March Beauty Goodies

If I could go back in time to when I first acquired a job (think late teens), I'd definitely veer towards the drugstore environment. I'm not lying when I say that I LOVE "me" some Shoppers Drug Mart and cherish my Optimum card like hipsters value their skinny jeans. Anyone else in the same boat?

I've been doing an acceptable job at working through the wealth of beauty related products I own and as such I was in need of some replacements. I placed an order with Sephora and while at Shoppers to pick up nail polish I had a coupon for, I snagged some great deals in the makeup isles.

Sephora Goodies

* Picture on the left is what I bought, and on the right are my free samples.

I've been doing some research on toners and knew I wanted one that "spritzed" on my face as opposed to one that you put on a cotton pad. In my opinion a lot of product gets wasted that way. I read some great reviews on this Caudalie one, and I am not sorry I added it to my basket. If you are a normal human and appreciate the smell of a spa atmosphere then let me tell you that this "beauty elixir" gives that instant burst of freshness mixed with the longing to be pampered! It is part toner, part serum mist of essential oils and is a great way to start your morning and can be used before your moisturizer.

I wrote about the love I have for Boscia konjac sponges and I'd had my current one coming up on two months so I was in the market for a new one. I decided to go for the smaller pack of three, although most reviews say that the sponge is too small. I have yet to try it but when dry it is the size of golf ball, and it will grow a bit bigger once water is added. I'm thinking that is plenty big enough to wash my face with.

My makeup experience is pretty limited and when it comes to certain techniques (insert eyeliner flick here) I can use all the help I can get. I don't wear much makeup ... don't even own a foundation and never have ... but I really like the look of liquid eyeliner. I've attempted the look with some inexpensive brand eyeliners and figured why not try a holy grail product of so many Youtubers. The Kat Von D eyeliner in Trooper is unlike any one I've tried. The flexible brush tip glides seamlessly across the lash line for precise application. You can create the thinest line or build and make a bold one. This one is a winner!!!

Lastly, I'd been wanting to try my hand at Origins GinZing range and opted for the trio pack. I've tried the line twice and noticed my face had a glisten to it. The "zingy" orange fragrance is a lovely boost in the morning. Majority of reviews note that these products are great for sensitive skin. Although the products are tiny (sample size for the trio pack) the eye cream is going to last a long time due to a little amount going a long way.

With Sephora when you order online you have the chance to add free sample merchandise during checkout. Also, as a VIB member you can trade points in for additional products and I did such and received Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist (in spritz form... yay) and a Nest Fragrance in Indigo.
As my free samples I got Glamglow's Thirstycleanse, Caudalie Premier eye cream and Origins GinZing eye cream.

Initially, I went into Shoppers to use my coupon to pick up a buy one get one free nail polish. I had Essie polish on my mind because they just came out with a beautiful Spring collection and walked away with "french affair" and "bikini so teeny".

Then I spotted a bin of markdown makeup... good lord. But I did good, I picked up two lip glosses, Maybelline elixir in "mandarin rapture" and L'Oreal gloss in "Rose on and on". Each retail for approximately $6.50-$9.00 but I snagged them for $1.75 each. I then spotted Maybelline expert wear eyeshadow in "tastefully taupe" for $1.25. This was a steal and I don't actually own any single powered eyeshadows. I then came across Soap and Glory "the Righteous butter" for $4.50. If you have ever smelled Soap and Glory products you know that unique scent, which I find quite heavenly. I'm happy with the moisturizer and it doesn't have a "greasy" feeling that lingers.

Lastly, I couldn't walk by the Essence display without taking a gander. I spotted the All about Sunrise palette and knew that I would be spending an additional $4.99 in order to get these eyeshadows. There are 6 buildable colours that have a shimmer/metallic effect and will look great during the day or evening. Have I told you lately how much I LOVE Essence!

Overall I'm pretty pleased with my goodies! #Erinforthewin #beautyscore

Anyone else worship Essence as much as me? I think the products are grand and the prices are a true steal. 

5 Things to do/try/buy ~ Vicky Bashiu

I've known Vicky since we were wee ones prancing around dance class at the age of 4. Although my dancing career was short lived we have remained great friends over the past "number" of years. We've lived in different cities together and have encountered some major shenanigans along the way. One thing about Vicky is that she has friends all over. At one point during her wedding "the crew" realized we were all friends because of one person who brought us all together. Vicky is the girl who would ride alongside you heading to the drunk tank! No, that never happened but I'd be calling "the Viskster"  as I know it would make for an epic experience. 

To sum up this wonderful amigo, she's the whiskey in your teacup.

Here are Vicky's recommendations for the "5 Things to do/try/buy" series:

1. Treat yourself to a fully functional hoodie. What is a fully functional hoodie? A sweat that can work for both casual Friday at the office (okay some offices, like mine!) and a dressed down Sunday brunch. I recently purchased this one and I love it! Buyer beware for this specific sweater, it runs extremely small.

2. Once you've broken the bank with your hoodie, try thrift shopping. While I am a Frenchie's (an East Coast used clothing store) fan, there are lots of options when looking for second-hand merchandise. With Silas growing like a weed and going through clothes like crazy, I like a good deal. For the price of clothes, even if he wears them once or twice and ruins them, I consider it a win. We also like to purchase toys in excellent used condition, and pass those on once he no longer takes an interest.

Silas has his first swimming lesson.

3. Buy and try cloth diapers. Not only are they environmentally friendly, they are also freaking adorable. We do use disposables on occasion, but mainly use cloth. It's not as gross as you might believe, actually it's not gross at all, and let's face it, once you have a baby, your tolerance to grossness sky rockets. We use Applecheeks, which are a Canadian company, but there are many different brands out there. I suggest trying a few different types and styles and find what works for both you and baby.

4. Try to DIY, even it you're not "crafty". With Silas turing one, I decided to make his birthday gift, and do the decorations for his party. I am lucky to be on maternity leave, so have more time than most to DIY. For the party monster decoration I used this blog and think they turned out quiet cute and whimsical. I also, gave life to an old rocking horse my late father had gifted to Silas right before he passed away. This I did on my own, relying on a tutorial on painting camouflage. I can't wait for Silas to see it and to tell him the story of where the rocking horse came from.

5. Last but not least, do something new at the gym. Step outside your comfort zone. I literally stepped outside my normal routine and tried Les Mills Body Step at Goodlife Fitness. Was I scared to fall over and die of embarrassment, YES! Did I get over it, I certainly did. I really enjoyed the music, the moves and the variety of women in the class and have since returned to the class quiet a few times.

~ Vicky you did a fantastic job on your DIY's. I mean seriously those monsters are to cute and the  "upcycled" rocking chair is sure to be a favourite toy of Silas' !
I agree that trying new things at the gym can turn you on to loving something you never thought you would! I'll attempt a step class with you when I'm home next. As long as you promise I won't fall and fart. Ha ha.
Thanks for all the great recommendations. 

Friday favourites

Happy Friday!

March has treated us pretty good thus far, over here in the East... even with the time change.  The sun has been shining (melting the heaps of snow) and we started the week on a high after having a lovely visit from my parents and their pup Rosie. Knowing another weekend is upon us brings a smile to my face. Weekends are a time to kick off your shoes, relax and enjoy the company of your choice. I love spending time with Adam and Oliver and not necessarily having anything to do. Here are a few things that brightened my week. 

Miss Rosie 

Tulips. Spring is just around the corner and flowers are a great reminder that sunnier days are approaching.

Flavoured water. As silly as it might sound, water is my favourite drink. Yes, you read that right. I love water and if it is infused with fruit or herbs, even better. 

Essence longlasting lipstick in Natural beauty. Nothing beats a nourishing, creaming lipstick with a price point of $3.49. #beauty steal

 


Quote.

The Liebster award ~ discover new bloggers

As you can see from the few posts I have, I'm a new blogger who started in late January of this year. With that being said, last week I was nominated by Holly from Hollyshousewifelife ( check her out) to participate in the Liebster award. The premise behind this award is to answer a few questions about yourself and your blog and tag other new-ish bloggers and award them as well.

So let's get the party started, shall we ...

1. How did you decide on the title of your blog?

It took me approximately 3 days to come up with a blog name. Initially I wanted " One of the Terrios" but that was taken, and then I was thinking on the lines of "Balance and Bliss" but after thinking about it, I found it to be to vague. So back to the drawing board where I was thinking about creating a name that might  have an abbreviation like PEI ... "prettiest Erins Island" ... nothing was really resonating with me so I thought, what about just something simple like "All Things Erin", and then decided to add the Leigh as that is my middle name. 

2. Why did you start blogging?

Honestly, the reason I started blogging was the accountability I wanted to provide myself when writing out my goals for 2015. Over the past 6 months, in preparation for moving I've come to realize that I have a lot of material things and I wanted to start using up the things I have. A mentality of "finish what you started" formed and I was able to place that thinking into a few aspects of my life. In June 2014, I started my weight loss journey and to date I'm down 64 lbs. I've bought so many makeup and beauty products and although I hardly ever wear makeup I love skincare goods, so it's a big goal of mine to work though the countless products I have. I go through stages of reading, and I've had books on the shelf going on months now ... I need to set out time to read and get away from Facebook.
Also, since moving away from our families and friends, I figured it would be a great outlet for me, considering I moved here not knowing anyone. Plus, it is a way to keep in touch with home, and in hopes that our beloved will see how much fun we are having here in PEI and want to visit. Selfish I know... but it's the truth. 

3. If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

I would want to visit Africa. Ever since I was a little girl I always had a dream of going to Africa to help those in need. Not only the beauty of the people are intriguing, it's the landscape and the wildlife. I mean who wouldn't want to see Elephants in their natural habitat? 

4. What is your favourite food?

I love a good salad filled with greens, seeds, beets, goat cheese, chickpeas, figs etc. But my guilty pleasure is definitely a Margherita pizza from Pomodori in Rothesay, NB. Oh my, I love love love it. 

5. What is your favourite thing to do with your spare time?

There are a number of things I like to do, paint my nails, take a bath, take Oliver to the park, read, blog, bake and hang out with Adam. I usually seek out spare time within my week to accomplish these things. 

6. Where is your dream vacation spot?

If I've already taken the trip to Africa, then Europe it is. There are to many countries to name that I would want to visit, vacation and explore. If I could do it with Adam, all the better. 

7. Beach or mountains?

Ekks, that is hard. I mean I really appreciate the relaxing nature of a beach but now as I get older an adventure hiking a mountain sounds just as appealing. It's a tie!

8. Are you a dog or cat person?

           DOG DOG DOG ... this guy is our Best Friend !

9. A long lost relative gives you a large sum of money, what do you do with it?

I'd open my own shop, jewellery, clothing and art. With an open spot in the back to hold workshops (yoga, pottery, life drawing, etc)  or host a gallery on off hours. 
I'd invest the rest and take some to spend on experiences.

10. Where do you see your blog going in the next year?

I'd like it to grow a little bit and maybe if I have the nerve I'll start a Youtube channel to do reviews on. I enjoying the more "down to earth " blogs that aren't overly fancy and offer their viewers/followers some genuine input/information and entertainment. I hope to see more people comment on my posts so I can acknowledge their support. 

11. Where does your blog inspiration come from?

Really, this is just me being Erin. If anything my blog is more lifestyle geared and I look forward to posting about the things I do alongside my best friends, Adam and Oliver. My inspiration comes from knowing I have a charming yet simple life and I wish to share those everyday sparkles with others. 

Here are a few blogs I nominate and encourage you to read.

Cheers!

www.epiphanylane.net

ablissfulhaven.com

lovebirdlovenest.com

havenwayblog.com

blessedmamaslife.wordpress.com

Fresh start Monday

The sun is shining upon us, Spring is in the air, Here is a yummy treat, 

So bakers be aware!

(That's right... made that up on the spot)

The last few days have been glorious weather wise and I wanted to start this Monday off right. Oliver and I walked Adam to work this morning and on our way home I was pondering on how I could use the last of the Nutella in a cookie recipe.

                                                   Walking Adam to work ~ our routine

I searched the "web" and stumbled upon this recipe and thought "Perfect, 5 easy ingredients to chewy Nutella cookies, I'm in!". 


 In no time the cookies were ready. I skipped the sea salt (didn't have any) and instead placed an almond on half the cookies. The best part was not only the taste but it yield 12 cookies (okay, well now 10). I appreciate a recipe that doesn't output more treats than I need. I enjoyed my two with a glass of milk and the remainder will go in Adam's lunch bag for the next few days.

Go ahead, treat yourself ... and Enjoy. 

5 Things to do/try/buy ~ Tammy Wallace

If you have dabbled into the world of Pinterest then I'm sure you have come across a few simple and perfect hair do's by Kate from The Small Things Blog. I've been a big fan of Kate's for a number of years now. Her quiet demeanour is quite charming and she gives helpful tutorials on Youtube regarding beauty and hair. This past month she started a little series on her blog called "5 things to do try/buy ", where she asked fellow bloggers, friends and mothers to list their top five "must have " items. I thought this was such a unique way to learn a little bit about what others consider their "holy grail" secrets, that I've asked around and will be featuring some friends and family members on my blog.

So here we go...

5 Things To Do/Try/Buy with Tammy Wallace

Tammy is my sister in law (Adam's oldest sister) and lives in the Moncton area. She and her husband just finished building their dream home and reside there with their two daughters. Tammy has a passion for photography and knack for home decor. Needless to say their new home is nicely decorated and filled with loads of great photos. Here are Tammy's top 5 favourite things she would like to pass along...

1. Bar Keeper's Friend (Mildly addicted to this stuff). I've been buying at Target for when it's on sale for .99 cents because it's way cheaper than other stovetop cleaners, but it also works for cleaning stainless steel, sinks, bathtubs, diminishing cracks in porcelain sinks and dishes, soap scum, burnt on grease in pots and pans. LOVE IT. 

2. Dr. Jart Black Label Detox BB. I've tried many BB creams and foundations over the years, and this is one of my absolute favourites. It adds a youthful quality to my dehydrated, aging skin, while gently moisturizing and helping conceal skin discolourations. I wear it everyday, even if I'm laid up in the house all day, just to feel better about myself. That's saying something.

3. Dr. Bronners Castile Oil Soap. I've been using this stuff for a couple of years now and I love it. It's very gentle, smells great, is good for the environment and people. It's organic, non-gmo and made from 100% pure plant oils. We use it as a shower gel, bubble bath, shampoo, shave cream (when combined with coconut oil is THE BEST) and some use it to brush their teeth but I haven't it and won't. It can be used to wash dishes, mop floors, wash laundry and as a multipurpose cleaner. Some make insect repellant with it. There are probably hundreds of other uses out there I haven't tried but might. Personally I have used it for all these things except laundry. It's great stuff. 

4. DSLR Camera. Photography is not for everyone but for me it's been a bit of a God send. Living with chronic pain on a daily basis changes you. It's easy to see the glass as half empty. Photography not only allows me to catch simple candid moments of my family that I will cherish when my memory someday fails me, but it allows me to find beauty and wonder in the most mundane things. It reminds me how beautiful life is and not to take it for granted. 

5. Blogs. I've learned a tonne of time-saving, useful, penny-pinching ideas in blogs. DIYers really make you feel like you can do anything, and truthfully you can if you try. 
I've learned how to make no-sew grommet curtains and roman blinds (when I'm too lazy to sew- though I know how), how to get old grout looking like new, how to make my own decor hacks for significantly less and how to get perfectly buttery bokeh from my camera lens, etc etc. Yep! Possibilities are endless on the inter "web". 


~ I'm really interested in trying the Dr. Bronners soap - I love a product that has multiple uses (like the idea of using the coconut oil with it too). And I'm really digging the look of bokeh. Thanks for all the great recommendations Tammy!

The Power of Paper

Texting and instant messaging are common ways to communicate nowadays and as much as I love a quick "to the point" conversation there is a big part of me that loves the traditional effectiveness of a good ol hand written card or letter.

I take pleasure in bring a smile to someone's face and the simplicity of a friendly "hello" note creates a feeling of thoughtfulness that is sometimes hard to find in our everyday living. The power of the handwritten word can have profound impact on someone else, and will keep you fresh in their thoughts.

It is no secret that from a very young age I cherished school supplies and stationary and took pride in my "printing" skills. I vividly remember my grade 1 report cards and receiving an "H" for a printing grade. I could have cared less about all the other high achieving marks, I was beyond proud of my printing. Move on to grade 2 where I had a major melt down during class because the boy next to me had "stolen" my eraser I acquired in Cape Breton the summer before school started. I still remember the picturesque graphic on the eraser. It was a purple/blue expression of the "Highlands". I mean really, who else could possibly have an eraser from Cape Breton?!? Well Charles (eraser theft) could have because his grandparents also lived in Cape Breton and he too, spent a few weeks there each summer. At the end of the ordeal I think my dramatics over the bloody eraser convinced the teacher it was my eraser and not Charles' as he remained stunned during my whole emotional episode.

* Needless to say I hold stationary near and dear to my heart!

When Adam and I got married one thing I knew for sure I wanted to do was personally write notes to every single person who attended our showers and big day. I spent a great deal of time thinking about putting the meaning of "thoughtfulness and thankfulness" on paper, to express our gratitude to our guests! The thought of having so many individuals taking an afternoon/evening out of their important lives to celebrate "us" was just astounding to me and I needed to portray my appreciation, meaningfully and purposefully. The summer and fall of 2013 I spent many hours writing "thank you's" to all the special people in our lives.

                                                                Our guests, 2013

One person I love writing notes to is my Nanny. Growing up I've always lived a 7-8 hour drive away from all of my grandparents and as I get older I tend to miss them more and more. Adam and I call my Nanny at least once a week. Our conversations usually stem around the weather, the happenings of our islands (Cape Breton and PEI) and of course, sports. We are all huge Habs fans so during these chilly Canadian winter nights, P.K Subban, Carey Price and Gallagher are hot topics. Although there is much cheer in my grandmothers voice, I know she longs to have my papa alive. For the man she use to share her daily thoughts with, to yell at the T.V. with and to say "good night" too. I have a supportive family who visits with my Nanny daily. They take great care of her and I'm beyond thankful for them. As we all grow older we quickly realize the importance of family. I envy my cousins who grew up close to my grandparents.

Every month or so I find an excuse to celebrate my nanny. I seek out jokes and sayings that I can send along to make her chuckle and smile. During Thanksgiving I reminded her in a card to watch out for others "turkey farts" as it was the season for the lingering smell. And for her birthday I told her to " get lucky".

It's all in fun but I know the little time it takes me to write a few words is a day worth of happiness for her and that means a lot to a granddaughter who doesn't get to see her Nanny often.

Today I'll be sending another little note along to Adam's aunt. This past week their dog has been ill and they experienced some tough decisions. While Baylie seems to be on the mend I wanted to send a card to Baylie from our dog Oliver. I thought is we sent this card that maybe it will lessen their worrying and bring a sparkle to their day.

In 2015 we are all busy trying to make a living. Some of us take a moment to stop and smell the roses and find meaning in shared happiness. The pen is a tool of discovery and letting it sail across the stationary without an agenda is a fulfilling and simple pleasure, that can easily be shared. The power of paper and making someone smile when no one is around is a beautiful thing. I encourage you all to lighten the lives of your friends and beloved by handwriting purposeful worth on paper.