On My Radar

The last two weeks I've been able to get a good amount of things accomplished. Last week I went back home to spend time with my parents for the first time since Christmas! I always love going home, and Sawyer gets to spend time with his grandparents. Once I came back to Wilmington I had a lot to accomplish - cleaning bathrooms, cleaning the kitchen, cleaning...everything. 

My goal was to have this post up on Friday. As in last Friday. Now it's Saturday, and - better late than never, right?

ONE // Bloom That

I received a $20 promo/gift code for Bloom That in my April Popsugar Must Have box. I had not previously heard of the service, but I was interested in trying it out. I've been checking the site frequently to see what new blooms they were offering, since some were a little more than I'd like to spend. When they added peonies I knew it was time to place an order.

I love having fresh flowers, and these were beautiful. If you're interested in ordering from them, the code PSBLOOMS4857 is good until around mid-June.

TWO // Don't Look At Me Fresh Face Mask

This fresh mask from Lush is so amazing! It's bright blue (it totally matched the color of the walls in the previous photo!) and smells like Fruit Loops. It made my skin feel so smooth and after the first use I could notice that my skin was so much clearer. I always love Lush's Fresh Masks, but I think this is my new favorite. 

THREE // Colourpop Jenn Im Collection

I'm always a fan of new Colourpop collections, so this is no surprise. I really love the entire collection, and I'm so excited that they're finally allowing you to purchase single shadows rather than the whole set. Also, May marks Colourpop's second birthday, so orders placed this weekend will include a limited edition shadow in 'Birthday Boy'. I missed out on last years shadow 'Birthday Girl', and have regretted it ever since!

FOUR // Slither.io

I'll be the first to admit that I hate having games on my phone. I actually get nervous if I try to download a game app. I decided to try this one out one day while I was home, and I got hooked. You play as a snake and you essentially just eat the remains of other snakes, which appear as colorful dots. It's a pretty simple concept, but still fun. I love that it's also available to play online, and it really is so addictive. I've managed to make it to the top ten score board in 4th place before being killed by the tiniest of snakes.

FIVE // Rifle Paper Co. Memorial Day Sale

I love any and everything Rifle Paper Co.! I've gotten quite a few things from them in subscription boxes, and I've purchased a few of their prints for my living room, as well as iPhone cases. They are currently having a sale for 15% or more now through Tuesday, and it's taking a lot of willpower to not buy it all. I'm trying to decide between this one and this one. Okay, and maybe there are a few lot more I want. I am also dying for this to hang in my bathroom!

Skincare Favorites

The importance of a good skincare regimen has always been something I was aware of, but I haven't always been the best at keeping a consistent routine. There have been nights when I was just "too tired" to wash my face, weeks when I thought that it didn't make a difference if I stuck to my routine, times when I thought that because I didn't have a current breakout I could skip a day or two - and every time I get out of the habit of washing my face, I've noticed a drastic difference.

I always feel so much better when I take the time to go through the steps of washing my face. There's a clear (no pun intended!) improvement in the look and feel of my skin. It's just so refreshing to clean and moisturize your face before bed.

I am by no means an expert when it comes to skincare. There are still things that I need to learn and steps I need to add to my routine - for instance, I know nothing about products that will help to prevent aging, but I do know that it's best to start using them early. These are the products that are currently working best for me.

Clarisonic Mia 2

Purchasing my Clarisonic from Sephora was probably one of the best decisions I've made for my skin. I have used cheaper alternatives in the past, but I don't think any compare to my Mia 2. In only a minute, I am able to clean my entire face. It even alerts you when it's time to move to the next section - 20 seconds on your forehead, 20 seconds your nose and chin, and then 10 seconds for each cheek. I generally focus more on my chin, because that it where I experience the most breakouts. I also like that there are many different replacement options for the brush head, so there's something that will work for everyone. I've tried the Deep Pore and Acne brush heads and I've found that the Deep Pore works best for me!

Philosophy Purity Made Simple

I've used almost every cleanser imaginable. I decided to try Philosophy's Purity cleanser after Jaclyn Hill mentioned it as a part of her skin care regimen. My mom is also a big fan of this cleanser. I love how gentle it is, and paired with my Clarisonic it makes my skin feel so amazing. It doesn't irritate my eyes either, which I've found to be a problem with many cleansers in the past. I've also used the Purity Makeup Remover Wipes and really like them as well.

Another cleanser that I've repurchased multiple times Lush's 9 to 5. Both do a great job at removing my makeup and making my skin feel clean and refreshed.

Breath of Fresh Air Toner Water and Tea Tree Water Toner

My skin is combination, so I deal with dryness and oiliness, though I'm usually more on the oily side. I actually use both of these toners together, and it totally works for me. The Breath of Fresh Air toner makes my skin feel so refreshed. Any time I notice dryness, this is able to fix it almost immediately. The Tea Tree Water helps with the oiliness and helps to heal any breakouts I have. 

Vanishing Cream Moisturizer

This is the best moisturizer I've ever used. Most are too heavy for my skin, so the lightness of this one is perfect. Really, the description that Lush gives for this moisturizer is spot on. It really does balance my skin out and makes it feel hydrated.

The following products I have used and plan on repurchasing:

• Movis Facial Soap - This soap looks more like something you should consume, but it works so well! It smells really delicious, and makes my skin feel refreshed. I've noticed a huge difference in my skin after using this - it really clears up any problem areas.
• Love Lettuce Fresh Face Mask - This mask uses ground almonds to exfoliate the skin. It's great for healing the areas on my face that are dry. It's calming to my skin, and makes it look so healthy.
• Cosmetic Warrior Fresh Face Mask - I first purchased this mask while my skin was having a major freakout and nothing was seeming to help. It was great for calming my skin and clearing up the breakouts I was having. It has garlic in it, so to some it may smell strong, but I actually found it to be calming. 
• SUPERMUD Clearing Treatment - This is the first GLAMGLOW product I ever purchased. It's great for really clearing my skin up and bringing out all the junk in my pores. I use this whenever I feel like my skin is in need of a major overhaul.

Influenster Bloom VoxBox Review

It's time for another VoxBox review! I was thrilled when I received notification that I would be participating in the Bloom VoxBox and couldn't wait to see what products would be included.

Disclaimer: I received the following items complimentary for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

If you're interested in signing up for Influenster you may do so by clicking on this link! I really recommend signing up. It's a great way to get exposure to new brands and products, and who doesn't love getting products that are completely free? I know I do! With Influenster I've been able to test some really wonderful products, and this VoxBox was full of them.

The Bloom VoxBox included the following:

Not Your Mother's Plump for Joy Thickening Hair Lifter, Sinful Colors Polish, Cutex Advanced Revival Nail Polish Remover Pads, Secret Outlast Deodorant, NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil, Sunbelt Bakery Chocolate Chip Chewy Granola Bar

Not Your Mother's Plump For Joy Thickening Hair Lifter

I was thrilled to see another product from the Not Your Mother's brand included in this VoxBox. I know from the Glam VoxBox that I'm a fan of their products, and I couldn't wait to put this one to use. I tried it out before going out for dinner and shopping with my family. It was great because it was easy to use, smells great, and doesn't make my hair look oily. Instead it looked thick and luscious. It seriously cut my hair routine in half, which is always great in my book. I'm planning to buy the full size product as soon as I run out of this sample!

Sinful Colors Polish

The messy application, along with this specific color, kind of made me look like a first grader painting their nails for the first time. This was after two coats.

I've bought Sinful Colors in the past and already knew that I like their polishes. I received the shade Teal Midnight, which looks very bold in the bottle, but applies sheer. In order to give a fair review I applied the polish on it's own. I wasn't really a fan of the color by itself, and felt like the chunks of glitter were a little juvenile. It was hard to apply neatly, and with my nails currently being short and stubby, I really couldn't make it look good. I think it would be great on top of another color, or for an accent nail, though.

Sinful Colors has also paired with Kylie Jenner for her own collection(s) of polish. They're currently available at Walgreens and Target - and really anywhere else that nail polish is sold. I picked up two colors on my last trip to Walgreens. I chose V.I.Peach and Karats of Kargo - both are great, and definitely more suitable for me!


Cutex Advanced Revival Nail Polish Remover Pads

If these seem familiar, it's because I've already reviewed them! They were included in the Glam VoxBox, and I absolutely loved them. They work well, and one pad is able to remove all your nail polish. I was excited to get more of these.

Secret Outlast Deodorant

When I realized that Secret deodorant was included I wasn't really that excited. I'm usually strictly Dove when it comes to deodorant, but for the sake of the of review, I gave it a shot. And I'm glad that I did. I actually really love this deodorant. I've used it for a few weeks now, and it's really been great. I've worn it to the beach, working out, and everything in between. I'm really impressed with how well it works. I haven't been sweaty, and it really has lasted through it all.

NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil

This dry oil is amazing. It feels luxurious, smells luxurious, even the packaging is high quality. I've used this oil so many ways - in my hair, on my face, for my cuticles. I've considered bathing in it. (Okay, maybe that's an exaggeration) The smell is wonderful, so I've even used it as a perfume on a few occasions. I'm definitely repurchasing this. All NUXE products are 20% off at Ulta currently, so if you're thinking about trying them, now's the time. I'm also really interested in testing out their Shimmer Dry Oil.

Sunbelt Bakery Chewy Granola Bar

I received the Chocolate Chip Chewy Granola Bar to try. I usually would eat this without thinking twice, but I'm trying to cut down on sugar and "junk". While this has no preservatives, it does have more sugar than I would like at 17g. The entire bar is 230 calories, and since I'm really trying to watch what I eat and get back to more natural and organic foods, this just doesn't fit into my diet.

On My Radar

I'll be the first to admit that this past week I've been terribly lazy. Between a teething baby who refuses to go to sleep, the gloomy weather, and not feeling the best myself, I've really not felt like doing anything. Instead I've been staying home and napping any chance I get. That means I really haven't accomplished much this week, but that's okay - I plan to turn that around starting Saturday. Sometimes you just need a lazy, carefree week. Well, as carefree as you can be while chasing after a one year old.

ONE // Jaclyn Hill's Snapchat

Really, this could be extended to all things Jaclyn Hill. I live for her snapchat stories. She just announced her new collaboration with BECCA, and hit 3 million subscribers on her Youtube channel. Her snaps in response to hitting 3 million were so inspirational and emotional - I'll admit I shed a tear or two while watching her recall her journey to success. I really just love her, and think everyone should be following her! Her snapchat handle is jaclynrhill - what are you waiting for, go follow her. Now.

TWO // Hart of Dixie

I recently started watching the entire series again on Netflix, and was instantly reminded why I love this show. The entire cast is great. Cress Williams is honestly one of my favorite actors to watch. The small town dynamic is so fun, and the characters all all so lovable. There's really not a single character that I dislike. Jaime King's portrayal of Lemon Breeland is great. Rachel Bilson is so cute as a doctor from New York who moves to Bluebell, Alabama to work in a small practice. There are frequent musical guests. The first episode was filmed here in Wilmington! If you haven't watched the series I highly recommend it.

THREE // Rocksbox

I love jewelry, but I also tend to wear pieces a few times and then forget I have them. Rocksbox solves that problem. For $19/month you are able to add pieces to your wish list, and a stylist then sends you a 3-piece set based on your picks. You're able to keep those sets for as long as you'd like, and when you're done you just ship it back and wait for your next set! You can also keep any pieces you love for a discounted price. It's a win-win for me. If you're interested in trying it, you can sign up here and get a free month by entering code MEMORIEBFF! You can cancel at any time, so there's really nothing to lose!

FOUR // Minnie & Emma for The College Prepster

I've loved Carly's blog The College Prepster for a while now, and was so excited for her a few years back when she partnered with Minnie & Emma to create stylish phone cases. Reese Witherspoon was even seen using one of them! Her most recent collection is blowing me away - I want this one so badly!

FIVE // New Girl Season Finale

The season finale of New Girl aired this week and it was SO GOOD. I'm so excited for the direction they're taking the show, and the humor was really spot on in the last few episodes. This interview with showrunner Liz Meriwether has me so excited to next season - I just wish I didn't have to wait so long for it.

Sawyer's Wild One - Part Two

Sawyer's birthday shirt came from The Blue Envelope - shipping was extremely fast, and the shirt is so well made. I definitely recommend ordering from them!

I can't believe it's been almost a month since we threw Sawyer's party. The planning seemed to take over my life for the few weeks leading up to it. We had a few set backs when dealing with the location. Originally we had planned to use the clubhouse in our complex, but after speaking with the Homeowners Association we learned that since we are renters, we weren't able to reserve it. At first I was upset - how was I supposed to throw a party with no location?! After a little panic, I decided that having it in our condo would actually be perfect.

Now that we knew where the party would be, I had to choose invitations to send out to friends and family. I considered designing my own, but knew that was a project that I didn't really have the time to take on. I headed to Etsy, where I found the perfect shop, OhHappinessCards!

I ended up choosing the digital option, and went to the local Staples to have the invitations printed and cut on cardstock. 

Once I had invited guests, I started planning decorations. I spent most of my time on Pinterest and made daily trips to Hobby Lobby and Target rounding up supplies. I knew that I wanted to make most of the decorations myself, and I also wanted to make things that could be reused after the party. I purchased frames for Sawyer's one year photos, and had one of my favorites printed as an 11x14. I used that as a starting point for the decorations actually. I bought an extra copy of the book to use for decorations as well. I had originally planned to have copies made, but in the end I just chose to cut out the pages directly from the book.

I made the banner after seeing similar on Etsy. I just used acrylic paints that I already owned, and hung using jute twine I found in the dollar section at Target.

Now that the first wall was decorated, I started on the second that would surround the food table.

I hung a "tree" above his highchair, made from green balloons and brown streamers which I taped to the ceiling.

I covered an "S" from Hobby Lobby with characters I cut out from the book. I also painted a burlap covered canvas with a scene from the book. I absolutely loved how both projects turned out! 

I knew I wanted to incorporate the monthly photos, so I used the same jute twine from earlier, and the tiny clothes pins that I had used for his smash cake banner to hang the photos. I happened to have a maternity photo featuring the book, so I started with that, then chose a photo from the day he was born, as well as one from each of the eleven months leading up to his birthday. I finished with one of the photos from his One Year shoot. I accented with Wild Things and Max, which I cut out using an x-acto knife.

We served Cherry Limeade, which is super simple to make. (See recipe below!) We filled mason jars with ice and garnished the rims with a lime wedge. We purchased special glasses for my nieces to use, which also doubled as party favors.

Cherry Limeade

• 2 Liter of Sprite - you could probably use Sierra Mist as well, but I prefer Sprite

• 12 ounce frozen limeade concentrate - I usually choose Minute Maid

• Jar of maraschino cherries - For this I just grabbed the biggest jar I could find, and went with the stemless option. You will be using both the cherries AND the juice

• Bag of ice

• Lime wedges - Completely optional, but I like to add them

For the party I doubled the recipe, since we were serving more people and the dispenser was SO large. Start by added the limeade concentrate to your pitcher. Pour in the Sprite, and stir to combine. Next pour in the entire contents of the jar of cherries. Stir.  Obviously the cherries weren't going to end up in people's glasses using this particular dispenser, but usually I like to have a few cherries in my drink to eat once I'm finished sipping! You could always save a few to throw into the glasses for guests.  I finished up by throwing in lime wedges.

My Dad got crowns from Burger King, and my Mom spray painted them gold to use as decorations. I loved how the crown looked on the drink dispenser.

The print was also purchased from OhHappinessCards' Esty shop, and I found the frame at Target.

The gold boxes on top of the fridge were filled with Pez dispensers, temporary tattoos, gum, and toy snakes for Sawyer's cousins to take home.

Now to everyone's favorite part - the food! After researching local bakeries, I found the most perfect one to use for his smash cake and cupcakes. One Belle Bakery is not only very close to us, but they do incredible work! The owner even competed on TLC's Ultimate Cake Off, which I think is amazing! Check out their Instagram - Seriously, impressive.

We went with cupcakes for the guests, because that meant we could have more flavor options, and they were easy to grab. They decorated the cupcakes with all of the characters from the book - coincidentally, the scene they used was the same scene that I used to decorate around the 11x14 framed photo!

We chose Red Velvet, Banana Fudge (my absolute favorite), and Chocolate-Chocolate Chip with Fudge

The smash cake was so perfect. I told them that I wanted to make sure that there was a crown on top, and I wanted the quote "We'll eat you up, we love you so" incorporated, and they went from there.

I was so blown away by the cake - it exceeded my expectations!

 For the food, we prepared things that were easy to eat while moving around. We had veggies (broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes), Spinach Artichoke Dip, Sandwiches (Chicken Salad and Pimento Cheese), Tortellini Salad, and my favorite - Terrible Teeth! These consisted of apple slices with peanut butter and marshmallows made to look like monster mouths. I had planned to cut the sandwiches into a crown shape, but time didn't allow that!

I had planned to let Sawyer wear his Max costume for some of the party, but after photos it was covered in dirt and other debris, so I removed the crown and let him wear that while he ate his cake.

Everything came together so perfectly, and Sawyer's Wild One was such a success. I enjoyed making all the decorations myself, and they're so much more meaningful knowing that I created them!

Sawyer loved his cake. We had to make him stop eating it - I think he would have finished the entire thing if we would have let him!

I forgot to mention my skirt! I found it at Edge of Urge the week before the party - it was the only item in the store that was Where The Wild Things Are related, and it was my size. I couldn't believe it!

After a quick outfit change, it was time for presents!

Surrounded by blocks and Star Wars Tsum Tsum's

Playing with cousin Bailey and his new blocks

Bailey and Gracie were so excited to help Sawyer open his gifts!

Bailey's face in this picture is so funny! She really wanted those books opened.

I was so thrilled that some of my best friends from college were able to come! Emily surprised me by bringing along Shannon and Stephanie, and having them all here made me so happy!

By the end of the party, Sawyer was definitely ready for a long nap, and so was I!