Showing posts with label favorites. Show all posts
Showing posts with label favorites. Show all posts

Video | April Favorites





     I've been loving quite a few things during the month of April, so have a look for some nice summery discoveries! Please don't forget to like, comment, and subscriiiiibe!

xx
Rachel
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Forgotten Favorites



This may seem a bit like an oxymoron, but hey, it happens. You buy all of the things, you want to try them out, your forever favorites get moved to the bottom of the drawer. I recently was gifted a really nice makeup storage, by storage I mean it is seriously a small dresser, by my mom. Anyway, the whole reorganization of makeup allowed me to rediscover some long-lost loves.

Anastasia Brow Whiz in Ash Blonde
I have seen numerous people talk about this in their videos or just use it in general. This lead me to dig mine out of the drawer and give it another go. I had been madly obsessed with using my MAC paint pot or my Hourglass Arch Sculpting Pencil but wow. When I used the Brow Whiz again, I couldn't stop. It honestly gives you the most natural looking brows. I find I can really shape them with this and then I will typically go over them with the Benefit Gimme Brow just to add some color.

MAC Eyeshadow in Cranberry
I picked this up last fall because I felt like I needed a wine colored eyeshadow in my life (helloo, I have green eyes). Annyywhooo, it wouldn't be a complete post if I didn't mention MAC at least once. This eyeshadow is perfect on it's own blended out or it can be used in a more complex look. When I wear it to work I typically just blend it out and call it good. At first the color kind of seemed daunting but it's actually extremely wearable. Let's be honest, it probably seemed daunting because it wasn't a neutral.

Em by Michelle Phan Lipstick in Nude
I actually received this in my ipsy bag quite awhile ago and it seemed to fall into the bottom of one of my many lipstick bags rather quickly. Yes, there are multiple, there's even a drawer now that doesn't even contain them all (oh, the perils of life). The first thing that I remain impressed about this nude is that it doesn't make me look like a corpse. It's the perfect shade, and it adds just enough to your lips without having to wear a gloss. The finish is really lovely. That being said, if you're looking for something long lasting, this isn't it. With this being a nude shade, it's extremely easy to reapply at work or school. I may be in it just for the shade, but who can blame me.

What makeup has made a comeback in your routine?
xx Tori
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Recent Favorites | Lifestyle

I haven't shared my favorite things, possibly ever on this blog. So I figured I'd share with you a few of my non-beauty favorites that I've been having a love affair with recently.

Mac OS X 10.9.2 
I somehow had a free software upgrade on my MacBook Pro and I am absolutely in love with it. I bought my laptop before I started college so it was long overdue and I was missing out on some pretty awesome features apparently. One of my favorites is Messages, it just really makes my life more convenient because I'm on my laptop way more than I'm on my phone so it's helpful to be able to reply to messages without having to switch devices. I'm also loving the mail notifications feature, it helps me to know if it's something that needs my attention immediately or if it can wait until later.

Spotify
I know I talk every week about how much I love Spotify, but I've really been loving it even more lately. By the way, if you didn't know, they're now offering Premium at a 50% discount to students and have some of the absolute best customer service around. If you're ever wondering what I'm listening to besides what I post for On Repeat, check out my playlists.

Pinterest
My love affair for Pinterest started back in my freshman year of college. I kind of left it to the side for a while but recently I've found myself spending a lot of time on there. Especially if it's slow at work and I've got my phone charged up enough. I've been on the hunt for a new hair color so Pinterest has been super helpful in the search. (ps - go give me a follow!)

Breakfast Smoothies
Let's just get this out of the way: I'm not a health nut. No matter how hard I try, I just can not give up my terrible eating habits. Recently, I've been trying to be a bit better, which has included incorporating a breakfast of something other than a coffee and granola bar. My usual go-to is pretty simple: a banana, a scoop of vanilla soy protein powder and some vanilla coconut milk. I've been loving these because I can still take them on the go, which is good considering I'm usually running about 30 minutes behind.

Marley Lilly/Monograms
Ask any of the other girls about my obsession with monograms and they'll probably roll their eyes. If I could put a monogram on everything I would (this is also the part of me that loves Lilly Pulitzer and anything preppy). Marley Lilly recently released an app, for free by the way, and not only can you shop, but you can make your own monogramed backgrounds. So naturally I went HAM and have about 20 on my phone now. Whoops. Sorry, not sorry.

My Kindle/Amazon
Amazon is always awesome, but as per my New Years Resolutions, I've been on a reading binge recently. I read through the Divergent trilogy (and also went to see the movie, of course) and am currently on the second book of The Maze Runner series. I've got a wishlist on Amazon.com about 5 pages long of books to read, so hopefully I'll make my way through them soon. I've also been loving my Kindle to work on instead of my laptop, especially if I'm at home hanging out (watching Netflix) and just have a couple quick things to do.

House, M.D.
Speaking of Netflix, let's talk about how the whole House series is now on there. I was in love with this show when it was on air but never really followed it completely, I would just catch episodes here and there. So now I've made it my mission to get through the entire series, start to finish.

Well, that's all from me for this week. What have you been loving recently?

xx
Tessa
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13 of '13

     No doubt this post has been circulating blogs as of late, so I thought I’d weigh in with my picks of the year. It was actually tough to choose 13 items but I think I’ve nailed what I’ve loved for the past 365.


YSL Le Teint Touche Eclat
     It should come as no surprise that this made the cut; I’ve raved about this long enough. It made a late entrance during 2013 but it’s been a firm staple ever since. My skin looks radiant and healthy – all kudos to this base.

EOS Lip Balm
     Obviously Miley’s endorsement of the brand is the only reason I love these balms. I jest. Still, if I dropped the Burt’s Bees and swapped it for these lil’ eggs I have to love them. I have tried six flavors thus far and am yet to be disappointed.

Real Techniques Brushes
     Makeup is made so much simpler with the proper tools – enter this impeccably designed line of brushes. Sam and Nic Chapman have put out a quality, affordable line. Special mention goes to the Buffing Brush and the Base Shadow Brush which have served me well all year.

Organix Moroccan Surf Paste
     I mentioned this a while back and would still recommend it for all hair types. It adds a subtle texture without drying or knotting the hair. I finish all my styles with this pomade, and the price point is well justified too.

Remington Curling Wand
     I don’t know that I’ve ever mentioned this before, but it has become a staple for me. I received this for Christmas last year and it completely changed how I style my hair. I’d never been able to hold a curl until this came along. I can finish undone waves in about 15 minutes and not worry they’ll fall out all day.

Seventh Generation Revitalizing Boost
     I cannot offer enough praise for this facial oil. I recommend these to anyone who asks (just ask Tori & Jen). I’ve noticed my skin is consistently well-hydrated and blemishes/scars heal much faster. Their line can cater to anyone’s needs without a hefty price tag.

Minnetonka Moccasins
     These are easily my go-to shoe of the year. They err toward the side of slipper and I wore these as long as the weather allowed. They’ve been a good alternative to sandals or ballet flats and I will most definitely purchase a new pair come summer.

Casio Watch
     I’ve become one of those people who are distraught when they leave the house without a watch. Essentially, my mother. I like the functionality because I’m usually lackadaisical in digging my phone out from the depths of my purse (or I’ve misplaced it). Plus, my style is fairly minimalistic so a watch is a nice
accessory. I rotate frequently between my collection, but I think I’ve turned to my Casio the most.

Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
     After weighing the rave reviews and tales of caution in regard to this varnish, I finally scored a free bottle months back. Now I’m skeptical as to whether I could continue manicures sans Seche Vite. It cut the drying time in half, I have no issues with bubbling or smearing, and the finish is glossy. Unfortunately, it does nothing to extend the longevity of my polish – but I ignore that for the convenience.

Essie Ladylike
     I rotate between polishes year round so nothing stands out as my most used. However, I have loved this hue every time I’ve donned it. It is the perfect nude with a hint of color and suits my complexion. Essie: you shits better never discontinue this.

MAC Paint Pot in Groundwork
     This was my first foray into the formula, my collection growing ever since. Groundwork remains my favorite. It’s a soft, satin brown that provides just the right amount of definition. High marks.

MAC Eyeshadow
     This year, I finally ventured into the world of MAC. Not long ago I binge-purchased some shadows and I love every shade I own. I don’t need to speak to the formula as it’s established as quality. This autumn I relied solely upon a select few shadows: Star Violet, Sumptuous Olive, Club, Antiqued, and
Woodwinked.

Miss Dior Eau de Parfum
     This is the first “sophisticated” perfume I’d ever purchased for myself. I’ve only had it a few months but I’ve worn nothing else since. It’s the right blend of sweetness and musk, which I will continue to repurchase again and again.

I would lurv to know what you were all into last year! 
Auf Weidersehen,

xx
Rachel
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Favorites | Study Music

Hola, friends. If you are partaking in the college lifestyle, then you are aware that finals are looming before us (or you've already started, OR you're already done. And if you're done, let it be known I despise you). I thought I would share some of my favorite tunes for studying, inspired by my On Repeat this past Friday. Check that out here.

Now I understand that there are two types of people in this world: those who can study with music that has vocals, and those that cannot. Luckily, I fall in the realm between these two (so I guess there are three types of people? Or just two and then me? It's irrelevant). Therefore, I split this post up into two categories.

Music with Vocals:

Ellie Goulding
   This girl, doe. My obsession with her last semester was almost unreasonable. I listened to her basically all semester and pretty much equate her with Organic Chemistry I. Her vocals are like no one else and she has enough music out to keep the playlist from getting repetitive. I really enjoy listening to her music while studying because there's a great mix of upbeat and slower songs so you don't feel like you're cracked out the entire time but also aren't getting sleepy. Also, I'm going to lump Lana Del Rey in here as well because they just seem to go together for me. Let's also note that Boyfriend calls Lana his "bad bitch". Now you understand why he and I get along...

HAIM
   This band was put on my radar by Tessa and Rachel earlier this semester but I never got the chance to listen to them because I was too busy listening to other bands. Lo and behold, they are one of my absolute favorites now. *Surprise* Tessa and Rachel have great taste in music sans One Direction. In fact, I'm listening to Haim at this very moment. Their music is catchy without being distracting so you're not super focused on the lyrics but the beat is enough to maintain the ole study grind.

Best Coast
   Last but not least, Best Coast was a late favorite last semester for me. They have an extensive discography so it's hard to get sick of them! They maintain their signature beachy, California, pop sound throughout their albums that increases your mood just enough to power through that last study guide.

Instrumental

Pride and Prejudice Soundtrack
   Need I say more? However, I will. This soundtrack is my shit. Like fo realz, since forever. Possibly one of the best soundtracks of all time. Whenever I listen to it, I immediately want to channel my inner Elizabeth Bennett and stick my head in the nearest book to become more knowledgeable. Seriously, check it out.

Downton Abbey Soundtrack
   On a similar note, the Downton Abbey Soundtrack is pure gold as well. Not as good as P&P, but getting close. There are a few actual songs on here with vocals, but they can easily be skipped to get to the gorgeous instrumentals that transport you to the early 20th century. Although I've been avoiding this soundtrack for a little while due to the horrendous ending of the third season that I'm still bitter about. Screw you, actor or actress who decided to leave the show (didn't want to spoil that for you all).

That's all for me! Apologies for being a day late.

xx
Jen


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Favorites | Recent Favorites



So this isn't a monthly favorite by any means (I am fully aware it is literally the middle of October), but I figured I would share which products I have been using the most recently! Click play on the video below, yo.



xx
Jen
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Favorites | Mascara Edition

         
                                           
     

Oh mascara. In the rush to look put together mascara and lipstick will always do the trick. Mascara formulas and brushes are all completely different...which is why I have about eight of them. However, instead of giving an inventory on my chosen products I'll just go ahead and share three of my favorites. They're noteworthy, okaii?




Revlon Photo Ready 3D Mascara is one that I've been using for awhile. It never fails to disappoint me. I typically grab this mascara for day-to-day use because it isn't super dramatic but it still has enough definition. The brush is really nice because I never notice the formula clumping on the brush. I've always been a massive fan of Revlon and own another one of their mascaras but I would say that their Photo Ready line is by far my favorite.








It's So Big Volumizing Mascara was a little gem I got in my ipsy bag last month. At first I was a bit concerned because I didn't think the formula would dry nicely on my lashes but I actually really enjoy the formula because it doesn't feel heavy. The brush is amazing. The hourglass shape of the brush makes the ends of my lashes fan out and gives the effect of having fake lashes. This is something I will definitely be purchasing.









They're Real! Mascara from Benefit is just beyond. I believe I have mentioned it before. I got the mini one from my Sephora birthday gift but it does retail for $10 and the full size for $23. I think the brush is really interesting. It allows you to get full coverage of the lashes. The bristles at the end allow for the smaller lashes in the corner to be coated. The formula is really nice because I don't really ever have the problem of the mascara smudging on my eyelid and messing up my eyeshadow.







Until next week!
xx Tori
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Favorites | September - Tessa




Enjoy some September favs! And please excuse my lovely face in the thumbnail, I forgot to take a photo for this one!

xx
Tessa
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Favorites | Fall

Hey gorgeous people! So today I'm gonna talk about a few of my favorite fall items. Fall is hands down my favorite season of the year, besides Spring which is a close second. I'm going to try and add as many pictures to show you colors etc. but my posts keep "failing" every time I try to add them! So I will try my hardest :)

Clothing
-Over sized sweatshirts. Especially random college and teams from goodwill/savers.
-Sweaters are also a must have.
-Leggings. Target and PINK are the best quality in my experince.
-Keds/Vans
-Moccasins
-Boots. My favorite are my lace up Steve Maddens.

Nails
I am really enjoying Color Show "Impeccable Grays"

Drinks
Of course, just like most "white girls" I enjoy a Salted Caramel Mocha from Starbucks. This year, finally being 21, I reallllyyy enjoy Blue Moon's Harvest Pumpkin Ale beer.

Movies
I am a huuuuuuuge fan of scary movies. my favorite is PSYCHO. My runner ups are Amityville Horror, Scream, and Halloween. Of course i'll watch as many as I can during the holiday season.

That's it for this week! see you all next Thursday.

Kayson xo
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Favorites | Lip Products to Transition from Summer to Fall


Hello fellow broke peoples! Sorry I've been so MIA recently, moving in to my new apartment while simultaneously working all day has been one of the most stressful things to ever occur in my life. I have finally managed to organize myself to a level that I can be comfortable taking some time to work on the blog. I promise once things are back to normal I will be back to posting on my regular Monday.

On to the purpose of this post: transitioning your makeup from summer to fall. This can be a weird time because it's starting to cool off (or not, depending where you live) so really bright, neon colors are not necessarily as in season but neither are the dark, moody colors associated with fall. So what do you wear? That's where I come in.


1. Buxom Full-Bodied Lip Gloss in Dolly ($19) & Revlon Just Bitten in Honey ($8)
     I loveee these two together. The Revlon balm stain is a truly beautiful color that gives you that "my lips but better" look that everyone loves. I think that shade could look good on almost anyone! It's also not as light and pink as many other natural shades are but is more of a mauve color that really helps with these weird in between months. The lip gloss on top just adds a little more shine and dimension that makes it pop if you're out and about. It also helps with how the Revlon balm stain can be a tad drying.

2. Revlon Lip Butter in Pink Truffle ($8)
    Another amazing "my lips but better" color, this is a little darker than the one I discussed above. I wear this color year-round but during the cooler months it really helps to wake up my face and bring some color to my usually darker outfits. It swipes on beautifully and leaves a rosy mauve tint that is hard to find elsewhere.

3. Smashbox Lip Enhancing Gloss in Illume ($19)
    I got a mini of this when I ordered a sampler of Smashbox products. I like them in general but they didn't wow me in the way I expected. This one was my favorite product because it gives just a little sheen and glitter to take a natural face to the next level if you aren't feeling lip color. Especially when it starts to get really chilly outside, I love swiping this on with a casual plaid shirt and leggings.

4. Revlon Lip Butter in Red Velvet ($8)
    This shade is the easiest one to transition! During the summer, I like to use this as a sheer wash of color when I'm looking for something with a bit of a pop. When it starts cooling off, I layer it on for a more opaque red that is great for yellow undertones.

That's my post until Monday! Catch ya on the flip side!

xx
Jen




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Month of June.

So I've decided that my last post for every month is going to be a bit of a conglomeration (that doesn't look like it's spelled right, but there's no red squiggly line so I'm gonna assume yes and that I'm just a kickass speller). It's going to have a couple favorites of the month, reasons this month was awesome, and other general tidbits. So, here we go!

Favorite Beauty Product: Maybelline The Falsies Volum' Express in Very Black
This shit is amazing. Tessa has raved about it for god knows who long (she tends to do that) and I finally gave in and tried it out. Holy. God. I almost went out and bought Smashbox Hyperlash but got this instead and saved about $15. If you need an amazing mascara, try this out.

Favorite Haircare/Skincare Product: The Body Shop Body Butter in Satsuma
I have been having some trouble with breakouts recently and my hair is kind of a mess, so I went with a staple in my collection - body butter. I have always loved citrus scents and this one just makes me feel happy and summery and just yummy in general.... which is weird but I don't care. Put this on after you shave your legs and your legs are smoother for seriously about two extra days and that is a big deal, my friends.

Listening to: Drive Soundtrack
I know I've already raved about this soundtrack and I will again tomorrow for On Repeat but I can't handle how much I love this soundtrack. You absolutely need to see the movie as well. You can find the entire soundtrack on Spotify because someone made it a playlist so you have no reason to not check it out. I'M SERIOUS.

Reading: A Storm of Swords by George R.R. Martin
Yes, I'm a Game of Thrones fan. Who isn't nowadays? I got my Dad completely hooked after getting him the first season for Father's Day. The books are possibly more amazing than the series because they go into way more detail and help you really understand what's going on during the show. If you like to read, check out this series.

Reasons this month was great (just to stay positive):
1. Wing Tuesday at Buffalo Wild Wings with the FBG has been established.
Must I say anything else?

2. I finally have the hang of my internship.
This is a big one. I finally feel comfortable here and my mentor is amazing. I can do most everything by myself now after he walked me through it about 8,748,394 times. I love what I'm doing here and have total confidence in applying to medical and/or graduate school. boom.

3. Tessa and I double dating this summer.
First off, any one of the FBG having a successful interaction with a man is a momentous occasion in and of itself. The fact that Tessa and I have (sorta) snagged two guys to hang out with that just happen to be best friends is literally the most convenient and mind-boggling event. Cute boys? Hanging out with one of my best friends? Fun things like amusement parks? If I had some pizza and a Sonic Blast I would require nothing else in life.

Well, that's all for me today.  If you have any comments/questions/requests, please leave them here! It's completely anonymous so if you're shy it's perfect for you. We really would love some feedback.

Have a great rest of June!

xx
Jen

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Favorites | Tori - May

     There have been a lot of changes in May; the major one including my hair! I had about 8 inches cut off (donated to Locks of Love, of course) and I had it lightened...a lot. With that being said, my first May favorite is a hair product.



1. Lee Stafford Bleach Blondes toning shampoo and conditioner
     I was a bit skeptical about what a difference this duo could make. I use it about twice a week and have noticed such a change. Even my coworkers ask if I keep getting my hair lightened. For about $10 a bottle at Ulta, these two are definitely worth it if you have blonde hair or highlights. It also smells amazing; it's more of a floral yet masculine scent. It reminds me a lot of the Japanese Cherry Blossom line at Bath and Body Works. Plus, double points at Ulta throughout your birthday month, so there's that.



2. Benefit Watts Up! Highlighter
     I didn't actually pay for this (which is always a wonderful thing). I actually got this as a present from being a "Beauty Insider" with Sephora. The little gift also came with a sample of the They're Real mascara. I absolutely love both products. The highlighter is honestly one of the best I've used. It comes in a tube so you have to make sure you blend it well, but it's so worth it. I will definitely be purchasing the highlighter when I run out.



3. Revlon ColorStay Eyeshadow in Seductive
     This purchase happened out of inspiration from a Pixiwoo video in which they do Sammi of Beautycrush's make-up. In the video (watch here!), they used a series of pink eyeshadows, however, I could not find pink..so I added to the collection of purple eyeshadows. I really like this palette, the top shade is a bit sparkly for my liking but the third shade is absolutely my favorite. They last all day, and I seriously wore this palette for a week before deciding to change it up. Oops.



4. MAC Amplified Creme Lipstick in Vegas Volt
     This is another beauty I didn't have to pay for. Thanks to the wonderful Jenny for getting it for me for my birthday! This coral lipstick is absolutely something I needed. It really helps when I do absolutely nothing else with my make-up besides the basics, you know, makes it look like I put effort into my appearance. The beautiful thing about this is I had a Sephora Representative who was visiting the area come down to my work (you meet everyone when you make people's coffee) and she complimented me on it...it made my day anyway.

5. Banana Boat's Summer Color Self-Tanning Mist                                                 
     I'm sure you guys are beyond tired of us raging about this (Tessa and Jenny have mentioned it), but it works wonders. For under $6, this is by far the best self tanner I have ever used. I'm so pale I basically glow in the dark and this products helps me look like I spend time outside. I've tried so many self tanners and this is the only one I have found that doesn't streak and doesn't make me look orange (which is really all I ask for). It doesn't even smell as bad as Jenny and Tessa mentioned either, but that's not even important, because it's still the best.






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Favorites | Kayley - May

     Hello sweeties, so it might be a bit strange to do a post on my May faves in June, but how else will you know what were your favorites in May until it's over? I have five products here that I am absolutely obsessed with lately. 

Neutrogena Micro-Mist in the color Deep. So, I am someone who loves to always have a healthy glow year round. I have tried various different canned spray tans, because I just cannot afford to have a 30 dollar custom spray tan done weekly. I have tried a few other brand of can spray tan but this one is my favorite. super easy to spray, and works almost immediately. Plus, it doesn't leave a weird spray tan smell. I found at CVS for the price of $10.99

NOT YOUR MOTHER'S Beat the Heat Thermal Shield Spray. I think we are all in agreement that when it comes to straightening, blow drying, and curling our hair we HAVE to protect it from the heat. I have tried tresemme and got2b's heat protectants and while I enjoyed them, they left a heavy feeling on my hair. Alas, I have found this beautiful spray at ULTA, it smells absolutely amazing as well as protects AND keeps your style. Found at ULTA for $5.99

Garnier Skin Renew BB cream, in light/medium. Instead of foundation during the summer I enjoy using a BB cream. Much lighter, protective of your skin, and in my experience has made my complexion look better under my bronzer. BB cream is really something everyone has to experience for themselves, so if you're looking for a brand to try, I personally would recommend Garnier. Found at CVS for $12.99 


Rimmel Professional Eyebrow Pencil 002 Hazel. I'm a very big person on eyebrows, they're sort of my "thing". I like to maintain mine and like to help others fix theirs. I've tried a few different eyebrow pencils that have somehow managed it into my make up drawers but my absolute favorite is Rimmel London's. Super easy to blend in, and comes with a little brush on the top to maintain unruly eyebrows. (also, a little tip I use when finding your color, is to find a color one shade lighter than your eyebrows) Found at CVS for $3.49.

e.l.f 3-in-1 Mascara. So, when it comes to e.l.f I enjoy their brushes and their liquid eyeliners. I am however not usually a fan of their mascaras, with the exception of their 3-in-1. It lengthens, volumizes, seperates. I have never found a mascara so cheap that works SO well. Found at Target for $3.

These are just a few of my favorite items from May. I'm sure that in the next month I will find a few more that I enjoy. I think i'll be making a habit of doing a monthly items post.
Hope you all enjoy the recommendations!

-Kayson xo.
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Video | Top 5 Products



     Bonjour! How sad is it that I took six years of French and I barely remember anything? Grace, my roommate, who you all meet (sorta) in the video, tries to keep me practicing my French but I basically stand there with a blank look until she starts speaking English again. It's a very frustrating process for her. She deals with it.

     To focus back on what I was saying, I have filmed an eclectic video for all you broke girls out there to watch on my top five products. Apologies for how sidetracked I get but I think it adds personality so you know I'm not a robot. Plot twist, I am. Not. I'm in a weird mood today.

Enjoy!
x
Jen
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