Weekends Were Made... To Roadtrip

Ideally my plan was to be in GA for Memorial Day but that didn't go my way. Sooo I was super stoked when I checked in with a friend and she invited me to hang out with her friends in Ocean City, MD. I definitely needed a break and a get away. I'd been working both of my jobs without any days off since Easter, yes crazy!!! It felt sooo good just to wake up at whatever time I wanted in Thursday and Friday; no traffic or interference from management (TYJ).

I couldn't have imagined a better Roadtrip. I'll admit, I was a bit nervous when it came to traveling with a group of women that I'd just met. However, it felt like we'd known each other for years. I think my soul needed some good girlfriend time. As my grandma says, God always has a ram in the bush. 

Although the trip was short, I see why people love Ocean City. I will definitely be visiting again before the summer is over. I have a good idea of where to stay and where to eat. Check out a bit if my weekend below.

The Bay bridge was HUGE!!! I hope I'm not the driver for my next trip lol.

This festival of kites was sooo pretty!!! If only the little pig could get off the ground.

The BEST meals of the trip was from Hooked. The calamari was seasoned sooo well and who'd ever think to put scallops with grits, good one!!! And of course I had to order a pomegranate margarita as soon as I saw it on the menu.

Ocean City I promise to make you more than a memory!!!

Get Into My Nature Box

In the past I've had a long-term relationship with monthly subscription boxes. I even managed to keep a monthly subscription box during my 14 month lay off. I mean who can resist a monthly gift. So since I'd canceled my last beauty subscription box I decided to go in a different direction and try a food box. Being a foodie I knew this would be a great choice. After watching JuicyStar07's YouTube video and seeing her discount code for half off, I knew it was time to try something different.

With NatureBox you choose between 5, 10, or 20 resealable snack bags. Afterwards you can choose your snacks, get a surprise box, or a combination of the two (pick out a few and let the NatureBox team do the rest). Last month I chose my 5 snacks and they were ok... To be honest, I'm not much of a snacker. However, I decided to give it another go and the snacks I chose this month were EVERYTHING!!! I also received a bonus snack which made me super happy (one of my FAV words is free). Take a look for yourself and salivate as you read lol. 

Since this was on top and I saw it was a surprise I had to try it first. Good choice NatureBox, I love plantain chips!!! These also had just the right amount of sea salt. The only thing to make it better is a bit of hummus, good thing I have some in the fridge.

These Siracha Roasted Cashews were the bomb. I mean I should stop typing now and have some. Wait... I will. OMG the right amount of crunch and spicy flavor. The spicy flavor sneaks up on you and hits you right in the back of the throat!!!

The Teriyaki Twists tasted exactly like teriyaki sauce. This is an airy crisp cracker that would pair nicely with a sandwich.

As soon as I tasted the Cocoa Waffle Wafers, I wanted Pinkberry. Seriously, Pinkberry should team up with NatureBox and include on their bar. It would taste sooo good with the original tart yogurt. The cocoa is sooo deep and smooth, I know that's not the proper way to describe a taste but that's how my mind is operating.

I think I'd almost do anything for salted caramel flavor. Yes, almost anything. When I saw this on the NatureBox site I said a silent prayer of hope that they wouldn't be sold out and make it in my box. Prayer works!!! There was like a party in my mouth!!! Out of everything, this would be my top choice, I will definitely be ordering this again. 

I wanted something that actually seemed 'healthy' since everything else is sooo fun as I was choosing. My last choice was the Antioxidant Boost. The combination of the dark chocolate, nuts, and berries was great. 

I'm super stoked to see what will be available next month. I think I'm going to lean towards the bars since I haven't gone in that direction yet. Have you all tried NatureBox, if so, what are your thoughts? If you haven't tried and would like my half off code leave your e-mail in the comments and I'll send it to you.

*This was not a paid post*

The Prayer Project

Weekends Were Made... To Celebrate

First off, I'd like to say Happy Resurrection Day!!! I am not sure if you reading this, is of Christain faith, but I am. What a great day to know that He is Risen and because of That our sins are forgiven and we have a right to the tree of life *cue shouting music*. 

Last month I thought that I'd be home for Easter to celebrate with my family. Since that didn't happen I was excited to have an entire weekend off to get some R&R. Well, really not really. I've been having some aggravating sleep issues recently that have been driving me crazy. However, I have an upcoming appointment and I hope I'll be back on track afterwards. I digress. Back to this wonderful weekend of mine. I was able to get off a bit early on Friday and headed directly to TJ Maxx to see if I could find a cute Easter outfit. I ALWAYS get a new Easter dress, it's like a nostalgic moment for me. Well this year I didn't have that moment, and it was ok, I guess lol. Since I don't have a 'church home' anything I'd wear would be new.  Have I ever mentioned that I'm obsessed with new items, like fresh out the bag. The items in the closet with the tags, that I haven't worn, aren't really new to me anymore. Yea, I know that's super crazy, but we all have our vices!!! Since I wasn't actually looking for an Easter dress any cute item would suffice. I was able to pick up two cute pieces but didn't get to look like I wanted to because of this awful cramp in my butt cheek, yea that was too much information. I really think I need a new chair at work, I mean the pain is really bad... Hmmnnn not anything a massage couldn't fix!!! Basically, Friday consisted of work, TJ Maxx run, and in the bed before 7. Now of course that's not how I wanted to spend my weekend so I knew Saturday of have to change it up a bit.

For me working part-time means that Saturday is a regular work day, so to get a Saturday off, I had to make the most of it. I wanted to savor all of the morning doing something, because  I'd usually spend that time getting ready for work. I woke up pretty early, called a friend and made plans to visit my local farmers market. Did I mention how much I LOVE my city? Ok, really that is like a whole 'nother blog post, lol. If you're ever in Alexandria check out the farmers market, you'll thank me later!!!

I am not much of a fruit person but after tasting a sample of the peaches I knew a few had to come home with me. After years of being a pescaterian I can recognize a good tomato. There are numerous days when beef tomatoes and munster cheese was my lunch of choice. This particular vendor knew exactly how to serve their tomatoes, with a little bit of salt and pepper. OMG, I'm pretty sure I should have picked up more than one heirloom tomato, but I plan to go back next Saturday. Now my fav, fav, fav purchase of the day was the homemade salsa. I'd purchased from this vendor in the past when I used to live in the boonies and was happy to see that she made her way up to Alexandria. If u get a chance to visit the Alexandria farmers market be sure to stop by her table. P.S- she makes her own chips. The-Best-Chips-Ever!!! Since I was out and about, I decided to walk around near the water for a while. I am not a swimmer or anything like that, but I just feel like being near water, not in it makes me feel sooo peaceful!!! 

As much as I wanted to be out and about, after I'd made it in from the  farmers market boredom set in. I knew had to get out the house again. I really should have purchased tickets to the Brocolli Festival, still beating myself up that I didn't. I ended up going out and purchasing a garment rack. I'm trying to pre-plan my work outfits in an effort to dress cuter for work and use my entire wardrobe, so we'll see if this helps. I was also craving a smoothie so I made my way over to a Boboa shop to indulge. 

Don't ya just LOVE cute packaging? I do!!! The owner even upgraded my small to a medium...winning!!! I was happy to enjoy most of the sunlight on Saturday and was even able to ride out with the windows down and the sun roof open, the little things you miss after a brutal winter lol!!! It'd be great to say that I enjoyed a night out but sleep came down hard on me once again and I had to give in. 

Not having a church home plays a major role when you have to decide on what church to visit for Easter. I mean that day alone is the day when 'everybody and they moma nem' go to church. I was really going to just attend Bedside Baptist AKA watch service in bed as I usually do, but I needed to walk into an actual sanctuary. Unfortunately, that didn't happen because 'everyone and they moma nem' was at church; I think it's safe to include me in that category since this was my first time attending this year *lowers head in shame*. The message was a message but I didn't feel a connection being in the overflow room. I know you're probably thinking what's the difference from being at Bedside Baptist, not sure, but there certainly is a difference. I was still happy to be able to attend. 

After a family dinner was canceled, I decided to meet up with my friend for an Easter dinner at Olive Garden. I usually prefer to dine at local restaurants but I obliged since those Olive Garden commercials had me salivating at the tv. I didn't get the bruschetta salmon as I thought I would, but opted for the crab topped chicken with garlic mashed potatoes which turned out to be a great choice.

Although the dinner was canceled I still made my way to my cousins house to pick up some macaroni and cheese. Did you really think I'd do Easter without a little soul food?

 

How did you spend your Easter weekend?

Thrifting With Nic

Yesterday I had an opportunity to attend Nic's meetup at The Goodwill. I was super excited when Nic actually posted the event because I knew it'd be my first chance to thrift with her.

The morning started off with a light breakfast and although I'm 'trying' to eat a bit healthy, I couldn't resist the pink and green doughnut.

There were several ladies attending which included some of my fav blogging buddies, Vivi and Waverly. Nic began her presentation by passing around items of hers and asked which ones we thought were thrifted. Two of the three items were different but all were in great shape. She did the exercise to let everyone know that you never know what kind of gem you can find at the thrift store. 

Nic's Tips to successfully thrift were:

-Make a List

-Have a Budget

-Make Time

-Pack Light/Dress Comfortably

-Bring a Friend

-Throw it in the Bag

-Be Patient

-Have Fun 

After she shared a few of her tips, it was time for us to put them in use and shop. I personally try to cross reference with a few of my fav style magazines to see what I need to look out for on the low. One current trend that I've been in to this season is the structured bag. I luckily found one in a bright statement color. The bag was the perfect size for a cute spring cross body. Unfortunately, there was a stain near the top of the bag that couldn't be covered or able to be removed; so it didn't come home with me. However, it did make my thrifting outfit pop for this pic!!!

Kristin's Tip- Inspect All Items Carefully

This makes sure that you aren't wasting fund$ on an item that can't be restored or saved. 

For the longest I was in the market for a cute dressor and this could have been the perfect solution if IKEA hadn't won. This beauty was actually on sale for $25. With a simple coat of paint and fixture change you'd be able to customize this anyway you'd like. 

Kristin's Tip- When purchasing furniture or designer items, go on the stores actual customer appreciation day. That way you'll score an even deeper discount.

Waverly was able to channel her inner Pharrell with this hat. I won't lie we all were 'happy' with the items we found.

Kristin's Tip- Let the accessory counter be the first area you check. Often times you're able to find one-of-a-kind unique pieces.

Nic's husband was super excited to find a grey suit less than $20 that was on his list. Can you say score?

Kristin's Tip- Don't forget to check out other departments in the thrift store. You never know when someone hides or misplaces a gem of an item.

Look at Vivi's thrifted blazers she wore, cute and floral never goes out of style.

I had such an awesome time thrifting with Nic and the other ladies that attended. If you are in the DMV area and would like to check out this particular Goodwill, they are located at 7931 Colombia Pike Annandale, Va. If you're looking for a deeper discount, be sure to visit then on Tuesday's and receive an additional 25% off. 

How did I forget my purchases!!! I only decided on 3 things since I put back my picnic basket (I'm obsessed with them) and gave Waverly the Dooney. My total came to an astounding $14.27, definitely beating out the $25 budget I'd set in my mind earlier. 

The picture doesn't do this skirt any justice, with it's silk like material and radiant orchid color. I will be wearing this on a sunny springy day next week.

This Nine West dress is sooo pretty. Can you say Easter dress, I kid, I kid!!! I was a bit disappointed with the price though 8.98. I feel like I could have purchased something brand new from Ross for that amount... I digress.

I absolutely LOVE this sweater with the polka dot detail. I can already imagine sooo many looks in my head. 

I had been in a thrift funk for a while now, but this visit actually put me in the mood to go out and experience a few new thrift stores. I may just stop by the coveted 2nd Ave Thrift Store in Colombia that everyone has been raving about on Sunday.

Until next time, thrift and you shall find...

From Unemployed to Employed...

Exactly 1 year, 2 months, and 14 days is how long it took me to find a full time job *insert praise dance*. All I can say is what an experience. I remember the first lay off from my previous company and my exact thoughts were I don't know what I'd do if I got laid off... And then I got laid off, and what I did was survive. Times were hard in regard to my stress level. It seemed like when it rained, it poured... But somehow everything always seemed to work itself out. And after 14 months, 14 days, and 4 interviews, I'm ecstatic that I have a job. 

This morning Isaiah 43:19 resonated with me as I got ready for work. If I told you half of the things that took place last year you probably wouldn't believe it. I know that it was God that was working things out behind the scenes on my behalf. 

Even on my drive in, I was able to find time for a selfie!!!

(This post was written March 31st but didn't upload correctly)

Oh My Gratis...

One of my favorite things about working part-time is all of the freebies AKA gratis!!! I actually put the freebies and the quality of goods into consideration when I initially applied for part-time work. Why work for a company and not love their products. Luckily for me my company is owned by the great L'oréal. If you don't know much about L'oréal, this would be the perfect time to google them. There are sooo many brands (luxury & drugstore) that fall under the Brand that is  L'oréal. Enough about that, let's get into some of the gratis that I chose for this quarter.

Essie brand nail polish falls under L'oréaI am sooo happy for this because Essie has some of the best colors in the nail game (with my personal favorite being Bikini So Teeny). After going through my stash and process of elimination, these were just a few colors I knew I needed to add. The colors I chose were (l-r) Blanc, Merino Cool, Brooch The Subject, Limited Addiction, and E-Nuff is E-Nuff. Today I decided to use 'blanc' to paint my nails. I was going for an opaque white color and since 'marshmallow' didn't do the trick this color was next in line. I'm sooo happy with the outcome.

If you are interested in Essie nail polish, you can find them at your local drugstore, Walmart, or Target. Each nail polish retails for around $8.50. 

I was in the market for a new body wash as well as a eye makeup remover; so I decided to try out a few items from The Body Shop. I haven't yet used either product but being the nerd that I am, after reading all of the reviews I know I made the right choice.

The Olive shower gel is actually on sale right now for $4.00. This particular product is said to have a neutral fresh scent and I can't wait to use it after I finish my current body wash. I usually prefer eye makeup remover in a lotion form (Avon has a great product). I decided on Camomille Makeup Remover one because Camomille is known to be soothing and calming. This makeup remover retails for $15.50. The Body Shop products can be found at their retail locations or you can order directly from them online. Also, if you're a game for a coupon, check Groupon out because I've seen The Body Shop have deals on there more then twice.

Lord knows I LOVE a good blush. I get the majority of my blushes from my gratis each quarter (such a lucky girl I am). Theses blushes go on very smooth and have a great color payoff. You can find the L'oréal True Match blush at any drugstore, Walmart, Target, or local retailer. The price on this item will usually vary by store so be sure to check your Sunday paper ( I LOVE the Sunday paper for deals and coupons).

Since there is only an allotted amount for gratis, I had to be a bit crafty in terms of spending. I usually choose my must haves first and then just throw in whatever to get me to that amount. The next product isn't something that I really use at all, but the price was right. 

You really can't go wrong with an eyelash curler but being the low maintenance chick that I am, I just rely solely on mascara. I have used an eyelash curler in the past and noticed somewhat of a difference so why not have it for my stash. I'm sure you can also find this product at a drugstore, Walmart, Target, or local retailer.

The last items that I'll be showing you were actually the first items that I chose. If you are into YouTube as I am then I know the name Michelle Phan rings a bell. My co-workers an I were super excited to see her new line 'em' added to the gratis list. I didn't get any eyeshadow palette or lip products but I did get the Shade Play concealer color mixing palette and the Love Me For Me flawless finish powder compact. I haven't tried them yet because I can't get over how cute the packaging is. You know how something is just sooo cute that you don't want to touch it (for fear that it'll lose it's cuteness). I really hope the colors in each palette work for me because they do seem just a bit light. I really expected the concealer palette's darkest color to be dark so that I could have a new contour but it basically matches my skin tone. Hopefully I'll be able to make the under eye and highlight colors work. Nonetheless, I can always find a cute way to display them if they don't work...or *sigh* give them away. Take a look yourself to see the cuteness!!!

Do any of you work for companies that gift you with freebies? What are some of your favorites? I always say that if you're in the market for a part-time job, make sure it's a company that you can work for and that can 'work' for you.