Today is the 5th Friday Five post–whoo hoo! For some reason, this week has seemed especially long, so with that, I say: T.G.I.F.!! Enjoy the weekend and take time to celebrate all the special moms out there!
The lineup:
- Brahmin “Amelia” Gold Crossbody Bag
- Redken Thermal Protecting Spray
- Pedicure in Essie “Too Too Hot”
- Sweet Note
- Skinny Girl Sparkling Margarita
I’m so excited about my latest Brahmin beauty–the “Amelia” crossbody in smooth gold. I wanted another small bag and gold is one of my favorite colors for summer. The leather here is the perfect shade of gold: a subdued metallic that isn’t too shiny (pardon the reflection of my pink shirt in some of the photos). This crossbody may appear to be tight on space, but don’t be fooled–upon further inspection, you’ll find plenty of pockets. Inside there are three open pockets (one which is perfect for a phone), a zippered coin pocket, and plenty of credit card slots. On the back is an additional slide-in pocket. The strap on this bag is much easier to adjust than Brahmin’s traditional croc-embossed leather and it can be worn many lengths as a crossbody or shoulder bag. “Amelia” will be my go-to bag for outdoor events, shopping, and date nights this summer.
I was given this sweet note from a student in a class where I substitute taught for a few days this week. Prior to relocating with my husband last summer, I taught first grade for six years. I don’t have my own classroom now that I substitute, so I teach all over the place–sometimes a different school for each day of the week! That doesn’t leave too much time to get to know most of the students I work with, but sometimes there are instances when I’m in the same classroom multiple times, like this week. I had a really great group of second graders for a few days and enjoyed getting back in my “teacher groove.” Not all days spent in the classroom are glorious, and to be quite honest, sometimes the kids can drive you downright crazy. Then there are gems like this that remind you how impressionable they are, and how adults can play such a significant role in the lives of children. Be still, my teaching heart!
Between blow-drying, curling, and straightening, I tend to be hard on my hair with styling tools. I always, always use a thermal protecting spray on my hair prior to styling with high heat. Iron Shape 11 by Redken is what I’m currently using. Although it can be applied on wet or dry hair, I use it when my hair is dry, right before curling or straightening. I spritz it on whatever section of hair I’m about to work on and give it 30 seconds or so to completely dry. The spray protects hair up to 450 degrees and helps keep it smooth. What’s even better is that there’s absolutely no residue buildup left behind on my curling or flat irons.
Now that it’s warm enough to break out the sandals, it’s time to start paying attention to the appearance of my feet. There’s nothing quite like the feeling after a fresh pedicure from the nail salon. No matter what I try at home, it never quite measures up to the meticulous handiwork of my favorite nail technician. I had one this week and opted for a coral-red shade: Essie “Too Too Hot.” Stay tuned over the next few weeks for more features on foot products I use during the warm weather months.
Last weekend my good friend came to visit me and we tried out this new cocktail from Skinnygirl: Sparkling Margarita. I’m not usually a fan of low-cal drinks, but this one is surprisingly delicious. The bubbly effervescence gives it a unique taste and is especially refreshing served over ice with a few lime wedges. This particular blend is made with blue agave silver tequila and triple sec. I definitely recommend it if you’re into the original, full-calorie version of a margarita. I’m about to enjoy a glass as soon as this post is finished!
