Ten Things: Summer To-Dos

My friend's cabin is actually located in the mountain town of Normalville, PA; the things that happen there are anything but ordinary (very Twin Peaks). Many of us have seen UFOs among other anomalies. It's a beautifully odd place. 

1. Have a bit of boozy fun (beer/wine festivals, pub trivia, etc.)
2. Night swim
3. Take a road trip to do something I haven't done before
4. Visit an amusement park (Kennywood, Cedar Point, etc.)
5. Read something extraordinary (and try to write something at least mediocre)
6. Go to the mountains (cabin camping, golf, bonfire under the stars)
7. Catch a Bucco game at PNC Park
8. See as many concerts as possible
9. Have a funnel cake (and play carnival games) at a local festival or fair
10. Take kickboxing classes












Now Playing: "Hey Lover" by LL Cool J

Music Monday: Amen Dunes

It's been quite a long time since I've been compelled to share a Music Monday post but I have not stopped listening to the newest release from Amen Dunes. I was on Twitter the other night and by happenstance, I read a timely Pitchfork tweet of a live link to their show in Brooklyn. Instantly a fan. I had listened to a few of Amen Dunes' older songs many years ago but never truly connected until this week. Here are a few of their latest songs that I've had on repeat:

"Believe"


"Blue Rose"


"Skipping School"


"Dracula"





Damon McMahon is the mastermind behind New York's Amen Dunes. Their latest album, Freedom, is out now and can be purchased here.

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Flick Pick/Get Lit: Sharp Objects

I finally read Gillian Flynn's intriguing debut thriller, Sharp Objects, a few years ago. I couldn't put it down. When I learned that HBO was developing a limited series around the material, I was all in. The casting hits the spot and Jean-Marc Vallee (Big Little Lies) is directing. Amy Adams is one of my favorite actresses; her range and ability to portray so many different types of characters is not credited highly enough. If you're a fan of dark thrillers with a female lead, I imagine you might be a fan of this project. I recommend checking out the book before the miniseries premieres on July 8th. It's a quick read and does not disappoint. If you enjoyed The Sinner, you will probably like this one as well.

















Now Playing: "Believe" by Amen Dunes

Quoteworthy: Kate Spade 1962-2018

"In order to lead a fascinating life, one brimming with art, music, intrigue and romance, you must surround yourself with precisely those things." 
-Kate Spade














Now Playing: "Sweet Like Brandy" by Kwamie Liv

2017 Makeup No Buy: The Final Update

If you were following along with my 2017 makeup no buy, I apologize for leaving you hanging. About midway through the year, I went through a few personal challenges and makeup simply wasn't even on my radar. I purchased a few selective items during a sale here and there but overall, I added very little new product to my collection. I purged quite a bit as well. Overall, I was extremely pleased with my results. If I were grading my performance, I would say that I earned a solid B+. I am going to continue my no-buy into the new year with the same "rules" of only purchasing for special occasions, major sales or rare launches. My focus has completely shifted in recent months and I no longer have the desire to buy everything that catches my eye. I  simply don't need it. While my love and appreciation for beauty will always remain, there comes a time when you must take an inventory of your lifestyle and priorities and realize what you need is more important than what you want. I would rather put my money toward savings, books and travel. Collect moments, not things.



Products Featured Above:

L'Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara

Tarte Tartelette Toasted Eyeshadow Palette

Etude House Universe Palette in Gold

ABH Subculture Palette

Urban Decay Eyeliner in Alkaline

MAC Holiday Lipstick

Too Faced Clover Eyeshadow Palette

Charlotte Tilbury Instant Eyeshadow Palette













Now Playing: "Praise You" by Jon Kenzie (Fatboy Slim Cover)