DIY ~ up-cycled chair

Favourites week wrap up and GIVEAWAY!!!

I hope you all enjoyed favourites week and caught Natalie's posts over at nathennessey.com. We wanted to end on a high note and decided what better way than to have a giveaway. Check out the two videos below for further details.

Natalie and Erin's Favourites Video

Natalie and Erin's Favourites ~ Giveaway

To enter the giveaway you need to follow both Natalie and I on Instagram. Then leave a comment on one of my photos and one of Natalie's, suggesting blog posts you would like to see in the future.

If you have any further questions feel free to get a hold of us. The contest runs from Oct 2-16, 2015.

Erin

Jewelry Favourites

Jewelry is such a great way to accessorize. For as long as I can remember I've always worn jewelry. When I was just two, a friend of my parents was watching me and took me out to get my ears pierced without my parents consent... back 30 years ago you could do such a thing. My parents were shocked and probably grateful in hind sight. I don't remember that day but I do remember being 4 years old, playing tee ball and telling my coach to be careful putting my helmet on/off because I had pretty earrings on... sometimes boys just don't understand!

Growing up I admired my mother's jewelry collection. I loved opening up her jewelry box and delighting in all her jewels. The stories she would tell about heirlooms caught my attention and further intrigued my interests. I'd stare at my baby bracket and open the wee box that held my "chewed" baby ring. 

On special occasions I've receive meaningful pieces to add to my very own collection from my parents and grandparents. Over the years Adam has also caught on that I love simple, special pieces and he also treats me to some wonderful gifts that hopefully someday will be passed along to our daughter.

Before my grandfather married my nanny, his previous girlfriend gifted him this watch. My nanny only let him wear it for so long before he had to put it away for safe keeping. It's over 60 years old and still works. I've had it for about 7 years and love wearing it with modern straps. The hands are made of paper and are slowly disintegrating, which gives it tremendous character. Every time I wind it up, it reminds me of my Grampy and my love for him. 

The ring on the left was a gift from Adam. I admired this ring by Jonathan Corey of Masterworks Jewellery for a number of months. Something about the two tone (gold/silver) and the pearl, really caught my eye. I love the added detail with the gold drops on the pearl and the thickness of the band really appealed to me. This ring is called "Heaven and Earth 2" and I now have my eye on this one !!!

Chocolate pearl ... yes please!

The ring on the right I had made. As a baby I had an initial ring but as I stated, I chewed it, oops! So while in St. Andrews, NB, I stopped at a little antique/trinket shop and found this stirling silver ring for $10. It was my size and I knew a written "E" would jazz it up perfectly. I wear it on my ring finger and I adore it's simplicity!

Both sets of earring are by the artist Tori XO. The ones on the left were a gift from Adam for our 1st wedding anniversary and on the right were a birthday gift from a friend. The pieces are handmade with stirling silver and embellished with vintage French lace. I really appreciate the uniqueness of these earrings and enjoy that the artist lives in Nova Scotia. Support local.

I'm someone who feels naked if I don't wear earrings or a watch daily. So a big portion of my collection is earrings. My parents gave me the hoops for Christmas one year from W. Smith and Co and what's really neat is that they are white/gold so you can change them around depending on your mood. They are also great for travelling, because it's like having two pairs of earrings in one.

The other two pairs my mom gifted me and they both came from a second hand jewelry store. Mom and I love visiting this shop because there are some really unique pieces. The first pair she bought are stirling silver studs with pearls inside. They are great because they are a classic design and can go with anything. And the other pair are vintage etched stirling silver are great for everyday wear as well.

My last favourite is a necklace that is a legacy piece. My great grandmother gave my mom the round jewel which holds a mustard seed in it. The seed is to be one of the smallest in the world but can survive in many climates. If a mustard tree is cut down to the truck, it can still grow back again. The seed represents that even in the hardest times, you can still bloom. 

The silver dollar was my grandmothers which she had it gold plated and the purple amethyst was my mothers. Amethysts are known to bring balance, peace and patience and although unconventional I love wearing all three pieces together. 

There you have some of my favourite jewelry bits. I'm often found with out makeup and its these simple, timeless pieces that make me feel feminine and beautiful.

Don't forget to check out Natalie's blog, and continue to read as we have a special surprise coming up.

Erin. 

  

Favourites Week with Natalie: Favourite Face Masks

This week my neighbour and fellow blogger Natalie and I are doing collaboration posts on some of our favourite things. Natalie will post Monday and Wednesday and I'll be posting Tuesday and Thursday. On Friday, we have a special treat for you all so stay tuned while following along. 

I'm a big believer in skin care and I love to paper myself when it comes to taking care of my face. I love to dabble in makeup but could easily give it all up, however I'd never give up my skin care products. I've always had pretty decent skin and I chalk some of that luck up to not exposing my skin to a lot of sun, drinking plenty of water and taking care of cleaning my face on a regular basis. Over the years my routine has incorporated many face masks and I'm here to share some of my favourites. 

 Two of the major reasons I reach for a face mask on a weekly basis is because I'm either looking for additional moisture or I'm in need of a deeper cleanse. I have normal skin that tends to get a little dry in the cooler months so it's essential in maintain radiance all year, I continue to listen to my skin and give it what it needs.  

I've been using sheet masks for approximately 2 years. They are a great alternative to a moisturizing mask as most sheet masks are easy to use. You apply, wait the allotted time then walk away. No need to rinse off and because they are dripping with serum, you can get away with not having to apply additional moisturizer. I must warn you, you will look extremely scary as they only leave your eyes, nostrils and mouth exposed. So warn those around you or try one out on Halloween. Sephora makes some great sheet masks but you can also find them in the beauty sections at drug stores. 

 First Aid Beauty makes a marvellous, deeply hydrating instant oatmeal mask that only takes 10 minutes to use. This mask restores dry, rough, dehydrated skin, leaving it smooth, soft and revived. The oatmeal scent is calming and I really enjoy using this in-between the days I use a mask that is a bit more abrasive. 

I'm a big fan of Origins. They are a great skin care company and I thoroughly enjoy their "clear improvements" active charcoal mask. This mask has activated charcoal that acts like a magnet to draw out deep dwelling pore cloggers. As the charcoal dries it increases circulation making my face appear more rosy than normal. I make sure to moisturize really well afterwards as my pores are de-clogged and looking for a drink. 

Mask on Magnaminty by LUSH is a holy grail product for me. It has a scent of minty goodness (hence the name) and works wonders on my skin. As it sits on my face it gives off a slight tingly sensation and when I wash it off my face feels so damn clean. It truly is a wonderful product that will leave your skin feeling calm, soft and refreshed.  

Face masks are a staple in my routine and I enjoy mixing them up. When traveling I always bring along a "Montagne Jeunesse" mask as they are cheap ($2) and easy to pack. I love trying out the different types as they all have the same results... an additional juicy boost of moisture. These are some of my favourites to always have on hand when I run out of my other staples. 

So there are some of my favourite masks when it comes to removing excess dirt, oil and dead skin cells and revealing, fresh, soft, glowing skin underneath. I'd love to hear what you favour and if you have any further questions please send them my way.    

Enjoy,

Erin 

Trash Talk ~ Summer Edition

These are some of my favourite posts/videos to read/watch. I love seeing what others use, rave about or claim to be busts! (It's like looking into someones house as you pass by! Don't tell me you don't do this, I know you do and you love it like the rest of us!!!) No sneak peek shaming here!

I've been working my way through a number of products this year and I'm taking note and rating them according to their effectiveness, price and value. As much as I love skincare and beauty it can become overwhelming as new products are being launched daily and deals are always popping up in my email. I'm known to hoard my products and I'm looking to cut down on what I own so I've been posting what I've used so I can look back and decided whether or not it is worth the repurchase. 

Read along for mini reviews.

1. Pomelo Granite shower gel by Fruits and Passions was left behind in my shower from my mom visiting. I used the remainder of it up and it had a really nice mint/citrus scent to it. It gave a good lather and was quite gentle on my skin. I'm not going to rush out and look for another as Fruits and Passions can be quite pricey and there are lots of products out there that do the same job for a cheaper price tag.  Rating: 4/5

2. Wild Argan Oil shower gel by The Body Shop was a great product and I'd repurchase again depending if the price was right. This left my skin really soft, smooth and richly moisturized. I'd actually like to try some other products in the line as the smell is a gentle nutty scent and lingers lightly on the skin throughout the day. Rating: 5/5

3. French Lavender and Honey triple body moisturizer by Bath and Body works was a nice simple floral cream. I got this on sale and was happy with the results. Even though it was a thick cream I didn't find it sticky and worked it's way into the skin after 10 minutes or so. The scent didn't linger for too long so if you are looking for a cream to add fragrance this might not be the one for you. Rating: 3.5/5

4. Pistachio Cream with Magnolia scent body wash by Dove is a rich moisturizing creamy wash that I will always have in my shower. I've never paid more than $3 for this. It retails for close to $7, and even though I highly recommend it, it would be silly to pay that price for a Dove body wash. They have some wonderful smelling scents but this is by far my favourite one. It's creamy, lathers up nicely and it quite moisturizing. I use this to shave my legs as well. Rating 5/5 

5. Dove Oxygen Moisture shampoo was a really good product. I remember years back trying Dove shampoo out for the first time and hating it! It left my hair unbelievably flat so I was sceptical to try this newer line but I picked it up on sale for roughly $3.00 and I really enjoyed it. It left my hair with a nice bounce and although lightweight it did a great job of cleansing and I was happy with the natural looking results after my hair dried. *If you follow the link to Dove Canada they currently have a $4.00 off coupon. Rating: 4.5/5

6. Briogeo Don't Despair Repair hair mask was a sample I received in an Ipsy bag a number of months ago. It hung around my shower for a long while until I made myself use it. It was nothing special and felt more like a conditioner than a deep repair mask. I'd never heard of the brand before and probably won't be picking it up if I come across it anywhere as it did not leave a lasting impression. Rating: 2/5

7. L'Oreal Paris healthy shine conditioner. I hate to admit it but I box dyed my hair back in March. I wanted a light brown and lo and behold it went darker. That's karma from my hair dresser basically saying "screw you Erin!" Anyway, it was nothing major, but the good thing that came of this was this conditioner. It was extremely moisturizing! I really liked using it and it felt like a treat for my hair. I will not be repurchasing because I'm swearing off box dye!!! Rating: 4.5/5

8. Pantene Repair and Protect shampoo and conditioner were samples I received in a Shoppers gift bag. And I liked this product. I buy most of my shampoos at the drug store so this was worth the try as it is readily available. It smelled great and left my hair feeling really healthy. I was also satisfied as it gave my hair some "oomph". Win win. Rating: 4/5

9. Secret deodorant is a staple for me. I've been around the block more than once when it comes to taking care of business in the underarm region! I've tried everything from natural products, sprays, liquids, bars, you name it and I always return to Secret. I'm a fan of all the scents and will continue to repurchase as it does the trick of masking smell and wetness protection. Rating 4.5/5

10. Philosophy Falling In Love is an all time favourite scent of mine!!! It was apart of my Finish 5 products by Summers end video and I had no problem doing just that! It is a light mix of flora, vanilla and berries and I love the way it holds it's scent throughout the day. I will repurchase ... again and again. Rating: 5/5

11. Bite Beauty Agave lip mask came in a small test pot from Sephora with a purchase I made. I haven't heard the best reviews about this lip mask so I didn't actually reach for it for a few months. But once I tried it (in the evenings after brushing my teeth and right before bed) I was quiet happy with the results. The product worked really well over night and in the mornings my lips felt plump and moisturized. It carries a $30 price tag in Canada and although I think that is a steep price, the product works for me. They have a maple lip mask and I think when it comes time that I purchase that will be the one I reach for. Rating: 4.5/5
                                    
12. The Collection - Blue Cedar Fig candle was a wonderful scented candle that had a bit of a masculine fragrance to it. It burned nicely however I purchased on clearance at Target and probably won't get my hands on another as Target is no longer in Canada!!! Boooo Rating: 4/5

13. Tarte's Light, Camera, Lashes mascara was delightful!!! I only had a sample size of this and I seriously loved the volume it gave my lashes. When I'm in the need of a new mascara this will be my purchase. It stayed on the lashes all day while holding the curl. It separated and gave my lashes tons of noticeable volume. Rating: 5/5

14. Covergirl Lashblast Volume waterproof mascara is a great drugstore product. One thing for sure is that Covergirl knows their mascaras!!! I prefer a waterproof formula as I like it staying on my lashes while working out. The black streaks running down my face isn't the best look for me! A notable highlight for me was that it combed through my lashes, giving each lash volume. The formula was really wet when I opened it so it got better with time. Rating: 4/5

15. Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant mascara was a gift with purchase at Sephora. This was also just a sample size and I enjoyed this mascara but I wasn't blown away by it. The brush was quite huge and made it a bit difficult to get into the lash line. The formula was nice and it did a good job of seperating the lashes and providing them some volume. Rating: 3/5

16. LUSH Turkish Delight shower smoothie was a really nice product that moisturized your body like a lotion but was a product meant for the shower. The product was rose scented and lingered on my body for hours. A little goes a long way and I will repurchase but might try a different scent next time. Rating: 4/5

17. LUSH Mask of Magnaminty face and body mask is a holy grail product for me. I'm in love with this mask because of the way it feels and conditions my skin. It has a peppermint smell and although intense it is not abrasive or harsh on the skin. I use it weekly and can't like without. Rating: 5/5

18. Up & Up makeup removing wipes are my favourite. These are so gentle on my skin I stocked up when Target was closing as they are apart of their brand. They are quite moist (hate that word) and have a light fresh scent. In the evenings I tend to use them after my makeup removing balm. I've tried a number of brands and in my opinion these are by far the best bang for your buck. Rating 4.5/5

19. Sephora Ginseng eye mask was a nice little treat. I'm a huge fan of their face masks and thought I'd give the eye mask a try and it was equally as pleasing. What I appreciate from these types of masks is the moisture they provide. They provide your under eye area with radiant freshness and take less than 15 minutes to work. Rating: 4.5/5

20. First Aid Beauty face cleanser was a sample size I picked up at Winners. I really wanted to like this product as it has a great following however, the cleanser was just okay for me. Although it says it is a fragrance free formula I found that it had a "soapy" smell and it left my skin feeling a bit tight. It did a good job of cleaning my face but it just wasn't for me. I have another sample size that I might give to a friend to try, hoping they enjoy it a bit more that I did. Rating: 3/5

21. Face brush. I wash my face at least once a day... somedays I do a better job than others but I always use a face brush for one of the cleanings. For me, a face brush is gentle enough that my skin doesn't tug or get irritated but at the same time it does a great job at deep cleaning as it scrubs old makeup, dirt, sweat and grime off my face. It's not abrasive and I really appreciate that. I highly recommend trying a face brush in replacement of a wash cloth. Rating: 5/5

22. Philosophy Purity Foraming 3 in 1 cleanser is a cult favourite but wasn't the best face cleanser I've ever used. To be honest, the product never seemed to end and I was over the moon when it did! It cleaned my face but for the price of the product it did nothing special and I'm glad to say "good bye" to this one! Rating: 3/5

23. Crest Pro Health mouth wash was a product Adam and I used up together. Every evening we use this before bed and both noticed our teeth were always shiner/whiter when we used this on a regular basis. We will repurchase when the price is right. Rating: 4/5

24. Listerine Total Care Zero. I really liked this because there was a lack of intensity which made me want to use it. I hate when you are trying to swish mouthwash around in your mouth and your eyes are watering because of the burning sensation. The "zero" represents no alcohol and I've picked up another one because of this quality. Rating: 4/5

25. Colgate Total toothpaste. I have a number of these in my linen closet. Adam is not a fan of this toothpaste, he claims it makes his mouth numb so I'm stuck finishing them off. I don't have a problem with it though. It does the trick, although nothing special I got it on sale for a great price. Rating: 3.5/5

26. Bath and Body Works foaming hand soap in Jolly Citrus Wreath was a nice fragrant soap. I'm glad I'm finished it as I'd like to move onto something different. Bath and Body works does a great job at matching the scents to the name and this product did not disappoint. It was a " winter holiday" in a bottle. Rating: 4/5

27. Sephora Super Nourishing Lip balm is a go to product for me. And as soon as I finish I had another on the go. I think this is a great balm that nourishes and moisturizes and only cost $7 Cdn. I'm a fan and have been sharing my love since 2013. Rating: 5/5

28. Fresh Lip treatment was the prefect lip balm that I used under or over lipsticks. I've since picked up a few different shades and love them for all year around. The blends are a mix of oils, wax and real sugar providing your lips with protection and moisturizer. Rating: 5/5

*Since writing this post, I've finished even more products. I'll being doing some shorter "Trash Talk" posts in the future, but in the meantime I'd love to hear what you've finished and what you will be repurchasing.

Enjoy,
Erin

Grey Area by Sally Hansen

Grey Area by Sally Hansen 

Frankly speaking, I was quiet surprised by this nail polish. I picked it up at Walmart for a whopping $2.49 and my expectations weren't that high because I knew I wasn't paying very much for this polish. It sat in my nail polish drawer for a number of months and I brought it out recently as the weather is starting to change, Autumn is nearing and I love grey tones for the cooler months.

Lo and behold it was the a great purchase because the formula on this polish was superb. Why hasn't anyone told me this??? LADIES !!! Have I not been paying attention or what?

So my thoughts are this, it was a wonderful polish that exceeded my expectations because with one coat I could have walked away and called it a day... but ... I waited around anticipating for something to go wrong. Nothing did and I added an additional coat just to be on the safe side. It was a lovely grey with a blue/purple under tone. As I mentioned, it was extremely smooth to apply, I didn't have any issues with clumping, streaking etc. It lasted roughly 4 days and although it didn't chip, the tips were starting to fade as if they were being rubbed off.

I'll be looking for other colours in this range. I've looked at the Walmart near me a few times and in passing no other colour has really caught my eye.

Do you have any colour suggestions I watch out for? I'm leaving behind the corals and pinks as Summer slowly slips away but would like to hear of some red/burgundy/mauve shades you might recommend.

Until next time...
Happy polishing


Erin

16 by 2016

I'm having a lot of fun finishing up products and I secretly give myself a high five every time I use something up.

It's been quite the challenge to really committee to completing products before wanting to jump in and start something new. With that being said I'm giving myself another test and have decided to finish 16 products by 2016. Spoiler ... I have 3 lip sticks and 2 face makes in this challenge!

Take a look at what I plan to use up this Fall...

And I'd love to hear if you are up for the challenge too!!!!!