A Post-Apocalyptic Post

A few days ago someone surprised me and said, "Your skin looks great! What are you using?"  As I began to rattle on how my daily skincare routine was part scientist-driven part novice product whore, I came to the realization that I should share my discovered riches with the interwebz (that's you).  And so today's post is going to be somewhat driven by excitement of sharing my discoveries coupled with sheer boredom of post cabin fever.  

You see, I am currently posting this blog in my warm cozy apartment while I look outside my window to blindingly white snow that is crippling New England (more specifically Boston).  Its true.  Here is a picture to prove it. 

** moments upon snapping this picture - I looked out my window to see someone ski by my apartment.  To say pissed that I didn't capture that shot - doesn't begin to describe the feeling.

Anyhoo, the products.  Right.

When starting (this is with the assumption that I have had a full faced makeup day) 

the regimen goes as follows:

I usually use whatever facial wipes I've bought on the cheap at the local drugstore (not shown).  Then recently, I'll follow up with Bioderma which I purchased in Turkey (for a pretty penny I might add) when looking to get the last traces of waterproof mascara.  This bad boy I found to be a workhorse and well worth the  sticker shock price.  The one I'm currently using is Sebium for mainly combination and oily skin.  Another alternative product I find to be wondrous at removing feisty waterproof makeup (especially but not limited to the eyes) is Josie Maran's Argan Cleansing Oil.  

Once, I've remove some of the traces of the day's makeup -- only then does the real work begin.  Next, I wash my entire face with Cetaphil (or the savior of my skin -- as I like to call it).  This simple product cleaned a severely ravaged acne prone skin -- the result of years living in sunny Florida plagued with sweat and humidity.  For years, I've reached for the Daily Facial Cleanser as its mainly for combination and oily skin.  Then I wash with Cetaphil again using my trusty Clarisonic (not shown) and this tool will get the dirt off a babies bum (not that I've experimented).  But its absolutely fantastic!

Now that all the cleanin' is done and my face is spankin' brand new -- now begins the pampering.  Recently, I've started my routine with dabbing a bit of vitamin C eye serum (not shown as I used the product to oblivion and wasn't careful enough to save the bottle as evidence).  So far eye serums and eye creams are currently being discovered, investigated, and tested.  Results to follow soon (hopefully). 

Now the best part occurs mid routine -- spraying of the Claudalie's Beauty Elixir.  *sigh*  This little bottle of loveliness packs a humongous punch containing grape, orange blossom, rose, balm mint, and rosemary oils.  Once, these oils ooze into my skin -- I apply a moisturizing serum.  Currently, I've been using this lovely little bottle (Aesop's Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Serum).  Maybe this is a product of me being such a consumer whore (or a sucker - take your pick) but when they say using this stuff overnight will actually produce glowing skin -- I'll try it!  And honestly, I've noticed my skin is definitely benefiting from this serum.  Of course, its the dead of winter and anything moisturizing my skin will soak up like a sponge.  But that's just me.

And finally, I finish with any daily moisturizer with some form of SPF.  In the past, its been Cetaphil's Daily Facial Moisturizer with SPF 15 but right now I'm experimenting with various new daily moisturizers that I've received in sample form.  And one can't forget the lips -- I've been reaching for Josie Maran's Argan Lip Treatment.  I also received this in sample form and its definitely an excellent moisturizing product for your lips.  Honestly, for lip treatments on the cheap -- nothing really beats good ol' fashioned Carmex -- there I said it.  

But wait, there are three products in this photo that you haven't mentioned - you say.  Well the Peter Thomas Roth's Max Complextion Correction Pads -- is essentially my liquid gold in pads.  You see, if it not for this little beauty -- I think my skin would have aged as rapidly as an Asian's face would age.  If that makes any sense.  In a few words -- this bitch stopped time for me.  Not only that, it reworked and reversed what sun-damaged skin I had.  It helped to minimize my pores as well.  This is my holy grail.

Laura Mercier's Oil-free Tinted Moisturizer is included in this photo because I found it to be the best (thus far) at giving me just enough coverage to even out my skin tone without being or feeling like full on makeup.  I positively loathe foundation and I absolutely abhor (yes, that's a word) powder foundation.  Plus, it provides more moisture with SPF to combat daily sun damage.  Albeit today of all days, it would be nice to have a little sun damage and not snow blindness.

Lastly, Trader Joe's Coconut Body Butter.  Double *sigh*.  I discovered this little gem while trying to rationalize an unhealthy decision of buying a bag of organic corn chip (during a desperate salt craving) one week.  Made of coconut oil, shea butter, and vitamin E this concoction has brought my body and feet back to life.  And as most of you (or the one reader out there) know -- I've used coconut oil in the past for both cooking, hair, and my skin.  So I was over the moon when I saw this -- and it smells like a pina colada!  Yum!  

Alright, I've babbled on about useless skincare shit for long enough.  Until next time!

♥

Emily

I done gone and did it....

This year will be a year of change.  A year to get organized.  A year to read more.  And a year to maintain if not up my exercise regimin.  I would be remis if I did not admit to being a bit lax in those above statements since the 1st of the year.  BUT I promise to try to do better.  I am a creature of habit and laziness.  This I will admit.  And with that breeds so many regrets and wishful promises to myself.  Therefore, in order to become a highly functionally organized individual -- I have purchased.......wait for it........an iPad.  

Yes folks -- my Apple collection just might be complete.  I harped and hounded whether this was a need I should invest in.  Since it is -- let's be honest, a luxury item and probably not REALLY necessary.  I mean who REALLY NEEDS an iPad - right?  No one seriously needs a tablet when they have a laptop and a fully functioning smartphone.  Therefore, I came prepared with a list of reasons this purchase will eventually make good on my return as an asset via productivity and portability usage. 

1.  Emails and blogging I can do more frequently and consistently (hmmm also can do this on said laptop and iphone).
2.  Reading more frequently such as ebooks, newspapers, blogs, publications, etc (ok, I can do that on the others as well).  See my current selection below.  Granted half of these books I have in its physical form -- but due to time constraints (i.e. laziness) or my ever present A.D.D (i.e. excuse for laziness) -- I may have read each and everyone of these here and there only.

3.  Satisfy my increasing YouTube fascination for vlogs and the like.  Perhaps potentially venturing into my own one day -- that is if I can motivate myself in recording something worth editing.
4.  Minimize the destruction of trees via downsizing on printing of class syllabus, powerpoint slides copies, notes and taking notes in general on an old fashioned piece of paper.
5.  Hinderance of carrying a clunky laptop will no longer be an issue when traveling is concerned.

I do have to be frank though -- having this larger iPhone (because that's essentially what it is ya know) -- breeds this incessant addiction for downloading Apps.  Or what I like to call "mini time sucks".  They draw you in -- you play and tap on things -- minutes, hours, days.......I mean a day (just one, just one) go by.  And then you find yourself realizing you have work the next day when you quite literally sat yourself down on a Friday night to "check your email".  Argh!

So my new mantra is this:

If I get my shit done -- I can play with you, you stupid iPad.  

Um, I mean you tool of productivity!

On another front -- I celebrated yet another birthday a few days ago.  Am I a little wiser, healthier, stronger, happier?  Well its all relative I suppose.  I would venture to say yes -- and be thankful as such.      But as the years tick by I've learned to never make any claims because whom am I to judge on the barometer of my progress in life.  Just doing my best to be kind to people, loyal to friends, and thankful for my healthy family.

♥

Emily

Nostalgia and the New Year

Well New Year's Eve has come and gone and it got me thinking - what makes NYE so glamourous that we inherently try to find and be with the ones we love for that particular moment in time?  Think about it.  There is no other time in history that seems to be so special minus any form of religious connections or affiliations.  We try to create this idyllic moment where the ones we care about -- surround us.  Embrace us.  Can't wait to be with us.

I was trying to wrap my brain around the concept of time slowly ticking away little that is left of a year gone by -- its romantic nostalgic properties which seem to be more exaggerated at the finale of the year.  We all watch with bated breath as this bright and illuminated ball slowly makes its way to the botton during the count down.  And during those last few seconds of its descent -- we (or at least I do) remember whether we opened ourselves to adventurous chances or closed ourselves off for fear of disappointment.  We remember promises made, broken, and fulfilled.  We remember accomplishments and setbacks.  But most of all -- during that tiny moment in time -- we reflect on the possibilities of the new year to love, to give, to accomplish, and most importantly to forgive.  Because that's what that moment in time should really be about.

Unexpected Expectations

Every year I try not to set any expectations because I find those can be met with disappointments to some degree.  One of my mini goals toward the finality of every year is this: to look into the new year with fresh eyes - filled with hope and happiness.  I know to most people that just seems so simple and trivial.  But I find that by minimizing one's grandeur expectations -- we are often surprised with what occurs in the process.  And its this process that makes life so special.  The unexpected outcome.

I was combing through old blog posts (I know I've been lagging behind in the ol' updates lately) -- more specifically posts for the new year and holiday time.  I tend to blog more often during times of nostalgia.  I relive old memories.  Go figure.  I think back and peruse old photos.  It both warms my heart and reminds me that time is fleeting and one should never take it for granted.  Hold fast to those irreplaceable friends and family members is definitely a winning theme.  Cherish the time with everything you do and do everything with the best of your abilities and excellence.

This year.

This year was certainly different and unexpected -- which I suppose is the very definition to which I was talking about.  To abstain from setting grandiose expectations and to just live with gumption.

This year I began with one job and ended with another job.  Very unexpected but relieved for the outcome nonetheless - even though some days were trying.

I met new friends and have enjoyed every fascinating moment whilst learning about them.

To say I traveled would be a tad understated.  I saw the beautiful country of Turkey and traveled to Italy (Italy post still coming -- sorry) with my endearing Turkish host Selen. 

I traveled down south to Nashville -- to rehash whatever southern roots I might have developed while in college at Emory -- courtesy of my southern host JC Deen.

I traveled to San Francisco and enjoyed all the foodie nuggets the city had to offer while catching up with family. Blog post coming - I promise!

I began the year slowly getting into fitness and weight training -- courtesy of my trainer and friend Andrew.

I cooked enthusiastically and frequently.  I took a baking class and learned techniques that are now engrained in me.

I bought and have been in love with my new Macbook Pro.  And now consider myself a Apple toting-Kool aid drinking convert.

I saw multiple shows: Artic Monkeys, The Black Keys, Radiohead, Grouplove, Two Door Cinema Club, Cake, Fatboy Slim, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Beirut, AWOLNATION, and Mighty Mighty Bosstones.

Most importantly.

Overall traveling abroad this year -- made me (once again) appreciate cultures that I have yet to discover and crave for experiences outside of the United States.  Almost hunger for it.  Likewise, while traveling one certainly learns a great deal about oneself.  You realize how much you can tolerate as a person.  How fascinating human beings are living, breathing, and interacting with one another.

And so my only resolution (if you can call it that) is simply this:  to love more, to live more, to laugh more, to give more, as well as accomplish more, and most importantly - to forgive more.  The end.

♥

Emily

Merhaba friends!

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind.  To simply say I enjoyed my travels to Turkey and Italy – would not encompass the magnitude and breadth of my experience.  In summary, I was mesmerized by both Rome and Venice’s abundant historical elements – mainly for its world-renowned sites.  But my heart – my heart went to Turkey indeed.  From its people, its food, and its vibrant energy.  I definitely found myself embracing Turkish culture and its magnificent history.  And when I made my way back to American soil overjoyed with happy thoughts for the comforts of home – a part of me felt empty and saddened for leaving this truly remarkable country.  With that  -- this is my homage to Turkey.  Italy to come – so stay tuned.

Traveling abroad is one of THE most exciting as well as tiring events one can experience.  Modes of transportation – planes, trains, automobiles, and your own little feet – make for exhaustive challenges.  Before I made my decision to ultimately plan my trips – I made a concerted effort to fly with comfort.  And by comfort – I meant to travel at least with business class accommodations – but on a budget.  “Ballin’ on a budget” as one friend hilariously phrased it.

How did you do THAT, you ask?

Two words:  travel hacking.  I learned about this technique of opening credit cards offering over 50k in points and miles for simply using the card.  So with anticipating for specific expenditures this year – it worked out gloriously.  All in all – it’s as if I purchased much needed items while simultaneously paying for my luxurious plane tickets on a discount.  Three images that remind me of the comforts of my trip:  the food served, the drinks provided, and the massage chair.  Oh, the massage chair.

And so, I landed in Istanbul and immediately found myself inundated with visions of magnificent mosques, the Bosphorus (separating the European and Asian continents) and bustling Turkish natives.  At first glance, it seemed rather chaotic but people were warm and curious about those visiting their city.  I’m not going to lie – I think much of their curiosity stemmed from rarely seeing many Asians venturing to that side of the world and with that came obvious staring.  Oh, the staring.  But I embraced it whole-heartedly and found it comical during my travels. 

Wandering: Istanbul

 

Wandering: Izmir and Cesme

The energetic pulse and vibrancy of Istanbul made for some crazy moments that I welcomed the relaxation that Izmir and Cesme offered.  Views of the Aegean sea and sand encompassed much of my time.  Yes, it was rough.

But let’s not forget the food – I could essentially do one complete post recounting every delicious bite and morsel consumed while traveling in Turkey.  However, I will spare you the extensive food porn and leave you with only necessary recounts.  Oh, and you are welcome.

Eating: Turkish breakfast

Typical Turkish breakfast consists of variations of Turkish sausage, eggs, mixed with feta cheese.  Local and regional cheeses are usually included – as well as various tomatoes and olives.  Assorted versions of meats, cheeses, and spinach stuffed in pastry puff were also a staple.  And finally, there is kaymak.  Or as I have decidedly dubbed it – spreadable heaven.  Kaymak is thickened or clotted cream made from milk with honey drizzled over top.  

Eating: Everyday Foods

Food is everywhere in Turkey.  From succulent meats, grilled corn, fresh fish, plump figs, and roasted chestnuts.   The possibilities are endless – and I certainly have the stomach cramps to prove from over-eating.

 

Drinking: Tea, Ayran, and libations

Turks drink their tea morning and throughout the day.  Toward the end of my trip – I grew accustomed to having tea everyday.  I have hence continued that tradition of tea drinking into my daily workday.  Ayran (a cold yogurt drink mixed with cold water and salt) was another staple that I grew quite fond of – usually accompanied with various forms of meats or savory pastries. 

All in all – I truly enjoyed my brief visit to Turkey.  It was filled with loving friends, their gracious families, and an exorbitant amount of eating.  What more can a girl ask for?   

Shout out to one person who definitely made my trip memorable and to which I shared some funny moments with while both in Turkey and Italy.  Teşekkürler, Selen!

♥

Emily

P.S.  I wanted to avoid massive picture posting in my blog -- so please visit my Flickr!