love this monogrammed pendant?  Simple yet elegant.
5. Saje AromaOm Ultrasonic Nebulizer ($89.95 CAD): I received one of these a few years ago at Christmas and it’s one of the best gifts I’ve ever received.  In addition to the numerous benefits of aromatherapy, this purifies, humidifies, and reduces dust and other allergens in the air.
6. Ugg Classic Wired Ear Muff ($90 CAD): I am not a touque wearer and sometimes a hood is too warm, which is why I love these Ugg Wired Ear Muffs.  They don’t mess up my hair, and they keep my ears and head toasty warm.  Plus you can connect them to your phone or iPod and they double as ear phones.  I’m on my second pair of these as I lost my first pair (which was sad).
7. Sephora Gift Card: No-brainer here.
8. Fossil Jacqueline Beige Leather Watch ($197.64 CAD): I prefer dainty, feminine watches and the face on this one is gorgeous and unique.  A good option if you’re looking to splurge!
9. Ugg Fluff Flip Flop II Slipper ($98 CAD): I’m big on UGG stuff, if you haven’t noticed.  Mainly because in their case (which isn’t always the case!), $$$ equals quality.  I’ve never not been impressed with anything I’ve purchased from Ugg.  And their slippers are the best.  I own the Ansley ones and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.  These are basically winter flip flops.
10. Saje Relaxation Diffuser Blend ($44.95 CAD): This would pair nicely with the nebulizer above, or as a lovely gift all on its own.  You can use these in a oil warmer as well.  All of these smell great, but Spa Spirit is my favourite.  It smells like walking into your favourite spa.
11. Color Me Calm Adult Coloring Book ($15 CAD): Adult colouring books are all the rage and are a great way to unwind and relieve stress.  I try to do a bit in mine every night just to ease in shutting my brain down before I head to bed.
12. Set of 24 Coloured Pencils ($15 CAD): A must-have to accompany the colouring book!
13. Britney Spears Fantasy Gift Set ($21.99 CAD): Okay this is slightly embarrassing to admit, but this is one of my favourite fragrances.  Yes I know it’s Britney Spears.  But I get so many compliments when I wear this AND it’s super cheap.  And the bottle looks so pretty on a vanity!
14. Bath & Body Works Lavender Vanilla Luxury Bath ($16.50 USD): This is the best bubble bath ever.  It is super thick and creamy and makes the foamiest bubbles ever.  The scent is gentle and light and just so relaxing.  You can’t go wrong with gifting this.

If you haven’t finished up your shopping yet, I wish you luck and patience braving the crowds!

Happy Shopping!

 

Gift Guide for Him

Every year I struggle with brainstorming gift ideas for my husband – whenever I ask him what he wants, the answer is usually “Nothing” or “I don’t need anything”.  Yet I know if I do exactly that he’d be disappointed.  So while I struggle with finding gifts for him for this Christmas, I thought I’d share with you some of the things I (or others) have purchased for him in the past that he actually liked (and I liked too!).  And perhaps a few things I may be considering for him this year!

1. Lucky Brand Graphic Tee ($39.50)
   We are both fans of Lucky Brand’s tees.  They’re always super soft and pre-shrunk so you don’t have to worry about them shrinking in the wash.  Plus they always have a sale on so you can stock up and get a few fun shirts for a great price!
2. Final Touch Mini Beer Boot with Handle ($19.50)
   Not much to say about this except I guess there’s some novelty associated with drinking your beer out of a glass boot?  I don’t understand it but I know this would go over well.
3. New Era Baseball Cap ($50.21 CAD)
   I’m married a huge NFL fan so I had to throw one of these in here.  This monochromatic one is pretty unique – almost bordering on classy (almost!).
4. Jack Black Jet Set Traveller ($33 CAD)
   I think the majority of men do nothing to their skin other than shave and wash their face in the shower.  This set offers a gentle introduction to men’s skin care and includes a cleanser, shave lather and moisturizer.
5. Munch Better Monthly Subscription Box ($84 CAD for a 3 month subscription – ships to Canada only)
   I did a lot of research on subscription boxes that would appeal to men and this one came out on top.  Because food. And its Canadian.  But let’s be honest, come January almost everyone usually on a health kick and is attempting to eat better; having healthy snacks delivered once a month that you can just grab and throw in your briefcase/lunch bag makes it all the easier.  Plus isn’t it fun to receive something other than bills in the mail?
6. Apple TV – 3rd Generation ($89.00)
   We received one of these as a gift a few years ago and love it.  This makes it so easy to watch Netflix or anything from iTunes.  I believe you can also watch YouTube and live sports in HD as well. A great gift for couch potatoes!
7. Legend – Montblanc Cologne ($65 CAD for 1.7 oz)
   I purchased this cologne as a gift last year for Christmas and I lurrrrrve it.  It smells so good.  In my opinion it’s just the perfect men’s fragrance – masculine, woodsy and the slightest bit sweet but not at all overpowering.  If you need further convincing (or a laugh!) go read the reviews on Sephora’s website.
8. Herschel Supply Co. ‘Chapter’ Travel Kit ($36.01 CAD)
   This is the gift for him and you!  I don’t like sharing my toiletry bags (not that there’s often any room left anyway!) so why not get him his own?  This one is a good size and made of water-resistant canvas.
9. Ugg Scruff Slippers ($110 CAD)
   There are two types of guys in the world – slipper wearers and non-slipper wearers.  If yours is a slipper-wearer, I can’t recommend a pair of Uggs enough.  They may be pricey but their quality and comfort can’t be matched.  Love the simple, classic style of these too!
10. Fossil Money Clip ($43.04 CAD)
    I can’t imagine walking around with my wallet in my back pocket (can you say uncomfortable?).  My husband has always liked thinner wallets and lately he’s been loving ones with money clips.  This one provides enough room for a couple essential cards and the leather is soft and smooth.
11. iHome Mini Wireless Speaker ($69.00 CAD)
    I love mini speakers – they’re great for at home, at the office, out in the garage, on the deck, etc.  This one is wireless too which is even better!
12. Gillette Mac3 Sensitive Power Razor ($14.99 CAD)
    Not every guy is into electric razors, so I feel this battery-powered option is a step up from a disposable but cheaper than an electric!  Plus its made for sensitive skin!
13. Beats Solo 2 Headphones ($219.95 CAD)
    These are obviously a splurge but if you’re looking to spoil a music lover, you can’t beat (haha!) these! The sound quality is incredible and they fold up easily for travel.
14. SKITS Smart Tech Case ($71.95 CAD)
    For the organized (or wanna-be organized) traveler!  This little case has a bunch of zippered compartments to store chargers, headphones, cords and other tech accessories.  When we travel we typically have all of our techy things mixed in with everything else so it’d be nice to have one place for it all!
15. Sriracha Popcorn ($4.99 CAD)
    For that sriracha/hot sauce obsessed man in your life.

If you left your shopping to the last minute I hope this gift guide generated some ideas for you!

Happy shopping!

My Christmas Wish List

I don’t know about you, but December seems to have snuck up on me, although I’m pretty sure I say that every year.  I never feel fully prepared for Christmas, there’s always a million things to do and not enough time to do them.  I was traveling over the last couple of weeks that complicates things as well.  Now that I’m home I’m in full Christmas mode

I thought it’d be fun to share what’s on my Christmas list this year – I always find it interesting to learn what others are looking for at Christmas.  Hopefully you can find some gift inspiration from my wish list!

1. Bare Minerals The Regal Wardrobe Palette: I’ve been on the hunt for a new all-in-one palette that includes eyeshadow, bronzer, blush and highlighter.  Love the shades in this!

2. Real Techniques Deluxe Gift Set: I only own one Real Techniques brush but I’d love to add to my collection.  This set comes with a nice clutch to store them in as well!

3. The North Face Influx Insulated Jacket: I’m in a need of a new dog-walking jacket and one with a hood is essential.  This one looks cozy and warm and cute too!

4. Baileys Original Irish Cream: Because booze.  Seriously though, Baileys over ice is the perfect after dinner drink.  Or anytime drink really. 😉

5.  Emi-Jay ‘Grey Stripe’ Hair Ties: I go through hair ties like mad so I can always use more of them.  This style is my favorite as I find them to be really gentle on my hair.

6. Marc Jacobs Decadence Fragrance: I purchased the rollerball of this at the Sephora VIB Sale and I’m loving it.  It’s my new favourite fall/winter fragrance.

7. Godiva Milk Chocolate Hot Cocoa: Godiva makes the best hot chocolate ever.  I always like having good quality hot chocolate at home when a craving hits!

8. Nestle Big Turk Bites:  I feel like I’m the only one that likes Big Turks, which I don’t really understand because what’s not to like about chocolate covered jube jubes?  But that’s fine, just means there’s more for me.

9.  L’Occtaine Ultra Rich Foaming Bath: To fuel my bubble bath obsession.

10. Saje Peppermint Halo Headache Remedy: I’m often plagued with weather-related headaches and I’d like to see if this actually works or at least helps with those.

11.  Kate Spade New York ‘Bow Logo’ Gloves: Because it’s not Christmas without something from Kate Spade.  These have bows on them, so I obviously need them.

12. Halogen Marled Infinity Scarf: I received a infinity scarf for Christmas last year that I really liked and then proceeded to lose it a few weeks afterwards.  I like how lightweight and cozy this one looks.

13.  Rosana Golden Alphabet Tray: This pretty gold tray would be perfect for holding jewellery.  Plus its monogrammed.

14. Bite Beauty Discovery Set: I do not need any more lip products…but I’m certain I need this.  I’ve been wanting to try their Agave Lip Mask in forever, plus the shades look really neutral and universal, which isn’t always the case with beauty sets.

15. The Northface Waypoint Graphic Pullover: Another The North Face product!  I own one of their hoodies and its my favourite.  Love the graphic design on this.

16. Bath & Body Works 3 Wick Candle – Vanilla Bean Noel: This is my favourite BB&W scent ever.  I have a bottle of hand soap in this scent in each of the bathrooms in my house right now.  Need the candle too.

17.  2016 Baby Goats Walls Calendar – I want a baby goat but that’s not likely to happen so a wall calendar will have to suffice.

What’s on your Christmas Wish List?

 

This & That Fridays – November 27

Happy Black Friday all!  I hope those in the US enjoyed Thanksgiving with your famillies and friends and those in Canada enjoyed a regular Thursday.  And today I hope you’re successful in fighting the masses at the Black Friday sales!

I bought these Lucky Brand boots a few weeks ago and I looooovve them!  I ended up exchanging the Marc Fisher ones I bought a month ago as they just weren’t me.  These ones though – I wear them with everything and anything.

This is seriously the best salsa ever.  I discovered it a few years ago at a local craft fair and I ordered a case of it.  I can literally eat an entire jar in one sitting.

Need some budget-friendly and homemade gift ideas?  This list of 30 days of edible gifts has some seriously delicious inspiration, such as chocolate-covered bacon (yes please!).

I’ve discovered my new favourite, go-to t-shirt!  Lightweight, soft and a relaxed fit while still figure-flattering.  And currently 50% off!  Thank you Gap!

Do you follow The Small Things Blog?  I discovered her years ago and I’ve been a loyal follower ever since.  I really like this recent hair tutorial she did. She always makes them look so easy but I might actually give this one a try for those rare days when I skip my contacts.

I wish you a wonderful weekend!

Sunshine Blogger Award

Happy Thursday!

I hope you are all having a great week! I’ve slid off of my posting schedule due to the fact that I am currently without a laptop. I thought I was going to be able to do everything via my iPad until I realized that it’s impossible to connect a mouse to it. #damnyouapple. Anyways I’m going to try to put a few posts up as best I can without it so please bear with me!

I was nominated for the Sunshine Blogger Award by the lovely Robyn from Lipstick on the Lake. I’ve been following her blog for a few months now and I really enjoy all her posts – she particularly has lots of eyeshadow palette reviews which I can’t ever get enough of. Please go check her out!

The rules:

1. Thank the person who nominated you.
2. Answer the questions from your nomination.
3. Nominate eleven other bloggers and give them eleven questions.

Lipstick on the Lake’s questions:

1. Why did you pick the name of your blog?

The name of my blog was inspired by two things – my beloved pooch and how I’d describe my sense of style. I’ll admit it – I’m blogging under an alias. My real name is not Maggie – it’s my dog’s name. I am a pretty private person and when I first started my blog, doing it under my real name scared me, for a bunch of different reasons. I felt (and still feel) that I could blog more freely by doing it this way.  I may change my name at some point in the future, but for now this works.

2. What is your favorite type of makeup to buy?

Definitely mascara. It’s the one product I can’t live without.

3. What kind of camera do you use for your blog?

Currently just my iPhone 6. It gets the job done!

4. Favourite hot beverage?

Starbucks cinnamon dolce hot chocolate

5. How do you deal with writer’s block?

Honestly I rarely suffer from writer’s block – I moreso struggle with trying to squeeze in time to blog over anything else. If I’m feeling uninspired I typically like to visit some of my favorite blogs or watch videos from my favourite You Tubers and that gets my creative juices flowing.

6. What is the #1 item on your holiday wish list?

This is a hard one….to be honest there isn’t anything specific that I really want. I just always look forward to eating good food and spending time with family and friends. But I’ll never turn down any makeup/beauty-related gifts! 😉

7. What does your go-to outfit involve?

This is an easy one! Jeans and a t-shirt always. In winter I’ll throw on a comfy sweater or soft flannel shirt to keep warm.

8. Cats or dogs?

DOGS! I love my dog so much I named my blog after her. She’s my little ray of sunshine! 🌞

9. Why did you start blogging?

I used to write all the time when I was younger but at some point I just stopped doing it.  I realized earlier this year how much I missed it and I had a burning desire to do something creative. I’m so glad I decide to start blogging – as much work as it is I enjoy it more than I could have imagined.

10. What is your favorite movie genre?

Hmmm…I’m going to go with comedy. I’m picky about what I find funny though so it can’t just be any comedy. Sarcasm/dry humor is my favorite.

11. What blog post are you most proud of? (link it)

Probably any of my This & That Friday posts; I started doing these a few months ago and I really enjoy writing them.  I just write about whatever I want and include links to things I enjoyed throughout the week.  I’ve been pretty good about consistently posting one every Friday (with the exception of last week) so I’m pretty proud of that.

My turn!:

1. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

2. What’s your favourite colour?

3. What’s your top beauty product of 2015?

4. What hobbies do you have outside of blogging?

5. Describe everything that makes up what you consider to be a perfect day.

6. Favorite tv show?

7. If you only had one day left on earth, what would your last meal include?

8. Share your best skincare tip.

9. On a Saturday night, do you like to go out or stay in?

10. What’s your favorite Holiday movie?

11. Name the blog post you’re most proud of and link it (similar to Lipstick on the Lake, I’m stealing this from a previous nominee because its a good one!)

I’m going to nominate my newest 11 followers:

Skin Sensitive

Glamorange

Beauty by Tami

In the Beauty Box

Simply 20’s Life

My Fave Sub Boxes

Brigita Vasiliauskaite

Elsas Beauty Place

Luzz Blog

Richelle Reviews Beauty

Beauty with Glynnis

Participate if you’re interested, no offense taken if you choose not to!

Thanks for reading!

 

This & That Fridays – November 6

This e-card literally made me LOL.  It’s true though, right?

Have you seen Oprah’s Favorite Things for 2015?  As usual it includes some truly ridiculous things like a $425 purse to house your tablet and cords, a $650 Suitcase, and $200 sweatpants.  But also some neat things like a Smartphone printer, keepsake books, birthstone stacking rings, and a Butter London Lacquer Wardrobe!   Also this pasta maker is quite possibly the coolest thing ever!  And I’m pretty sure my dog really wants this antler beanie from American Beagle Outfitters (haha!)….well maybe not.

I’m going through a bit of career crisis right now.  I’m unhappy with many aspects of my job which in turn, is making me question my choice of career.  I’m trying to decide what it is that I truly want to do which is not easy when you thought you already had that decided!  I’m currently reading this book, which was a gift from a friend.  I’m about 1/4 of the way through and I’ve already learned a few things about myself including that I am a Procrastinating Perfectionist! #revelations

I’ve been totally obsessed with watching Bob Ross episodes on YouTube.  If you don’t know who Bob Ross is, you’re missing out!  I used to watch re-runs on PBS when I was younger and I still love them today.  I’ve been watching these before bed and they totally relax me and help me fall asleep.  He makes me want to try painting!

Work Christmas Party = New Dress!  I received my invitation to our work function this week which automatically gets me thinking about shopping for atire.  I could just wear one of the dozen dresses I have in my closet that I’ve only worn once, but what fun is that?  Le Chateau is usually my go-to for cocktail dresses – I like this one, this one and this one.

Watch this video!  Because baby elephants!

Are you hitting up the Sephora VIB Rouge sale this weekend?  I am.  Please pray for my bank account balance.

I’ve got a Costco roast burning a hole in my freezer that I’m going to make Sunday.  I’m not big on including root veggies in with the roast, but this recipe throws them in the blender once the roast is cooked and adds the mixture to the gravy.  Intrguing!  Might have to give this a whirl!

I picked up this London Fog coat last weekend and I’m so happy with my purchase!  My trench coat is a little thin to be wearing now that the temperatures are dipping below zero.  This is just the right amount of warm, it’s got a hood and it’s the perfect length.

And I think that’s it for this week. Thanks for reading and have a fantabulous weekend!

This & That Fridays – October 30

Well here we are again, another week complete!  Hopefully yours was a good one!

So tomorrow is Halloween!  Do you hand out candy?  I do and it’s one of the things I look forward to all year.  We only get around 20-30 kids but I love seeing all the costumes.  Plus I dress my dog up and she loves hearing the doorbell ring and greeting the kids at the door.  Anyway if you’re looking for some last minute costume ideas, this Real Simple article has some clever (and groan-worthy) options for you.

Are you a fan of the Hunger Games?  The trailer for Mockingjay: Part 2, which is the final installment in the series, is out.  I don’t go and see many movies in the theaters but this is going to be one of them.  So stoked!

I got a new iPhone last weekend and now I’m on the search for a case.  I want something cute, yet functional and not too chunky.  I kind of like the looks of this clear glittery one and I REALLY like this Ted Baker folio version.  This gold floral lace option is intriguing too!

I have a bunch of chocolate chips in my pantry that I need to use before they expire so I might whip up a batch of these.  Two words: Peanut butter.  Chocolate.   Thank you Pioneer Woman!  (My waist line does not thank you).

So we’ve had some chilly, very Fall-like, almost Wintery weather here this week which was a bit of a shock for me.  And I’ve realized it is now officially back to being tight and nylon season.  I wear a lot of skirts and dresses to work and as much as I hate wearing them, they are necessity.  What are your favorites?  Hue makes my favorite tights but nylons are a different story.  Just this week for instance – I brought a brand new pair, had them on for all of 2 hours and managed to rip a hole in the knee.  I PAID $15 FOR THEM!  Yes I know that’s my own fault but they were really good ones.  But obviously not that good if I ruined them 2 hours in. Anyway I’ve learned my lesson, I’m not doing that again.  Joe Fresh makes some decent ones for not a bad price so I might have to stop in there this weekend.  But if you have a good nylon recommendation help a girl out and share please!

Lastly, after reading fellow blogger Stash Matters’ post on Essie’s Cashmere Matte nail polish collection, I fell in love with the shade Coat Couture.  Despite her less than glowing review on the formula, I decided I needed this in my life. I gave myself a manicure Sunday night and let me just say, this is going straight into the garbage!  My nails were chipping like crazy by Monday afternoon, and not just small chips – it was literally coming off in large strips!  I removed and re-applied some of the nails with bigger chips on Monday night and by Tuesday afternoon it was the same thing.  So disappointing as this is such a beautiful and unique colour.  No patience for this one!

And that’s it for this week!  Have a wonderful weekend and a spooktacular Halloween!

Thanks for reading!

Fall Essentials

Links: one; two; three; four; five; six; seven; eight; nine; ten; eleven

Today I have a quick post on my essentials for Fall.  We’ve had some unseasonably warm weather here which I’ve really enjoyed because usually we have a month of Fall and then it’s winter for six straight months.  It’s definitely nice to ease into cooler weather for once!

I’ve put together a collection of things that I feel are essential for the season.  Some of these I own or a own a similar version, and some of these I wish I owned (or may own soon…shhhh 😉 ):

Classic Trench Coat: A good trench coat never goes out of style and I’ve definitely made good use of mine over the last few weeks.  It goes with absolutely anything and mine is light enough that I don’t overheat on the way home, but keeps me just warm enough for the crisp morning air.

Super Soft Scarf: I’ve seen this scarf in store and I’m waiting for it to go on sale because I love, love how soft it is.  They have this in various colors but I like the combination of the pink, white and gray in this one.

Suede Ankle Boots; Given the climate here, suede is probably not the most practical material for boots; taupe suede in particular.  But sometimes you have to throw practicality to the wind and just buy what you love.  I’ve been eyeing up several versions of beige ankle boots for a while now and these offer everything I’m looking for.  Plus they are Tom’s so I’m feel like they should be comfortable. I also love the stacked, wood heel.  These will be mine at some point!

Cozy Plaid Shirt: There’s nothing cozier on a cool day than a plaid shirt.  I love pairing one with leggings and a tank and boots.  It’s pretty much the uniform of Fall in my opinion.  I like the orange and blue hues in this version, plus I appreciate that it’s a little longer in the back!

Woodsy Scented Candle: One of my favorite scents ever has to be the smell of a burning campfire/wood fireplace, especially during fall/winter. I never thought I’d find a candle that actually mimics that scent without smelling fake or overpowering but I did!  Having a real wood burning fireplace is a dream of mine, but until then, I’ll just have to burn this.

Monogrammed Mug: I’m not a coffee or tea drinker, but in the cooler months I definitely crave something warm to drink.  Hot chocolate is my go-to drink and drinking it from a large mug, especially one with my initial on it, makes it that much better!

Neutral Nail Polish: Essie’s Merino Cool is my top fall nail polish.  The shade is a greyish purple and it just goes so well with everything!  Two thin coats of this and I’m done, plus it lasts quite a while before I start seeing any wear or chips.  I always get compliments on my nails when I wear this!

Versatile Eyeshadow Palette: This is an oldie but a goodie for me.  I love the versatility of this palette – I can do a really neutral, natural eye or an all-out, dramatic smokey eye depending on how I’m feeling.  These shadows are a great quality and last forever.  Definitely worth the high price tag!

Hydrating Hand Cream:  Hand cream is a staple for me no matter what the season, but as the weather gets colder and the air gets dryer, I definitely need a thicker cream to help with my chronically dry hands.  Cake makes my favorite version with the perfect hint of coconut and vanilla.  It’s thick and creamy, and I usually only have to apply this twice a day to keep my hands feeling soft and supple.

Moisturizing Lipstick: Okay, I know matte is all the rage but meh, I like to break the rules.  My lips are naturally quite dry and matte lip products only intensify my dryness so I prefer moisturizing formulas.   I have a limited edition shade of this Bite Beauty lipstick and I’m so impressed in how moisturizing and creamy it is, while still providing long-lasting, pigmented color.  The shade I own is a very intense magenta so I’d like to add this more neutral, toned-down version to my collection.

Comfy Throw: What is Fall without a warm, cozy blanket to snuggle up on the couch in?  I usually gravitate to the faux fur versions, but this cable-knit version reminds me of a well-worn sweater.  Plus the fur accent can transition into winter/Christmas easily.

And those are my essentials!  What things do you need to get you through the season?  Let me know below!

Thanks for reading!