Lord, I am YOURS

WOAH! Hey guys, it's been a while.... Christmas time was crazy busy this year, and on top of that I got the flu the day before Christmas Eve :( NO BEUNO! Anyways, the new year has snuck right up on me, but I'm not letting that stop me from making goals for myself this new year.

2014 was, well, eventful. I lost fourty plus pounds, ended a bad relationship, graduated high school, and turned eighteen. In the past months, I have totally rediscovered myself. This year has been full of blessings, and I am so grateful. With that being said, I am looking forward to starting 2015 completely fresh. However, I'm human, and I know I'll screw up. While the nostalgia of starting a whole new year with goals is definetley something I think about, I know Gods word says that each day is an opportunity to start new. A brand new start, everyday....wow! God is so good.

I want 2015 to be THE year for me. I'm an adult, and I'm at such a good place in my life right now. I'm so excited to see what God has in store for me this year. I realize that I often try to take things into my own hands. I find myself wondering all the time about love, opportunities, jobs, the list goes on and on. I know Gods plans for my life are FAR better than anything I am even capable of dreaming up; and that makes me pretty excited.

This year is it. 2015 will be THE year I give my life to God completely.

-God, you are in control. This is your story and I am YOURS. I want you to be in control completely. I am completely yours. Lead me where I need to be. Amen.

2015- get ready. I am a daughter of the king most high, and he is going to have his way with my life.

2015- BRING IT!

Xo,
 Faith

Silence with my SAVIOUR

Silence. It's for sure hard to come by in our home. With two rambunctious toddlers, high school boys in and out, a ten year old with more friends than I can count; silence is a rarity. I am the oldest of seven children, and I wouldn't have it any other way; but spending quiet time with God is so important to me.

 I recently started a new workout routine early in the mornings. I wake up at 5am, workout, eat some type of protein packed breakfast, shower and spend quiet time with God. Although pulling myself out of my cocoon in the mornings is far from easy, getting my day going with quietness all around me is such a blessing. It is so important to me to have that quiet time with God. Something about a still, silent room with me, my coffee, and Jesus is so precious. I notice when I don't wake up early and have that silence, I am much more moody and stressed throughout the day.

God is everything. He is love. He is health. He is happiness. He is hope. He is a redeemer. He is a caretaker. He is acceptance. GOD is my father; and he deserves every last bit of my time and attention. I know that by spending these quiet mornings with him, reflecting on his word, will only make me stronger in my faith and bring me closer to him. Even if you have obligations early in the morning, waking up just fifteen minutes earlier, praying and spending time in the word will make the world of a difference in your day. God deserves it.

Happy Tuesday, God bless you!

Xo,
Faith

Toddler Craziness! #babysittingprobz

   I just love this quote SO much! It covers everything I wish to live by.

I started a new workout schedule yesterday using our new home gym we got this past weekend. I am so grateful for that home gym, let me tell you! I am so excited to have the opportunity to start incorporating new types of weight lifting exercises into my daily workout routine. I did legs and abs yesterday and I am so so sore! I usually take one day out of the week to rest, and today was a rest day for me. I'm so glad I decided to use today as my rest day though, because, I am ten times more sore today than I was yesterday.

What are you guys up to this week? I have been swamped! Covered in toddler food and burried under my tears of toddler frustration. I mean, seriously, where do they get all this engergy?!? I'm just over here like 'okay, you wanna change your outfit into a bathing suit in the middle of winter!? Okay then.'  #babysittingprobz. Anyways, I just thought I'd throw up a random post today since I've been so busy! Hope you all have a fantastic ending to your week!

Xo,
Faith

PUMPKIN PIE MILKSHAKE

Ready for the EASIEST recipe ever?!? This pumpkin pie milkshake recipe is so ridiculously easy, I could do it with my eyes closed, haha!


 To make it plain and simple, whip up some pumpkin pie filling, pop the mixture into muffin tins and freeze! I know, it's temptimg not to eat it by the spoonfuls  ;) once the little pumpkin pie cubes are frozen, pop three or four into your blender, depending on the size of the smoothie you are making, fill to the top with milk, and blend! Of course it doesn't hurt to top with whip cream and sprinkles too ;) So easy and so delicious!

I saw this idea on The Pioneer Woman on the Food Network, tried it, and fell in love! I hope you guys try this recipe out and love it just as much as I do! :) if you do try this recipe out, use the hashtag #faithbakes so I can see your recreations :)

Xo,
Faithy

Cozy For Christmas

CHRISTMAS TREE OH CHRISTMAS TREE

Christmas time is the most wonderful time of the year in our home! My mom always manages to make the holidays special. Whether it be the beautiful Christmas tree, or the endless decorations around the house, our home quickly turns into quite the magical place. I was going to write this post about holiday traditions, but then I realized that we don't really have any. Our family is more of a 'fly by the seat of or pants' kind of family. Hahah! We love switching things up yearly. Which I guess, is sort of a tradition all on its own. Some years we have colored lights, some years we have white lights, some years a real tree, and some years, fake. Nonetheless, Christmas time is always so beautiful and special all in its own way each year!

Do you guys have any holiday traditions? I would love to hear about them in the comments below!

XOXO,
Faithy

Oreo Heaven

OREO BALLS 

Hey y'all! I just had to share with y'all THE most delicious recipe. I'm sure you have all heard of these, or even tried them. They seem to be quite popular, but, it was my first time making these. They were quite the hit in my household! Everyone really loved them, not to mention, there are only 4 ingredients! & let's be real, who doesn't love Oreos?!

INGRIDIENTS:
-1 package of Oreos
-24 oz of your choice melting chocolate
-1 8oz package of cream cheese (room temperature)
-sprinkles (optional)


Before beginning to make the Oreo balls, you will want to melt your chocolate. I got this idea on Pinterest and it worked wonderfully!
Just grab two glass jars/bowls and set them in your crockpot on low. Stir occasionally until well melted. This technique keeps your chocolate silky and smooth throughout the process.

To begin your Oreo ball mixture, place your entire package of Oreos into a gallon size ziplock bag and crush. You want you Oreos to look something like this:

Next, break up your cream cheese over the top of your crushed Oreos and blend. I found that using a fork works the best for this.

You then want to form the Oreo mixture into small balls and refrigerate for one hour.

Lastly, you will want to cover your Oreo balls in CHOCOLATE! & of course decorate. The Oreo balls will need to be stuck in your refrigerator for a half hour or so to set up completely, then they're ready to eat and enjoy! 

I hope you guys enjoyed this post and try out this recipe at home! If you do, take a picture and hashtag #faithbakes so I can see your recreations :) 

Xoxo, Faithy 

Showing December Who's Boss!

HAPPY DECEMBER

I am so so happy that December is finally here; it is my absolute FAVORITE month out of the whole year. Christmas time makes me the happiest ever. If you know me, you know how nostalgic of a person I am. I break out the lights, decorations, and cooking making craziness begins!

However, December can also be a hard month. With the craziness of the holiday season,  we often lose focus of our goals and in the month feeling tired, and run down. It can be so easy with all of the temptations of yummy holiday foods to just give in and indulge daily. BUT; not this year; we are not going to let the holiday temptations ruin our whole month. Make goals for yourself today. Decide how and when you will choose to indulge. Do not let this month get you feeling down. Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, and to make it that much more wonderful, I will be staying healthy and fit, even with cookies and chocolate covered pretzels laying around ;)

Remember that The holidays are meant to be fun and happy. So, do not deprive yourself; rather, do everything in moderation. Enjoy foods and treats you love in moderation, and hold on to absolutely NO guilt! This is the last month of  this year, and staying healthy will help you bring the new year in on a great foot. So, let's do it ladies! Let's make goals and reacher higher and harder for them than ever before! Enjoy this wonderful time of year with your friends and families; and remember, it's okay to let loose and enjoy yummy treats and sweets- you deserve it!

XOXO,
Faithy

Welcome November!

         Wow, hey guys! It has been two months since I last blogged; and honestly, it was because I just wasn't enjoying it as much as I thought I would anymore. I decided to take a break and figure out a way to make blogging something I loved again, and not just a chore. As much as I love beauty related things, my life is changing, and I have new passions and goals. I absolutely LOVED writing about Jesus. Sharing with you guys bible verses and encouragement; it's absolutely something I loved! I also love fitness and anything related to becoming a better me; and so, that's what I'm going to do. I want this blog to be just that- anything I want it to be! I plan on including the things mentioned above, but if one day I decide to talk about my favorite nail polish or hair style, I will. I think that bringing openness back to my blog will make it much more enjoyable for myself and for my readers.

If you guys have any suggestions for things you'd like me to write about, please let me know, I love reading feed back! I thought I'd end this post with an encouraging word from the Lord:

Psalm 18:1-2
'I love you, oh LORD, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge....."
 

Xoxo,
Faith

Happy SEPTEMBER

Psalm 118:24
'This is the day that the LORD has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.'

This is one of my favorite bible verses. It's so simple,  but so true. Today is a new day, but also, today brigs a new month. This month I want to remember each and every day when I wake up early, when I haven't had enough sleep, when I get frustrated, or whatever else comes my way; GOD made this day, and gives me each breath I'm breathing, and I WILL be grateful and rejoice in that.

What an amazing feeling knowing that our lord and savior loves us, US, out of billions of people to, each day, give us breath into a brand new day. We are so undeserving, but our father sees it differently. I challenge all of you to remind yourself each day this month just how blessed you are to have a new day. Even the mere fact of god giving you breath each day is such a blessing.

I hope you all have a blessed September.

Xoxo,
Faith

CHOCOLATE

I was whipping up a batch of cookies for a bake sale tomorrow and thought; hey why not? I'll share it with y'all. It's a super simple ghiradeli recipe, but it's so yummy!

Y U M 

Ingrideients:

2 1/4 cup unsalted flour

1tsp baking soda 

1/2 tsp salt 

2 tsp vanilla 

3/4 cup sugar 

3/4 brown sugar 

1 cup (2 sticks) butter softened 

2 eggs

2 cups ghiradeli chocolate chips 

Directions: 

-Preheat oven to 375

-Stir flour with baking soda and salt; set aside

-In large mixing bowl, beat butter, sugar, and brown sugar at medium speed until creamy 

-Add vanilla and eggs one at a time, mix on low speed until incorporated

-Gradually blend dry mixture into creamed mixture.

-Stir in chocolate chips 

-Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown

COOL AND ENJOY 

Xoxo,

Faith 

Fall Nail Favorites- Julep

H A P P Y    W E D N E S D A Y

With fall quickly approaching, I thought I'd share my favorite fall nail polishes. I'm obsessed with nail colors the different seasons bring. I like to think of myself as an 'in between' kinda girl. Spring and fall are my favorite seasons, and I love LOVE the deep fall colors!

Above, I've provided swatches of my four favorite colors. I am obsessed with maroons, metallics, and of course I love a fun pop of blue! Julep polishes are amazing! The packaging is slim which makes it easy for storage, and the color selection is so wide. Here is what the polishes look like swatched on my nails:

This is with only one coat and no top coat! They are super shiny on their own, which is great for when you need to hurry! Let's be honest, sometimes you just have to pick your polish based on what will dry the quickest. These polishes definetly pass that test. Also, the colors do not chip easily! 

Here is a link where you can find these polishes:

www.julep.com

Have a happy afternoon!

Xoxo,
Faith 

Proverbs 3:5

Chaos has been all around me lately. With the seasons dwindling down, and school starting up again; needless to say, it's been pretty crazy here at my house. Many of you know that I graduated back in May, so it's been chaos for my sister and brothers who are head back this year. It has been so weird for me not being the one who is headed back to school this time around. I often find myself worrying and questioning God and his plans for my life. I often find myself worrying and questioning god and his timing. Trust me, I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God has it all under control, but I'm human, and I'm a girl, and a planner; need I go on? *haha In all seriousness though, I realize that I need to knock off my worrying and realize that God has every little aspect of my life now, and forever, under control.

As I was reading my bible this morning I, not by coincidence, came across a verse in Proverbs.
Proverbs 3:5 'Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.'
Wow, thank you God! Sometimes, with life as crazy as it gets, we forget that we have an almighty father who is waiting right by our side to take all of our worries away. Isn't that awesome? And relieving too?! However, we always hold onto our worries because we're human and it's just what we do. This week, and from now on, I want to try harder than ever to make a conscious effort to remember that God is waiting for me to hand over my worries to him. I know that god is at work to lead me down a path of amazing destinations and blessings. Thank you Jesus for being there, always, no matter what.

I pray all of you all have an amazing and blessed week! Remember, God has it under control. Whatever it is, he has it under control; and EVERYTHING you might be going through is for a reason, and will only make you stronger.

Xoxo,
Faith

Listen To Your Body

H A P P Y    F R I D A Y 

Good morning guys! I had planned another #fridayfaves post for today, but I'm feeling icky and achy with a cold. 'Tis the season for the sniffles, I suppose! Anywho, it got me to thinking this morning just how important it is to listen to your body. Often, we get so caught up on a fast pace schedule, that we forget to slow down and listen to our bodies. Wednesdays are always rest days for me. Meaning, I do not workout on Wednesdays. Then, Thursday morning, this whole cold nonsense started. So basically, I've had three rest days in a row. I was feeling a bit down on myself about not working out for three days, but I know that my body needs this time of rest.

It is so SO important to listen to what your body is telling you. If you are starting to get sick or just extremely exhausted and achy, your body needs that time to rest. If you push yourself, you will just end up feeling even worse. I always like to remind myself of the saying; "You didn't become unhealthy overnight, and you most certainly won't fall back to where you started overnight, either." I absolutely love this saying because, when you first embark on a weight loss journey and results start coming, it becomes addicting and you want to keep going. So, naturally, when you become sick and don't workout for a few days, you feel like your withering your way back to where you were before you started. It's so important to remember that EVERY SINGLE calorie burned, every fat cell lost, every inch of fat gone, it ALL counts; and it doesn't just come creeping back overnight because you didn't workout that day. 

We only get one body, so respect it, and LISTEN when your body needs a break. 

Xoxo,

Faith 

Eye Candy

                                                       H A P P Y    W E D N E S D A Y

If you're trying to lose weight like me and don't eat actual candy, here is some eye candy for you! ;)
First of all, my chocolate craving has been REAL this week. Secondly, I am obsessed with this nail color I saw earlier in the week, I need to get my hands on it! Also, can anyone tell that I'm ready for fall/winter?!? This summer has been hot and long, and normally Wyoming doesn't get as hot as it was this year. Anyways, enough rambling! Hope you all are having a wonderful Wednesday!

Xoxo,
Faith

Simple is Okay

Hey guys! I hope you all had a great weekend! My weekend was great, but super busy and short! I missed my post Friday and planned on posting Saturday after my hair appointment. I got lowlights, and to me it's a BIG change and I love them! I took pictures to do a before and after but, there is really not a huge difference so I don't think I'm going to post on that after all.

Anyways, today I thought I'd just write a post talking to y'all. Sometimes I get a little carried away and pressure myself into believing I have to have some elaborate post every time, but you know what? Being simple is okay; and sometimes, simple is better. So, sometimes my posts are going to be just like this;  SIMPLE. If you guys have any ideas as to what sorts of topics you might like to read about or are interested in, let me know!

On another note, I had a HUGE fitness victory this morning. I met my goal of a solid fifteen laps this morning! I am not the best runner, and never have been, but my goal is to add a lap everyday until I can run thirty laps without stopping! I think I can, I think I can! Also, I got a killer leg workout in! I love when I just rock out my workouts, such a great feeling! Okay enough rambling, have a great start to your week everyone!

Xoxo,
Faith

Clean Eating & Fitness

Hey everyone,  H A P P Y   W E D N E S D A Y!

As many of you may know, I have been on a weight loss journey for quite some time now. I was extremely overweight and very unhappy in my own skin so, I decided to do something about it. I get texts and phone calls often of friends and family wondering what my 'trick,' or 'secret' is. My response is always the same; 'there is no secret.' Honestly, nothing that I have been doing is a secret. To break it down for you, I eat clean Monday through Friday, and exercise for thirty minutes to an hour daily. That's it. I use absolutely no supplements, or programs. Most people are shocked to hear this. I think that people often believe that programs or supplements are necessary, and truth is, they're not. Not that there is anything wrong with using programs or supplements; if you have the funding to do so, that's great, but a lot of people don't.

Back to clean eating; this refers to eating unprocessed and unrefined natural foods. Basically, I eat lots of natural unprocessed meats, veggies, fruits, and grains. Don't get me wrong, I'm human,and every now and again I pop a couple Oreos, and that's perfectly okay. Sometimes you just gotta get that chocolate satisfaction; ya know? ;) Oh, and WATER; drink lots of it. I usually drink a gallon a day. If you pee a trillion times, you're doing it right ;)

As for exercising, I like to switch it up. I'm the type of person who gets bored with too much consistency. I am a huge fan of the youtube channel Fitness Blender. They have literally thousands of workouts, short or long, tailored to whatever you need. I do however, keep some consistency with the type of exercises I do. I typically do cardio three times a week, have the dreaded leg day once a week, and also incorporate strength training in the other couple of days.

It's so important to remember that with losing weight and changing your lifestyle, comes with lots of hard work and perseverance.  Some important things to remember: NOTHING HAPPENS OVERNIGHT, it takes time and dedication, but every exercise you do, every calorie you burn, it all counts! Don't feel guilty about your cheat days or meals, you won't lose the weight overnight, and you most certainly won't gain it back overnight either. Remember, everyone is deiffernt so, do not compare yourself to others! You are strong and you CAN do this. There is nothing to it, but to do it!

Feel free to comment or email me (kfm996@gmail.com) with any questions or if you want further advice. I am not a professional, but I would be more than glad to help! Have a great day y'all!

Xoxo,
Faith

Confidence is Beautiful

Happy Monday everyone! I thought I'd keep this Monday simple and share some inspiration for the week.

Mondays are stressful and come with many tasks that may seem daunting to tackle throughout the week, but with positive thoughts in the back of your mind; you'll go far.   Sometimes,  as women,  we feel the need to conform to societal standards and expectations; and,  let's be honest... Most of the time,  those expectations are completely unrealistic.  This week I challenge all of you to be one hundred percent true to yourselves.  If that means stepping way out of your comfort zone,  do it.  Like the quote says above,  having confidence is beautiful.  If you are true to yourself and own who you are always,  your beauty will shine brighter than ever before.  So hold your heads high this Monday morning,  take a deep breath,  and embrace who you are completely and fully.  Confidence is beauty,  and YOU are beautiful!

Xoxo,
Faith

Friday Faves

Hey guys! It's Friday,  woohoo! I thought it would be fun for me to share some favorites I have been loving recently.  I think I'll do Friday favorites every other week,  that way there won't be too much repetition.  I've been obsessing over some new products lately; where have they been hiding all my life?!

(Pictured above:)  First Aide Beauty Repair Cream, Aven Thermal Spring Water,  The Righteous Butter Body Cream,  Lauren Conrad Studs

- First Aide Beauty Ultra Repair Cream: THIS; this is the answer to my prayers.  If you have dry skin,  try this!  It is so moisturizing,  but doesn't leave your skin feeling greasy at all.  It is silky and leaves my skin feeling super hydrated!

-Avene Thermal Spring Water: This product was something new to me,  but once I tried it,  I was absolutely hooked!  Basically,  it's just a refreshing mist that you spray gently on your face.  It can be used with or without makeup already on your face. It leaves your skin feeling very fresh and awake; almost like you just got done applying your makeup for the day.  Basically,  a skin 'pick me up.'

-The Righteous Butter Body Cream: this is the yummiest smellig body cream I've ever used.  It's thick and rich,  which is a win win for people with dry skin; and it is not greasy.

-Lauren Conrad Studs: If you know me,  you know that I LOVE studs.  I like dangly ear rings okay,  but a good pair of studs will win me over.  I have long thick hair,  so studs are perfect because they stay out of my way  but still add some bling to any outfit.  Plus,  I love the Lauren Conrad line,  which can be found at kohl's.

I would love to see what you guys have been loving recently!  Leave me a comment sharing some of your favorites recently,  or post a picture on instagram using the hashtag #fridayfavorites. I'll be sure to like and comment!

Xoxo,
Faith

Encouragement Through God's Word

This morning as I was reading my devotion and corresponding Bible verses for the day,  I realized  just how much encouragement can be found in God's word.  Life knocks you around,  beats  you up,  stresses you out,  wears you out,  and so much more; but,  the amount of comfort God can give you is so indescribable.  So,  this morning,  and for today's post, I wanted to share some of my favorite encouraging Bible verses.  Just remember,  when life gets tough,  God is sitting right beside you,  holding your hand through everything.

Isaiah 40:31

'...but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.  They will soar like wings on Eagles,  they will run and not grow faint... '

Isiah 40:10

'So do not fear for I am with you,  do not be dismayed for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous hand.'


Psalm 55:22

'Cast you cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. '

Deuteronomy 31:8


' It is the LORD who goes before you; he will be with you,  he will not fail you or forsake you.  Do not fear,  or be dismayed. '

-Have a great day everyone,  and remember; when you need some encouragement.... God's word is packed full of it.  God will never forsake you,  and in your time of need,  he is always,  always holding your hand.  Have a great day guys!
 

Stop, and RELAX- Take the Time to Make Time

Hey everyone!  I know it's Tuesday and I was supposed to have up a new post yesterday,  but I had some technical difficulties with my blog and had to sort that all out.  Anyways,  I've figured it out so Mondays post will go up today and the rest of the week's posts will follow.  

We all have those days; those days when you find yourself running around in circles,  and you're getting no where; those frustrating days when you feel it's seemingly impossible to get anything accomplished.  I have been able to actually take the time and relax today,  and realized just how important relaxation is for your sanity.  Not only does relaxing help your mind and body 'chill out,'  but it also is great for healthy skin,  and for your overall beauty.  Rest is truly the key to having a healthy body in general.

Life can be so hectic at times,  and it might seem like you are never going to catch a break,  but; take the time to make time.  Make it a priority to take time out of each day,  find a quiet spot and let your body rest.  Trust me,  you won't regret it.

Xoxo,
Faith

Blog Schedule!

Hey guys!  I mentioned a couple posts back that I was in the process of trying to come up with a set schedule for posting.  I have been a busy,  busy bee with moving the last few days,  which is why I posted on Tuesday instead of Wednesday.  I have decided that I will be posting three times a week on Monday,  Wednesday,  and Friday starting NEXT WEEK.  If  you guys have any suggestions or requests you'd like to see please leave them in a comment down below!  I hope you all have a wonderful rest of your weekend; I'll talk to yall again Monday!  Have a great day!

Xoxo,  Faith

Pushing Fear Aside

Hi guys!  I mentioned in my last post that I wanted to start branching out and start including some lifestyle videos.  So,  today, I thought I would write about something that I struggled with for a long time,  and how I've decided to overcome it.  Enjoy!

In life,  there is one thing that holds us all back; one common thing that keeps us from chasing after our dreams,  FEAR.
As a young girl,  I was afraid; afraid of everything. Even crossing the monkey bars seemed impossible to me.  I had no idea how much fun I was missing out on because I let my fear control me.
A few months ago,  I made some major changes in my life.  Alongside of losing weight,  I decided I wanted to be adventurous.  I had always been known as the girl who took a back seat because she was afraid of trying new things.  I didn't want to be that girl anymore.  I want to be as adventurous and fear free as I can possibly be.  I want to reach higher and harder for my goals,  and keep chasing them until I meet them; and once I meet them,  I'll make even harder goals.  Stepping out of your comfort zone is unnatural.  It's not something that seems logical at first,  but once you do it,  you'll surpass any expectations you've ever had for yourself.  If you stay in a safe zone forever,  you'll never know what amazing things ly ahead.  So,  wake up each morning,  make goals,  reach for them harder than you ever have,  push your fear aside,  and step out of your comfort zone!

Isaiah 41:10
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Xoxo,
Faith

I'm back!

Hey guys!  Wow, where to begin?  I took some time off due to personal reasons.... There have been big changes in my life the past few months!  Anyways,  I am back now and so excited to be blogging again.  If you'll notice,  I have given my blog a bit of a face lift.  If anyone has any advice on how to improve my blog further,  please let me know!  Also,  is there anything in particular you'd like to see?  I want to branch out a bit and include some DIY posts as well as just some random life updates,  and other lifestyle posts.  I am unsure of what schedule I will be using now that I am back.  I plan on just kind of feeling it out and seeing what might work best for me.  Once I know of a set schedule I'll be sticking to,  I will let you guys know!  I'm so glad to be back in the swing of things!  Thank you all for continuing to support my blog!  Expect another post from me Wednesday :)  thanks guys!

Xoxo,
Faith

First Glance Friday- My Holy Grail Product

Hi girls, sorry I missed last week! Things have been busy with me, I had to take some time and catch up on some school work and never got around to posting lasts week's first glance Friday.

Today I thought I would talk about a product that I have been religiously using for at least a year and a half now. It is the best, drug-store concealer I have ever tried!

Like mentioned above, this is hands down, the best concealer I have ever tried, not to mention it is inexpensive and can be found at the drugstore. This product ranges anywhere from $ 7-9 depending on where it is purchased.  The only down side in my opinion would be the fact that you can go through this product relatively quickly, but for the price, I don't mind. 

Some quick information...

- there are 6 shades available 

- for easy application, you twist and use the brush tip applicator 

- website claims it will conceal and highlight at the same time

The reason that I love this concealer so much is the fact that it is gel-based. I have the world's worst dry skin! Even if I slather on a heavy duty moisturizer before bed, I wake up with skin feeling like sandpaper. In my experience, gel-based products work so much better on my skin. In the same way, this concealer glides on lightly and covers while highlighting my skin. It glides on like velvet. This product alone can seriously transform your face and give that bright eyed, glowy skin look.  Next time your at the drug store, I highly recommend you give it a try! 

XOXO, 

Faith 

Eye Candy

Hey everyone, I hope you are all having a wonderful week. If not, hang in there, it is almost Friday! On Thursdays I have decided I will be showing you guys my weekly 'eye candy,' or just pretty pictures or things that I think are pretty or that make me smile :)

As you can see, I have been loving spring everything! I'm not sure if I've mentioned before, but spring is my ALL TIME favorite season! I love the fashion, colors, and beautiful scenery! I also love the fact that it is a comfortable temperature outside, and not too unbearable. Unfortunately, where I live right now there is really no such thing as spring. It is freezing cold and snowing, usually until the end of April, and then it becomes blazing hot out of nowhere! I guess you could say that I have a small case of spring fever ;) I hope you all are having a great week and I hope you enjoyed this weeks eye candy. Let me know in a comment below what you are eyeing this week, or even just in general. See you tomorrow with another First Glance Friday!

XOXO,
Faith

5 Makeup Tips You Probably Don't Know...

Hi girls! Since my blog is just starting to take off, I am looking for new ideas to post about. I already have one series on Fridays, and would love to hear if you guys have any suggestions; please leave a comment below of anything you would like to see :)

Today I thought it would be neat to share with you some clever makeup tips that will save you time and money! As a girl, I am well aware of how much we can stress over little things like makeup. I remember when I was younger and just starting out with makeup, I would get so stressed out trying to learn how to use everything. I did not know what to buy nor did I know how to get the right shades, or anything else for that matter. Little did I know, that I had products at my finger tips that could be used for much more than their advertised use. Here are five simple tips that are inexpensive and easy to do:

1. Take any foundation that you like, and mix it with your favorite moisturizer. BAM; you just made your own tinted moisturizer without spending any more money. This tip is nice because you can customize it to be more or less coverage. 

2. Use a foundation two shades darker than your natural skin tone to contour. Contouring can be a bit difficult and a bit intimidating at first. This is an easy way to have a natural contour; not to mention, you get the chance to use that foundation you bought in the wrong shade! 

3. Take any old mascara wand, wash it out with baby wash, or any other gentle soap and use it to groom your brows. Grooming your brows can make all the difference in the world, but if you do not have a brow brush, it can be difficult. Well, there you have it! Use an old mascara wand, and problem solved. 

4. Take any old kohl pencil liner you have lying around, stick the end in and out of a lighter quickly (no more than three seconds) and you have just made the creamiest most opaque liner that will not budge all day! Applying liquid liner can be tough, not to mention how easily it can smear. So save yourself the hassle and use what you already have.

5. Take any eye shadow that lacks in pigment and spritz with water. The moisture will greatly intensify the color, and allow for a more visible application. 

I hope these tips were helpful, and I hope you learned something that you didn't know before! These tips all seem so obvious and simple, but why did I not think of these when I was younger?! I hope you all have a wonderful week! Look out for a post Thursday, and of course First Glance Friday!

XOXO, 

Faith  

"Confidence is the best cosmetic"

First Glance Friday: Naked 3 Palette

Hi guys! Today I thought that I would tell you guys a little bit about my newest palette, the Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette. I am going to be starting a weekly series, where every Friday I will be giving you all my thoughts and opinions on a palette, or certain product. Reviews are so helpful, so I want to start a review series on my channel! Anyways, on with the Naked 3....

I got this palette about two weeks ago from my mom as a surprise gift. She's always surprising me these days, and since you're reading this... Thanks mom! I absolutely LOVE this palette so far! As always, Urban Decay impresses me. Here is a view of the palette unopened with the colors:

As far as the construction of the palette goes, I have to say, Urban Decay really out did themselves. The palette has a textured rose hued metal casing. When you open the palette there is plastic trim, but the outside is metal. I am a huge fan of sturdy packaging. Compared to the other naked palettes, this one is by far the sturdiest. Also, thee is a snap closure, which ensures that the palette will not come open when traveling, or any other situation in which the palette is being tossed around. 

The colors in this palette are stunning! I absolutely love pink and mauve hued shadows. I feel that they compliment my eye color so well. I can already tell the Naked 3 has own me over. The colors are so smooth and velvety. There are a mix of shimmers and neutrals in the palette, which makes the varieties of looks endless. Here are swatches of the colors:

Overall, I love this palette. It has beautiful color options, shimmers and mattes, and the construction is outstanding. In comparison to my previous favorite, the original Naked, this has taken the top seat. I would recommend this palette to anyone who likes soft, but buildable rose hued shadows. Again, this palette is pricey, ranging anywhere from $50-55 depending in where you purchase the palette. I hope you all are just as excited as I am about this new series on my blog! I'll be back at you next Friday with another review. If you have any requests for products to review, leave them in a comment below and I'll see what I can do! 

XOXO, 

Faith

Top 6 Favorite Spring/Pastel Nail Polishes

Hey everyone! Lately I have been a bit obsessive over pastel nail colors. Wierd, because it is not even sping where I live, nor do we even have spring. Typically, it snows all the way through April,which stinks because spring is my favorite season! I thought it would be fun to show you all my top six favorite pastel polishes, as I have been wearing them nonstop lately. 

Top Row (left to right): Sinful Colors 'Candy Coated and 'Cotton Candy'' Revlon 'Buttercup'

Bottom Row (left to right): Essie "Mint Candy Apple" "Madison Ave Hue" "Bikini So Teeny"

I have been loving these colors lately! Pastel colors feel so fresh and clean to me, maybe that is why I have been wearing them so often; to have clean nails in this nasty weather (haha!) I might not have spring where I live, but my nails sure do celebrate it! Spring fever is in full force! Do you have favorite pastel polishes that you can't live without? Let me know in a comennt below, I would love to know!

XOXO,

Faith

Lorac Pro Palette: My Thoughts & Opinions + Swatches!

Today I thought I would talk about my newest makeup love, the Lorac Pro Palettte! My mom was so kind as to gift me this as a Valentine's present this year. In my home, we do not typically give gifts on this holiday, so it was a nice surprise!

The palette unopened.

Some quick information on the palette: 

-There are 16 shades total in the palette. 

-The top row is matte, and the bottom row is shimmery

-The palette comes with a mini size eye primer

Swatches of the top row; Left to Right

Swatches of the bottom row; Left to Right

So far, I am absolutely loving this palette! The shadows literally feel like velvet, and glide on like butter! Not to mention the crazy pigmentation! I did the swatches on my arms, so some of them are a bit hard to see due to the colorization of my skin. The palette is a bit pricey at about $42.00 in most stores. In my opinion, this palette is well worth your money. It is great quality, travel friendly, and beautiful of course! 

*Confession... I might just love this palette more than the Urban Decay Palette! 

XOXO,

Faith

My Makeup Staples

Every girl has essentials in her makeup drawer; the ones that never fail you, and the ones you always reach for. Here are some of my makeup essentials...

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder, Tangerine EOS, Urban Decay Primer Potion, Maybilline 'The Rocket' mascara, Rimmel Sccandaleyes Eyeliner in 'nude', Maybilline 24 hour Color Tattoo, Urban Decay Naked Palette, Maybilline Dream Lumi Highlighting Touch Concealer, Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain, Covergirl CG Smoothers BB Cream

I find that these are products that I am constantly reaching for. All of the products above can be found at any drugstore with the exception of the Urban Decay products, which can be found at Sephora. This just goes to show that great products do not have to be expensive! What are your makeup staples? I would love to know.

XOXO,

Faith

Neutral Nails

Lately, I have been a bit obsessed with neutral colored, clean nails. Sometimes it can be hard to find the perfect neutral polish. Often, polishes do not come out of the bottle true to color, which can be a bit frustrating. Here are some of the polishes I have found that are in the neutral range that I have been loving....

Elf- 'Nude', Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure- 'Pink Pong', Sally Hansen Triple Shine- 'Clam Up' Julep- 'Zelda'

I have been loving all of these nail polishes above so much throughout this last week. I find that they are all true to color. These are not all exactly "nude" colors per say, but in my mind, they classify as neutrals, lol. These nail polishes are all very nice quality not to mention, they are super affordable! These polishes can be found at Target, Walmart, or any other drug store. 

Welcome!

Hello everyone, thank you for stopping by my blog. I wanted to take some time and introduce myself. My name is Faith, as you probably guessed by the title (haha)! I am a young woman with a passion for anything beauty related! I love makeup, hair, nails, fashion, oh; and did I mention anything DIY?! I am an aspiring cosmetologist, and created this blog to express myself through writing about the things I love.

Here are just a few fun and random facts about me...

1. I LOVE the color purple! (You will quickly realize this throughout my blog)
2. I am the oldest of 6, yes I said 6 children in my family. I have 3 sisters and 2 brothers.
3. I am DEATHLY afraid of spiders...but I mean, who isn't!?!
4. Green smoothies are my jam, well, any smoothies really haha!
5. I love Jesus and strive to live my life closest to how he would have me to live it.
6. I may or may not have a slight obsession with throw pillows, lol!
7. I absolutely LOVE chicken and dumplings, they are amazing...but none beat my mom's!
8. I am a quiet person, but I am very friendly and love to conversation with other people who have the same loves in life as I do.
9. I am a full time babysitter for my two younger sisters. I guess you could call me a stay at home sister, lol.
10. I have been in a relationship with the same person for going on 3 years now. We met at a young age, and quickly became best friends, I love him so much and am so thankful for God placing him in my life!