Category: Self-care

Posted in Me, Self-care

Tuesday Talk: Seint Makeup

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello!

Well, today’s post is a bit out of my comfort zone…lots of selfies of me, but I’ve been using Seint makeup for about a month and want to tell you all about it.

Tuesday Talk: Seint Makeup

I’ve always said that Hadley knows more about hair and makeup than I do. She doesn’t wear much, but she needs to know how to apply it for dance. Plus, most teen/tween girls like watching makeup videos on You Tube! I’ve used the same drug store (L’oreal, for example) products for years, and honestly had no issues with them. They do the trick, and I’m a “less is more” gal anyway. I’ve always worn enough for there to be a difference in making my skin look more even, but not much otherwise.

That being said, my friend Amy is now a Seint consultant, and I was intrigued but her Insta stories sharing about the products.

I went to her house, and she did a color match on me in person. That being said, many Seint reps can color match via a photo you send them.

I’ve gotten the hang of it pretty quickly. Amy has shared a few videos of her Seint makeup routine, and at first, I followed along as she did them. Also, there are so many videos on Instagram and Pinterest. I also used my color map that Amy sent me after my consultation as a guide, but it was nice to see the process in real time and follow along.

Palette and Brushes:

I purchased the IIID Palette 12 in silver. This palette holds six makeup tins on each side. There’s a mirror in the palette, and it has a magnetic closure. These are cream based products, so there’s no mess!

I think most will say that the IIID Brush does it all. So, if you just purchase one brush, get that one. I purchased the IIID as well as the Detail Brush, and I am glad that I have both.

Makeup:

Here’s what’s in my palette:

  • Contour: Astoria
  • Highlight: Aura (light highlight, similar to your concealer)
  • Highlight: Mango (darker highlight, similar to your foundation)
  • Bronzer: Bella (I don’t use this as often as I thought I would)
  • Lip/Cheek: Pink Grapefruit (great summer color, but I think I will get something a bit darker for the fall)
  • Illuminator: Rose Gold

So, the other side of my palette is empty, but I bet as my tan fades, I will need a different color of highlight(s). Also, Seint as cream based eye shadows, but I have a few other products that I currently use.

Here I am after my first time applying Seint in late July. I followed along with Amy’s video, and thought that I did a pretty good job!

The Process:

Warning: here come the selfies!

Before:

Step 1: contour, highlight (concealer), highlight (main)

I use my finger to apply the product(s).

Contour – Apply to forehead, cheekbones, jaw line, and outside of nose to the tip.

Highlight (concealer)– Apply to either side of eyes, down the middle/bridge of nose, under nose, on chin, and blemishes if you have any.

Highlight (main/foundation) – This goes anywhere you don’t have makeup.

Blend – Tip: Blend light to dark. I use the wider side of Detail Brush and go up my nose and fan out to get my forehead. Then I blend my chin, and then I use smaller side of detail brush to do under my eyes. I then use the bigger side of IIID brush and start with contour rubbing in circles on my forehead up to my hair line to blend. Then, I blend in the contour on my jawline and down to my neck.

After blending contour and two highlights:

Step 2: blush

I dab a bit on the tops of both cheeks.

Blend: Then, I blend using the smaller side of IIID brush.

Before and after blending in the blush:

Step 3: bronzer (If using)

I put this where the sun hits my face. So, I put a bit on my forehead, the tops of my cheeks, and my chin.

Blend: I blend in the bronzer using the bigger side of IIID brush.

Before and after blending in the bronzer:

Step 4: Illuminator

I put this on the middle of my forehead, down the bridge of nose, on the tops of my cheeks, and a bit on my chin.

Blend: I blend using bigger side of IIID brush.

Before and after blending in the illuminator:

Step 5: lip

I’m more of a lip gloss/Chapstick girl, so I typically only do lip for a weekend night. Again, I like this grapefruit color, but will look for something more fall/winter that’s dark but not too dark once we get into September.

After adding lip color:

*After the photo above, I went back and blended on the bridge of my nose a bit more… (but forgot to take photo) #notabeautyblogger

Also:

The cream base of Seint makeup is forgiving because I can add more if needed. So if I have too much bronzer, I can add more highlight and blend to take away some of the bronze.

I also love that I can kind of choose what works for me for the day.

For example, on the average weekend day when I just want some coverage, I’ve just used both highlights for to even out my skin…and also applied mascara. (I don’t go anywhere without mascara!)

Also, there are many days I skip bronzer and illuminator…just depends on what I’m wanting for that day. I really can get away with just contour, both highlights, blush, eye shadow and mascara for a normal school day.

A few options:

Here I am Saturday night with no bronzer or Illuminator, only the other products.

*Like I said, I think I’m more of a lip gloss girl and added some after this photo but I like this pink for summer.

Then, for church on Sunday, I didn’t use bronzer, but I did use Illuminator. Then, I added lip gloss to the grapefruit Seint lip.

Overall, I’m loving the Seint makeup. The process is now pretty easy for me. I feel like it helps my skin look flawless. The coverage seems to last all day.

I think I’ve moved from novice to accomplished using Seint over the past month. It definitely hasn’t slowed down my morning routine at all. I actually timed myself yesterday morning, and I’d applied all makeup in 5 minutes!

Well, I feel like I’ve been in your face quite a bit today! 😂 Let me know if you have any questions. I’m sure Amy can help get those answered or help you if you are interested.

I hope your week is off to a great start! Seint is also perfect for hiding the bags under my tired eyes!

Happy Tuesday!

Posted in Me, Self-care, Thursday Thoughts

Thursday Thoughts: Dime Beauty

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello! Today, I’m sharing a bit about some favorite skincare products. Now, my blog is the farthest thing from a beauty blog as you can get. I’ve said it before, and I will say it again, Hadley knows more about hair and makeup (even though she only wears it for dance competitions) than I do. That being said, I’ve tried to up my skincare game through the years because while I don’t mind looking my age, I’d like to do what I can to have an effective skincare regimen.

My Skincare Journey:

I’d say I’ve been consistently using skincare products for about ten years…probably since my early 30’s. I definitely should have started sooner, but I’ve now made skincare a priority.

I mostly used drug store products but for the past five years, I’ve tried various products off and on such as Rodan and Fields and Mary Kay. Once I started using these more expensive products, I kind of mixed and matched high and low price points. For example, I’d use Neutrogena face wash, but then follow that with a more expensive moisturizer.

For about four years now, I’ve gotten monthly facials. I rotate my treatments between chemical peels, dermaplane, microdermabrasion, and facials. While I’ve felt guilty splurging on this luxury for myself, I’ve noticed a considerable difference in my skin while prioritizing these monthly treatments.

Now, on to what I really want to talk about….Dime Beauty.

Dime Beauty:

I guess you could say that I’ve been “influenced.” Since the summer, I’ve been using Dime Beauty products, and I’ve been loving them. Quite a few influencers have shared their products. Jen Reed (@thesisterstudioig) is the first one I saw to promote the products, and she even visited their facility and spoke with the founders.

I’ve also seen Lacey (@ponderosa_and_plaid), Autumn Calabrese (@autumncalabrese), Mary Beth (@livinwithmb) and others share the products they love. I’ve used their codes along the way too for discounts.

The products I use:

*descriptions/key benefits from dimebeautyco.com

Started with…

Honestly, the first product that piqued my interest was the Super Firm Serum. While placing that first order and knowing I use moisturizer both morning and night, I added those to the cart and got free shipping.

In the mornings, I wash my face and then use my regular toner (Thayers). Then, I apply the:

  • Dewy Day Cream

At night, I use a makeup wipe (which I think is a “no no,” but…convenience sometimes wins out!), then I use my regular toner followed by:

  • Super Firm Serum and the Restorative Night Cream

Dewy Day Cream:

Two pumps is all you need of the Dewy Day Cream.

Key Benefits: replenishes skin, helps promote collagen and elastin growth, plumps and firms skin

Super Firm Serum:

I just use one to two drops and apply to my face.

Key Benefits: tightening and firming, helps accelerate collagen and elastin production, works to limit muscle contraction

Restorative Night Cream:

Like with the Dewy Day Cream, I just use two pumps of the night cream as well.

Key Benefits: restores dry and damaged skin, maintains soft and hydrated skin, revitalizes shine and complexion, fights the aging process

For both creams, I apply any leftover cream to the back of my hands. I figure I might as well use it wherever needed!

Then…

I started using the Gentle Jelly Cleanser and Luminosity Eye Serum.

I now use the Gentle Jelly Cleanser in the mornings to wash my face.

I added the Luminosity Eye Serum to my evening routine as well.

Gentle Jelly Cleanser:

Two pumps of the Jelly Cleanser is all I need to wake my skin up in the morning.

I do only use it in the morning and have continued to use my makeup wipe in the evening.

Key Benefits: Removes dirt, oil, and makeup, hydrates and soothes after cleansing, softens skin texture after consistent use, protects the skin from damage caused by environmental stressors

Luminosity Eye Serum:

A little bit of this goes a long way, and I apply it under my eyes, crows feet and arch of eyebrow. I only use this product during my nighttime skincare routine.

Key Benefits: improves youthful appearance beneath the eyes, improve dark circles, lessen puffiness, improve fine lines and wrinkles

Newest Additions:

Blue Facial Oil:

Mary Beth (@livingwithmb) shared about the Blue Facial Oil, and I was curious. Thankfully, I don’t get many blemishes, but I also thought this may be of use to my kids as they’ve started paying more attention to skincare (Read: they now occasionally wash their faces)

I just use a couple of drops and pat it on my face. I use this two to three nights a week after the Restorative Night Cream.

Key Benefits: anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, spot treatment, promotes wound healing, antioxidant-rich, hydration

“Cons”: It is an oil, so I end up washing my hands after using this product.

Daytime Order of Product use:

  • Gentle Jelly Cleanser
  • Toner (Thayers)
  • Serum (Revolution Hyaluronic Acid)
  • Dewy Day Cream

Daytime Order of Product use:

  • Makeup wipe
  • Toner (Thayers)
  • Super Firm Serum
  • Luminosity Eye Serum
  • Restorative Night Cream
  • Blue Facial Oil (a few days a week)

Perfume:

Emily (@champagneandchanel) shared about Dime Beauty’s perfumes. I apply a spray of perfume every morning, and am not too picky about what I use. Honestly, most perfumes I have last for years because I don’t use much. So, I was in need of some perfume and thought the sample set would be the perfect way to choose which one I liked best.

Their perfume is made with a clean alcohol, and the sample pack included these scents:

The scents:

  • ILYSB (I love you so bad), sandalwood, gardenia
  • Lovely Dreams – floral citrus scent
  • Malibu Night – coconut musk and berries
  • 7 Summers – warm cream scent with touch of vanilla lavender

My favorite scent from the pack is 7 Summers followed by Lovely Dreams. That being said, I’ve been rotating which ones I use and wear them all.

Some things I love about the products:

  • Vegan + Cruelty Free
  • Clean Ingredients
  • Made in the USA
  • I feel the products working on my skin.
  • Price point is great
  • Many influencers have codes you can use for discounts
  • You can earn points to apply towards future purchases. (I’ve even written reviews of the products and earned discounts/free shipping)

Also…

I feel like the products last for quite some time. I’ve gotten about:

  • 2.5-3 months out of the day and night creams
  • The cleanser has lasted me longer than three months, but I only use it in the morning (and my make up wipes at night)
  • 2 months for the Super Firm Serum
  • 3 months for Luminosity Eye Serum
  • I assume the Blue Oil will last a while because I only use it a few days a week.

Up next, I hope to try their Super Skin Toner.

Like I said before, I’ve used a variety of product lines through the years. I’ve never really been disappointed in those products, but I feel like Dime Beauty products are ones I will continue to re-order and use without hesitation.

Have you tried any Dime Beauty products? I believe they just came out with a sunscreen too!

What are your favorite skincare products?

See you back here tomorrow for Friday Favorites.

Posted in Health and Fitness, Self-care

Operation Makeup Reorganization

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hey there!

Let me go ahead and say that never in a million years did I ever think I’d have a blog post dedicated to makeup. But, really, the post is about makeup purging and reorganizing. Organizing is definitely up my alley. Makeup is not!

Hadley can do hair and makeup better than I can thanks to You Tube and whatever other sources she can find. I am not one of her sources 😉 (Also, she doesn’t really wear makeup–I just mean she’s way more up to speed on the hair and makeup scene!)

A little back story: Since March, I’ve been having trouble with my eye lids. They randomly get itchy and irritated. The doctor prescribed me an ointment that helps, but occasionally I have a flair up. I noticed during the summer it wasn’t happening as often, and I don’t wear make up most days during the summer. This made me think about the last time I’ve changed out my makeup brushes and eye shadows.

I’m not proud, but this was the state of my makeup bag:

It’s technically a travel bag that I bought three years ago before going on a trip and then continued to use it. At some point, a glittery eye shadow broke, so there was glitter that would get on the brushes and the inside of the bag was a mess as well. I don’t wear very many products anyway, but some were not used much over the summer when I wear less make up.

The reason I purchased this new makeup bag (It has a few color options) was because it had the clear compartment to hold some of my daily and smaller items like nasal spray, tweezers, hair clips and more.

I purchased this pack of brushes and makeup sponges. I just needed a fresh start, and I need to make a point to clean them regularly and even switch them out every few months.

Let me tell you how novice I am with makeup. I read the little pamphlet that came with the pack that says which brush is used for what! haha

Again, I tossed my previous eye shadows, and purchased this eye shadow palette. I’m a neutral girl, so I thought these shades would work best, and I’m definitely pleased.

This is the finished, organized product:

Ahh…so much better!

I kept all my random items in the top clear compartment.

Then, a feature I hadn’t thought about that I now appreciate is the fact that I can use the loops to hold my brushes as well as my under eye corrector and concealer. That way, things stay nice and tidy.

I never thought I’d do a blog post on makeup, but honestly, tossing the old stuff, getting organized, and starting fresh is one of those chores that I dragged my feet about doing, but it feels so good to have it done. That being said, here are the linked products in case you are interested:

makeup bag // brush set // eye shadow palette

What are some of your makeup must haves? I need all the help I can get…just ask Hadley 😂

See you back here tomorrow for Friday Favorites.

{this post contains Amazon affiliate links…}

Posted in Me, Self-care, Thursday Thoughts

Thursday Thoughts: Enneagram Ways to Cope

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello! So, I’ve shared before about my Enneagram type being a 5w6. (Investigator/Loyalist) In my last Enneagram post, I shared how I’d started following @cathartic_word on Instagram. Erin’s graphics are so cool, and always seem to ring true for the Enneagram types which I think is so fun.

I recently saw her Ways to Cope series, and thought I’d chat about that.

Everyone copes with sadness, frustration, anxiety, worry, and more throughout their lives. I see with my students or my own kids, that they don’t always know how to cope with all of their feelings and emotions. Knowing how to cope is beneficial and a perk of being an adult. 😉

So here’s the breakdown for my Type 5w6…

Type 5:

graphic c/o @cathartic_word May 20,2020
  • Solo trip to the movies: Solo anything! 😉 I feel like when I’m overwhelmed, I need space. I need time to think and decompress. A movie would be a great way to do that, and I find comfort in watching reruns of familiar shows like The Golden Girls or cooking shows….I’m basically wanting to watch something where I don’t have to think.
  • Something innovative: For me, something innovative would be writing a blog post. Or…do you know what else I love? Those coloring books with all the details. I loved when my kids were little and liked to color. Hayden likes to draw right now. I’m not a drawer…but I definitely like to use colored pencils or the thin tipped markers for coloring pages. I even have a Golden Girls coloring book.
  • The entire pot of coffee: Yes. Coffee. On repeat. Besides needing coffee to wake up my brain and function, I always feel warm and cozy in the morning when I light a couple of candles, sip my coffee, and read blogs or scroll social media.
  • Writing: I’ve always loved journaling. At different points in my life, it’s been a priority and other times not so much. Obviously, the blog satisfies that need and can be a form of coping.
  • Learn something new: Of all things listed for Type 5, this is least like me. I’m not opposed to learning something new (I am a teacher, after all!), but actually when I need to decompress, it’s usually because my brain is too full, and I just need a minute to unwind my thoughts and feelings.

Type 6:

graphic c/o @cathartic_word May 19, 2020
  • Long walks: Yes! I love a solo long walk. It’s a great time to think about my day or plan upcoming days. Kind of like watching a familiar show, I enjoy listening to podcasts when I walk as a way to zone out and cope.
  • Dogs: Of course! You know I’m a dog person. I’ve shared about our previous dogs Shiloh and Scout…and now we have Homer. I’m always amazed at how animals know when you need them. Even Homer, who can be wild and crazy, knows when I (or any other family member) needs a good snuggle for comfort.
  • A good book: I love getting lost in a good book. Reading is certainly a way to cope for me.
  • Catching up on sleep: I’m forever tired. I always need more sleep, but even in my day to day life, which can be hectic, I find that I’m making sleep a priority more and more. If there is something I’m struggling with, then the lounging in my bed for a few minutes with my eyes closed is so helpful for me to calm my thoughts and get my mind right.
  • Music: I’ve never been a big music person. For me, like I said above, I’d probably choose a podcast over music as a way to decompress. I also really love silence in the car. I’m the type that turns down the radio to think. 😉

I don’t get too caught up in my numbers…and sometimes I think I’m more of a 6 than a 5…I think 6w5 is an option;) but I do find it interesting. If you haven’t checked out Erin on Instagram yet, you should! Go find the graphic for your type!

What’s your Enneagram number? This is the test I took about a year ago. I’ve thought about taking it again…but then what if my number has changed? I’d be so confused! haha

See you back here tomorrow for this week’s Friday Favorites post.

Take care,

Posted in Not Just a Mom, Self-care

Not Just a Mom: Skin Care Routine

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Happy Monday! How was your weekend? The weather definitely felt like fall this weekend, and I’m not mad about it. We had a busy Saturday followed by a lazy and rainy Sunday.

It’s the second Monday of the month, so I’m linking up with Lauren, Ashley, and others for their Not Just a Mom series.

This month’s topic is about skincare routine. I’d say I skated through my 20’s and didn’t do much for skincare. I’ve shared before, but I don’t think I even started taking my makeup off before bed until I turned 30 or so.

Through the years, I’ve started to use products for my skin that have become part of my routine. I’ve used Rodan + Fields and have a couple friends who sell Mary Kay, so I’ve used some of those products as well. The products and routine for today’s post are my pretty regular schedule, but I do supplement with R+F and MK at times.

Morning Routine:

  • I wash my face every morning with some kind of face wash. Recently, I discovered the Hydro Boost Cleansing Gel by Neutrogena, and I really love it.
  • Then, I use a cotton round to apply toner. I love the rose petal toner by Thayers, and I usually order it off Amazon.
  • Now, I’m not married to L’Oreal, but I use their day and night creams when not using R+F or MK. For the price point and convenience of purchasing at grocery and drug stores, it’s a good option for me to use daily.
  • I’ve recently started using the L’Oreal eye cream, and it’s helped with puffiness and dark circles under my eyes. #mamaisforevertired

Nighttime Routine:

  • I usually wash my face in the shower, and then use makeup removing wipes to get off any additional makeup I may have left on my face.
  • I again use a cotton round to apply facial toner.
  • Then, I sue the L’Oreal eye cream and night time moisturizer when not using other products.

Face Masks:

For the past few years, I’ve incorporated face masks into my weekly routine.

  • I love the Mary Kay Timewise Moisture Renewing Gel Mask, and I use it twice a week or so.
  • Another MK fave is the Deep Cleansing Charcoal Mask. It’s usually my Sunday morning face mask.
  • A few times a month, I will use the egg white mask by Skinfood. It’s a pore-refining cleanser, and helps my skin feel clean and fresh after use.

Other Items:

I mentioned recently that I’ve started using a jade roller in the morning. I keep this one in the fridge, and roll it on my face most mornings to help with puffiness and sinus pain.

Also, every other week or so, I try to use my steamer for a facial. My mom gave me this one for Christmas last year, and it’s been perfect to use at home.

I also do my best to drink water, and I always wear SPF…lesson learned from my younger years. I often where a hat when out in the sun, and try to find a chair with an umbrella at the pool!

Monthly Medspa:

Lastly, the best money I spend on myself is my monthly facial at a local medspa. I’ve been going for monthly facials for about four years. My club package includes one of the following each month: microdemabrasion, chemical peel, express facial, or dermaplane.

Each month, I usually double up and do two treatments (like a dermaplane and facial) or one treatment and an eye brow wax. Dermaplane has officially become my favorite treatment…#girlshaveyourface

I so look forward to my monthly appointments, and trust my esthetician Lauren with whatever she thinks I need each month. After each appointment, I always ask her, “Do I look 35 again?” 😂I’m not over here trying to be 22…just trying to keep my 40 year old face looking fresh. Those monthly appointments feel like part luxury, part therapy, and part necessity. Sometimes I feel guilty with that monthly splurge, but I also know how important it is to keep your skin healthy…and I’m just trying to age gracefully 😉

So that’s just a bit of my of my skincare routine. What do you do for your daily, weekly, monthly routines? Don’t forget to check out the other ladies’ posts!

Next month’s topics is: getting crafty!

Thanks so much for reading, and I hope you have a great week!

Posted in Health and Fitness, Me, Not Just a Mom, Self-care

Not Just A Mom: Self Care

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Happy Monday! I survived (and had fun!) at a Girl Scout overnight at COSI in Columbus, OH. More about that later in the week…I’m still recovering from staying up until midnight and sleeping on the floor! (plus losing an hour with Daylight Savings Time!)

In other exciting news…Y’all, believe it or not, this is my 100th blog post. I can’t believe it! I’ve really enjoyed blogging so far. It’s fun to share about family, school, what I’m reading, what I’m cooking, etc. AND…I love reading other people’s blogs too.

Linking up with other bloggers led me to reading Lauren’s All About that Mommy Life blog. Last month, I read her Not Just a Mom post for February, and I thought I’d link up with her (and the others) for this month’s post.

This month’s focus is on self care. I’d say that self care is something most moms struggle with. When you are in the midst of laundry, carpool, grocery shopping, homework, working, etc…it’s difficult to find time for yourself. About three years ago, I made self care a goal of mine. It started with focusing on whole food nutrition and getting a workout plan that works for me which is when I started doing the Lean program. Once I made fitness and whole food nutrition a priority, I started to find other ways to take care of myself.

(Also, real talk–I’m not perfect–I fall off the eating healthy wagon, but once the calendar turns to March, I really try to tighten up on what I eat and make sure to get some workouts in each week.)

Workouts/Whole Food Nutrition

I try to workout 4-5 days a week. The LEAN program I follow incorporates intermittent fasting with carb cycling and tracking macros + workouts. I’m a person who does feel better after a good work out, so I do try to make time for that even with having two very busy kids. Progress not perfection is my focus thanks to this program.

Also, I love me some McDonald’s French fries and a Diet Coke. Currently, I can’t quit Peanut Butter Patties #girlscoutcookietime and, for me, it’s all about balance. 😃

Skin Care

For quite awhile I’ve tried to make skin care a priority. While I don’t buy all the fancy products, I do splurge on a few like my daily moisturizer and night time face cream.

Also, I can’t believe I’m admitting this…but I was probably in my early thirties before I made it a priority to take my makeup off at bedtime! I realized, “Girl, wash your face!” before it was a thing…or a book! 😉 So, just finally doing that was a step in the right direction and through the years I’ve added other products into my skincare routine.

Three years ago, I started going to a local med spa once a month. My membership package includes one of the following each month: a facial, a chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or (my favorite!) dermaplane (basically–the esthetician shaves your face!)

Is my skin perfect? Heck no. Am I in an uphill battle against aging ? Yes! That being said, I feel like I’m being proactive with taking the time to wash my face, use a toner and moisturizers as well as taking care of skin with the facials. Plus, it’s just a treat for me once a month to decompress!

Manicure/Pedicures

Before kids, when I had more time and money!, I used to get monthly pedicures and a manicure every two weeks. Now, I save monthly pedicures for April-September, and then get gel manicures 6-8 times a year. I love gel manicures because they last longer (and I always have my nails painted), but, again, I usually get them before spring break, summer vacation, Christmas, etc. Just another form of self care!

Reading

A few years ago, we joined a pool in the summer. My kids are older now, so they run around with their friends and are able to swim (so I don’t have to stress about that!) when we are at the pool. So, while they did that, I got back into reading. I’ve always been a reader, but there were years when I was in grad school, raising two babies while working full time that reading for pleasure was put on the back burner.

Now, I read quite regularly. Last year, I purchased my Kindle which has provided me more opportunities for reading. I keep it in my purse and read while my kids have a practice or any other spare minutes I may have in the day. I am glad that I’ve made reading a part of my daily routine.

Quiet Time

I’ve always been someone who needs to ease into the day, and once I had kids that became even more important for me. So, I get up about 30-45 minutes before the rest of my family on the weekdays. On the rare occasion that Travis gets up early and is hanging around the living room, he gets major side eye from me….like “why are you interrupting my ‘me’ time?” 😂I spend those precious quiet minutes sipping my coffee, scrolling through my phone, watching the news, and reading my favorite blogs.

I need that time to myself to get my mind right for the day. That being said, I need a bit of quiet time in the evening too. I mean, Travis doesn’t get side eye from me at night if he is also in the living room watching a show! It’s just the morning time that I need the time to myself. BUT…it’s also why I’ve tried to be pretty strict about bedtime for my kids (of course, they need sleep too), but I also just need that hour to relax between their bedtime and my bedtime!

Blogging

Last, but not least, blogging has turned into a form of self care for me. I enjoy this creative outlet and carving out a few minutes for me to write as a way to express myself each day. I’ve said it before, but I’m pretty introverted and quiet, so this blog is also a way to share my voice, I guess. It’s fun for me to think of content, link up with other bloggers, and continue to grow in this space. I definitely hope it’s something I can keep doing at least three times a week!

Next month’s Not Just a Mom topic is cleaning routine. Travis may have to write that blog post for me! He’s a cleaning machine! We balance each other out—I like to tidy up while he likes to bust out the broom and the mop!

I love that my 100th blog post synced up with a post about self care since blogging has become an important part of my life. Thanks so much for your support on my blogging journey so far! I really appreciate it.

I hope you have a great week.

Posted in Friday Favorites, Self-care

Friday Favorites {#5}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

It’s finally Friday…this has been a doozy of a week for a variety of reasons. All I can say is T G I F! #praisehands

I’m linking up with Erika, Narci, and Andrea for another Friday Favorites.

Alittlebitofeverything
Grace and love
momfessionals

I’ve chatted with a few friends lately about nail polish…I always have my nails painted. Always. So, I thought I’d share some of my faves.

I paint my nails once a week, and once every six weeks or so, I treat myself to a gel manicure that lasts two weeks.

I’m pretty basic with my nail polish….for years, I wore Bubble Bath by OPI and would occasionally change up the shade of pink I’d wear. For the past six months or so, I’ve pretty consistently worn Funny Bunny by OPI thanks to Living With Landyn’s recommendation.

In the fall or winter, I will use a darker polish occasionally on my fingernails but more often on my toes…I like OPI’s Lincoln Park After Dark, How Great is Your Dane? and Taupe-less Beach. I hope to try Krona-logical Order some time soon…another Living with Landyn recommendation.

My trusty lineup is below:

Bubble Bath, Let Me Bayou a Drink, Lisbon Wants Moor, It’s Pink PM, Beyond the Pale Pink, and Funny Bunny

Andrea at Momfessionals, shared about the Seche Vite base and fast drying top coat. I now swear by these. They definitely help my *at home* manicures last longer.

Pretty random favorites, but my mom is visiting, and she bought me this cute new travel coffee mug. #englishteachersunite and sent these cookies via my Grandma. When they last visited, my Gma brought these pumpkin cookies that she found at Tuesday Morning. She sent three boxes with my mom…and this box didn’t last long #IblameHayden

I heart school artwork ….especially artwork that involves pumpkins. Hadley painted this in class, and I just love it….certainly a favorite of mine.

A little 1:1 time with Boo while he did his homework was a favorite this week. I was able to pick the kids up from school one day this week which is a rarity….Thankfully, they didn’t need my help with math homework (haha), but he was supposed to read this story aloud to me, and I loved having the extra time with them.

It’s a miracle! Somehow, my friends and I have made a point to go out to dinner two months in a row…on a school night! #rebels I enjoy my much needed time with my girlfriends, and we tried a new(ish) restaurant here in Lexington…Agave and Rye. It was so good….I had the Easy Ranchero Taco – fried egg, salt and pepper tator tots, queso, aged white cheddar, salsa, cilantro, and I 86’d the sour cream (hashtag: I hate sour cream) This taco was out of this world (and the marg was great too). I honestly hope to go back as soon as possible. There were so many tacos I wanted to try!

That’s a wrap on this week….this weekend the kids finish up their cross country season at the state meet, Hayden has a soccer game, and Trav and I hope to go out to dinner one night since GG’s in town to stay with the kids.

I hope you have a great weekend!

Jen

Instagram: @showmeandsweettea

Facebook Page: Show Me and Sweet Tea