Mood booster Tips

Hey y'all today's post in a little different tone. I hope it's ok to talk a little bit about mental health.

 

Now let me start out by saying that I in no way shape or form mean this to substitute or subjugate any mental health professionals diagnosis and or treatment plan. (Always listen to your Dr.) with that being said these things I'm about to discuss are just my own coping mechanisms for my daily life. I think it's safe to say most everyone gets sad, depressed, overwhelmed, anxious, worn out, etc. if that doesn't happen to you AWESOME!! I'll admit I'm envious!! These emotions definitely affect me from time to time and I've found a few things that help make these feelings a little easier to get through. So without further adieu here are my mental health "hacks".

I have found that aromatherapy really helps me tons!!

 

Now there are many ways to achieve this such as essential oils, scented candles, incense, boiling spices, sprays, etc. You just decide on a scent that strikes your fancy such as lavender to calm or citrus to rejuvenate and enjoy your scent of choice (a personal fav is seasonal scents such as pumpkin spice, bayberry and pine, tropical flowers etc.) 

I also know that exercise can definitely help as a natural mood buster you can do whatever suits you, yoga, Pilates,running, etc. or you can choose your fav tunes and jump around, err I mean dance lol!!! Just like you used to do growing up!! It's great for the psyche!!! 

Or you might decide to go for a walk... Anywhere!! Outside, around the block, through a garden or even around the mall or Tar-jay!!!! (Target) 

I also have some really easy ideas when just the thought of getting out of bed seems overwhelming.

A great book or movie, either try something new or a tried and true fav!! You get to decide if you would rather cry it out over a real tear jerker or if laughter will be your medicine of choice over a hilarious comedy or perhaps an action packed story or a real nail biting drama might be your course of treatment whichever way you go make a deal with yourself... You get to enjoy a lazy cozy day in bed IF you go take a shower and put clean Jammies on or even better a nice hot soak you might even fancy a bubble bath!!

You get to take a sick day ... a mental health day to recharge your batteries. Another easy pick me up is to treat yourself to your fav coffee, tea, smoothie, juice, etc. just make or buy your fav drink and sit back to really focus on ENJOYING it.

I also love to go to my favorite places like the water... I really feel like I rejuvenate near or in the water.

Anywhere like the beach, lake, pond, even a pool or tub will work for me. I don't know if it's because my starsign is Cancer (a water sign) ,if your into those kind of things, or what but for me water really improves my mood. Also, never underestimate the power of talk therapy... You know what they say, the cheapest therapist is a good listener!!

So girls,talk to your most trusted confidants and lighten your load lol!!! With all of that being said... A car cannot run on empty and neither can you!! So don't be afraid to take care of yourself!! TTYL!!

Hot Weather Hairstyles

It is Hot Hot Hot!!! But keeping cool while looking stylish is still fashionably attainable.

My fav summertime hairstyles are as follows (in no particular order) modeled by some super stylish fashionable beauties.

The high ponytail as seen on Gwyneth Paltrow.... It's easy, it's chic, and helps keep you cool.

The mid ponytail as demonstrated by Charlize Theron again super quick and easy but not as tailored so it gives a little more of a casual elegance.

The top knot a la Elizabeth banks, it looks great and keeps all that hair up and away!!

The low bun as seen on Kim Kardashian looks great either wet or dry and its sooo easy!!

The sock bun as seen on the gorgeous Lupita Nyongo with or without a stylish headband is tres chic!!!

And the always stunning Kate Middleton with the half up and half down look done with a bun or a ponytail. You get the long hair look but none of the bother around your face!! Win/win!!! These are a few of my fav, go to hot weather hairstyles. Have a great weekend and stay cool!! TTYL!!

Annual Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Time!!

The official anniversary sale begins July 22 and ends on August 7.... BUT.... If you are a "Nordi girl" (and who isn't?) then you have a Nordstrom credit card sooooo you get to shop the sale 8!!! days early!! Eeeekkkk!!!! That means TOMORROW!!!! YESSSSSS!!!!! Now if you don't have the credit card never fear you can still snag some great deals!!! But you should have at least an outline of a game plan for what you're hoping to score, things go FAST!!! All the latest trends on sale!!! It's my fav sale of the year! So check out the upcoming trends

make your lists and hit up the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!!! Oooooppps almost forgot that while the Anniversary sale is going on the Beauty Glam-Out is also happening so don't forget to visit Nordi's for your DAILY DOSE of free samples, gifts, expert tips and so much more fun!! Here is a full list of in-store events including the BEAUTY BASH on Sat. July 23!! 

Happy Shopping!!! TTYL!!

London Fog Latte

I have a new fav warm beverage!!! I just have to share with you... You guessed it!!! London Fog Latte is my new obsession!!! You know I adore my Rooiboos (pronounced~Ray Boss) tea, and you know "I Gotta Matcha!!!" (Green Tea Matcha) but my latest obsession is sooooo super creamy warm and delish!! It's not difficult to make so here goes my recipe!! 

It's pretty much 3 simple ingredients. You start by steeping an Earl Grey Tea for approximately two minutes ... Now you can use whichever persuasion of tea you prefer such as loose leaf or tea bag or whatever suits your fancy!!! As long as it's Earl Grey which is a black tea with gentle notes of citrusy bergamot.After you bring water to a full rolling boil and while you steep the tea you warm your milk choice (almond, coconut, dairy, etc.) about 1/2 cup, in a small sauce pan, you whisk to froth to give it that "Fog" look as it warms but not scalds!! Only warm your milk and then add it to your steeped tea. Now here's the fun part where you can get creative!!! You can add about 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract or vanilla syrup or honey etc. I prefer vanilla extract for a traditional London Fog Latte. And you can also add a little lavender (a pinch) for those extra special times!!! You add dried lavender to your warm concoction and then strain the lavender buds out or you can put your dried lavender in a tea ball or cheesecloth "sachet" to float in your dreamy London fog latte!!! 

I hope you enjoy this creamy dreamy deliciousness as much as I do!!! TTYL!!

Facelift

As you may have noticed the blog got a fresh new makeover. I felt it was time for a "clean up" of sorts and with a huge special thank you to Brittany Fadden for using her awesome website building skills to make Preppy Pursuits a neater, calmer place to visit!!! Thank you tons & tons Brittany!!

I hope you enjoy the new look as much as I do 😍 Thank you so much for visiting!! Have a fabulous weekend!! TTYL❤️

Public Service Announcement lol!!!

Here ye here ye!!!! This is not so much a blogpost as it is a public service announcement!!!

 

I have just read on Brit+co that Facebook live will be adding snapchat like filters (you know funny faces and face swaps etc!!)

EEEEEKK!!!! How fun!!! I personally can't wait!!! I mean who doesn't love a good flower crown, doggy face, silly face swaps!!!! So much fun!!! Bring on the Facebook live filters!!! Well done Zuckerberg!! TTYL❤️

Summer Roadtrip Ready!!

I sooooo cannot believe July 4th is like almost here!!!!! A few days away eeek!!! So with that comes summer vaca and for a lot of us that means the quintessential Summer Roadtrip!!! Now me personally I simply adore a good Roadtrip!! My family jokes and says we are part gypsy we love to travel so much lol! I just don't think that there is any other mode of transportation that is more intimate with the surroundings than roadtrippin'.

 

There are a few necessities to make my roadtrippin' that much more enjoyable... First a rockin playlist!!! Of course fill your Kindle full with your must read list and get reading!!! Just looking out the window and enjoying the scenery or daydreaming are great too!!! 

But ohhhh those snack attacks that inevitably sneak up on me while on my journey.... 

They take some prep as to avoid having to make ummmhmmm.... unplanned "potty" breaks (shall we say) due to bad choices at gas stations and pit stops lol!!!! Some of my fav Roadtrip approved goodies are the "obvi" Starbucks!!! And my current favs there are Green Tea Latte (w/coconut milk & honey) it's good hot or cold!!! And the smores frappucino is a great cheat snack!!! The "Pink Drink" (strawberry Acai with coconut milk), and of course my all time fav Skinny upside down caramel macchiato ❤️ Just to name a few lol!!! 

Almonds, pistachios, rice cakes,fruits, veggies, hummus, homemade trail mix, and pop corn are all great options too!! But after you've driven by all of those temptations (yes I'm looking at you Waffle House and Cracker Barrel) you just HAVE to hit up some of the roadside restaurants!!

 

And oh my goodness does it feel great to get out stretch, potty, and fuel up on some yummy tasty comfort foods!! (I indulged on the mixed grill foil packet ...YUM~O!!) And... If you opt for Cracker Barrel you can peruse the general store and score some retail therapy along the way too !!! Don't forget to take time out on your journey for all the fun stops like  South of the Border for all the kitschy fun!

And of course make sure you have a target idea of when/where you would like to spend the evening before heading out on the road again.... This trip we opted to sleepover in Virginia at .... "Hotel, Motel, Holiday Inn🎤" it's clean, cozy, and easy access to the open road.

So with that we are on the road again!! Hope your adventures are many and happy!! TTYL❤️

 

Sunscreen Picks!!

Being a redhead certainly has its perks but let's be honest here... Sunning isn't one of them!! Lol!!

Before I get on with Le List let me first "preach" about sun care😊 Hats, sunglasses, limiting your sun exposure times(use your noodles girls skin cancer isn't worth it) and I adore swim leggings, and uv long sleeved rash guards. But... A super cute swimsuit still wins out more often than not 😊 So with all of that being said.... Le List!!

Lightly Scented Lavender

Contains Organic Ingredients

Safe, Effective, and Responsible. Badger Sunscreen provides the safest, most effective sun protection for the whole family. This is our original formula, lightly scented with pure, steam-distilled Lavender essential oil.  Totally natural, broad spectrum protection using the mineral zinc oxide, not chemicals or titanium dioxide.  Rich in Certified Organic ingredients, biodegradable, water resistant for at least 40 minutes, safe for children of all ages, screens both UVA and UVB rays, and thoroughly moisturizes your skin while protecting you from the sun. 

Our BPA- and Phthalate-free packaging is made from >50% Post-Consumer Recycled #2 plastic. Previously sun-shy Badgers can now be sighted around the world with their noses happily pointed towards the warm, luxurious sunshine! 

We'll meet you at the beach!

• Non Nano
• Bio Degradable & Reef Safe
• UVA/UVB
• Water Resistent
• NSF
• Not tested on animals

Made in the USA

This vegan and gluten-free natural sunscreen is unscented and formulated for those with even the most sensitive skin or those prone to skin allergies. This high performance, alcohol free, and all natural sunscreen provides the ultimate in safe, long lasting sun protection for the whole family! This 100% natural and gentle blend of mineral based actives provides an instant shield against damaging UVA and UVB rays for the face and body.

This formula will leave a slight white film due to the use of nano-particle free zinc and titanium primary particles.

FORMULATED WITHOUT: METHYLPARABEN, BUTYLPARABEN, ETHYLPARABEN, PROPYLPARABEN, DIMETHICONE, POLYMERS, BHT, FORMALDEHYDE, SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCE, SYNTHETIC COLORS, MINERAL OIL, PETROLATUM, TRIETHANOLAMINE, MERCURY, CADMIUM, AND OTHER HEAVY METALS.

GMO Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten-Free, Vegan, EWG Top Rated
Made in United States

This all natural body sunscreen with SPF 30 combines organic botanicals of Neem, Licorice and Vetiver with non-nano micronized Zinc Oxide, to effectively protect against harmful UVA, UVB and UVC rays. Non-clogging formula works to cool, soothe and hydrate the body. 

For optimal sun protection, apply before sun exposure, after swimming and perspiration or as needed. 

• All-new SPF 50+ sun protection specially formulated to be non-irritating and ideal for babies and sensitive skin
• Simple and effective ingredients — everything you need, nothing you don’t!
• Made without chemical sunscreens. Non-nano zinc oxide is the ONLY active sunscreen ingredient.
• Water-resistant (80 minutes)
• Lightweight and non-greasy formula is less whitening and easy to apply
• Formulated with Shea butter and coconut oil to help keep skin feeling soft and hydrated, without leaving a heavy residue
• Clinically Tested • Dermatologically Tested • Pediatrically Tested • Hypoallergenic • Fragrance-free 

Honestly Free 
Guarantee

made without: chemical sunscreens (i.e. oxybenzone and octinoxate), PABA, parabens, nano-particles, fragrances, gluten, dyes, or most common allergens

Mattifying & soothing SPF 30 Yerba Mate Mist gives you full UVA / UVB protection. Yerba Mate tea leaf contains antioxidant that help to protect against free radicals and environmental pollutants. antioxidant rich Yerba Mate Extract advanced zinc oxide broad spectrum sun protection—no synthetic chemical sunscreens quick drying, easy-to-apply continuous spray lightweight & naturally-derived formula sprays evenly & smoothly for full coverage water resistant (80 minutes)

100% Vegan

The Only Sunscreen with 100% Hand-Filleted Raw Aloe Vera
The Most Natural SPF Protection Ever Developed!

We've bottled the best nature has to offer for skin protection and created the most natural SPF protection ever made! Our Sun-Lite SPF 20 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion is an all-natural, non-toxic organic sun block that has NO silicone oil (Dimethicone), NO titanium dioxide (which Canada considers a carcinogen), NO nano-size or fine particles (including metals). It contains 100% natural mineral pigments for broad spectrum UVA, UVB and UVC coverage, plus offers exceptional moisturizing benefits because we use generous amounts of 100% organic hand-filleted Aloe Vera (the most healing substance nature provides us for overexposure to the sun) that no other sunscreens come close to.

Our all-natural sunscreen contains the all-natural mineral zinc oxide, and NOT A SINGLE CHEMICAL like most others on the market. Besides being chemical-free, this light, non-greasy organic lotion is also fragrance free, making it safe for daily use by adults as well as children over six months of age.

Sun-Lite Sunscreen works fast and requires no absorption time. Its innovatively pure yet highly effective formula provides the ultimate sun protection, plus moisturizes, heals and nourishes your skin too!

Sport SPF 50 Fresh Mango Moisturizer Sunscreen - Protect and boost your skin's defense against aging caused by the sun with this 80 minute water resistant, Farm to Face sourced Sport SPF 50 Fresh Mango Moisturizer Sunscreen by Coola. This high performance and non-greasy lotion has a fresh mango scent and contains 70% certified organic ingredients that protect and repair sun damaged skin. Organic Arnica Extract reduces inflammation, while organic linseed Oil, rich in Omegas 3 and 6, clams, tones, hydrates and reduces redness. The phyto-protector plankton extract stimulates and rejuvenates as organic orange water balances skin tone. Organic avocado oil, high in vitamins A, B, E, and F, moisturizes, soothes and softens skin. Have your fun in the sun and then some with Coola!Key Benefits:HypoallergenicUltra water resistantParaben freeUltra sheerWater resistant (80 minutes)No nano-sized particles - Sport SPF 50 Fresh Mango Moisturizer Sunscreen

Finding natural, healthy sunscreen has always been a bit difficult--until now. Everyday Natural Sunscreen from Goddess Garden Organics offers powerful protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays without the use of harsh chemicals and other additives.

Key Product Features:

• Made with 100% organic ingredients that nourish the skin, such as aloe vera and sunflower oil
• It stays water resistant for up to 40 minutes and offers an SPF rating of 30 for great protection from the sun
• Dermatologist recommended and is made in the USA
• It's biodegradable, reef-safe, and is never tested on animals, making it a great sunscreen choice for vegans
• Everyday Natural Sunscreen comes in a non-aerosol, recyclable tube

Everday Natural Sunscreen from Goddess Garden Organics is a top pick in sunscreens. For superior protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays, give it a try today!

This clear broad spectrum formula is the only 70%+ certified organic sunscreen mist formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate. These two chemicals are the most common sunscreen actives found in the marketplace and are known endocrine disruptors and highly allergenic.  Soleil Toujours brings you the best in class of clear sunscreen mists free of the common harmful chemicals that also enrich and nourish the skin with potent antioxidants.

• Best in breed 70%+ ORGANIC clear sunscreen mists provide superior and photostable broad spectrum UV protection.
• NO Oxybenzone- shown to cause biochemical or cellular level changes & endocrine disruption. Named allergen of the year in 2014 and absorbs through the skin in significant amounts. It contaminates the bodies of 97% of Americans according to research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• NO Octinoxate - shown to cause biochemical or cellular level changes & endocrine disruption. Enhanced skin absorption is shown to have hormone-mimicking effects on laboratory animals. This chemical is found in humans, including mothers' milk samples.
• EcoSunComplex®- reduce free radical damage, reduces UV-induced DNA damage, prevents loss of firmness and increases skin smoothness & brightness.
• Ubiquinone (CoQ10) provides superior antioxidant and anti-aging properties.
• Green tea leaf extract neutralizes free radicals and demonstrates an ability to help guard against UV-induced immunosuppression and cancer-causing skin damage.

Star ingredients: EcoSun Complex®, Green Tea Leaf Extract

EcoSunComplex®, our power packed natural formulation composed of red algae, vitamin C ester, vitamin E and bisabolol, acts as a natural SPF booster, reduces UV-induced DNA damage, prevents loss of firmness, increases skin smoothness, and decreases wrinkle depth. Contains green tea leaf extract, which has demonstrated an ability to help guard against UV-induced immunosuppression and cancer-causing skin damage.

OTHER KEY FACTS: 

• 70%+ ORGANIC formula.
• The ONLY organic clear sunscreen formula formulated without oxybenzone and octinoxate.
• Water resistant 80 minutes.

Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 - Sun Bum's premium moisturizing sunscreen will protect you from harmful UVA/UVB rays while enriching your skin with Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals, which are the main cause of premature skin aging. Sun Bum Sunscreens are tested, approved, and recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF). The SCF is internationally recognized as the educational leader to the public and medical communities related to skin cancer prevention. The SCF does not approve or lend its seal of approval to higher risk products that do not meet their stringent standards. - Sunscreen Lotion 

Hope this list helps a little!! TTYL❤️

Favorite Facials

Today's preppy pursuits post is about ... You guessed it! Skin care!!! We all know that I'm all about the spa days and pampering but routine facial skincare is paramount. So with that said I figured I would share a few of my very fav facials from very economic and very quick to much more indulgent. I love a paper facial mask!!! They are so economic, so quick and oh so easy!! I try to do one at least twice a week.

Price point around $20 (I got mine at Macy's)

Price point around $10 (I got mine from Walgreens)

Price point around $2 (I got mine on Amazon) *these are by Tony Moly

I also love a glycolic peel like this one from Peter Thomas Roth. Feel the burn and voila lovely skin. Price point around $90 (I got mine at Sephora)

Also this scrub facial from Oil of Olay it's quick, easy, and most of all effective. 

 Price point around $25 (I got mine at Ulta)

I love the black mask from Boscia (along with the whole face regime) 

Price point around $34 (it's a Sephora exclusive so natch that's where I got mine)

 My favorite indulgent facial mask and skin care line is Sisley.... Ahhhhhh it smells as good as it feels and it's extremely easy to spoil yourself with this indulgence. 

Price point around $160 (I got all of my Sisley from Saks Fifth Ave.) 

Price point around $120

Price point around $125

Price point around $120

Price point around $140

Price point around $130

Another awesome mask is a sleeping mask!!! I love this one by Korres

Price point around $45 (I got mine at Sephora)

And lastly I have one more awesome!!! Fav facial to share with you ... Drum roll please!! Lol!!! It's called cure and it is MAGNIFICENT!!! No pain, no fuss, super simple and super effective!!

Price point around $40 (I got mine in Little Tokyo on my last L.A. trip but you can get this gem online from Urban Outfitters)

I hope you enjoyed my little facial favs!! TTYL❤️