Monday, September 22, 2014

Tips for a #BikiniReadyLifstyle

I received a free sample of Bikini Ready Energy Gummies in my Influenster Vitality Vox Box. The gummies are meant to increase your metabolism and give you a boost of energy. This gave me a little bit of inspiration to share my tips for a #BikiniReadyLifestyle.

If you know me, you know that a few years ago I started a major weight loss journey. I weighed 210 lbs at 5'4". I dropped down to 147 at my lowest weight, which I am damn proud of. I've let a few (ok 12) pounds creep back on since I've been doing more working than working out, but I know if I follow my own advice, I'll get right back on track.

1) Drink lots of water. Not only is it awesome for your skin, but it makes you feel full. Our brains often get the signals for thirst and hunger mixed up. If you're feeling in a particularly snack-y mood, try drinking some water first. If you are still hungry, get a snack. If not you know you were just thirsty. I also like to flavor my water- usually with lemon or lime slices, or cinnamon sticks. Keeps it from getting boring.

2) Make time to exercise. Yes you won't always feel like it, but you will usually feel better just sucking it up and doing it rather than not. Also try to get up at work. Trust me sitting all day long sucks. This is my biggest offense that has led to me gaining some weight back.

3) Don't deprive yourself. If you're anything like me, telling yourself you can't have something just makes you want it about 8000 times more. So if you're really craving chocolate, have some. Don't pass on a piece of your grandma's famous apple pie because you're "on a diet." (Unless you have a medical reason to not be eating sugary stuff/carbs/whatever- then don't eat it lol). One piece will not kill you. It's more about understanding what you're putting into your body. And don't not eat all day just so you can have one slice of that pie. You'll wind up eating 4 because you're so damn hungry.

4) Don't beat yourself up for setbacks.  It only leads to more. Don't make yourself feel crappy. Your human. It happens. Just get back on track.

5) Grab yourself a bottle of Bikini Ready Energy Gummies. These little things might just give you the boost you need to do everything I mentioned before. Plus they taste good! ;)

6) Enjoy the healthier you!

Sunday, September 14, 2014

ipsy Glam Bag August Review

I was really happy with my Glam Bag for August. The bag itself is super cute and fits my makeup nicely. I love the orange polka dots! But I was even more excited to try what was inside.

Coastal Scents Forever Blush Sample Duo: I really like these blushes, which is saying a lot since I've been more of a cheek stain kinda gal lately. They give a nice hint of color and shimmer to my cheeks without being overwhelmingly bright.

Absolute Lip Balm: This balm was light, with a non greasy moisture to it. It had a grape scent/flavor. I'm normally not a fan of grape, because I usually feel like it's overdone to the point of tasting like cough syrup, but this was just a hint of grape. I also liked that it had some glitter in it. It was just enough to give my lips a bit of sparkle without being garish.

Dr. Brandt Pores No More Pore Refiner: The first time I applied this product I got a little nervous because it felt almost greasy at first. I have really oily skin and I thought that greasy feel was going to be a problem, but as I rubbed it in and the product dried, it had a more powdery finish than anything else. While I don't think it really made my pores look any smaller, I do think it stopped my makeup from melting off my face.

Lord & Berry Silk Kajal Kohl Eye Pencil: This pencil had a rich black color and glided nicely over my skin without pulling. I lined my inner lids as well and the color stayed put. No raccoon eyes!

Urban Decay Perversion Mascara: This is the sample that I was by far the most excited to try. I love Urban Decay products, and I'm a huge fan of their Perversion Eyeliner. I missed out on the chance to get a sample direct from Urban Decay and I was pretty bummed about it. Needless to say I broke out into a mega happy dance when I unzipped my Glam Bag and this beaut was sitting inside. The color on this is INTENSE black. I tried it first with no other makeup on and the difference was crazy- it pumped up my lashes big time and made my eyes pop. Even the boyfriend noticed the difference. I will definitely be grabbing myself a full sized version.

Overall I was quite pleased this month. Keep it up, ipsy! Can't wait to see what's in my September bag. ;)

xoxo,
Kitty