March 2015 Favorites

I’m going to spare you all from the typical “I can’t believe another month has passed! Where does the time go?” All I know is, even though I actually like cold weather (these born in Massachusetts bones find it refreshing) I’m looking forward to Spring, minus the tiny specks of yellow dust that have been irritating my nasal passageways. However, I will take a few sneezes for this 70-degree weather that is forecasted for this coming week.

 I don’t have many favorites this month, but the items that I do have to share with you all are really noteworthy products.

Feel free to click the image for a larger view

Simple Micellar Cleansing Water. When I ran out of Bioderma, I wanted to find another cleansing water that was significantly cheaper. I didn’t even know Simple had a micellar water until I stumbled upon it in Target. This is a great product. It’s gentle on the skin and really does a great job removing my makeup and prepping it to be cleansed with my other cleansers. At a $5.99 price point, I don’t think I’ll go back to Bioderma. I even like the smell of it; it has a mild, earthy scent.

thebalm Geranium Toner. I’m always on the hunt to find another great toner. The Geranium Toner by thebalm is alcohol free, so it does not feel like it’s burning on the skin. It also contains glycolic acid, which further helps to cleanse pores and even the texture and tone of the skin. It’s also gentle and doesn’t make my skin feel tight and dry. If you’re in the market for a good toner, this is one you may want to check out.

Kiehl’s Rosa Artica Eye Balm. When I first started using this product, I wasn’t sure if I liked it. I’m more accustomed to creamy eye products and this one definitely has a unique texture. When they say balm, they mean balm. When you wipe your finger in the jar, you barely lift up any of the product, save a few white “chunks”, but whether you see it or not, it’s there. It almost has an oily consistency. I only use this at night because it is rather rich and emollient, so much so that I don’t need to use an eye cream during the day. The more I use this, the softer the skin around my eyes becomes. It’s moisturizing and soothing and I look forward to using it every night, even if it is unconventional.

Chantecaille Just Skin Tinted Moisturizer. I briefly touched on this product in my most recent post and I’m only going to mention it briefly here because I’m going to have an entire post on tinted moisturizers. I wore this base the most out of all my tinted moisturizers and foundations this month. It’s got good coverage for a tinted moisturizer, feels light on the skin and has a beautiful dewy finish. It is also incredibly long lasting on the skin for it being a tinted moisturizer.

butter London Cheeky Highlighter Tint. I also mentioned this product in my last post. With the weather warming up, I’ve been craving a warmer glow to my skin and this is the product that I’ve been using to help me achieve that glow. I mix this in with whatever foundation or tinted moisturizer I’m using and it just makes the skin look radiant and healthy.  A little goes a long way, use too much and you’ll end up looking metallic and not in a good way.

NYC Smooth Mineral Loose Finishing Powder. Since I’ve been wearing more luminous, dewy bases recently I was seeking a setting powder that wouldn’t make me look completely matte. That, and my other translucent powder from thebalm was looking a bit heavy on my skin. I was going through my makeup stash and found this. My mom actually gave this to me ages ago and I forgot I had it. I’m not sure if NYC even makes this anymore. This is a very lightweight translucent powder that sets my makeup without looking heavy or making my skin look totally matte. NYC is such a budget friendly brand with some standout products and this is one of them.

NARS Striptease Lip Gloss. I don’t think there is anything particularly special about the formula of NARS lip glosses, but Striptease is such a nice shade. It’s a warm, peachy nude with subtle shimmer that does not look frosty on the lips. It’s not a very opaque shade, which makes it more wearable. I have quite a few nude lip products, but nothing quite like this color. It pairs well over lipsticks and can warm up a nude lipstick that is too cool toned and make it more wearable.

MAC Blankety Lip Stick and MAC Stone Lip Liner. I was at the MAC store in Chicago eyeballing Blankety. I’ve actually been eyeing Blankety since 2013, but always talked myself out of it because I thought it would be too cool and grey for my skin tone. However, once I swatched this on the back of my hand, I was like “Shut the front door! Slap someone! Throw a tantrum!” This shade is just so beautiful. It’s a nude with pink undertones and dare I say, a touch of taupe. The formula is standard for an Amplified lipstick: creamy, smooth and pigmented. The lovely Sales Associate at MAC suggested I pair it with MAC Stone Lip Liner. I tried not to give her a strange look because when I saw Stone the only thing I could think of was that brown, harsh lined lip of the 90’s. Stone is a cool toned, taupe-brown shade. However, applied with a very light hand just to define the shape of the lips underneath Blankety, it is really stunning. It almost creates a subtle gradient effect. This will be a lip combo that I will sport all year long.

Those are my favorites for the month of March. Have you tried any of these products? What were your favorites for March?

- Alana

Diamonds // Johnnyswim

Just stopping by for a tiny post on one of my favorite songs EVER:) 

Alana and I LOVE  the beautiful duo Johnnyswim ! Amanda and Abner Ramirez are soooo amazing! I discovered their music while watching the movie "Unconditional" which became my favorite movie. As a result,  Johnnyswim became my favorite band <3  I sent Alana some of their music and she became hooked as well haha. They are incredibly talented and passionate and sooo genuine. Diamonds is an uplifting song with a great message. I watched one of their many interviews for this song andwhen asked about the meaning of the song Amanda stated "no pressure, no diamonds". This song is truly a pick-me-up on a dragging Monday morning lol. Like many of their songs, it represents  real emotion and life situations. It reminds me that in the midst of hard decisions or tough feelings, we will rise above.  Do yourself a favor and listen :) 

" We're the fire from the sun, we're the light when the day is done. We are the brave , the chosen ones. We're the diamonds, diamonds, rising up out the dust" <3

xoxo, 

Tonyette

#blacklivesmatter

I've spent the past week trying to really put in words what has occurred on UVA's campus. On March 18, 2015,  Martese Johnson suffered wounds after he was brutally attacked by the ABC law enforcement.  Many of my former classmates, current students and organization's like UVa's Black Student Alliance rallied behind Martese and demanded investigation of this attack. 

I've watched social media posts express outrage, but I've seen many ignore this tragedy and many say "maybe this isn't just a race thing". I've read posts from the social media outlet Yik-Yak and I have been deeply disgusted that people walk around with such deep-seated hatred for people of color. I've watched my little sister, her peers, and friends that are still at UVa feel so alienated. I spent last weekend at UVa grateful that my sister was safe, but wondering what people were thinking as I walked in cafes/stores in the Charlottesville community. Last week, I mourned. I was reminded of the first time I learned about racism. At age 5, I watched  as a close family member was unlawfully treated and spoke harshly too. I tried to understand why my color could make people so angry. 

 Martese's wounds hit hard. 

I've seen so many reactions to the term "black lives matter"  but I want to make this clear, when we chant black lives matter, we are saying that NO ONE should have his/her head bashed on the ground for no reason. We are saying that despite the SAE racist chants that found their way to Duke University's campus last week, WE MATTER. That while people say "this isn't a race thing", we clearly see that we can be targeted for the color of our skin. Please take a look at these cases on all campuses. Because this isn't an isolated event. 

Eric Garner. Tamir Rice. Mike Brown. Trayvon Martin. Their lives matter 

Martese's life matters 

No one deserves to have his/her life taken. No one deserves to be chained or jailed for no apparent reason. No one deserves to have racial slurs screamed at his/her face. Black UVa students don't deserve the comments or ignorance on the campus. Take a minute and think why must someone not say this is a "race thing"? 

"If you aren't angry, you aren't paying attention" 

- Tonyette

Make-up Travel Essentials: The Illinois Edition

Last week my sister and I spent some time in Illinois visiting family. The hardest thing about packing a suitcase is deciding what NOT to bring. I love my skin care and my make-up collection keeps growing, so deciding what tidbits to leave at home for a week took some real thought. So today’s post will be the makeup (and one skin care item) that were the essentials. These are the products that I took with me on my trip that were easy to use, versatile and just got the job done. 

Shisiedo Ultimate Sun Protection Cream SPF 50+. The texture of this actually feels quite powdery, so I was able to use this as a make-up primer as well. The high SPF protection ensured that whether I was out just running errands with family, visiting Lake Michigan, or spending a day in Chicago just exploring, my skin was will protected from the sun. This served me well as a primer, which is great because it’s always nice to have products that can double up. It’s a great way to save space. 

Chantecaille Just Skin Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15. I've been trying a TON of tinted moisturizers lately (a collective post on those soon). On this trip I had a bit of a dilemma figuring out which one to bring. The day before I left, the Chantecaille Just Skin arrived in the mail and I made my decision. I figured it was a good opportunity to give this a test drive. It's perfect for those light makeup days when I just want to even out my complexion but not look too made up. It's perfect for plane rides or running errands with my family here because it's low maintenance but still looks beautiful on the skin. The added SPF 15 is always a pleasant bonus.

Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua Foundation. I wanted to bring a base product on my trip that provided more coverage than a tinted moisturizer but still wouldn’t look heavy. Not only is this the most travel friendly packaging for a foundation, its pretty low maintenance as well. Because foundation dries down nicely and doesn’t make you look too dewy or to matte, you can save yourself a step and save some room in your travel bag and skip the powder. It also wears longer than the Chantecaille Just Skin, so when I knew I was going to have a longer day out and about; this was my base product of choice.

butter LONDON Cheeky Tinted Hightlighter. I actually picked this item up while I was in Illinois in the shade Pence. I love illuminating products that make my skin look like it's glowing without making me look like a greasy disco ball. This is a beautiful warm gold that isn't too brassy. I mixed this in with my foundation or tinted moisturizer for a healthy, warm glow. The packing is also sleek and very travel friendly, no leaks here.

thebalm Hot Mama Blush. This has got to be my all time favorite blush. I wanted to bring a blush that pretty much went with anything and this one always fits the bill. Plus I own this in the sample size so it takes up virtually no space in my makeup bag. Also, because this has a golden sheen, I didn't have to bring a highlighter with me. I also took Benefit's Dallas with me because it's a neutral shade that goes with almost any makeup look, but I really only reached for Hot Mama.

NYC Sunny Bronzer. This is my go-to Bronzer, so there was no doubt in my mind that I would be taking it on this trip. It's easy, quick, fuss free and almost impossible to overdo. It adds just enough warmth to the face so I don't look pasty. My makeup on this trip has pretty much been my standard makeup look, but simpler in some ways. This was a not a Kat Von D Shade & Light palette trip. I didn't need to contour the living day lights out of my face. The NYC Sunny Bronzer provides subtle definition and nothing more.

NARS Lip Gloss in Striptease. Oh NARS, you and your cheeky names. I only brought three lip glosses with me but this was the only one I wore, minus one or two days. It's easy and goes with almost everything. It's a warm, peachy nude that doesn't wash me out. The color is not extremely opaque, which makes it versatile and low-key.

These were my standout products from my trip to Illinois. When you travel, what are your most reliable products?

-Alana

run with patience.

Taken from the lovely Lauren Mim's Tumblr

After a long battle with my health this past March, I had to make the very difficult decision to slow down this weekend. Since January I've been training for a 10 mile race and I injured myself on Tuesday. It was difficult because I didn’t want to let up. Even though I have been sick, I have tried my hardest to get back in the game and not give up. I decided the morning of the race I wouldn’t run and I cried. Definitely upset me on so many levels because I worked so hard to reach this goal, but I’ve been so sick this month it’s crazy. I can’t even begin to explain how crazy it’s been. 

Oftentimes our minds and our visions are so huge and beautiful. I know mines are for sure.  But we have to stop and slow down and check in with our physical and mental health. I am so exhausted from being sick and my feet are really messed up.

As much as it hurts that I couldn’t cross that finish line today, I had to be fair to my body. God literally was telling me to “slow down Tonyette” and I stopped to listen. 

Even though I didn’t race, I went to support my director, asst. director, co-advisers, and our program’s alum/family support. I was blown away by how people ran faster when we (me + two other advisers) cheered on people. We stood at one of the many hills and at the 7.5 mile mark. Many of my co-workers told us that we gave them the push to keep going to the end. How amazingis that?! Wow - truly powerful. I was reminded that not only is it important to run a race (whether it is an actual race or reaching a goal), but it is important to support and cheer on those in our circles.  I am so proud of my co-workers and I am beaming with joy! Today was a great day and I am so grateful I was given the opportunity to watch them run the race set before them<3 

This has been my memory verse for training and definitely for the past two years after being challenged in so many ways spiritually. 

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Hebrews 12:1-2

Stay lifted. Every goal and dream will come to past - you just have to grow with the challenges and be patient with yourself <3

xoxoxo,

Tonyette

#JusticeforMartese: Enough is Enough

I was sitting in my office this afternoon when an e-mail from Tonyette landed in my inbox and it was not good news.

She sent me a letter written by Black students of the University of Virginia, addressed to the University regarding Third-Year African American student, Martese Johnson. Martese, an Honor Student and member of Kappa Alpha Psi, was beaten by officers after being refused entry into Trinity Irish Pub with a Fake ID. Martese had to receive 10 stitches due to the head injury he endured and even as students pleaded with police to stop their attack on Johnson, the police threatened to arrest the students if they did not step aside. (See the article on the Cavalier Daily here.)

Photo Credit

Once again, we see that the punishment exceeds the crime. What justifies getting beaten to a bloody pulp for a fake ID? Out of all the students at the University of Virginia and nationwide that have a fake ID, officers decided to attack Martese. Let me pose a blunt question to you: If Martese were not a black male, would officers have attacked him like this? Out of all the underage, frat boy alcohol consumption that occurs, not just at the University of Virginia, but across the nation, police target Martese.

Let me detour very quickly and talk about police from the female perspective. As I was discussing with Tonyette, women are also subject to harassment. I am an African American female, but I am wary of police for a different reason. On too many occasions have I seen police paying too much attention to me and burning holes in the side of my face, when they should be paying attention to their surroundings. My sister and I were in Chicago this past weekend. Security called after us, attempting to flirt. The way they were looking at us was enough to make me want to jump in the shower and cleanse myself. Excuse me sir, but instead of checking us out you need to be checking out the surroundings to ensure the safety of the public instead of molesting my sister and me with your eyes. Have some dignity and pride. You are in a position of authority, stop abusing it.

Our black men are getting beaten and killed and women have to endure catcalling and harassment. Yes, I acknowledge that humanity gives way to the unfortunate, ugly and imperfect side of human nature. But enough is enough. Police need to be held accountable for their actions. We shouldn’t have to be wary of law enforcement. And students shouldn’t have to plead to the University to stand up for one of our own. I spent four invaluable years at UVA and I’m wearing the Cavalier proudly on my chest as I type this and because of this I say, to UVA and the Charlottesville community we’ve got to do better!

This is not what our ancestors fought for. Our black brothers and sisters did not endure tear gas, brutal beatings and lynchings to see their descendents suffer. Our black brothers and sisters should not have to go to one of the top universities in the country and be treated as second-class citizens. I say again, enough is enough. When are we going to stand up as a nation and stop speaking on racial injustice, brutality and discrimination using “safe” political terms and beating around the bush and call it out for what it is? This is wrong and yes, this is racial. Plain and simple.

It’s time we take heed to the lyrics of UVA’s good ole song, “Let’s all hold hands and give a yell…” Let us yell it until we can’t yell it any more! Enough is enough! Injustice is injustice. Black lives matter.

#JusticeforMartese

- Alana 

Soulful Happenings: DChillin

Hi Everyone!

It's Tonyette here:) Just want to stop by and share one of my moments that I would define as a soulful happening.

I am in love with spaces - the architecture, layout, interior design, and the purpose. I am in love  with spaces that connect people and help people grow. I would definitely consider our Nation's Capital to be one of those cities that thrive in creating those spaces. I was truly inspired last weekend as I walked around DC and took in the many places to eat, shop, learn, relax.....the list can go on. 

Over that weekend I had an opportunity to relax in a few spaces that inspired me. 

I had a very late dinner at Busboys and Poets , but the atmosphere was definitely very vibrant at 11PM. I smiled as I watched people eat their dinners from comfy chairs, engage in intense debates over coffee, or type and read from a small corner. The food was delicious and unique and the bookstore is packed with a billion books I wanted to purchased. Tears almost formed in my eyes as I surveyed the "Education" section. True future educator over hereeee :) 

My sister shot a candid of me :)

Busboys and Poets is a community where racial and cultural connections are consciously uplifted...a place to take a deliberate pause and feed your mind, body and soul...a space for art, culture and politics to intentionally collide...we believe that by creating such a space we can inspire social change and begin to transform our community and the world

In addition to eating - my family and I walked around downtown. We visited the Smithsonian American Art Museum  and I was soooo in awe of the paintings, portraits, and sculptures. I haven't been to a museum in a while and this was truly a treat. My sister took another dope candid lol and I snapped a few photos of the architecture!

This is the picture of the ceiling of the courtyard in the museum. THIS.WAS.BEAUTIFUL. It was like spring in this space and people did not have on coats. This was great and I would love to come here and read one day. 


My family and I also visited Madame Tussand's Wax Museum and it was GREEEAAAT. I can't even begin to explain how real every figure looked. In the beginning of the exhibit - we took a journey through history and saw all of the presidents. It was super eerie at first, but so great to finally be able to have a representation of history. I've always loved history and this just really illuminated many of the events I've learned.  I am glad my sister decided to book this tour for us! 

We were so excited to finally "meet" the Obamas hahahaha. 

On Sunday, I was blessed with the opportunity to attend National Community Church . I found out about this church after reading The Circle Maker.  The writer , Mark Batterson founded this church about 16 years ago and many of the its origins are deeply rooted in divine intervention and miracles. I was sooo inspired and I was so grateful to attend church at one of its locations.  The service was held at the historic Lincoln Theatre and I was once again blown away with the architecture. I walked away full of hope because I witnessed a church service that is truly  product of God's power and craaaazy miracles. It was so great! 

You know  I had coffee LOL. I went to a few cool spots including the Corner Bakery

That's all for now :) Basically, I looooove DC. The traffic is terrifying BUT the spaces make up for it lol. 

BTW,

It IS better for our environment.....Okay...Okay AND it's cooler ! hahhaha. I bought this at a cool Vegan spot called Native Foods Cafe' :)

xoxo,

Tonyette