June Empties

There is nothing more satisfying than finishing a product. I loved sharing my May empties last month, so I’m coming back to share my June ones as well.

That being said, before we get into the empties, I want to share how I recycled my empty containers. While at Sephora last week, I noticed that there was a little box for recycling. I ended up bring them to my local Sephora, where I was able to recycle them with perfect ease. Turns out, they have a program where you can recycle empty containers. You can learn more about it here.

1. Summer Fridays Lip Balm in Pink Sugar: I absolutely loved this one. I am a huge fan of Summer Fridays, and their lip formulas. I never finish lip balms, so for this to be even on this list is a feat in of itself. Further, I love everything about this — the flavor and the way it applies. It gives you a slight tint, but still is pretty sheer. I already replaced this, and I definitely believe this is worth the hype.

2. Bath and Body Works Snowflakes and Cashmere Body Mist: This is one of my favorite scents from Bath and Body Works. It’s a mix of comforting and clean, which are my favorite two elements when it comes to a scent. The fact that I finished a body spray this month is something that I am so incredibly proud of myself for. I would definitely repurchase it, but I think I have a larger version of this laying around that I want to use up first.

3. Benefit Brow Gel: Okay, this is the travel sized one, but this is something that is a game changer. I use this any day that I am putting makeup, and it makes my eyebrows feel instantly more elevated and polished, even if it’s been a while since I’ve tweezed. I highly recommend this and I think it’s 100 percent worth the investment.

June 2024 Favorites

June has come and gone, and now, the first half of the year is over. It’s hard to believe that we’re finally entering summer. July is a special month for me for a number of reasons, and this upcoming month is no different.

But, before we get to the month of July, let’s take a moment to reflect on my favorites from the month of June.

1. Free People Quilted Carryall: This bag has been my go-to for work. It fits everything that I need for the workday, and is really comfortable to wear. I also like that I can stuff it with everything, and it will never be full or heavy.

2. Baggu Fanny Pack: I have been reaching for this bag during weekends when I have errand trips and just need something that is hands free. This is something that is much roomier than the Lululemon one, and it holds my Kindle with perfect ease.

3. The Next Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine: This was a book that I could not put down. I love Liv Constantine, and her books are unputdownable for me.

4. Anthropologie Rainbow Stone Necklace: I purchased a few different versions of this piece, and it’s been perfect for layering. I love this necklace because it adds a pop color to an outfit, and it just reminds me of summer.

Red Lotus’ Lunchbox Special Offers A Lot of Bang For Your Buck

Getting takeout versus bringing your own lunch is often the first thing that is slashed when creating a budget. As costs rise thanks to inflation, takeout has slowly become a luxury.

However, Shelton’s Red Lotus has the best lunch special that I have seen in a while. Their lunch box and lunch special is $15, and has so many options to choose from, including: pad Thai with either shrimp or chicken; Thai basil chicken/beef; hibachi steak and chicken; and General Tso’s Chicken, just to name a few of the many options. My personal go-to is their pad Thai, and it is absolutely delicious.

The entree, however, is only the first part of the meal. Their lunch special also includes a soup or salad, California rolls, wasabi, Shumai, and fried rice. This special is delicious, and leaves you full enough without the added worry of leftovers. If you’re doing takeout, then it comes in a Bento-style box where everything has its own section. Nonetheless, this is a great option not only for takeout, but for meeting a friend or your significant other for a lunch date on a budget.

Their lunch special for sushi is incredible as well. You can get 2 or 3 rolls along with salad or soup, or 7 rolls (chef’s choice) for $16. Not a bad value.

In addition to their delicious special, Red Lotus has an extensive menu of Asian cuisine that includes sushi. Their menu consists of rolls, noodles, and sushi — just to name a few different options. This variety is perfect, because there are options for nearly everyone, whether they like Thai, a California roll, or Korean Beef.

While the menu is extensive, Red Lotus’ decor is simplistic and minimal but beautiful. When walking through their doors, I am always greeted by a wave of peace and tranquility. That is the perfect escape, especially during crazy days.

Whether it’s for lunch or dinner, I know for sure that I will be a regular at Red Lotus for a long time.

My Favorite Crystals To Use When I’m Feeling Stressed or Anxious

My crystal and gemstone jewelry collection has grown over the last few years. I am a jewelry lover through and through, but there is something that is so powerful about having crystal gemstones in my arsenal to aid me in a specific type of situation.

That said, I have found that crystals have helped me deal with anxiety and stress for the last few years. The crystals that I am about to share with you are ones that have honestly helped calm me, whether it may be from a panic attack or just an overall stressful day at work.

Before I begin, I just want to say that these are the crystals that work well for myself. I am in no ways an expert on crystals, but I have found that these are the ones that have worked well for me and my experiences.

So, here are the crystals that I use that help me with anxiety:

Amethyst: Amethyst has been my go to since I’ve begun my journey. I have so many different types of amethyst pieces that I have accumulated over the years. Amethyst has many different healing properties, but in this instance, amethyst relieves stress, and helps with mediation and balance.

Sodalite: Sodalite is another great gemstone as well for those who are stressed and those with anxiety. Of its many healing properties, sodalite helps with emotional well-being and enhances self-esteem. This is crucial for those who suffer with anxiety if you ask me.

Howlite: Howlite is loving known as calm the f**k down stone. I deal with a lot of anxiety when it comes to driving, so I keep one clipped to the air vent of my car. The Howlite is a great calming stone for stress relief, eliminating pain and stress, and of course, just creating balance.

Rose Quartz: Last but certainly not least, rose quartz is my go-to in times of anxiety and stress. Rose quartz is such a powerful gemstone, but during times of anxiety, I find it hard to show myself some love. Therefore, rose quartz — the gemstone of love — helps increase the elements of love within for myself.

Tips and Tricks on How to Restore Vintage Bags

One of my favorite things by far to thrift are vintage Coach bags, especially the all leather ones. Furthermore, one of my favorite things to watch is Coach bag restoration videos on TikTok.

A few months ago, I decided to try to restore a bag myself. The bag was a Coach Patricia Legacy messenger bag. I found the bag on Poshmark for $40. However, the bag was in rough shape. It was scratched and dry. It makes sense, though. The bag was from the 90s after all.

I took my knowledge obtained from those videos, and decided to restore it for myself by using Chamberlain’s Leather Balm, Leather CPR, a horse hair brush, and of course, made sure that I used old plastic to restore the bag back to its original shape. I did this twice, and although the bag was not perfect, she looked like she was nearly brand new.

Since then, I also restored a few other Coach bags that I had thrifted, and the results had left me speechless. They did not look perfect, but they looked like they were ready to live a second life, something that I think is absolutely incredible.

Therefore, I wanted to share my process of restoring these bags as well as tips and tricks in the event you come across a gem like a vintage Coach, or even another kind of vintage bag. With the right amount of TLC, these bags are classic staples that will reside in your closet for the next few decades if treated right. I note that I am very much a beginner in doing so, and I do plan to eventually add saddle soap to my leather cleaning routine as well.

  • Use Chamberlain Leather Balm: Chamberlain Leather Balm is my trusted BFF for these types of situations. What I like to do is use this to get to the dry corners, as well as the other stress and dry points of the bag. One thing I would like to note is that you need to make sure that all of the product is removed before proceeding to the next step. This helps heal some of the issues with the leather, such as dryness. I do use this for the entirety for the bag, which I think gives it extra moisture.
  • Leather CPR: Leather CPR is my golden savior. I love it because it both cleanses and moisturizes the leather. What I like to do is put the product on and rub it into the leather, giving it a nice massage. I also use the applicator sponge that was provided by the leather balm, which does wonders. Using Leather CPR is when I see the most noticeable difference in the bag, and is a true savior. It can be purchased on both Amazon, and various hardware stores.
  • Brush, Rinse and Repeat: I use a horsehair brush that I purchased on Amazon to brush out any additional product off of the bag, and then I like to let the bag sit for a few days in the effort to let everything I did soak into the bag and allow it to rest. This is the time I will stuff the bag to help it regain its natural shape. I then will repeat this process one more time, usually, just to make sure that I can fully restore the bag to its full potential.

Would you restore a vintage bag? Or, do you have any tips on bag restoration? Let me know in the comments below.

Friday Faves: June 14, 2024

TGIF everyone! Summer is in full swing, and I am so excited for the summer season to arrive. Summer is by far one of my favorite seasons. I love my beach days. I love pool days. I love reading while doing those things.

However, before we begin a summer weekend, let’s reflect back on my favorites for the day:

1. Baggu Fanny Pack: I bought this for my honeymoon, and it’s been an obsession of mine lately. I love this because it fits so much more than the Lululemon one. It also is so adjustable, which is something that I really love about it. I also can fit my Kindle in it, which is definitely a plus.

2. Wildfire by Hannah Grace: I have been obsessed with this one, guys. I loved Icebreaker, and this one is tugging at my heart strings. It is about Aurora and Russ, who both work at the same summer camp. This camp has a strict no dating rule. However, the two seem to bond through their traumas, which is something that I’m eating up.

3. HooHoops: I have been wearing these on repeat. I have loved HooHoops since last year, but I have been reaching for these every day for the past few weeks. These earrings are so comfortable. I have the mini ones, and they add such an adorable pop of color to any outfit that I am wearing.

4. Coach Ergo Hobo: This is by far one of my favorite thrift finds. I highly recommend checking out your local consignment store for this bag versus checking online. I have a brown one and I am obsessed. It’s small, but large enough to fit all of my essentials.

Is the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Bag Worth It?

During my honeymoon, I picked up two canvas tote bags in the small size from L.L. Bean — one with short, green handles and another with long, black handles. As a born and raised New Englander, I had heard of the L.L. Bean tote bag, and have seen it many times in addition to its backpack, but was influenced by TikTok to actually get it.

This bag is a simple, canvas bag that comes in four different sizes: small, medium, large, and extra large. There is an option of whether or not you can have a zip-top or an open one. It also comes in several different colors — classic and seasonal. And, to add to the decisions to make, there’s an option to embroider whatever you wish — initials, name, phrase or order. I currently have the small in both short handles and a long handle with a zipper, medium open top with long handles, and a large one with open handles. And I love them all.

Each of these bags have a different purpose, for the obvious reason. For me personally, I constantly reach for the small and medium one. However, I can see myself using the large one for travel and trips, because it’s just so large.

And, the quality of these are just unmatched. One thing that L.L. Bean is known for, without a doubt, is the quality of their bags, and you can see that with every bag. I really like that there is a little card that is in each of the bags that gives the name of the person that created the bag.

Now, what fits?

Well, in the medium, large, and I’m assuming the extra large, pretty much everything that you could think of could fit. I personally use the medium one for work, because it’s the perfect medium, for lack of better word. It’s large enough for me to fit everything I need to for work — iPad Pro, a lunch bag, book, change of clothes and shoes for the gym, and a bottle of water. However, it is not so large that it is overpowering. I find that with the large size.

That being said, I do see myself reaching for the large one during trips and the beach, since it could fit everything I need and then some.

However, if you’re looking for a little tote to take with you to markets or errands that can fit your wallet, a bottle of water, and more, then the small will be your BFF. I could even fit a hardcover book in there, with room to spare.

Overall, this bag will be useful for many years to come, and I’ve been loving using each and everyone of them. I could also see myself giving them as gifts, because they are so handy and easy. This is an essential, not only in the summertime when the living is easy, but for year round.

Milford’s Longest Running Craft Show Is This Weekend

The 2024 Fair on the Green commenced this morning, and will be running through this weekend. The fair, hosted by the Mary Taylor United Methodist Church, is Milford’s longest running craft show. It has been a fixture in the Downtown Milford community for 51 years and counting.

The vendor list of this show is absolutely incredible. When looking onto the website, there are four full pages of vendors. You can view the list here. The variety of vendors is amazing, and practically cover the entire green. There is everything available from permanent jewelry, dog treats, handmade jewelry, and so much more.

Another gem that this event has is Laura’s Treasure Trove, which is something that is worth to see. Vintage shopping and thrifting has gone viral these last few years, and Laura’s Treasure Trove is heaven for those who love finding a vintage treasure.

Finding the Treasure Trove was tricky, however, once I found it, I was impressed by the variety of items that were available — many of which were under $10. The jewelry was so gorgeous, and they had so many vintage china sets and more. What I loved about the Treasure Trove was that everything was displayed with such care and purpose, and it was easy to go through.

And while you’re supporting these local artisans, this event has a jam packed schedule for entertainment. Both days have local entertainment — from music to dancing.

In addition to the incredible vendors, Fair on the Green also offers visitors a chance to grab a bite to eat. Menu items include hamburgers, hot dogs, and breakfast sandwiches. However, we need to take a moment to talk about their signature treats — the strawberry shortcake and funnel cake. I saw many people walking around with containers of it, and boy, did my mouth water. Please note, if planning to come to the event, make a stop at the ATM first — these tents are cash only.

The fair goes today, June 7, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and tomorrow, June 8, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A visit to this fair is worth it, because it reminds me what the City of Milford is all about — supporting local artisans and organizations, and coming together.

May Product Empties

One of my favorite things that I love to watch on TikTok and YouTube is empty videos on makeup, skincare, and other products. I have been trying to go through and actually use the items in my stash. However, many of my products that I use are actually items that I use almost daily, and have used them for many years.

That said, I did want to share the products that I finished up during the month of May, and probably will continue in the upcoming months.

1. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer: I have used this product for years. I love the formula, and for me, this is something that is truly unmatched. You can find this product at drugstores, Ulta, and Amazon.

Would I repurchase this? Yes. I actually already started to use the newer bottle.

2. Nuskin Lumi Spa Cleanser: I switched over to the Nuskin Lumi and this cleanser permanently in the last few months, and I really, really love it. My skin has truly never been better. This cleanser and the Lumi itself seems to pull up all of the gunk that lives in my skin and leaves it feeling really clean.

Would I repurchase this? Yes. I actually already started to use the newer bottle.

3. Batiste Dry Shampoo: This is my ride or die product. I tried using a more upscale version of dry shampoo, but I didn’t like it as much as this one. This was also a fraction of the price of that one, so I’m sticking to this one.

Would I repurchase it? Yes.

May 2024 Favorites

I am so happy that May has brought some warmer weather. I am a summer baby, so needless to say, I will be thriving. I can’t wait to spend my summer days soaking in the pool and my Kindle in hand.

Before we get there, though, let’s take a pause and discuss my favorites for the month of May.

1. Coach Teri Hobo: I love this bag. I have a feeling that this will be a bag that I constantly reach for throughout the summer. It’s a bag that could be worn multiple different ways, which is something that I truly love about it. I had worn mine with the cherry charm, and I love how it looks. I wrote a review of this bag, and my thoughts on the bag are still the same.

2. L.L. Bean Boat and Tote: I love this bag. I have been carrying this to work almost every day, and I absolutely love it. It fits in everything that I need — my iPad, lunch bag, a change of clothes for the gym, and a book if need be. I have three sizes, and I can’t stop using them to death. I have a feeling that this bag will be something that I reach for time and time again throughout the summer.

3. Furls Hooks: I am absolutely obsessed with these hooks. They grip the yarn so well, and they are so comfortable to work with. I highly recommend getting them on the mystery sale, as they are really discounted.

4. Jennifer Weiner Books: I have been binge reading Jennifer Weiner’s books lately. I read Good In Bed, In Her Shoes, and The Summer Place, all of which have been on my TBR for a while. I enjoy her writing, and how it feels like it’s an early 2000s rom-com. Furthermore, I hope to get to a few more of her books in June, including Mrs. Everything.

5. Coach Zip Card Case: I am obsessed with this little wallet. This wallet is tiny but mighty. I’ve watched several TikToks of this holding things like AirPods and Keyfobs, which is something that I truly love about this wallet. I got the cherry print one, and I am so happy that I did, as it just adds an extra little something to my wallet. I did go back and buy the black one on days when I just need a basic black wallet, but I highly recommend this little guy if you’re considering it.

6. Supergoop! Resetting Powder: I have been using less makeup in the recent months, thanks to my skincare routine, and I’ve honestly been using this powder, which is actually a setting powder nonstop. It’s light and it has SPF. I love how light it is, because I sweat a lot in the summer. I already restocked it, as I’m sure that I will go through a lot of this product.