Party On

I know I am late to the party. I always am, but that's okay. I assume you all know about Sephora's gift sets? They are steals I tell you! This is also where I hope none of my family reads my blog or they are going to get Christmas spoilers. Ha. I went through ALL the gift sets to pull out all my favorites. Yes, I used my time so you all don't have too. The lowdown... nail polish, makes a great gift for Ellie and I can use them too. I'm not a huge makeup wearer. I believe strongly in trying to keep my skin decent and I have found Tata Harper to do that for me. This set really is a steal! It's the one line that truly has helped my adult acne. When I do wear makeup the sponge has been a life saver. The clinique chubby contour I use sparingly, but it makes the worlds of difference.  Dr Jart is my new fave and this set costs just as much as one tube. I tend not to break out as much with this brand which is a plus. Josie Maran argan wipes I use when I am too lazy to wash my wash. My sister swears by all Fresh products and her face is like a babies bottom. Bumble and Bumble is my fave. I own it all. I have been intrigued lately to try the Living Proof line after a recommendation and I was grateful to see sets so reduced. Supergoop is a fave for sun care for both me and the kiddos. I believe black clay does wonders especially on my back. Finally the Jack Black lip balm is my absolute favorite and the Mr agrees. I will grab one or two out before sticking them in his stocking. I'm such a giver that way.

My steal of the day is a leather jacket by Muubaa. I bought the Mira which seems to be sold out, but the original price was $695.00 and I got it for $199.00! Crossing my fingers it fits as I have been on a saving no shopping hiatus. All the Muubaa jackets are listed for $199.00 here. Worth a look if you are in the market for something so fabulous. I think it will become a staple in my small wardrobe. After reading Forever Chic I decided that I am mostly French. Buy less, but well. Skin comes before makeup and everything in moderation. It's a fun read for sure. 

When The Rain Comes...

A couple of weeks ago the Mr and I ran to Atlanta for a work trip. It was pouring down rain and the sound easily lulled me to sleep and put me into a contemplative mood. The Mr per usual had his podcasts on and we just enjoyed each others presence mostly in silence. I was pondering on the past year and all the doors God opened and closed and all the times that I felt as if I was just waiting for answers and some that have yet to come. The windshield wipers would go to varying speeds depending on how hard the rain pounded. One thing that I kept on noticing is with the Mr and I's height discrepancy he is able to leave the wipers on much slower than I would need if I were driving. He is able to see through the top of the window where very little rain settles and I sit so low that the water puddles to the point where I can not see. I was relived every time the wipers swooshed so I could get a glimpse outside clearly even if it was just for a moment. I am a silent backseat driver if there ever was one. This then got me thinking of moments with God. Sometimes this world and near events can leave me feeling blinded. Where I just move forward even though the lines may be blurred. Sometimes even within the midst of heartache or difficulty I can look forward and get a glimpse of what is to come. Those are the moments the wipers swoosh and clear the path just long enough that hope can be seen. Then there are times when I remain within the haze, the wipers are so slow that I am begging for them to come, but thankfully the Mr or friends are able to see for me from a different angle and speak life into the situation regardless of whether the wipers come into play or not. I am grateful for every moment this year. The good and the ugly. I am grateful to experience every speed of the wipers the Lord provides and I am especially grateful for when the sun shines bright. I hope you all in the states have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. - 1 Peter 2:9

Rain Ready

I have been on the search for the most perfect rain coat for some time now. On my list was something sleek enough to shoot weddings in, something I could layer, and I wanted it to be long. I came across this one by Arc'teryx and was instantly smitten. It was a bit of an investment, but I know it will last me years with quality and the classic silhouette. I sized up so I could wear my favorite slim winter coat {no I did not pay that much} underneath when needed. I have been found wearing it on pretty fall days too. Love that it can act as both a raincoat and a light weight everyday one.

sources: raincoat | bag madewell {similar} | tennis shoes | leggings | sunnies